Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 1,485,375
Goodwill acquired	34,720
Foreign currency translation	2,316
Balance at the end of the period	1,522,411
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	944,449
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	608
Balance at the end of the period	945,057
Uniform Direct Sales [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	23,968
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	28
Balance at the end of the period	23,996
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	192,465
Goodwill acquired	24,110
Foreign currency translation	0
Balance at the end of the period	216,575
Document Management [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	324,493
Goodwill acquired	10,610
Foreign currency translation	1,680
Balance at the end of the period	$ 336,783