On May 12 and 13, Bug Off Pest Control Center’s Andy Linares attended Chemotecnica’s 22° Jornadas Técnicas Integrales Para Empresas de Control de Plagas, or the 22nd edition of the Integral Technical Days for Pest Control Companies, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This industry conference was hosted once again by insecticide manufacturer Chemotecnica Division Salud Ambiental. It is considered to be Latin America’s largest and most influential industry event. Linares, who is fluent in Spanish, was invited to present two talks at this year’s conference as he has done in the past.
It featured about three dozen talks and nearly two dozen exhibitors, including PelGar, which sponsored Linares’ presentations. Conference topics ranged from mosquitoes, flies, bed bugs, rodents, pheromones and wildlife to insurance, marketing and artificial intelligence.
After a full day’s work on Saturday, Linares took a red-eye, 10-hour flight to Buenos Aires and arrived on Sunday. Chemotecnica Business Manager Guillermo Tarelli had invited speakers and exhibitors to an Argentinian cookout, known as a roast or an asado, at his home.
Linares built in some vacation time after the event but was soon back to work at Bug Off, the New York City-based distribution and training center he founded in 1987. Learn more about this annual event at JornadasChemotecnica.com.ar.
Grill and Chill: Linares (center) is surrounded by, from left, PelGar’s Andrej Branc, Chemotecnica Business Manager Guillermo Tarelli, and Tarelli’s three daughters, Candelaria, Guillermina and Catalina. Tarelli’s wife, Florencia, took the photo. PHOTO: FLORENCIA TARELLI
A full house: “I continue to be impressed by attendees at this event,” Linares says. “They are respectful and attentive and don’t talk or look at their phones during presentations. They’re eager to learn and follow up — swarming speakers after each presentation with thoughtful questions.” PHOTO: ANDREJ BRANC
Don’t cry for him, Argentina: On May 12, Linares presented an update on the state of rodent control in New York City. On May 13, he presented ways to overcome severe German cockroach infestations in their accounts. PHOTO: ANDREJ BRANC
Roast Boast: The sign translates into “The best roast is eaten at this grill.” Linares confirms it could be true. It was displayed at Guillermo Tarelli’s asado in Buenos Aires. PHOTO: ANDY LINARES
Did you know that an uninsulated 5-square-foot attic access can significantly reduce the overall energy efficiency of an attic? Now at a new price point, the TAP Hatchmaster Attic Entrance Cover is versatile, lightweight and durable. It is an excellent solution during a TAP Pest Control Installation Job — helping keep the home free from dust while completing the installation by covering the attic entrance. It also reduces heat loss and provides convenient, year-round access to the attic with an easy-to-use zipper. The TAP Hatchmaster installs with a staple gun in less than five minutes.
About Pest Control Insulation
Pest Control Insulation (PCI) is a Lula, Ga.-based distribution company focused on blended, customized insulation products, accessories and equipment for sale to the pest control industry. As the manufacturer of TAP insulation, PCI’s national customer base includes some of the largest pest control services companies in the country. In 2023, PCI generated approximately $24 million of revenue. It is now a brand of TopBuild Corp.
Two leaders with Sprague Pest Solutions have been elected to serve on the boards of their respective state pest management associations.
Continuing the company’s long-standing commitment to industry leadership and involvement are Oregon District Manager Francis Clark, ACE, and Utah Regional Manager Lindsey Marker.
Clark will serve on the board of the Oregon Pest Control Association (OPCA) with one-year term that began July 1, 2025. He will represent southern Oregon and support initiatives to strengthen the state’s pest control industry through advocacy, training and innovation.
Sprague has been an active OPCA member since 1991, when the company’s co-founder Larry Treleven joined the organization. Clark’s appointment continues a tradition of leadership following Treleven’s 15 years of service on the board, including a term as president in 2023.
Marker will serve on the board of the Utah Pest Management Association (UPMA) with a one-year term that began June 1, 2025. She brings decades of field and operational experience to her role, and will help shape UPCA’s direction for the year ahead.
Her appointment continues Sprague’s commitment to the state of Utah and also builds upon the legacy of Treleven, who played a role in the founding UPCA in 2018. Treleven went on to serve more than a decade as the National Pest Management Association’s State Policy Affairs Representative (SPAR), where he represented industry interests in state policy discussions.
