Goodwill, Service Contracts and Other Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 1,485,375
Goodwill acquired	34,220
Foreign currency translation	392
Balance at the end of the period	1,519,987
Rental Uniforms and Ancillary Products [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	944,449
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	13
Balance at the end of the period	944,462
Uniform Direct Sales [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	23,968
Goodwill acquired	0
Foreign currency translation	(16)
Balance at the end of the period	23,952
First Aid, Safety and Fire Protection [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	192,465
Goodwill acquired	23,798
Foreign currency translation	0
Balance at the end of the period	216,263
Document Management [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	324,493
Goodwill acquired	10,422
Foreign currency translation	395
Balance at the end of the period	$ 335,310