Roto-Rooter Services Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Chemed Corporation (NYSE: CHE), has acquired the largest independent Roto-Rooter franchise, a move that significantly expands its service coverage in California. The acquired franchise serves approximately 11 million people across Northern San Diego, Palm Springs, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Bakersfield, Lancaster, Fresno, Monterey, Stockton, Modesto, Manteca, and Sacramento. Additionally, Roto-Rooter acquired a smaller franchise serving Marin County, covering about 254,000 people. This expansion brings Roto-Rooter's company-owned coverage in California close to completion and extends its reach to approximately 75% of the U.S. population.
The strategic importance of this acquisition lies in its potential to enhance service accessibility and consistency for both residential and commercial customers. By integrating these territories, Roto-Rooter can offer a broader range of services, including residential and commercial water cleanup, advanced trenchless pipe repair, and 24-hour emergency plumbing and drain cleaning. The expansion also enables the company to provide a more uniform service suite to national commercial clients with locations across the country, ensuring they receive the same quality and reliability wherever they operate.
Paul Abrams, Director of Public Relations at Roto-Rooter Services Company, emphasized the customer benefits: "California customers rely on fast, local service when plumbing and water cleanup emergencies happen. This expansion strengthens Roto-Rooter's ability to serve more homeowners and businesses with the responsiveness, experience, and reliability they expect from our brand." He further noted that the company's strength lies in combining local service teams with the resources and standards of a national brand, making it easier for customers to access trusted help when and where needed.
The acquisition also supports Roto-Rooter's goal of serving a diverse mix of communities, from coastal to inland and fast-growing areas. With this expansion, more customers in the newly acquired territories can contact their local Roto-Rooter for information on available plumbing, drain, sewer, and water cleanup services. The move underscores Roto-Rooter's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of California residents and businesses.
This expansion is part of Roto-Rooter's broader strategy to strengthen its national footprint. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Chemed Corporation, Roto-Rooter Services Company, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, continues to provide plumbing and drain cleaning services through its network across the United States and Canada. The acquisition not only extends service coverage but also reinforces the company's ability to deliver consistent, high-quality service to a growing customer base.
