ATLANTARollins has announced that it purchased seven branches from Hulett Environmental Services in Southwest Florida and Southeast Florida. Hulett Environmental Services, based in West Palm Beach, Fla. has retained its core operations and will continue serving communities from Vero Beach to Palm Beach County. The acquisition of Northwest Exterminating will allow for the expansion to South Florida. Hulett Environmental Services President Tim Hulett stated, “I was happy to team up with Northwest Exterminating for my goals.” This was a hard decision but it allowed me to balance the demands to continue leading Hulett while also allowing me to spend more time with my loved ones.
The purchased branches are to be rebranded by Northwest Exterminatings in 2022. They will become part Northwest Exterminatings southeastern business platform, which will be led by Stanford Phillips and his staff. Our strategy of partnering with top companies like Hulett to create a future for customers, employees, and their families is still the cornerstone of our acquisition success. Phillips said that Liz and Tim Hulett have created a remarkable family pest control business and that we are grateful that they chose us to help them achieve their goals.
Hulett’s exclusive financial advisor was Kemp Anderson Consulting.
In Memoriam: Ravi Sachdeva
MANHATTAN, Kan. Ravi Sachdeva (64 years old), was the longtime owner/operator for American Pest Management, Manhattan. Kan. According to his obituary Sachdeva succumbed to complications from a stroke at Kansas City Hospice House, Kansas City, Mo.
Sachdeva was born in India and his parents sent him and his brothers, Devinder (and Inder) to the best schools in India. Sachdeva moved from New Delhi (India) to Manhattan, Kan. in December 1977. Sachdeva fell in Love with his new country and eventually became an American citizen.
Sachdeva graduated with a marketing degree from Kansas State University. He would later return to earn his masters in entomology. Sachdeva succeeded his dad as American Pest Management’s founder in 2002. American Pest Management was founded by Sachdeva and Elaine Aggson.
Aggson explained to PCT that Sachdevas’ ability to build relationships was crucial to the success American Pest Management. Ravi believed that work was not work if you love what your do and the people you work with. In his mind, he wasn’t actually working. He was just visiting family and friends to help them live a better life.
Aggson said that Sachdeva taught Aggson to never miss an opportunity to meet someone; to never turn down a chance; and to not be afraid of making mistakes. Aggson encouraged American Pest Management employees to be innovative and push the boundaries. Sachdeva’s favorite phrase, Aggson stated, was “If you aren’t making waves, then you aren’t making progress.”
Elaine, Amanda, and Jesse are the survivors of Sachdeva
Sachdevas can be remembered by making a donation to the University of Kansas Medical Center Neurology Residency Program, Kansas Pest Control Association Scholarship Foundation, or the National Pest Management Association Pest Management Foundation. Brad Harbison
First In-Person NPMA Womens Forum aims to Advance Women Leaders
SAN DIEGO Calif. From Nov. 29 through Dec. 1, 2018, the National Pest Management Association hosted its inaugural Womens Forum in San Diego. The inaugural session of the virtual event in 2020 was held in Manchester Grand Hyatt. It offered networking opportunities and educational forums for women working in pest management and their male counterparts.
The forum attracted about 100 participants who attended discussion sessions and listened carefully to industry leaders as they shared their insights on topics such the benefits of hiring more women and creative ideas for a more flexible workplace.
Dominique Stumpf, NPMA CEO explained at the forums opening night that advancing women in the industry is a joint effort by men and women. As a female leader of pest management, I am familiar with the progress made by our industry. … She stated that together with women and men, they will achieve their goals as we work towards empowering, diversifying, and advancing this industry.
Although the audience was mostly women, there were several male industry leaders in attendance, such as Gokhan Vergon (head of pest management at Bayer U.S.). He said that in a male-dominated industry, it was my job to create equity.
The session opened with a virtual welcome by Jackie Applegate, head Bayer North America Crop Science, as well as Tiffany Fremder head of global marketing Bayer Environmental Science. They discussed the importance and value of mentorship.
