Mike Ciaramitaro - Detroit, Michigan

Mike started with a one-truck operation in 1972. He owned and operated several plumbing companies before opening a Mr. Rooter franchise in 1989. Mike now runs a 40-truck operation, and he’s been the Sales Leader of the Year 10 out of the last 12 years for the Mr. Rooter Corporation.

Why did you invest in a Mr. Rooter franchise?
I had been self employed in the plumbing industry for 17 years when I ran across an advertisement for a Mr. Rooter franchise. I was impressed with the education, training and support the Mr. Rooter Corporation provides its franchise owners.

What is the biggest benefit of owning and operating a Mr. Rooter franchise?
Networking with other Mr. Rooter franchise owners is the biggest benefit of being a Mr. Rooter franchisee. The Mr. Rooter Corporation hosts annual conferences and offers various types of training throughout the year where we get to network with one another. During these events we also learn about accounting, marketing and other aspects of operating a business.

How has your business changed since you became a franchise owner?
Through the training I’ve received from the Mr. Rooter Corporation I have been transformed from a technician to a businessman. I’ve learned how to manage my numbers, recruit technicians and market my business which has enabled me to grow my business. I no longer work in my business; I now work on my business.

What is it like to have your two sons work in the business with you?
It’s a lot of fun, and we get to spend more time together. My son Chris is learning how to market and run the business. My other son Michael works in field supervision in the excavating division. They both started working for me when they graduated from high school, and one day I want them to take over the business. 

What do you see in the future for your franchise?
We’re building a training center that we will use for training future management positions as well as our technicians and customer service representatives. Over the next five years we plan on doubling the amount of trucks we run now. We also want to open two additional franchises within the next three years.

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