Owning the largest CrestClean business in Nelson keeps Alan Erickson on his toes – but he gets plenty of help from daughter Kyla.
Kyla, who is one of Alan’s employees, enjoys being involved in the day-to-day running of the franchise and says working with her dad is actually fun. “It’s pretty easy as we have a similar dry sense of humour.”
Alan says his daughter has made a big difference. “She reads my mind as to what I want done, she’s always thinking things ahead.”
“She’s been with me in the business for four or five years and knows exactly what’s required for every contract.”
Alan, who is 69, joined CrestClean after many years working for himself. He has extensive experience across a diverse range of industries.
He has a background in farming, including sheep, beef and deer. He was also involved in sphagnum farming. He’s also been a motelier and once owned a successful dry cleaning business in Nelson.
Since joining CrestClean eight years ago Alan has grown his business, taking on extra help as more customers came on board. He has several part-time employees.
He says owning a CrestClean franchise has been rewarding. “It’s a good business model. CrestClean looks after you. It’s quite simple and if you do the job properly and up to the required standard, you’ll do really well. Having good staff does make a big difference.”
CrestClean’s Nelson Regional Manager Barbara de Vries says Alan has worked hard to build up his business.
“Alan’s customers are quick to pass on their feedback to me after experiencing the high level of service he prides himself on delivering. He has a great team who work really hard.”
“It’s a good business model. CrestClean looks after you. It’s quite simple and if you do the job properly and up to the required standard, you’ll do really well. Having good staff does make a big difference.”
She says a CrestClean franchise is perfect for families who want the freedom of working for themselves. It’s also ideal for someone looking for a second career later in life.
“You can do this with family and friends and turn it into a large successful business. It’s not just for young people. Cleaning is not hard and can suit people who might want to work past retirement age.”