“Our story has always been about service — taking care of our customers and giving back to the industry we love,” Sprague Pest Solutions’ President and CEO Ross Treleven said. “Francis and Lindsey stepping into these roles shows how much we believe in lifting our profession through education, advocacy and leadership. We’re incredibly proud of them and can’t wait to see the difference they’ll make.”
About Sprague Pest Solutions
Sprague Pest Solutions provides preventive and remedial pest management and food safety consulting services to leading food processing, agriculture, healthcare and hospitality and distribution facilities across the Western U.S. The company services commercial clients in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, Arizona and California.
Sprague Pest Solutions’ history page on its website states the company was founded in Spokane, Wash., in 1926 by W.B. Sprague to serve Eastern Washington, and soon after opened a second location in Tacoma, Wash., to serve customers in the western half of the Evergreen State. It was purchased in 1931 by A.H. Treleven Sr., whose grandson Larry Treleven is a Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer (Class of 2016). Now in its fourth generation, the Treleven family still leads the company today.
Have you been contemplating selling your pest control company? If you have, now is one of the best times to take action. As the principal and founder of The Aust Group (TAG), a mergers and acquisitions (M&A) firm that specializes in the pest control industry, I’ve had a front-row seat to some of the most favorable market conditions we’ve ever seen.
When I sold my company, Bug Doctor Termite & Pest Control, in 2016, I felt as though I had won the lottery because of the incredible multiple I received. As I write this in mid-June, multiples are still at historic highs. For owners who have invested years of hard work in building their businesses, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to maximize value and secure a strong financial future.
With multiples still in the seller’s favor, we’re witnessing a steady flow of pest control companies exiting. We’ve seen numerous younger sellers in their 30s and 40s cashing in. We’re also seeing previous sellers who have waited it out and honored their noncompete agreements reentering the pest control industry with start-up companies.
So, why is the timing so ideal right now?
1. Higher multiples and buyer demand
Strategic buyers and private equity firms are aggressively acquiring pest control companies because of the industry’s stability, recurring revenue and recession-resilient nature. Pest control businesses are viewed as essential services, making them attractive in both strong and uncertain economic environments.
Pest control companies with strong margins, solid management teams and high recurring customer revenue will receive the highest multiples. With so much competition among buyers, sellers often are able to command premium valuations and favorable deal terms.
2. Favorable economic climate — for now
While market conditions are strong today, that may not always be the case. Interest rates, inflation and geopolitical uncertainty could impact buyer behavior and valuations in the future. No one has a crystal ball to see the future. Business owners who wait too long may miss this golden opportunity. Timing is everything.
Additionally, regulatory and tax changes could alter the landscape. For example, potential increases in capital gains taxes in the future could reduce net proceeds for sellers. Locking in today’s high valuation and current tax structure can be a wise financial strategy. The law of gravity — “what goes up must come down” — is a fitting reminder for today’s market. The high multiples being paid for companies won’t last forever.
3. Succession and lifestyle considerations
Many pest control company owners are approaching retirement age or are ready for a new chapter. Whether your goal is to retire, spend more time with family, or pursue a new venture, selling your company can provide the freedom and liquidity to make that possible.
We also work with owners who want to stay involved post-sale through an earn-out, equity rollover or management role. Today’s buyers are often flexible and willing to structure deals that align with your personal and professional goals.
4. Partnering with the right advisor makes all the difference
Selling a business is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. That’s why it’s crucial to partner with an advisor who not only understands the M&A landscape but also knows your industry inside and out. As a founder and former owner of a pest control company myself, I understand the challenges you face, the true value of your business and how to position it for maximum return in today’s competitive market.
If you’ve built a valuable business and want to capitalize on a market that’s working in your favor, now is the time to explore your options. Whether you’re ready to sell now or just beginning to plan ahead, a confidential conversation could help you make an informed and strategic decision.
Bed Bug Heat Doctor/Prevsol, a trusted provider of bed bug heat treatment equipment, has added the TR42A Bluetooth Thermo Recorder to its product lineup. The TR42A ensures precise and reliable temperature monitoring throughout the bed bug heat treatment process.
