water damage remediation

Restoration and Remediation Franchise Seeks Local Entrepreneurs Amid Rising Demand for Essential Services

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, has announced plans to expand into the tri-state area of Southwestern Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Southeastern Indiana, as part of its strategic growth into underserved markets. With nine territories available throughout the area, the brand is seeking qualified local entrepreneurs to join its growing network to meet the region’s increasing demand for reliable property restoration services.

PuroClean, often referred to as The Paramedics of Property Damage^®, provides essential services that communities can’t live without, including  water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold removal, and biohazard cleanup services. The brand is excited to find trusted professionals ready to help address everyday problems for property owners in the Midwest, from common issues such as leaky appliances and plumbing issues to pesky mold growth, smoke damage from kitchen mishaps, in addition to larger property damage situations.

“The greater tri-state area is a thriving region that unfortunately continues to be impacted by storms and property emergencies,” said Tim Courtney, Vice President of Franchise Development for PuroClean. “We recognize the area’s demand for dedicated professionals who are committed to resolving these problems. Having recently opened our 500^th location, we’re eager to find passionate local entrepreneurs in these markets to join us on our mission of providing quality care for home and business owners during their times of need.”

PuroClean’s proven business model, ongoing training, and comprehensive support have positioned the company as one of the top-performing brands in the restoration franchise industry. Recent recognition includes:

• Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500® – Ranked number 93 among the top franchises in the nation.
• Franchise Times Zor Awards – Ranked as the number 1 restoration brand in the franchising space for franchisees to invest in.
• Franchise Business Review’s Top 50 Franchises – Honored for outstanding franchisee satisfaction for the past seven years in a row.

“There’s a tremendous opportunity across the tri-state area for people who are passionate about serving their local communities,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “Our Franchise Owners are mission-driven, stepping in during times of crisis to restore homes and businesses, and providing a trusted lifeline when families need it most. We are dedicated to expanding our presence throughout this growing region.”

With a network of over 500 offices across North America, PuroClean has seen continued growth fueled by both climate-driven disasters and everyday property needs. Ideal franchise candidates include trade professionals, insurance adjusters, veterans, and corporate executives. What unites them is the desire to own a purpose-driven business backed by a trusted support system. PuroClean Franchise Owners benefit from a recession-resistant model, strong community impact, and the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their neighbors.

For more information about franchising opportunities, call 800-351-2282 or visit www.PuroCleanFranchise.com.

The Paramedics of Property Damage Team Up with Local Communities Nationwide to Support Schools

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, is celebrating the success of its PuroClean Cares^®: Adopt A Classroom campaign, a nationwide effort that began in May and continues year-round. The initiative unites Franchise Owners across the country to collect and donate essential school supplies, helping educators and students stay supported well beyond the first day of school.

Franchise Owners across the country hosted drives and community events, distributing backpacks, binders, markers, and other key items in time for back-to-school. Many locations will keep their efforts going year-round, providing ongoing donations, events, and volunteer support to meet classroom needs.

“Teachers are the heart of our communities, shaping future generations every single day,” said Alex Pericchi, Vice President of Marketing and Online Learning at PuroClean. “Through this campaign, Franchise Owners in our network are coming together to let educators know that we honor their dedication and deeply value their contribution to our community.”

Standout efforts across the country include:

• PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists (Warrenton, VA) – Donated $3,000 in school supplies to teachers in celebration of back-to-school season. Five teachers were selected to receive $600 to purchase classroom supplies, and PuroClean volunteers also helped organize and set up their classrooms. The winners were announced live during Warrenton’s First Friday Festival on August 1^st.
• PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists (Zephyrhills, FL) – Collected enough supplies for nearly 170 families and students to be set up for the school year.
• PuroClean of Elkton, MD – Hosted a summer-long series of events, game nights, and parties to raise money and donations, all leading up to a donation drop-off day where volunteers helped decorate classrooms for the new year.
• PuroClean of Redmond/Woodinville, WA – Partnered with the Northshore Schools Foundation for a summer-long school supply drive to support their Pre-K Head Start programs at Sorsen Elementary and Kenmore Elementary.
• PuroClean in Poughkeepsie, NY, and Kingston, NY – Repainted the classroom of a local educator, while also collecting and donating backpacks and school supplies to a local social worker, who in turn allocated the donated items to local schools for students in need.
• PuroClean of Macedonia, OH, and Western Reserve (Chardon, OH) – Tabled at a golf outing to raise money and collect personal care products and classroom supplies for high schoolers at Chardon High School. This team also partnered with their local Chamber of Commerce, residents of the City of Macedonia Senior Center, and local businesses to donate a $100 gift card and over 300 much-needed classroom items for Ledgeview Elementary School.
• PuroClean of Morristown (Livingston, NJ) – Donated $3,000 in financial assistance and a starter tool package to help a local student pursue his dream of becoming an auto mechanic.
• PuroClean Property Damage Experts (Cleveland, TN) – Worked with a teacher at Michigan Avenue Elementary School in Cleveland, returning after an extended maternity leave, to help re-paint her classroom and restock it with important materials.
• PuroClean Restoration Services (Hillsboro, OR) – Collected and donated backpacks for the Youth Villages group.
• PuroClean of Lansdale and Plymouth Meeting (Schwenksville, PA) – In partnership with other local businesses, this location donated essential furniture, fittings, and other structural support items to their local schools, among other charity initiatives.
• PuroClean of Burlington, WI – Partnered with Alpine Insurance Agency to donate $1,000 in school supplies to a teacher at the Curtis Strange Elementary School.

“Supporting our educators is more than a seasonal gesture; it’s a commitment to the success of our children and the strength of our communities,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “At our core, PuroClean is a service organization, and as servant leaders, we are dedicated to supporting those who are uplifting our future; this is a responsibility we proudly embrace.”

The Adopt A Classroom initiative is part of PuroClean Cares, the company’s broader, year-round charitable platform through which the brand continually seeks opportunities to give back to the communities they serve. For more than 20 years, PuroClean has served communities across the U.S. and Canada with property restoration services, while empowering Franchise Owners to make a lasting difference through ongoing charitable work.

For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit https://www.puroclean.com/community-focus/.

Over The Last Decade, The Paramedics of Property Damage Have More Than Doubled Their Franchise Location Count, Cementing Their Status as a Restoration Powerhouse

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, proudly announces a historic milestone: the signing of the brand’s 500^th franchise location. This achievement was made possible through the vision and leadership of PuroClean’s owners, Chairman & CEO, Mark W. Davis, and Vice Chairman, Frank Torre. Their investments and commitment to elevated systems have paved the way for PuroClean’s Leadership and Home Office Support Team to help build a World-Class Brand alongside its Franchise Owners. In just 10 years, the brand has grown from 222 to 500 locations across North America, stretching from Hawaii to Puerto Rico, San Diego to Vancouver, Miami to St. John’s, Newfoundland. This exponential growth reflects more than just expansion; it signals real impact: families supported, communities restored, and a higher bar for the PuroClean network and restoration industry.

Founded in 2001, the brand has seen incredible growth over the past decade. In 2015, Davis and Torre purchased the company. Under their leadership, the average franchise unit sales has grown by five times, and PuroClean has evolved into one of the fastest-growing restoration franchise companies in North America, a sign of the strength and legacy of the brand. Davis and Torre have invested heavily in infrastructure, training, and above all, people, laying the foundation for a culture of Relentless Customer Service that sets PuroClean apart in the restoration industry.

“In 2015, Frank Torre and I didn’t just purchase a restoration company; we invested in a movement in the restoration industry where we believe we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of our PuroClean Franchise Owners, their families, the communities that we serve, and all the people in the PuroClean ecosystem,” said Davis. Speaking on the brand’s recent 500-unit achievement, he added,”…we view it more as a milestone on PuroClean’s journey towards delivering Relentless Customer Service to more communities across the United States and Canada.”

