Family-owned businesses are the backbone of the American economy. Studies have shown about 35 percent of Fortune 500 companies are family-controlled and represent the full spectrum of American companies from small businesses to major corporations.
This month, we were excited to sit down with Wes Foreman of Foreman Pro Cleaning, a family-owned business here in Annapolis to learn about their business, how they got started in their industry, their future and why they chose My Annapolis Office.
Tell us about your company and what you do:
Foreman Pro Cleaning, LLC is a full-service Commercial Cleaning company. I operate the company along with Justin, my brother and business partner. We have two office locations. Our Annapolis, MD location services the Annapolis, Baltimore, and D.C metro areas. Our Yorktown, VA office services the Hampton Roads metro areas including Norfolk, VA Beach, Newport News, etc.
Our commercial service offerings fall under three divisions: Business Cleaning Services (Offices, Healthcare Facilities, Post-Construction Cleaning, etc.); Floor Care (Carpet Cleaning, Wax Floor Services, etc.), and Critical Environments: Data Centers, Raised Floors, Labs, and more.
How did you get started in your industry?
It had been my dream to be an entrepreneur for most of my life! My background and corporate experience are in the Information Technology space. Justin’s background is in Construction Management.
I almost started an IT company years ago – but never took the leap. I also knew I wanted to start a business with Justin. As time passed, I investigated many other industries and possibilities. Commercial Cleaning was one of them and surfaced high on the list for a few reasons. One was that the business model seemed it would allow Justin and me to utilize our skillsets with strong synergy. We talked about it often!
One day, while commuting home from my job, I called Justin and said “Let’s do it. Let’s start a cleaning company.” He agreed and so we did!
What is something about your business that most people do not know?
Well, my wife Jessica is both a Massage Therapist and a Pilates Instructor. She loves what she does and the whole “Entrepreneur/Run Your Own Business” grind is just not her ‘thing’ as she would tell you.
However, she supported our dream and there’s no way we could have started the business without her! She jumped in right from the beginning and helped us tremendously. She even converted some of our first customer’s from lead to contract. I can’t thank her enough for the sacrifice and happy she’s back in her element helping people doing what she loves!
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
We wish to continue our growth pattern in both of our current Markets. We intend to build a strong Mid-Atlantic presence and are excited about planned expansion into the Richmond, VA and Chesapeake, VA regions, especially with our Critical Environment Services division.
Tell me about yourself?
I believe most of my friends an family would say that I’m energetic, passionate, hard-working and goofy. I greatly enjoy both being around people and sharing thoughts and ideas but also quiet times to think and plan. The ‘puzzle of business’ energizes me and all the distinct pieces that have to be configured to work together.
What types of activities or hobbies do you enjoy outside of work?
I enjoy tennis, playing guitar, hanging out with family and friends, and my wife and I love dining out.
What is your favorite place to eat in Annapolis? Favorite dish there?
Oh wow, that’s a tough question – so many good places! Ok, let’s do it this way: Boathouse for Saturday Breakfast; Carrolls Creek Café for lunch, and VIN 909 for dinner.
Why did you choose My Annapolis Office and how has working here helped your business?
I like the location right on West Street and it’s not far from our Annapolis equipment and supplies depot which is convenient. Also, the My Annapolis Office team has always been friendly, supportive, and responsive which is greatly appreciated.
Having a Receptionist greet both our Employees and Applicants is professional and quite helpful. The combination of the location, staff, and amenities makes for a great working environment to operate our business.
You can schedule a free consultation with Wes and his team by visiting their website. You can also follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