Designed to simplify the documentation of heat treatment success, the TR42A records ambient temperature with high accuracy and transmits data wirelessly via Bluetooth. What sets this model apart is its free app download and cloud service, allowing pest management professionals to store and access temperature logs remotely without incurring monthly fees.
“Accurate temperature tracking is essential for successful bed bug eradication,” says Jeff Zimmerman, CEO of Bed Bug Heat Doctor/Prevsol. “With the TR42A, professionals can not only verify that lethal temperatures are reached and maintained, but they can also document their work with time-stamped records, all without additional software costs.”
Key Features:
Bluetooth connectivity for easy data transfer
Temperature range ideal for heat treatments
Free cloud service — no subscription required
Compact, durable design for field use
About Bed Bug Heat Doctor/Prevsol
Founded in 2013 by Jeff and Shelly Zimmerman, the Bed Bug Heat Doctor/PrevSol mission is to provide products that are safe and easy to use, avoid the use of harmful chemicals, and leverage technology to more quickly and efficiently heat an area for treatment.
Shelly, co-owner and CFO, oversees every part of the operation and manages each department head. Jeff, co-owner and CEO, has a resume that includes over 30 years of experience in the pest control industry, 12 years of which he owned his own pest control business. During that span of time, he personally serviced over 5,000 hotels and treated over 5,000,000 square feet of treatment space, consisting of homes, apartments, condos, and hotels. He is credentialed with a Core and 7A certification.
Following its formal entry into the insect control market, Liphatech Inc., longtime provider of pest management solutions, announces the first of several new insect control products – Peritect 360 IC – for professional pest management. Liphatech also offers IGI Carbon Dioxide to control insects in the commodities fumigation market.
Peritect 360 IC is an effective insect control solution and Liphatech’s first introduction of a minimum-risk, broad-spectrum insecticide. This product meets the criteria for exemption from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) 25(b). These products are determined to pose little to no risk to human health or the environment, when used as directed.
Liphatech’s U.S. market expansion follows the acquisition of a stake in Pertinent Eco-Solutions by Liphatech’s France-based parent company, De Sangosse, in 2022 – and subsequently, entry into an exclusive licensing agreement for insecticidal formulations from Pertinent.
“Increasingly, our customers require solutions that appeal to the environmentally conscious. These minimum risk products are safe for people, pets and the environment when used as directed and are another way Liphatech can help pest control businesses expand, while remaining responsible and profitable,” said Matt Titshaw, business manager at Liphatech.
An easy mixing, liquid concentrate with the active ingredients geraniol, sodium lauryl sulfate, cornmint oil and clove oil, Peritect 360 IC is a broad-spectrum insecticide that has effectiveness indoors or outdoors against crawling and flying insects, including ants, bed bugs (adults and nymphs), cockroaches, fleas, flies, mosquitoes and spiders. The active ingredients in Peritect 360 IC help protect a full perimeter and are laboratory-tested.
When used as directed, Peritect 360 IC can be used in a wide range of sensitive application sites such as homes, daycare facilities, hospitals, hotels, offices, parks, restaurants and schools. Peritect 360 IC can also be used in fogging and automatic spray systems (except in Connecticut) for active insect infestations and maintenance situations.
Peritect 360 IC is available in convenient 1-gallon tip ‘n’ measure bottles (four gallons per case). Refer to the product label for complete dilution and application rate instructions per approved species.
“In the coming weeks, expect to see more new and effective products from Liphatech that combine the trusted expertise of Liphatech with formulations that meet the needs of environmentally conscious pest control companies,” said Titshaw.
In anticipation of the company’s entry into the insect market, Liphatech has relied heavily on its robust team of experts laden with former pest management professionals (PMPs) and Associate Certified Entomologists. These experts bring innovative products and strategic insights to every pest challenge – making informed recommendations about the products and techniques needed to solve any pest problem.
1. Meeting performance metrics. When it comes to overall performance, we track several key factors and behaviors. During our monthly company meeting, we recognize employees who work in various positions, such as office staff, pest control technicians, lawn care technicians and salespeople, to name a few. From that list, the management team votes for the employee of the month.