With 500 locations, PuroClean joins a small, distinguished circle of franchise brands. Fewer than 4% of franchise systems nationwide ever achieve this milestone, and PuroClean is proud to stand among them. Each locally owned and operated, community-forward franchise is backed by the strength and support of a national brand, giving customers confidence that when disaster strikes, they can rely on a network proven more than 500 times, and counting.

“At 500 units, what stands out most isn’t just our size, it’s our culture. We’ve built a community where people genuinely care about helping each other succeed,” said Tim Courney, Vice President of Franchise Development at PuroClean. “A culture like ours is built with intention, and it starts with finding the right fit. We’re focused on a franchise growth strategy that matches the right people to the right opportunity.”

In 2013, Steve White joined PuroClean as President and COO, and since then, he has helped shape the company’s culture into the strong brand it is today. Eight years ago, multi-unit Franchise Owners Keegan Trudgen and Tim Loshe presented a proposal to White that led to the development of the structure for multi-unit ownership. This June, they signed PuroClean’s 500^th franchise agreement live on stage at the PuroClean Annual International Convention in Grapevine, TX, becoming co-owners of PuroClean of North Knoxville, TN. With 14 locations across the U.S., they are the largest multi-unit ownership group in the PuroClean network. Their achievement reflects what drives PuroClean’s success: a dynamic network of hundreds of Franchise Owners who, like Trudgen and Loshe, have helped shape the brand into what it is today. PuroClean’s strength lies in its people, its unwavering commitment to local communities, and its ability to empower its Franchise Owners to answer every call with excellence, compassion, and Relentless Customer Service.

“Keegan and Tim represent everything this brand stands for: commitment to service, belief in the system, and leadership through action,” White said. “Having them sign the 500^th franchise at Convention, surrounded by their peers, was one of the most meaningful moments of the event.”

For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit www.PuroClean.com. For more information about franchising opportunities, call 800-351-2282 or visit www.PuroCleanFranchise.com.

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Global Recognition Honors White’s Integrity-Driven Leadership and PuroClean’s Trailblazing Growth

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration andremediation franchises, is proud to announce that its President and COO, Steve White, has earned the coveted Gold Award in the Ethical Leadership of the Year category for the 22nd Annual International Business Awards^®.

The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – are eligible to submit nominations. The 2025 IBAs received nominations from organizations and individuals in 78 nations and territories.

The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – are eligible to submit nominations. The 2025 IBAs received nominations from organizations and individuals in 78 nations and territories.

White’s career is rooted in service, from his time as a U.S. Army Captain to decades of leadership in franchising. Guided by principles of integrity, accountability, and teamwork, he has built a leadership style defined by discipline and a commitment to others’ success. Since joining PuroClean in 2013, he has rebuilt trust, aligned teams around a shared vision, and positioned the company for sustained growth. Under his leadership, PuroClean has doubled its franchise locations, tripled average unit sales, and quadrupled system-wide profitability.

In addition to driving growth at PuroClean, White has been a national voice for the franchising industry, advancing initiatives that promote responsible franchising, veteran empowerment, and franchisee success. His leadership roles include:

• Member, International Franchise Association (IFA) Board of Directors
• Past Chair, IFA Foundation and the IFA’s VetFran Committee
• Founding Member, IFA Foundation’s Franchise Ascension Initiative
• Representative for PuroClean on the IFA’s Education and Advocacy team, meeting with members of Congress on key franchising issues

“Steve’s leadership is rooted in integrity and compassion,” said Mark W. Davis, CEO and Chairman of PuroClean. “He has inspired our entire organization and set a standard of excellence that drives everything we do. We are thrilled to see him recognized on an international stage for these values. This is truly a well-deserved honor.”

Long before “Responsible Franchising” became an industry focus, White and PuroClean’s Executive Leadership Team established transparent selection processes to attract the right candidates who align with the brand’s mission to deliver quality, consistency, and trust.

