Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2011
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 1,487,882
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	(175)
Foreign currency translation	(4,072)
Balance at the end of the period	1,483,635
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	943,177
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	980
Foreign currency translation	(985)
Balance at the end of the period	943,172
Uniform Direct Sales
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	23,995
Foreign currency translation	(33)
Balance at the end of the period	23,962
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	192,944
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	(697)
Balance at the end of the period	192,247
Document Management
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	327,766
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	(458)
Foreign currency translation	(3,054)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 324,254