Imperial Cleaning has been recognized as a PSEG Long Island Small Business Star, highlighting its dedication to excellence and community impact. In this Q&A, we speak with the team about what this nomination means, their commitment to quality service, and how they continue to shine in their industry.
What do you love about being in this business/being an owner?
When I started this company fresh out of college, I had no idea where it would take me. I just knew I wanted to build something from the ground up. Thirty years later, I can honestly say that what I love most about this business is the impact we’ve made — not just on our clients, but on the people who work here and the families we support.
This company has always been a family business, not just because of my own family’s involvement, but because I started the business with my partner of 30 years, Jeff Krinick. As a team we have built relationships over the years. Our team takes real pride in their work, and that’s what sets us apart. We create healthier, safer environments for people to work and live in. When a client tells us we made a difference for them, it reminds me why we started in the first place.
Growth has always been a huge motivator for me — not just in revenue, but in the opportunities we create. Seeing employees who started as cleaners move up into management, or helping subcontractors build their own businesses, is incredibly rewarding. I also love the challenge. Every stage of growth has brought new obstacles, but finding solutions and continuing to evolve is what keeps me excited. This business has never been just about cleaning. It’s about service, reputation, and legacy. I’m proud of what we’ve built, and I’m even more excited about where we’re going next.
How do you feel your business impacts the local community?
Today, we employ over 1,000 people, and with that comes a responsibility to provide opportunities, support families, and create a culture of dignity and respect. We take that responsibility seriously.
Diversity has always been a cornerstone of our company. We believe in giving people opportunities based on their work ethic and character, not just their background. Over the years, we’ve built a team that reflects the communities we work in — people from all walks of life, working together with pride in what they do. That’s something special.
We’re deeply committed to giving back. Organizations like Friends of Karen, Island Harvest, Life’s WORC, and YAI are doing incredible work, and we’re honored to support them. Whether it’s helping families in crisis, fighting food insecurity, or supporting individuals with disabilities, these causes remind us that success isn’t just measured in dollars—it’s measured in the impact we have on others. Not to mention it’s fun!
This business has given me so much over the last 30 years, and being able to pay that forward is what makes it all worthwhile.
How did PSEG Long Island’s Business First Program support you?
We thank PSEG Long Island Business First Program for helping us as we navigate the right moves to make for our sustainability program. We love the energy efficiency and cost savings. They made it easy to get a program started.
The program provides tangible financial and operational benefits that many businesses don’t have access to. Using the program helps your company make smart, strategic choices about energy use. We’re proud that our business is part of a movement toward greater sustainability on Long Island.
What role do you think small businesses play in promoting energy efficiency within the broader community?
For over 25 years, we lead by example with sustainable practices. Two years ago we launched a sustainability committee to take benchmarks on our energy consumption and make recommendations to adopt energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and equipment that sets a precedent for others in the community. Simple changes, like using LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances, can significantly reduce energy waste. We also encourage all our vendors and customers to go green.
Education for our Employees and Customers is a key pillar of our program. We try to foster a culture of energy conservation by training employees on energy-efficient practices. We find that our customers listen to us when we make recommendations about how to be greener. We have also found there can be tax incentives or grants for sustainable upgrades. Investing in local energy-efficient products and services also keeps money within the community.
How do you feel about being a Small Business Star?
We hope we earn it and can contribute to others getting into the program.
To learn more about Imperial Cleaning, visit their website, Facebook, Instagram or X.