White is no stranger to recognition from the IBAs. Previous honors include:

• 2021 – Silver IBA for Executive of the Year in the Business or Professional Services category, celebrating his 35 years of leadership; alongside a Silver for Management Team of the Year awarded to PuroClean’s Executive Leadership Team.
• 2022 – Gold IBA Lifetime Achievement Award in the Consumer Services category.

This year’s IBAs drew over 3,800 nominations from organizations across 78 nations and territories, spanning sectors and sizes from virtually every industry and a wide range of categories. This recognition places PuroClean and its leaders on the global stage, spotlighting the company’s role not only as an industry frontrunner but as an example of how ethical franchising can scale intentionally.

Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 250 executives worldwide, who participated in the judging process in May – July. Winners will be celebrated during a gala banquet at the Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal on Friday, 10 October.

“The 2025 International Business Awards have set a new benchmark for excellence,” said Stevie Awards President Maggie Miller. “Our winners have demonstrated remarkable ambition and achievement in reaching their goals. We congratulate them on their well-earned recognition and look forward to honoring them on stage in Lisbon on 10 October.”

Details about The International Business Awards and the lists of Stevie Award winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/IBA.

The Paramedics of Property Damage^® Share Severe Flooding and Water Damage Tips with The TODAY Show

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, has stepped onto the national stage as a first responder in the wake of extreme flooding in New Jersey and Wisconsin, sharing its expert tips with NBC’s TODAY Show.

As the U.S. continues to feel the catastrophic and costly effects these weather events have on communities, PuroClean aims to help individuals not only recover but also prepare in advance to mitigate damage. When historic flooding hit parts of New Jersey in July, multi-award-winning PuroClean of Morristown Franchise Owner, Nelson Rivera, jumped headfirst into the crisis, helping property owners recover while educating the nation on how to stay ahead of the next storm. Rivera was recently featured in a national segment on The TODAY Show, where he shared timely, expert tips on preventing water damage before disaster strikes in an era of increasingly frequent and unpredictable weather patterns.

With years of experience responding to restoration disasters, Nelson and his family own and operate six PuroClean franchises—four in New Jersey, one in Hutto, Texas, and one owned in partnership with another PuroClean Franchise Owner in Eugene, Oregon.

Rivera and his wife, Sujey, who were awarded Franchise of the Year earlier this year at PuroClean’s International Convention, for the second year in a row, have built a reputation for excellence. His accolades also include the PuroClean Cares^® Award for outstanding community impact, the Brand Promise Award, and four consecutive invitations to the President’s Circle.

“Water moves fast, and if you don’t catch it early, it can do a lot of damage. But a little preparation goes a long way,” Rivera said. “I am grateful to have had the chance to show that PuroClean Franchise Owners are more than just restoration experts; they’re trusted advisors and first responders in their communities. Whether it’s knowing where the shut-off valve is, storing valuables smarter, or investing in routine maintenance, there are many ways to stop water damage in its tracks. It is important not to panic and to lean on the experts when needed.”

According to the National Weather Service, as of mid-July, this year is already the second most active year on record for flash flood emergencies in the U.S. From Vermont to Arizona, entire neighborhoods have been overtaken by rising waters, leaving families unprepared for the damage, danger, and long recovery that follows.

The demand for PuroClean’s fast-acting, high-quality and community-centered restoration and remediation services has only increased in recent years as the country faces more intense and frequent severe weather disasters. In 2024 alone, there were 27 confirmed weather disaster events in the U.S. with losses exceeding $1 billion each.

Rivera, who has served as a firefighter since 2009 and continues to serve his community as the Deputy Fire Chief, brings his emergency-response instincts to every job. Through philanthropic efforts under the PuroClean Cares banner, he continues to be a steady, compassionate presence in his community. He began his career as a PuroClean technician and later returned to purchase the very franchise where he started many years ago.