2. Collecting customer complements. My wife, Jennifer, oversees our philanthropic and volunteer opportunities and will recognize anyone who receives a customer compliment. She calls this her “Tell me something good” email update, which is sent to all staff members weekly and includes all the positive comments from customers she received in the past week. Gathering the information actually takes time, effort and coordination with those who communicate with customers because they send her an email that shares the customers’ comments. Occasionally, Jennifer will call a customer to gather more information and incorporate it into the email she sends, which shares the details of the compliment and the story behind it.
3. Encouraging generosity toward others. Each person who is recognized also gets a ticket added to our annual Christmas party giveaway. Another way to earn chances for the giveaway is for employees to bring toy donations to our Christmas party, which are then given to a local charity. We offer cash prizes to incentivize employees to bring toy donations, giving them a chance to win cash for the toys they bring.
4. Making internal moves. We track all our internal metrics, which include performance, good driving and an overall willingness to work as part of a team. We add the employees recognized for these achievements to our pool of potential supervisors or managers. When we need to help our management team fill these top spots, we look for leadership within our existing staff and promote from within, although we have also hired candidates from outside the company.
Overall, we want people to see they have a future with ABC, whether they envision themselves working with us in a long-term career or if we are just a stepping stone for now as they take the next step that leads them to another position at a different company. When you genuinely are engaged in the development of your employees, you must accept that it is more about them than it is about you or what they do for you.
It’s sometimes difficult to accept, but in the end, it’s not about us; it’s about them.
Viking Pest Control, an Anticimex company based in Basking Ridge, N.J., and Terminix Anderson, based in Elmhurst, Ill., have joined Allergy Technologies’ trademarked ATAHC Program. The program’s acronym stands for Allergy Technologies Affordable Housing Control, and is a complementary series of comprehensive, prevention-based programmatic solutions for bed bugs and other structural public health nuisance pests in affordable housing environments.
They join a growing list of esteemed pest-remediation companies partnering with ATAHC, including Orkin, Terminix, Rentokil, Corbett Exterminating and Harpoon Pest Solutions.
“With this group of pest management firms collaborating with us on ATAHC, we have the most comprehensive team of service professionals in the world ready to tackle bed bugs, roaches, rodents, and other targeted pests in affordable housing,” Joseph Latino, president of Allergy Technologies, noted in a news release.
About Viking Pest Control
Viking Pest Control was founded in 1980 by Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer Ed Bradbury (Class of 2014), and was acquired by Anticimex in 2017. The company serves residents and business owners throughout New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland. Viking is a QualityPro certified member, and was rated among the best in the country by publications including Forbes Home, Better Homes & Gardens and Real Simple.
About Terminix Anderson
Since 1913, Anderson Pest Solutions has been committed to providing effective, fast-acting, reliable pest control services. It is considered to be the longest-running pest control company in the Midwest. Now as a member of the Rentokil family, this Illinois-focused firm continues to protect people and enhance lives.
About Allergy Technologies
Allergy Technologies’ mission is to improve the environmental conditions in which people live. This focus led to the establishment of its trademarked ATAHC Program, which has proven to successfully control and prevent the scourge of bed bugs in both affordable housing and other community and hospitality facilities.
Allergy Technologies notes that its flagship product, ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, is “the only EPA-registered product labeled to deliver two-year bed bug and dust mite prevention, preventing future infestations by killing bed bugs and dust mites in the most challenging environments, such as affordable housing.”
As a pest management professional (PMP), the best tool in your belt isn’t your sprayer or a rodent bait station; it’s your ability to clearly and confidently communicate with your customers. Sure, we all love the science and strategy behind pest control, but your average homeowner or facility manager isn’t interested in scientific names or chemical formulations. They want to know: What is it, why is it here and what are you going to do about it?
Communication equals confidence
When customers see a pest problem, they often feel one thing: panic. Your job as a PMP is to replace anxiety with peace of mind. That starts by explaining the issue in simple, relatable terms. Instead of saying, “We’ve found evidence of Blattella germanica activity in your industrial kitchen areas,” try something like: “I found an infestation of German cockroaches. They thrive in warm, moist areas, especially in places like your kitchen. I’ll concentrate my treatment efforts there and provide you with a written report that includes helpful recommendations, such as reducing excess food debris and eliminating standing water, to help cut down on these unwanted pests.”
