The pandemic forced people to spend a lot of time at home, and with it came a flurry of home renovations and purges.
That’s why Dennis Stein of Islip decided to become a franchisee of JDog Junk Removal & Hauling, a commercial and residential junk removal and transportation business.
Stein, who already owns two other franchised businesses — Mosquito Joe South Shore and Bay Shore’s Fit Body Boot Camp — became the first Long Island franchisee of the Berwyn, Pennsylvania-based junk removal company in September. became.
“I saw people working more around the house than ever before,” says Stein, 47.
According to data from the Harvard University Collaborative Center for Housing Research Remodeling Futures Program, national spending on home remodeling and repairs is expected to reach $352 billion in 2021, up 3.8% from last year. University.
JDog trucks are camouflage themed and you must be a veteran or be associated with a veteran to purchase the franchise. Stein said he likes his connection to his late father, who was a Navy veteran.
“If he were alive, he would love this,” he says.
Dennis Stein of Islip will become a franchisee of JDog Junk Removal & Hauling in Fall 2020. Credit: Barry Sloan
Newsday spoke to Stein about the business. Conversations have been edited for clarity and length.
Junk removal is a competitive business. How long did you search before you found JDog?
I’ve been looking at various junk removal franchises for 3-6 months. What caught my eye was that this is a veteran and family run business.
What do you think is driving the growth of the industry?
People were locked in their homes for a year. They wanted to do projects around the house. We spend more time in garages, attics and sheds and realize that we have accumulated a lot over the years.
How did you disseminate information about your business?
We did a lot of digital marketing on Facebook and used Google Ads and Yard Signs. Also, don’t miss the camouflage-covered trucks.
How have you adapted during COVID?
Offered contactless pickup. Customers were able to take items out of their homes and put them in their driveway. We did a lot of outdoor work, like cleaning the patio. I made sure to follow all COVID protocols if I entered the house.
You own 3 franchises. How does buying into a franchise help?
We have corporate support. When I look at a franchise, you’re doing business with someone else rather than being alone.
What is the corresponding area?
We are currently the only JDog franchisee on Long Island, so we serve Suffolk and Nassau, but our territory extends from Patchogue to Massapequa on the South Shore.
Prices?
We will quote based on the number of trucks. Ranges from $250 to $800 depending on volume.
What was your total investment to buy the franchise?
It was $80,000 to $100,000, including the dump truck and F-150 purchase. [truck] Comes with a trailer. Our goal is to add another track if this busyness continues.
There is a veteran edge. Are you hiring veterans?
We have 3 employees including 1 veteran. I want to hire more.
Does JDog also have a sustainability mission?
The company’s goal is to remove 60% to 80% of its waste from landfills. It’s now 30% to 40%. I would like to see that number increased. We like to recycle, donate and reuse. Donated to Habitat for Humanity and AMVETS.
What is your outlook for the future?
I think people will continue to invest in homes. We are still taking reservations for work. Spring cleaning is now in full swing.