“Nelson’s wisdom and professionalism made a powerful impression on-air as he talked the anchor through ways to alleviate and prevent water damage,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “The segment not only showed his expertise but also reinforced the value PuroClean brings to families before, during, and after a crisis.”

For more than 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs, serving communities across the United States and Canada with a network of over 500 offices. PuroClean Cares represents the brand’s commitment to community, creating avenues for franchises nationwide to extend their service beyond restoration by participating in nationally organized charitable givebacks and community support initiatives.

For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit https://www.puroclean.com/community-focus/.

PuroClean Leader Honored by dBusiness for Advancing Michigan’s Business Environment

DETROIT — Frank Torre, Vice Chairman of PuroClean and Co-CEO of Signal Restoration Services, has been named to dBusiness Magazine’s “500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in Michigan” list for the eighth consecutive year. This annual distinction honors executives who are shaping the future of Michigan’s business environment, recognizing factors such as company size, growth rate, geographic reach, and the breadth of their professional networks.

“To be recognized for an eighth time by dBusiness is truly an honor,” said Torre. “This reflects not only the work of the companies I’ve been privileged to lead, but also the outstanding teams and partners that continue to push our mission forward.”

Torre, a nationally recognized entrepreneur and advocate for supporting veterans in the U.S., is known for his transformational leadership in business, healthcare, and philanthropy. He rose to prominence as the founder of Torre & Bruglio, Inc., growing it into one of North America’s largest commercial landscape and construction services firms. Today, he plays a central leadership role at two of the nation’s premier restoration companies.

At PuroClean, Torre leads the PuroVet Program, a national initiative empowering veterans with discounted pathways to franchise ownership and ongoing support for veteran Franchise Owners. He works closely with esteemed military leaders such as Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dick Miller and U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (Lt. Gen. Ret.), and in partnership with the National Veteran Business Development Council. PuroVet provides access to certification and supplier diversity resources. Similarly, Torre is a friend and supporter of Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization committed to honoring and supporting first responders and military service members.

Torre’s recent accolades include a special tribute from the State of Michigan at the Montford Point Marines Heritage Military Banquet, celebrating his work in veteran outreach, patriotism, and economic development.

His civic commitments are equally expansive:

• Executive Board Member, Tenet Healthcare
  
  
• Chairman, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM) and the RIM Foundation
  
  
• Chairman, Hope Ignites (Formerly Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit)
  
  
• Board Member, Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce
  
  
• Past Appointee, Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board

Torre has also spent over two decades partnering with Roger Penske to organize the Detroit Grand Prix and raise funds for the Belle Isle Conservancy.

For more information about Torre as one of Michigan’s most powerful business leaders or about PuroClean’s PuroVet Program, visit PuroVet.com or call 855-PUROVET today!

The Paramedics of Property Damage Honor Nick Schupbach for Outstanding Year-Over-Year Sales Growth

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of North America’s leading property restoration franchises, proudly announces Nick Schupbach of PuroClean of Melbourne, Florida, as the recipient of the highly coveted Hot Shot Award, recognizing the highest percentage of sales growth from 2023 to 2024 across PuroClean’s vast network throughout North America.

“We are honored to receive this recognition, which stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment and collective effort of our entire team,” said Schupbach. “Their dedication to our core values of being ‘On the Move’ and delivering ‘Relentless Customer Service’ has been instrumental in driving the growth that earned us the distinction of ‘Hot Shot of the Year.’ This award reflects not only our team’s passion but also our ongoing pursuit of excellence across all facets of our franchise operations.”

Before launching his PuroClean franchise, Nick brought more than 15 years of diverse experience in insurance, restoration, and construction, holding leadership roles in operations and project management. A graduate of Tec de Monterrey with a degree in International Business, he is fluent in both English and Spanish, bringing a global perspective and an unwavering commitment to ethical business practices. Today, Nick leads a dedicated team specializing in water and fire damage restoration, mold remediation, large loss projects, and commercial cleaning.