This approach builds instant credibility. You’re not just the person hired to spray something; you’re the expert they trust. That trust becomes the foundation of a long-term relationship. Let’s face it: Loyal customers are golden in the pest control industry.
Education is not just for customers
It’s not just customers who need education. As a PMP, you need to stay educated on all aspects of your job. Effective communication takes practice and repetition. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget how to explain rodent exclusion or an ant treatment in layman’s terms when you’ve been neck-deep in nasty kitchens or crawlspaces all week.
That’s why ongoing, purpose-driven training — not just checking boxes for license renewals — is critical to long-term success. In an industry where knowledge, trust and precision are everything, relying solely on training for license renewals is like showing up to a championship game with last season’s playbook.
Regular training in pest biology, advanced control methods and, just as importantly, customer service skills, keeps you sharp, relevant and respected. It reinforces vital skills like clear, jargon-free communication, reading body language cues, and handling objections with confidence. You’re not just answering questions; you’re building trust and authority with every interaction.
Where to go for good training
There are many industry resources for PMPs to turn to for continuous training and information, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t include Pest Posse TV as an option. It’s not about hard sells or silver bullets; it’s about practical, real-world training from two PMPs with a combined 60-plus years of industry experience you can apply right away. With new content added regularly, engaging microlearning courses and a thriving community of like-minded professionals, it’s designed to keep your skills fresh and your communication sharp.
Wherever you go for training, remember that being part of a learning community also gives you something else: perspective. It’s one thing to watch a training video; it’s another to hear how a colleague explains a tough ant treatment method or bad rodent infestation to a worried customer. That kind of insight is priceless.
In pest control, your knowledge is your currency, but communication is the trust that lets you spend it. Educate your customers in a clear and relatable manner and remain committed to your ongoing training. It will set you apart as a PMP who doesn’t just treat pests; you partner with people to provide them with peace of mind.
Asthma disproportionately affects residents in affordable housing, where pests such as cockroaches, rodents, dust mites and bed bugs are common triggers. The Allergy Technologies Affordable Housing Control (ATAHC) Program now offers a science-backed approach, in conjunction with a healthcare provider, called ATAHC Asthma. This new offering is designed to improve respiratory health by targeting these allergens through integrated pest management and preventative measures. Among ATAHC Asthma’s components is ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, which help prevent both bed bug and dust mite infestations, lowering allergen levels in high-risk homes.
About Allergy Technologies
Allergy Technologies’ mission is to improve the environmental conditions in which people live. This focus led to the establishment of its trademarked ATAHC Program, which has proven to successfully control and prevent the scourge of bed bugs in both affordable housing and other community and hospitality facilities.
Allergy Technologies notes that its flagship product, ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, is “the only EPA-registered product labeled to deliver two-year bed bug and dust mite prevention, preventing future infestations by killing bed bugs and dust mites in the most challenging environments, such as affordable housing.”
Veseris is now a distributor of Milwaukee Tools, including the M12 1-Gallon Handheld Sprayer Kit; the M18 4-Gallon Backpack Sprayer with Switch Tank Kit; the M18 FUEL Blower Kit; and the M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit, among other products. Veseris offers more than 70 ProCenter locations across North America, as well as full inventory ordering availability online.
About Veseris
Veseris is a leading distributor serving professionals in the U.S., Canada and Mexico directly through more than 250 sales and service professionals at 77 locations and in Latin America and the Caribbean through a network of authorized dealer partners. The business serves the expanding markets for pest control (including structural pest, public health, wildlife, vegetation management and turf and ornamental) with an extended offering of products and services, as well as educational and technology resources, including Veseris.com.
PHOTO: JOHNNY GREIG / GETTY IMAGES / GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Summer is prime time for pest control — and for chaos. Schedules are packed, temperatures are high and your team is stretched thin. It’s easy for morale, service quality and efficiency to take a hit during the busy season.
But this season is also when your systems, leadership and culture matter most. When you’re intentional, the summer rush can be your biggest growth opportunity, not just in revenue but in building a stronger, more resilient team.