During another session, Emily Thomas Kendrick (CEO of Arrow Exterminators); Stacy OReilly (owner of Plunketts Pest Control); and Marillian Missiti (president of Buono Pest Control) shared business insights. OReilly stated that she would give this advice her younger self: Don’t worry too much about being competent. Focus more on engaging with the team.
After each session, attendees were asked a series questions and broke into small groups.
Justin McCauley of McCauley Services, and Lauren Thrasher, of Thrasher Termite & Pest Control, discussed creative ways to create a more flexible working environment. This could include giving employees unlimited vacation or making sure they have the resources they need for mental health. McCauley said that they are trying to treat everyone like family and be open to new ideas.
Participants reflected on key takeaways from the forum and their favorite catchphrases as the forum ended. Anthony Brown, Rentokil’s senior vice-president of human resources, was a favorite speaker. He spoke about how diverse teams can thrive.
The NPMA is planning a second Women’s Forum in May 2022. Jacqueline Mitchell
Neighbors Working to Prevent Spread Of Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter
SACRAMENTO, Calif.Solano County, California, and its surrounding areas, are home to many wineries and vineyards. The state has invested resources in protecting vineyards against damaging pests, such as the glassywinged sharpshooter. The invasive pest is a leafhopper, which transmits the bacterium that causes Pierces Disease, a disease that can kill grapevines.
Although the glassy-winged Sharpshooter is well-established in Southern California, it’s not as prevalent in Northern California. In collaboration with the Solano County Department of Agriculture the states Pierces Disease Control Program performs early detection pest surveys in the region. This monitoring combined with a successful outreach program have helped to keep the region free from this pest. The glassy-winged Sharpshooter is still a problem in Solano County. It was last seen in 2004 and again in October 2021.
Five glassy-winged sharpshooters, five of which were caught in traps in a residential neighborhood in Vacaville, were confirmed on Oct. 1. Ed King, Solano County’s agricultural commissioner, stated that these finds led to more thorough surveys to determine the extent of the infestation and prepare for eradication treatments.
The glassy-winged sharpshooter is a thriving species on many landscaping plants and foliage (e.g. citrus, jasmine, crapemyrtle trees), so it is possible that they will establish themselves on residential properties and then spread into nearby vineyards.
King said that the first part in the Pierces disease control program involves saturating residential properties with sticky traps. This will limit the spread of the infestation. The next step in the Pierces disease control program is eradication.
After a formal bid process, Neighborly Pest Management, Sacramento (Calif.) was selected to eradicate the pest. Neighborly has experience with the glassy winged sharpshooter. They were last seen in Solano County back in 2004.
Jim Steed, neighborly owner, stated that Tempo Ultra SC was used to apply foliar treatments for this treatment. Steed said that it was not a very heavy treatment. It was fall in California at time of treatment. Neighborly was warned to be cautious with wind. However, Steed said that the company was treating any host material it could.
The county notified residents prior to the application. Steed stated that the county was only going to treat homes where the finds were confirmed. Neighborly was currently treating 15-30 homes each day as of press time. Steed said that officials from the ag departments were present to inspect applications. King stated that the Solano County Department of Agriculture will continue monitoring the treated areas and will continue public outreach efforts in order to increase homeowner awareness about the glassy winged sharpshooter.
Steed said that it was a pleasure for him and his team being involved in these eradication efforts. He said that pest control is an important part of public health. However, this project also protects one California’s most valuable resources. We are honored to be part of this project. Brad Harbison
PCO M&A Specialists William Blair – Pest Control Index Up 14 Percent
NEWTON, N.J. According to William Blair and PCO M&A Specialists the U.S. pest index grew 14.2 percent over the past year in October. These results are consistent with those recorded over the past two month (up 14 percent in Sept and 15 percent August).
On a sequential basis the index increased by 1.8% year-over-year between September 2021 and October 2021.
