Roto-Rooter, a Cincinnati-based plumbing and water cleanup service, is commemorating 90 years of operation, according to a recent feature in the Cincinnati Enquirer. The article details the company's transformation from a single patented drain-cleaning solution into a nearly $1 billion organization offering extensive emergency plumbing services across the United States.
Founded in 1935 by Samuel Blanc with an innovative root-cutting device, Roto-Rooter has seen its revenue more than double in the last ten years, climbing from less than $400 million in 2014 to over $900 million in 2024. This growth reflects the company's strategic shift from conventional drain cleaning to becoming experts in full-service plumbing and water cleanup. "Achieving 90 years is a reflection of the dedication of our hardworking employees. We take great pride in our history and are enthusiastic about what lies ahead," stated Spencer Lee, CEO of Roto-Rooter, in an interview with the Enquirer.
The company's growth strategy has involved reacquiring franchises across the country and broadening its array of services. Today, Roto-Rooter offers a full suite of plumbing and drain solutions, including hydro jetting, sewer repair and replacement, trenchless repairs, water damage cleanup services, and water filtration systems. With a workforce of over 6,000 employees nationwide, including more than 200 in the Greater Cincinnati region, the company has effectively expanded its service reach while upholding its commitment to quality and community engagement.
The Enquirer article also emphasized Roto-Rooter's ongoing relevance in tackling contemporary plumbing issues, from the challenges posed by "flushable" wipes on aging sewer systems to the company's unique community initiative that provides free rescues for pets trapped in pipes and drains using their specialized equipment.
As a subsidiary of the publicly traded Chemed Corporation (NYSE: CHE), Roto-Rooter now accounts for over one-third of its parent company's annual revenue of $2.4 billion. The firm's headquarters in downtown Cincinnati acts as the central hub for nationwide operations, merging traditional expertise with modern plumbing services and technology.
For additional information regarding Roto-Rooter's extensive plumbing and water cleanup services, please visit www.roto-rooter.com or utilize their location finder to connect with local plumbing professionals.
