Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2014	$ 1,267,411
Goodwill acquired	693
Amounts reclassed to assets held for sale	(77,200)
Foreign currency translation	(936)
Balance as of August 31, 2014	1,189,968
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2014	943,516
Goodwill acquired	0
Amounts reclassed to assets held for sale	0
Foreign currency translation	(54)
Balance as of August 31, 2014	943,462
Uniform Direct Sales
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2014	23,905
Goodwill acquired	0
Amounts reclassed to assets held for sale	0
Foreign currency translation	(3)
Balance as of August 31, 2014	23,902
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2014	221,911
Goodwill acquired	693
Amounts reclassed to assets held for sale	0
Foreign currency translation	0
Balance as of August 31, 2014	222,604
Corporate
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance as of June 1, 2014	78,079
Goodwill acquired	0
Amounts reclassed to assets held for sale	(77,200)
Foreign currency translation	(879)
Balance as of August 31, 2014	$ 0