“Nick embodies the dedication, operational excellence, and entrepreneurial drive that the Hot Shot Award represents,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “To earn this award, a franchise must achieve the highest percentage of sales growth year-over-year, and Nick’s team led the pack. His leadership and commitment to service are a true reflection of our brand’s core values. We’re proud to recognize him with this well-deserved accolade.”

For more than 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners in times of need with expert restoration and remediation services. Now celebrating the milestone of 500 locations across the United States and Canada, the brand continues to grow, fueled by passionate Franchise Owners like Nick, who continue to make a lasting impact in the communities they serve.

For more information about PuroClean of Melbourne, call (321) 378-2400, email purocleanofmelbourne@gmail.com or visit https://www.puroclean.com/pmb-fl/.

Veteran-Owned Franchise Owners Honored at PuroVet Forum; Convention Includes Tribute to Frank Torre Sr. and Moving Ceremony Led by Color Guard

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, a leading property restoration and remediation franchise, reaffirmed its unwavering support for veterans at the 2025 PuroClean International Convention in Grapevine, Texas. Among the Convention’s many highlights was the PuroVet Forum—an inspiring event celebrating service, community, and the powerful role veterans play across the PuroClean franchise network.

The PuroVet Forum featured a candid and emotional conversation between Frank Torre, Vice Chairman of PuroClean, and Steve White, President & COO and U.S. Army veteran, who shared how military values of leadership, discipline, and service continue to shape the culture and success of PuroClean. The discussion underscored how the PuroVet Program has become more than just a franchise incentive—it’s a national movement empowering veterans to transition successfully into civilian business ownership.

A solemn tribute was held in honor of Frank Torre Sr., a U.S. Marine and decorated member of the elite WWII Carlson’s Raiders, whose legacy of courage and service continues to inspire the PuroVet initiative. The tribute was accompanied by a color guard presentation, bringing attendees to their feet in reflection and respect.

“At PuroClean, we don’t just offer a franchise—we offer a community,” said Torre. “Veterans are leaders, problem solvers, and purpose-driven professionals. The PuroVet Program is built to honor those traits and help veterans thrive in a system that supports their journey.”

White echoed the sentiment: “As a veteran myself, I know firsthand how military experience prepares you for the challenges of business ownership. With our PuroVet Program, we’re proud to offer veterans the structure, support, and opportunity they deserve.”

Through the PuroVet Program, eligible veterans receive a 25% discount on the initial franchise fee, access to a nationwide network of fellow veterans, regularly scheduled open forum peer discussions designed to strengthen veteran engagement, one-on-one mentorship, and comprehensive training to support long-term business success. Today, 1 in 7 PuroClean Franchise Owners are veterans, a testament to the program’s impact and the brand’s ongoing commitment to empowering those who have served. PuroClean continues to expand its veteran recruitment campaign nationwide, welcoming new veteran owners to its network each year.

Recognizing that military service instills leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to community, PuroClean launched the PuroVet Program in 2017 to help veterans transition into business ownership and continue making a meaningful impact.

To learn more about PuroVet, visit PuroVet.com or call 855-PUROVET.

Husband-and-Wife Duo Named Top-Performing North American Franchise at Annual PuroClean International Convention Two Years in a Row

MORRISTOWN, N.J. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, proudly announces its 2024 Franchise of the Year. For the second year in a row and within six years of first becoming eligible after completing the required two years in business, Nelson and Sujey Rivera, Franchise Owners of PuroClean of Morristown, have earned the prestigious title at the company’s Annual International Convention.

The Riveras, who co-own and operate PuroClean of Morristown, Livingston, Bloomfield, and Chester, NJ, as well as Eugene, Oregon, embody PuroClean’s commitment to support families and businesses through life’s unexpected emergencies. They’ve become a trusted name across New Jersey and beyond.

Over the years, the Riveras have built a remarkable reputation, earning multiple accolades for their service and performance, including the PuroClean Cares^® Award for outstanding impact, the Brand Promise Award, and four consecutive invitations to the President’s Circle. Selected from nearly 500 franchise locations across North America, they’ve once again earned the network’s highest honor.