The total pest index was basically flat over a sequential basis. (September also saw an increase of 14 percent year-overyear. According to Tim Mulrooney (William Blair Equity Researcher), September’s performance was driven primarily by an acceleration in residential index but a slowerdown in commercial, termite and insect indices.
The Residential Pest Index grew 20.7 percent year over year and 1.3 percent sequentially. The Commercial Pest Index rose 11.5 percent over the previous year and 0.4% on a sequential basis. The Wood Destroying (Termite) Index grew 3.4 percent over the previous year and 4.3 percent sequentially. The Bed Bug Index declined 5.8 percent over the year and 4.1% on a sequential basis.
View the October full report and archive of past reports at www.sellmypco business.com.
WSPMA finds success with Rodent Academy
SEATTLEThe Washington State Pest Management Association hosted its first rodent control seminar in person. Olesen was a key participant in the coordination of the event. He attributed the workshop’s positive reception to the dedication of the vendors and its hands-on nature.
Olesen stated that the association was inspired to host similar workshops after the continued success of WSPMAs Ant ID clinic in person. Vendors such as Bayer, Liphatech, Bell Laboratories and Liphatech jumped in to help make the idea a reality. The King County Health Departments rodent group also took part in the event.
In mid-November, the Pest Coast Workshop attracted around 80 people. Both days were held in the classroom, and the end result was that groups applied their knowledge in the field. The speakers presented on a variety of topics, including how pest management professionals can best use technology while on the job. The second day saw classroom time devoted to discussing observations made by attendees as they split into groups and performed trapping or exclusion exercises at two locations downtown Seattle.
The association was helped by pest control companies to connect with the Seattle Union Gospel Mission. This non-profit ministry helps the homeless in the Seattle area. The building was infested by rodents through underground entry points. Both the basement’s food storage and laundry areas were infested with rats. Olesen explained that mission members placed a great deal of emphasis on preventing pests from infecting the items they collected.
Others worked in the area near Pioneer Square to combat rodents, which is a well-known part of the city. Olesen stated that rodent data was collected at the nearby fire station. It is not unusual for rats to enter yards through the sewers in Seattle. He said that rats crawling out from toilets is also common in large cities like Seattle.
Olesen stated that because of all the complexities and unique issues, and because things are so concentrated in Seattle, we felt that this was a good place to host this rodent academy.
Sebum made it simple to find rodents in the area, he said. The first day saw the deployment of traps and bait stations, and the area was surveyed to determine if any exclusion work could be done. The data gathered was discussed by attendees the next day.
Back in the classroom, participants spoke about their previous work and offered different perspectives regarding observations and data findings. Olesen said that the highlight of the event was the diversity of thought. The event was a great opportunity to communicate between representatives of different companies, which helped everyone to gain a better understanding of the other’s perspectives. Olesen explained that many people were available to help with screening and trapping.
Olesen, a pest control specialist for almost 20 years, said that he gained valuable insights. Olesen said that the workshop provided him with valuable information about a medical wallet card. This card can be used by medical personnel to inform them that PMPs may have been infected with zoonotic disease because of their job. On the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab site, you can download a printable version.
WSPMA continues to coordinate efforts in order to ensure that pest control remains effective at the locations it served. The association has been inspired by the success of the first Pest Coast Workshop to consider hosting more hands-on and in-person classes, as well as some on the road. Olesen indicated that the association is already discussing hosting another rodent academy next spring. Keep an eye on the website. www.wspma. comFor information about upcoming events, please visit.
Olesen stated that the workshop raised approximately $6,000 for WSPMA. It was a great way to bring people together. The pest management efforts were also greatly appreciated by the staff at Seattle Union Gospel Mission. He said that it was a reward for its efforts to manage pests.
WSPMA wanted rodent academies in Washington, he said. Representatives from companies attended the Pest Coast Workshop, which was one of their most popular events. Olesen said that this speaks to the workshop’s hands-on nature and its uniqueness as an in-person seminar.
