By Carrie Brenner

In just over three years, Vanguard Cleaning Systems has tripled in size, and the janitorial services franchise isn't showing signs of stopping. The company is continuing its aggressive expansion and plans to lay down roots in every major metropolitan market in North America.

When company president Ray Lee bought the commercial cleaning franchise in 1995, it was little more than a local Bay Area cleaning company. Lee knew there was a huge market opportunity in the commercial cleaning industry, and he was ready to take advantage of it. He renamed the franchise Vanguard Cleaning Systems and set about turning it into the national powerhouse that it is today.

Vanguard Cleaning has grown phenomenally in recent years because of its master franchise program, which was implemented in 2003. The master franchise program requires a higher investment, and is ideal for executive-oriented individuals with experience managing others. Master franchisees purchase a given territory and then set up an office in that area and recruit new Vanguard Cleaning franchisees. Will Greene, vice president of the master franchise program, says the company is focused on gaining both new franchisees and new master franchisees. And while Vanguard Cleaning has its eye on new regions, it will only open franchises in areas where it can support growth.