Consider these five daily tasks to help keep your team focused and performing their best during peak season:
1. Start with daily huddles. A short, consistent check-in at the start of the day helps align your team, resolve minor issues before they escalate and foster accountability. Keep it tight and shoot for a maximum of 10 minutes. Review priorities, schedules and any customer concerns. You don’t need a perfect agenda, just a consistent one.
2. Highlight quick wins. Recognition doesn’t have to be fancy. A simple shout-out on your company’s group messaging platform, in a group text or during the morning huddle can go a long way. Catch people doing things right and let them know you noticed. It boosts morale and keeps the team motivated when energy starts to drop.
3. Keep key performance indicators (KPIs) visible. Make sure everyone understands what success looks like in terms of daily sales, service completion rates and callback percentages. Post the numbers where the team can see them and celebrate progress, not just final results. When people see they’re winning, they lean in even more.
4. Simplify where you can. Don’t let clutter slow you down. Streamline routing, eliminate unnecessary tasks and reduce the noise. Your team needs to focus on what matters most: serving customers and staying on time. If something doesn’t add value this month, save it for the slow season.
5. Watch for burnout. Keep an eye on signs of fatigue. Rotate demanding routes. Offer water, snacks or a surprise lunch now and then. Encourage breaks when possible and check in with your team individually. A technician who feels supported will perform better and stay longer.
Remember, peak season can either burn out your team or build them up. It all depends on how you lead.
Doxem NXT is a broad-spectrum aerosol insecticide featuring four active ingredients (AIs) — each
with a different mode of action — to help you stay ahead of resistance. It’s an ideal choice
for rotational pest management programs. Now, for the first time, pest management professionals
can apply indoxacarb as an aerosol. With a flexible label that includes use in food-handling
areas, Doxem NXT offers a ready-to-use, premium solution for a wide range of pest challenges.
Formulated with no repellent AIs, this aerosol product is compatible with other nonrepellent
applications, including baits. Additionally, it effectively kills many listed pests on contact
while leaving behind a residual.
About CSI
Founded in Pasadena, Texas, Control Solutions Inc. (CSI) is a mid-sized, U.S.-based specialty chemical manufacturer with a long-standing tradition of providing effective and economical solutions to customers in the pest control, turf and ornamental, consumer products and professional animal health care markets. CSI leverages its position as a subsidiary of the ADAMA Group, one of the world’s largest agricultural chemical companies, to access a wide range of active ingredients and offer an extensive product portfolio.
The company can actually trace its roots to 1958, when President and CEO Mark Boyd’s father, Richard, purchased a small pest control company in Pasadena and founded Ford’s Pest Control. By 1960, Richard Boyd launched Ford’s Chemical to formulate and sell pest control solutions to colleagues and the public. In 1976, he merged the two businesses into Ford’s Chemical and Service. Read more about the history in Pest Management Professional’s anniversary coverage in its July 2018 issue here.
Pest Posse TV is hosted by Foster Brusca and Culley Christensen. Watch on PestPosseTV.com. LOGO: PEST POSSE TV
Pest Posse TV is doing its part to ensure pest management professionals (PMPs) have options when it comes to training and learning.
Co-owners Culley Christensen and Foster Brusca are PMPs and content creators who began making pest control-related training videos as The Pest Posse in 2017. Two years later, they launched Pest Posse TV, a television network for PMPs that houses their content.
Getting started
The Pest Posse came about when Christensen, a manager at a pest control company, realized the next generation of PMPs wanted videos, not books, for training.
“At the time, the pest control-related content on YouTube was created by manufacturers primarily to promote their products; it was not teaching the fundamentals of pest control,” recalls Brusca. “Culley knew there had to be something better to help the young PMPs he supervised learn about pest control.”
As colleagues at a large family-owned and -operated pest control company, they discussed the problem one day in early 2017. That’s when Christensen asked Brusca point blank: “What do you think about starting a YouTube channel?” They decided to give it a go, meeting regularly after work to choose topics and figure out how to produce videos. By Labor Day 2017, they launched their first episode. Then, they devised a plan and decided to post new content every week.
The training videos they created consisted of a five- to 10-minute-long lesson, then a quiz, and then another five- to 10-minute-long lesson. Clocking in at only 20 to 30 minutes long each, the training approach — known as “microlearning,” unbeknownst to them — was a hit.
