Roto-Rooter, a Cincinnati-based plumbing and water cleanup service, is commemorating 90 years of operation, having transformed from a single patented drain-cleaning solution into a nearly $1 billion organization. The company's revenue has more than doubled in the last decade, climbing from less than $400 million in 2014 to over $900 million in 2024, demonstrating significant strategic growth in the plumbing industry.
This milestone is important because it showcases how a traditional service business can adapt and thrive through strategic diversification. Roto-Rooter's evolution from conventional drain cleaning to full-service plumbing and water cleanup experts reflects broader industry trends toward comprehensive home service solutions. The company's growth strategy has involved reacquiring franchises across the country and broadening its service array, now offering hydro jetting, sewer repair and replacement, trenchless repairs, water damage cleanup services, and water filtration systems.
The implications of this sustained growth extend to both the industry and consumers. For the plumbing sector, Roto-Rooter's success demonstrates the viability of national service networks in an industry traditionally dominated by local providers. The company now employs over 6,000 workers nationwide, including more than 200 in the Greater Cincinnati region, contributing to local economies while maintaining service quality through standardized operations.
For consumers, Roto-Rooter's expansion means increased access to emergency plumbing services across the United States, with the company positioned to address contemporary plumbing challenges. These include problems caused by "flushable" wipes on aging sewer systems, a growing concern as municipal infrastructure ages nationwide. The company has also maintained community engagement through initiatives like free rescues for pets trapped in pipes using specialized equipment, demonstrating corporate responsibility alongside business growth.
As a subsidiary of 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. This financial significance underscores how traditional service businesses can become substantial contributors to larger corporate portfolios. The firm's headquarters in downtown Cincinnati serves as the central hub for nationwide operations, merging traditional expertise with modern plumbing services and technology.
CEO Spencer Lee emphasized the achievement reflects employee dedication, stating the company takes pride in its history while looking toward future opportunities. The company's continued relevance in addressing both routine and emergency plumbing needs suggests ongoing demand for professional plumbing services despite economic fluctuations. Additional information about Roto-Rooter's services is available at https://www.roto-rooter.com.