State pest management associations who are interested in finding out more about hosting their own rodent academies should contact Washington State Pest Management via email at [email protected]. Kaitlyn Mcgarvey
Brandenburg UK exhibits Eco-Friendly LED Flytraps
WOLVERHAMPTON, U.K. Brandenburg UK exhibited on the COP26 Regional Roadshow held at the University of Wolverhampton (Nov. 11), where it explained how switching to LED fly traps from fluorescent can reduce emissions by as much as 87 percent.
Brandenburg’s fly trap technology and professional insect control systems are manufactured in the UK. They are shipped to 140 nations worldwide. The company’s flagship products are used in a variety industry sectors, including food processing and restaurants, supermarkets, bottling plant, cafes as well as hotels, schools and airports.
The company has taken several steps to reduce its carbon footprint in the last few years, including signing a carbon net zero pledge by 2041.
It has reduced carbon emissions by 69 percent since 2018, when it switched from fluorescent to LED lighting in its offices in the UK and at its manufacturing facilities in the UK.
The company has also removed foam from its packaging and now uses 100% recyclable packing material. It plans to transition to 100 percent renewable electricity in the early 2022.
Brandenburgs said that 50% of its customers have already converted to LED flytraps. It is confident that all of them will do so by next spring.
Fly traps may not be the first thing that comes to mind for companies when it comes down to reducing their carbon emissions. Tahir Rashid is the Brandenburg sales director. Many people are surprised to learn how much carbon reduction can be achieved with LED fly traps. It reduces carbon footprint and saves money on running costs. It helps to save the earth and helps businesses save money.
He said, “At Brandenburg, sustainability is our passion and we want to help the world reach its carbon reduction targets.” We all owe it both to our children and future generations to do our part.
Visit Brandenburg’s website to learn more about how they help other companies reduce their carbon footprint. www. b-one.comOr www.genusled.com.
GPS Insight Announces the Acquisition of FieldAware
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. GPS Insight has announced the acquisition FieldAware, a provider of cloud-based, mobile-friendly field service solutions. GPS Insight says the acquisition will enhance field services and fleet monitoring capabilities. It will enable them to better service customers through a stronger digital platform that offers operational insights and cost savings.
GPS Insight CEO Gary Fitzgerald stated that GPS Insight is delighted to offer better solutions for customers through the partnership with FieldAware. This will also increase our competitive advantage in the field service and fleet management landscape. We are committed in creating tools for businesses that make it easier to operate more efficiently. These two platforms can be combined to create a unique synergy that will guarantee top-quality, reliable service and drive bottom-line profitability. It will also enable our customers to provide a superior service experience for their customers.
GPS Insight stated that the acquisition will enable the company to expand its field services solutions to meet the unique digital field challenges of mid-market service organizations across core industries such as pest control and industrial and commercial equipment, facility and property management, and waste management. It will also ensure fleet performance and driver safety and compliance to a customer list of more than 250,000 vehicles.
FieldAware and GPS Insight have joined forces at an exciting time. FieldAware’s chief operational officer Steve Mason said that the partnership brings FieldAware closer towards realizing its vision of fully digitizing and automating mobile field operations. As we innovate and take our solutions to a higher level, existing and new customers will immediately see the benefits. This will allow us to increase the impact on all types of assets in field.
GPS Insights Fitzgerald stated that FieldAwares digital innovation has been transformative for field service organizations ever since 2011. GPS Insights Fitzgerald stated that FieldAwares field-first service suite can be combined with the leading telematics/video telematics and field services management solutions from GPS Insight to enhance each other’s strengths and market positioning. This will increase our go-to market channels and cross-selling opportunities.
For more information, please visit gpsinsight.com.
