Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	$ 1,517,560
Goodwill acquired	13,703
Foreign currency translation	1,698
Balance as of November 30, 2013	1,532,961
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	944,325
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	(406)
Balance as of November 30, 2013	943,919
Uniform Direct Sales
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	23,942
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	(12)
Balance as of November 30, 2013	23,930
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	216,989
Goodwill acquired	4,866
Foreign currency translation	0
Balance as of November 30, 2013	221,855
Document Management
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2013	332,304
Goodwill acquired	8,837
Foreign currency translation	2,116
Balance as of November 30, 2013	$ 343,257