"I mean, it's a pretty weird job, but I love it," Jamie Coones' trademark laughter echoes through the room as he speaks. And why wouldn't it? Quitting a six-figure, high-pressure sales job to move his family back to Manhattan and start a dog poop pickup service from scratch certainly requires a good sense of humor. "Life is tough enough; why not have some fun? I work outdoors, help people, pet dogs, and it has changed my family's life for the better." With 15 Poo Squad franchises now open across the country, it seems the fun is just beginning.
It's a simple business idea. Do something that people need but cannot or will not always do themselves. From busy parents to disabled veterans, Poo Squad is happy to provide the solution. Jaime launched the first location in Manhattan in 2017 with just a truck and a bucket. Initially, Jamie handled everything — finding and scheduling clients, scooping the yards, and managing the books, all with the significant support and patience of his wife, Ashley. She was the one who helped and believed in the idea when everyone else thought it was crazy.
If you're going to do something others consider crazy, you better be willing to commit fully. For Jamie and his team, commitment is everything. "You can't be afraid to be the 'poop guy.' You have to fully embrace it for it to work." The proof is in the branding — all orange everything: shirts, hats, jackets, backpacks, signs. "It started as a safety point," Jaime explains. "I wanted people to know exactly who was in their yard. Now, it's just who we are." This commitment to branding has succeeded, not just in Manhattan but across the country. The 15th location recently opened in New Haven, Connecticut, joining others in Kansas, Missouri, Texas, California, Ohio, and Kentucky, with more on the way. Poo Squad will soon scoop its 500,000th yard, marking an incredible journey in just seven years.
The company's success has allowed investments in two crucial areas: community and technology. Jamie, often spotted in the brand's signature orange, has become a familiar face at community events in Manhattan, KS. From initiating the Manhattan Chili Cookoff to sponsoring Purple Power Animal Welfare Society pet adoption events, the team aims to have more fun than anyone else while giving back. Jaime was named Young Trustee Volunteer of the Year in 2023, and this spirit of service is carried across all locations, which sponsor sports teams and has donated services to dog foster families. "We exist because people trust us with their homes. It's part of our culture to give back and make our communities welcoming," Jaime states.
Jamie's software sales background has been instrumental in the company's growth, employing advanced technology to streamline operations for clients and employees. This includes routing software, text reminders, and even a 'poo report' for clients to monitor their pet's digestive health. Behind the scenes, 'Poo Squad University' provides video courses for new franchises and employee training.
Building the company hasn't been without challenges, including Jamie's severe bout with Covid. Thanks to friends, family, and robust technology, Poo Squad not only survived but thrived. "I wouldn't be here without the prayers and support of my family and friends. I'm proud of what Poo Squad has done for my family and how it's changing the lives of other franchise owners. Most of all, I'm proud that Poo Squad is from Manhattan, Kansas."