With more than $5 million in annual revenue and a 20% year-over-year growth rate, their business has become a model of operational excellence. The Franchise of the Year award recognizes exceptional achievement in multiple areas, including revenue growth, market penetration, profitability, and brand leadership.

“When we won this last year, a lot of people started calling us and asking for advice, which I couldn’t give. But the truth is, the reason we’re so successful has everything to do with the people in this room,” Nelson said. “My first job over $1 million came from Russell Benes, a fellow Franchise Owner. I was in Vermont with Darrel Depot and later Oregon with Ben Doebler, also Franchise Owners, and all the relationships I’ve built in this franchise got us to where we are. I’ll share this with all of you.”

Nelson Rivera’s story is one of service, resilience, and deep community roots. A proud Essex County resident since 1999, Nelson moved with his family to Newark before settling in Orange, where he began serving as a firefighter in 2009. Today, he continues to serve his community as the Deputy Fire Chief.

His introduction to PuroClean came in 2017 when he worked as a technician at a location in Livingston. Inspired by the company’s mission and recognizing an opportunity to make an even greater impact, Nelson and Sujey purchased their first PuroClean franchise in 2019. Since then, they have grown their portfolio to five locations across two states, including the franchise where he first got his start.

Nelson credits their ability to remain fluid and adaptable, especially during unpredictable market shifts, as a major factor in their ongoing success. The combination of Nelson’s firefighting background and Sujey’s leadership in financial operations has created a high-performing franchise model that continues to scale year after year.

“PuroClean Franchise of the Year is incredibly difficult to win, as the competition is fierce! It is truly earned with points awarded from every area of our business. This year, we had a rare repeat winner. However, it was no surprise to me, as Nelson and Sujey have continued the amazing work and service that got them this recognition last year,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “Nelson Rivera lives a life rooted in service—whether responding to fires as a firefighter or stepping in to help families recover from disaster as a PuroClean Franchise Owner. He meets every challenge head-on, driven by a deep commitment to helping others. Together with Sujey, he embodies what it truly means to be a Paramedic of Property Damage®. The Rivera family sets a standard we can all aspire to.”

As the third of twelve children and the father of two young daughters, Nelson knows firsthand the value of community and courage. His public service has earned him multiple honors, including the City of Orange Chamber of Commerce Valor Award, New Jersey State Firemen’s Mutual Benevolent Association Award for Valor, and the American Red Cross Hero Award.

For more information about PuroClean of Morristown, call (973)-993-6444, email nrivera@puroclean.com, or visit https://www.puroclean.com/pm-nj/

The Paramedics of Property Damage Celebrate Community Heroes Nationwide

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the nation’s leading restoration and remediation franchises, is wrapping up its PuroClean Cares National Superhero Day campaign, recognizing heroes nationwide who have made a significant impact in their community. Rooted in strong values of service and community giveback, PuroClean is overjoyed to honor unsung heroes across the country with awards, recognitions, and events to celebrate their service and dedication.

In celebration of National Superhero Day on April 28, PuroClean Franchise Owners partnered with local community groups and organizations, nominating important figures in their market who they deem superheroes. These local heroes included first responders, teachers, health care workers, volunteers, and everyday citizens who have made a difference in their community. The initiative was embraced by over a dozen PuroClean locations across the country, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to service and community engagement.

“National Superhero Day is about honoring the real-life heroes who consistently, but all too often quietly, uplift their local communities,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “At PuroClean, we believe in stepping up for others, and this initiative allows our Franchise Owners to recognize those in their community who embody the same spirit. We’re proud to see so many of our teams participating and shining a light on the individuals who truly make a difference.”

These efforts were made possible by PuroClean Franchise Owners, their teams, and the entire PuroClean network.

