John English, Franchise Development Leader and 2023 FISH Franchisee of the Year, Finds Work-Life Balance
For John English, being part of the Fish Window Cleaning family has been more than just a job or a business — it\’s been a game changer that has given him the life he wants. As a leader in franchise development for the window cleaning brand and 2023 Franchisee of the Year, English has experienced firsthand how this business model allows franchisees to prioritize their families while achieving professional success.
Founded by the Merrick family in 1978, Fish Window Cleaning was built with the vision of creating a family-friendly work environment. Since the beginning, FISH has operated with clear priorities: “No nights! No weekends! No holidays!” These values allow franchisees like English to spend quality time with their families — something that has become a cornerstone of the FISH culture.
“The Merricks built FISH around the idea that a business should enhance your life, not dominate it,” English says. “They’ve always prioritized family, and that’s a value we’ve carried into our franchise.” The importance of family is not just a slogan; it is deeply ingrained in the company\’s values. The Merrick family’s vision statement places “Honor family” as the second most important principle, just after “Honor God.” This focus on family has attracted many like-minded individuals who see FISH not just as a business opportunity but as a way to live a balanced life.
FISH allows us to reach our dreams without sacrificing our lives.
The Beginning
English\’s journey with FISH began in January 2003, just two months after he married his wife, Sara. “I have been married to FISH quite literally almost as long as my wife! I have been in franchise development the entire time and have been the director of franchise development for the past 10 years. I also serve on FISH’s leadership team,” he says. “I love the FISH model because it works. It’s simple: ‘Sell it! Clean it! Collect it!’ FISH allows us to reach our dreams without sacrificing our lives,” English says. “No one dreams about going into the window cleaning business, but it’s the vehicle that has helped so many achieve an ideal lifestyle.”
Going All-In
After seeing so many other families build the lives they want through FISH, the Englishes invested in their own FISH franchise in St. Charles County, Mo., in 2016. Since then, they have built a successful business that allows them to enjoy the flexibility and family time that FISH promises. “It has been life-changing,” English says. “We can attend our kids\’ events, travel and still run a successful business. That’s the beauty of the FISH model.”
The Englishes’ dedication to FISH and ability to build a strong team have earned them the title of 2023 Franchisee of the Year. “I never dreamed they would give this award to us since I am also a corporate employee. A large part of me wishes they chose a different franchisee. However, we gladly accepted this award on behalf of our AMAZING team. They run the day-to-day operations and clean all of the glass,” English says. The Englishes own a standard territory with FISH. In 2023, their location generated the most revenue in its category and had the fourth highest increase in new customers in the system overall. “Our team, the incredible model, and FISH’s amazing support earned us the distinction. We thank God for all of the many blessings FISH has bestowed upon our family.”
Family Life
Outside of their business, the couple leads a fulfilling family life. They are the proud parents of four children — Christina, Jack, Henry and Rebekah — and they also have a two-year-old Cavapoo named Humphrey.
They both are actively involved in their children\’s lives, their church and their community. Whether it\’s attending youth sports events, volunteering at their kids\’ schools or enjoying family trips, the English family embodies the work-life balance that FISH promotes. “We’re thankful every day for the opportunities FISH has given us,” English says. “It’s not just about cleaning windows; it’s about building a life that we love.”
For more information about the Fish Window Cleaning franchise, visit https://www.fishwindowcleaning.com/franchise/.
