Junk B Gone
About the Company
Junk B Gone is a junk removal service based in Seattle, specializing in both residential and commercial junk removal. Founded over 30 years ago by Ann and Booker Scott, the company has a long history of providing reliable and environmentally responsible services. Under Ben Sharpe’s ownership, the business has seen significant growth, with revenue doubling and the team expanding from 8 to 12 employees. The company prides itself on maintaining a high standard of service and has recently enhanced its operations with modern technology and improved employee benefits.
Idea Behind Company
Ben Sharpe's interest in Junk B Gone was sparked by his philosophy of thriving in "boring service businesses," which focus on consistently performing everyday tasks well. The acquisition was motivated by Junk B Gone's promising margins, its dual focus on commercial and residential clients, and its ability to weather economic downturns. Sharpe saw potential in the business due to its strong reputation, robust team, and the opportunity to integrate it with his existing company, Pacific Facilities and Construction. His engineering background helped him recognize the value of technological upgrades in enhancing business operations.
Creating the Company
The acquisition process involved negotiating with the previous owners, Ann and Booker Scott, through a broker. Sharpe’s initial offer was rejected due to differing price expectations, but a later agreement was reached. Upon taking over, Sharpe focused on modernizing Junk B Gone by implementing Jobber for scheduling and CRM systems for customer communication. He also introduced employee bonuses and benefits to boost morale and service quality. Expanding the fleet with new trucks was a strategic decision to enhance capacity and better serve the growing customer base.
Launching the Business
Launching the revamped Junk B Gone involved transitioning from paper-based scheduling to digital solutions like Jobber, which streamlined operations and improved efficiency. Sharpe financed the purchase with cash and a short-term seller note, allowing for immediate operational changes without the burden of debt. A branding update, including a new logo and website, was part of the modernization effort. Sharpe’s focus on understanding the emotional aspects of junk removal and improving customer service has been key to the business's success.
Earnings
Since taking over, Junk B Gone has nearly doubled its revenue and bottom-line EBITDA cash flow. The business operates with six trucks and crews, handling a mix of commercial and residential jobs. Sharpe’s strategic use of CRM systems and a focus on existing customer relationships have minimized customer acquisition costs and driven organic growth. Looking ahead, the company aims to double its size again by the end of 2024, with plans to diversify services and continue expanding within the Seattle market.
