When Kristin Verbeek and Meghan Peters launched Lathered Cleaning Company, it began as a daring “what if.”
Thirteen years later, their vision has transformed Airdrie’s cleaning industry completely. From humble beginnings, the co-owners have grown Lathered into a thriving, values-driven company, franchising across Alberta and beyond while championing eco-friendly practices and ethical employment standards.
“The best part of our roles is watching people discover what they’re capable of,” Verbeek says.
Adds Peters: “Those ‘aha!’ moments fuel us. Giving back is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that, when we empower others, whether it’s our staff, our clients, our franchise owners or our community, we create a ripple effect of positivity and growth.”
Lathered’s impact stretches beyond spotless homes and offices. Through partnerships with local charities and initiatives like Cleaning for a Reason, Verbeek and Peters provide hundreds of hours of free house cleaning for women undergoing cancer treatment.
In addition, they are now in the final stages of launching their own enterprise resource-planning software.
“We can’t wait to see it streamline operations for our franchisees and eventually help other businesses do the same,” says Peters.
“It’s about making business ownership more accessible, organized and rewarding.”
Their commitment to mentorship, community growth and hands-on leadership is helping Airdrie shine (in more ways than one).
The AAWAs are celebrating their Sweet 16 in 2026. What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Meghan Peters Relax, you don’t need to have it all figured out! Life is way more fun (and interesting) when you take a few risks and follow those wild ideas. Spend less time worrying about what others think and more time discovering who you are and what you value in life.
Kristin Verbeek Surround yourself with people who make you laugh, cheer you on and remind you to keep going when things get tough. Mistakes? You’ll make plenty, and that’s totally okay. Each one will teach you something important (and make for great stories later). Don’t be afraid to stand out or try something new. The best things in life usually start with a leap of faith and a good sense of humour.