Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Feb. 29, 2012
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 1,487,882
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	1,113
Foreign currency translation	(2,530)
Balance at the end of the period	1,486,465
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	943,177
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	2,163
Foreign currency translation	(366)
Balance at the end of the period	944,974
Uniform Direct Sales
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	23,995
Foreign currency translation	(7)
Balance at the end of the period	23,988
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	192,944
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	(479)
Balance at the end of the period	192,465
Document Management
Goodwill
Balance at the beginning of the period	327,766
Goodwill acquired/adjusted	(571)
Foreign currency translation	(2,157)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 325,038