Standout efforts include:

• Caroline Bonnen, PuroClean in Greenlawn, NY: This Franchise Owner chose Harrison Smith from Long Island Cares to honor as their superhero for his dedication to fighting food insecurity, as well as his devoted coordination of disaster relief efforts for the underserved community.
• Trey and Janice Bell, PuroClean in Elyria, OH: The Bells honored Joe Matuscak, the Chief Marketing and Development Officer of Riveon Mental Health and Recovery, for his demonstration of exceptional service and impactful contributions in the community.
• Avi Sohal, PuroClean in Gilbert, PA: Avi and the PuroClean of Gilbert team showed appreciation to the local fire chief of Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company for 15 years, Clifford Opelt. They surprised him with a backyard barbecue and a $1,000 donation to his fire company.
• Gregory and Kimberly Arianoff, PuroClean of Hilo, HI: The Arianoffs honored Larry Reitzer, Board President of Hilo Education Arts Repertory, who, in addition to presenting theater, also offers theatrical training to at-risk and underserved youth in the local community. This PuroClean team coordinated a surprise lunch to honor his commitment to the Hilo community and presented him with a medal, superhero kit, and a letter of recognition.
• Craig and Jenny Hawkins, PuroClean in Woodinville, WA: The Hawkins recognized Maurice Leary, a local community member with Step It Up Camp!, working with kids from all different backgrounds and helping them feel seen and prepared for life in a way that goes beyond school.
• Gianni Cortes, PuroClean in New Port Richey, FL: This franchise honored Philip Meltzer, a local industrial hygienist and dedicated disaster recovery professional at Germ Masters Environmental, working closely with Gianni and his PuroClean team, keeping homes and businesses environmentally safe. They surprised him with a celebratory dinner to show their appreciation.
• Charles and Sharon Atkins, PuroClean in Cleveland, TN: The Atkins chose “Big Tom” and Sabrina Anderson as their superheroes. Owners of Big Tom’s Bar and Grill, this pair nearly lost everything—health, marriage, and hope—until Restaurant: Impossible helped them rise. Now, they feed thousands each holiday, expecting nothing in return.
• Keegan Trudgen and Tim Lohse, PuroClean in Chicagoland, IL: This franchise recognized Paul Rocco, National Operations Director for their PuroClean locations. Paul leads the charge across multiple states, helping families and businesses rebuild after fires, floods, storms, and other life-altering events, and on the side, also a Personal Trainer, Paul often helps his team members with nutrition plans and routines for free.
• Thomas Maguire, PuroClean in Spartanburg, SC: This location chose to honor local community member Beverly Benson for her dedication to helping those in need by consistently donating to local food and homeless shelters and advocating for mental health groups.
• Brett Dalrymple and Dennis O’Brien, PuroClean in Warrenton and Springfield, VA: This franchise honored Master Deputy Chris Meyers, a steadfast advocate for Special Olympics in the community. He launched the Champions Together Unified Special Olympics Program at Liberty High School and is a School Resource Officer. This PuroClean team presented him with a surprise donation of $500.
• Christopher Louangrath, Calvin Louangrath, and Guillermo Rocha, PuroClean in Gilberts, IL: The PuroClean of West Elgin team honored military veteran and community partner Mike Baumgartner, CEO/President of Apex Gear Service, for his tireless missionary work in Sierra Leone, Bangladesh, and the local church community.
• Jessie and Jennifer Wine, PuroClean in Burlington, WI: The Wines combined the National Superhero Day campaign with the PuroClean Cares Adopt A Classroom campaign. The Burlington community nominated Ms. Rachel Hanspal, of Curtis Strange Elementary School, as the teacher who stood out among the rest, and they presented her with supplies at a school assembly to honor her. They later returned to the school to deliver a donation of $1,000 to the teacher.

Through initiatives like PuroClean Cares National Superhero Day or Season of Giving, as well as their daily remediation and restoration services, PuroClean supports homeowners and businesses in recovering from property damage while also recognizing community members across the country who embody the company’s values of service and engagement.

For more information about PuroClean, call 800-351-2282, visit www.PuroCleanFranchise.com, or visit them on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/purocleanfranchise/.