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Bill Foulds is a 30-year veteran of the industry. He currently serves as president of the Association of Rug Care Specialists (ARCS).
How would you best sum up the last 50 years (or the time that you’ve been a part) of the carpet cleaning/restoration industry?
There have been many changes over the past 30 years. We have watched the emphasis change from wall-to-wall cleaning to restoration water damage. We now see things settling out and companies finding their way in being more focused on one aspect of the industry. For our company, we have become the go-to company in oriental rugs in Austin, TX.
In your opinion, what have been some of the most significant events and milestones to impact the industry over the past 50 years? What about some of the most significant people?
The “mold” issues. The changing of NIRC to ASCR and then to RIA. The start of a new association that focuses on rugs (ARCS).
What are some of your fondest memories of being involved in the industry in years past?
Meeting the families of cleaning companies that have been working in our industry for 75-100 years and seeing the young companies prosper from learning from the older companies.
Moving forward, what do you see in store for the cleaning/restoration industry’s future?
I still see many companies chasing the money and not focusing on customer service.