Hoffmans donates 5,000 pounds of food to the Pennsylvania Food Bank
MANTUA, N.J. Hoffmans Exterminating President Bill Hoffman is a strong believer in helping others. He encourages his employees to take part in charitable work. It’s no surprise that all five branches teamed up recently to donate over 5,000 pounds to radio station 93.3 WMMRs Preston & Steves 24Th Annual Camp Out for Hunger. Hoffmans Exterminating marketing manager Chris Westcott said that Hoffmans believes in supporting the spirit and community. Although November was the company’s first participation in Camp Out for Hunger it is not the first time they have done so. Hoffmans Exterminating sponsored events in Pennsylvania such as the Eagles Autism Challenge, and the Gritty5K. The company has also participated in charity efforts such as coat drives and Toys for Tots. Hoffmans Exterminating employees helped clean up debris from the South Jersey area where they are headquartered.
Westcott said that Camp Out for Hunger was over and everyone at Hoffmans felt like they had done something, whether it be donating food or notifying clients of collection efforts.
Camp Out for Hunger is an annual event where WMMR cohosts Preston Elliot & Steve Morrison camp in a parking lot for a whole week. They stay there for seven days and broadcast the Preston & Steve radio program from that location. Philabundance, an organization that provides food banks in the Philadelphia and Delaware Valley areas of Pennsylvania, will receive the donations.
Westcott said that around 15 Hoffmans employees were gathered in the parking area with Elliot or Morrison on a crisp Thursday at 5:30 a.m. Five trucks from each of Hoffmans five branches were towed by a trailer laden with food. BugsBee was also present.
According to WMMRs website, the 2021 Camp Out for Hunger raised 2.3 million pounds of food for Philabundance. Additionally, more than $1.8 million was donated in monetary funds.
Westcott stated that Hoffmans Exterminating officials are already looking at ways they can help Camp Out for Hunger in bigger and more effective ways next year.
It makes me proud that I can say that I work at a place where he said it was important. Kaitlyn Mcgarvey
Mike Peaslee Wins the NEPMA Bartlett W. Eldridge award
BRUNSWICK (Maine)Modern Pest Services’ Mike Peaslee received the Bartlett W. Eldridge Awards, the highest award for distinguished service from the New England Pest Management Association.
Peaslee has been certified as an associate entomologist (A.C.E.). Peaslee is the Modern Pests technical director. Since 1977, he has been with Modern Pest Services. Peaslee was presented with the Bartlett W. Eldridge Trophy at the association’s annual meeting, Dec. 8. The award is named after the founder of the organization and its first president. It is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated a long-term commitment towards the improvement of the pest control industry in New England. The recipients demonstrate strong service to the industry and a commitment to community service. They also receive recognition from peers in the industry.
NEPMA President Tom Drapeau presented Peaslee’s award and shared excerpts of Peaslee’s many nominations. Peaslee shared his story about Modern, who had taken care of his childhood home. This inspired him to apply to the firm. He spoke of his 40-plus years of satisfaction in the industry, and encouraged attendees and others to support the association for its important voice in federal, state, and local policy issues.
Modern Pest president Dennis Dube said that Mike, with his 40+ years of experience in the industry, has been a valuable part of Modern’s success. Mike is a proud member of our team and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.
FMC Announces Talstar 25th Anniversary Sweepstakes Winners
LAS VEGASFMC launched a yearlong celebration of Talstar insecticide brand loyalty to pest management professionals. This included a sweepstakes as well as a promotion, new packaging and an updated logo. The celebration culminated with the announcement of the PestWorld 2021 sweepstakes winners.
PestWorld was the best place and time for us to announce the sweepstakes winner and celebrate Talstar insecticide. It was great to see our customers again and it was exciting to end this year-long celebration, said Tom Wharton (FMC Pest Control national sales manager). Without our customers, we couldn’t be here. It is amazing to be celebrating the 25ThYear of Talstar insecticide with many customers who adopted it in the first year, as well new customers we’ve met along the journey.
Blake Foster, All-American Pest Control, Nashville (Tenn.), was the grand prize winner of a Ford F-150 truck.
FMC reports that Talstar insecticide has been trusted by pest management professionals for over 25 years to provide reliable, lasting and broad-spectrum insect control in all areas of pest management, including commercial, industrial and food-handling.
Visit www.pctonline.com to see a list other anniversary prize winners.
