Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25 marked the busiest move weekend of the year for the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® system. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, more than 37 million Americans relocate each year during the summer months. For the more than 350 TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® locations in the United States, this means logging more than 5,500 moves during this two-day timeframe. But for the three Utah locations, extremely low unemployment rates restricted the franchise’s ability to take advantage of the busy season.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2017 Utah ranked 10th in the United States for lowest unemployment rate, at 3.2%. While this is outstanding for the traditionally employed individual, it poses a recruiting challenge for companies seeking new talent.
“I’m seeing all businesses across the board struggle to get new talent,” said Darren Rogers from Workforce Development in Weber County, “The economy is just so vibrant.”
Utah’s three TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® franchises are among the local companies working hard to attract and maintain entry-level talent.
“We need the man power,” said TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Salt Lake City General Manager, Alan Schow. “In order to continue providing our top-notch moving and packing services in the area, we continue to seek out new employees and offer them great opportunities within our company, whether they’re looking for part-time or full-time, a seasonal job or a career.” Despite booking fewer jobs, Schow said the company continues to serve local customers in the Salt Lake area with the outstanding customer service and care TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is known for.”
In addition to upholding superior quality standards, developing more creative employee management procedures is imperative during a labor shortage.
“In addition to hiring new employees, I’m working with employers to think outside-the-box to incentivize their current workforce to stay,” said Rogers.
Adhering to this advice, Schow, has increased starting wages by $1.50. Additionally, he introduced incentives such as bonuses, regular pay raises, and flexible scheduling options, to attract and retain employees.
“Many movers become drivers, drivers become moving consultants, and from there to a management position. The career opportunities are endless,” said Show.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the largest franchised moving company both in the United States and internationally. Currently there are 352 national locations and 2,669 trucks operating in the U.S.; in total, the company operates more than 380 locations and 2,700 trucks. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® has performed more than 6 million moves since its inception in 1985. The company has seen consistent monthly growth dating back to December 2009 and more than 85 consecutive months of growth. Each location is independently owned and operated. For franchising opportunities, visit franchise.twomenandatruck.com.
