Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 1,485,375
Goodwill acquired	2,225
Foreign currency translation	1,504
Balance at the end of the period	1,489,104
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	944,449
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	628
Balance at the end of the period	945,077
Uniform Direct Sales [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	23,968
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	32
Balance at the end of the period	24,000
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	192,465
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	0
Balance at the end of the period	192,465
Document Management [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	324,493
Goodwill acquired	2,225
Foreign currency translation	844
Balance at the end of the period	$ 327,562