John DeLuca Runs His Pennsylvania-Based Restoration Business with an Empire-Building Mentality
When the world was still frozen from the uncertainties of the pandemic, John DeLuca decided to embark on a new venture by opening a Paul Davis restoration franchise in Hatfield, Penn. In September 2020, he traded in a 25-year corporate career to build something big for himself — and build he did.
DeLuca was attracted to the Paul Davis franchise for many reasons, including its growth potential and recession-resistant model. “Paul Davis has a great reputation, and the management team is impressive. After several validation calls with other franchise owners, I knew it was what I wanted to do,” he says. Paul Davis offers essential services to repair damage caused by water, fire, mold and other disasters. With a history spanning over five decades, the brand has secured a spot as a major player in the restoration industry.
Initial Hurdles
Launching the franchise wasn’t without its challenges. From finding suitable office space to assembling a team capable of delivering high-quality services during a global crisis, the initial setup required significant effort. DeLuca took on a strategic role in the company, overseeing all major functions including finance, legal matters and franchise relations, while delegating daily operations to a general manager.
This structure proved effective, allowing the franchise to expand rapidly. Starting with just 10 employees, the team has grown to more than 60, and will continue to grow. The business now operates from a 74,000-square-foot facility and has broadened its capabilities significantly since its inception.
Financial independence is a key goal for DeLuca, and his franchise is well on the way. “We are projected to reach $14 million in top-line sales this year.” The secret to his success? “Ensuring you have great financial command of your business, employing exceptional leaders, and leveraging the brand to its max,” he says.
No Regrets
Although there have been many challenges and the business has required intense focus, capital and patience to get where it is today, DeLuca says he would do it all over again. “Despite the hurdles and steep learning curves, I have no regrets. This is a great industry because it’s recession-resistant. There’s always some type of emergency and we’re here to answer the call,” he says.
Why Paul Davis?
- Meaningful Work: Paul Davis franchise owners can feel good about providing important services for property owners when they face disasters like fires and floods.
- Support: The company supports each franchise owner uniquely, offering personalized training and resources. Franchisees have direct access to a dedicated support team.
- Extensive Training: The Paul Davis training methods replicate the situations franchise owners will encounter in the field. Franchisees learn the business at Paul Davis University, the company’s state-of-the-art training facility in Jacksonville, Fla. The Flood House, a fully functioning 1,700-square-foot home, has space for practice activities that give trainees realistic experiences to learn restoration techniques.
- Strategic Partnerships: Paul Davis has strategic relationships with major insurance companies, streamlining business and enhancing efficiency in managing restoration projects.
For more information, visit https://www.pauldavisbusiness.com/.
