We started our Chem-Dry journey in 1987 with the purchase of a franchise in the Vancouver area. As one of the pioneering Franchisees, we also operated a Master Franchise operation in the Maid Cleaning Services. In 1993 we sold our Maid Business and Chem-Dry franchise and moved our family 8,000 kilometers to start a new life. Once we arrived in Ottawa we immediately purchased a new Chem-Dry franchise and went to work building our business.

For many years we operated a single van franchise enjoying a degree of success, but things started to happen as we expanded to a two and then 3-van operation as our sons graduated high school and joined the business. With sales increasing in 2007 by 50% with the addition of the second van, and then increasing in 2008 by a further 33% when we added third van, this expansion has provided greater profits and security.

In 2009 we were awarded the prestigious Chem-Dry of The Year Award. Needless to say this recognition was unexpected but appreciated. Chem-Dry has provided our family with a business that has had a positive influence and provided an opportunity for our family to work together. I guess you could say we continue to live the Chem-Dry dream.


Rick & Joan McWhinnie
Imperial Chem-Dry Ottawa, ON