Foster Brusca, left, and Culley Christensen help small- to medium-sized pest control company owners realize there’s more to the industry than just their company in their market area. Their Pest Posse TV video training is geared toward everyone who works in the industry. Brusca, who is a Pest Management Professional columnist, also co-hosts a magazine-centric podcast within The Pest Posse universe: “Today’s PMP.” PHOTO: FOSTER BRUSCA
Maintaining consistency
In 2021, The Pest Posse had an issue with YouTube and left the video-sharing platform to launch Pest Posse TV. The move was for the best.
Today’s videos cover topics ranging from technical information to business and sales tips. “We have a lot of free content, but the beauty of Pest Posse TV is the subscription that unlocks the full power of the platform,” Brusca says. The subscription service includes video training, live training, and access to a vibrant community of PMPs who subscribe, too. A partnership program provides discounts on products and services from pest control companies.
“We’re not owned and managed by a manufacturer or media company,” he points out. “Yes, episodes are sponsored because it takes money to rent an office, access the internet, and host content on a platform. But we are truly independent.”
Pest Posse TV is also available via a mobile app PMPs can access on Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
“We were the first to offer video-based pest control training, even though the video quality might not have been that great,” Brusca says with a chuckle. “We made it happen, and we’re still making it happen.”
The WCS Four Chamber Bat House (BCBH-4C) is made from long-lasting plywood and produced by Wildlife Control Supplies. With its four-chamber design, this attractive bat house is suitable for housing up to 200 bats. The outside of the bat house has been sanded smooth, while the inside has been left rough to allow the bats to easily climb up in to it.
Secure the Four Chamber Bat House with the two attached hangers. Put nails or screws, as needed, into the location where the house is to be hung. Leave the head(s) extending 0.5 of an inch, and hang the metal loop(s) over them. The house can be further secured by inserting a nail or screw through the hole in the landing platform. A smaller, two-chamber unit (BCBH-2C) is also available.
About Wildlife Control Supplies (WCS)
WCS was founded in 1998 by the late Alan Huot and his wife, Carol — both experienced wildlife trappers and experts. The company has been helping wildlife and pest control professionals capture, control and prevent wildlife in the field, in commercial buildings and in residential environments ever since. The Suffield, Conn.-based company not only offers a variety of brands and products, but also has developed its own WCS Premium Grade Bait products and breakthrough inventions in response to customer needs.
[SPONSORED CONTENT] What’s YOUR time worth? At Zoëcon Professional Products, they know it’s valuable – that’s why they developed (S)-methoprene. It is the standard insect growth regulator (IGR) by which all other IGRs are measured with the power to fight infestations of fleas, mosquitoes and fire ants. It is the active ingredient in the Precor® product line, providing enduring control.
Watch the video to learn more about the first IGR and how it works to break the insect life cycle.
The key to managing filth flies is sanitation. Eliminating fly breeding sites — the material to which they are attracted and on which they lay eggs — is usually sufficient to eliminate and prevent fly infestations. Keep trash in sealed containers such as trash bags and cans with tight-fitting lids. Keep dumpsters as clean as possible, emptied regularly and as far away from buildings as practical. Promptly remove manure and other decaying plant and animal material. Eliminate areas of excessive moisture.
Source: Illinois Department of Public Health
Answers to June Tech Test
1. a, 2. True, 3. b, 4. True, 5. d, 6. True, 7. d, 8. False, 9. a, 10. True
Pest management professionals (PMPs) never know what they will encounter when a call comes in for ant control. Here, four pros explain how they managed particularly challenging infestations.
Odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile, or OHA)
Odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile) PHOTO: ® GENE WHITE
An older customer living in a home built in the late 1800s told me ants had been in the crawlspace for “more than five or six years.” When I first inspected, ants were present throughout the home, including in the basement and the crawlspace, which looked like it was moving. The customer had been spraying do-it-yourself (DIY) products almost every day, sometimes multiple times per day, for a few years. I explained that overapplying was more detrimental than helpful and that a targeted approach would allow ants to be eradicated at their nesting sites.
On my first visit, I used gel bait and granular insecticide. I traced the OHA to a garden shed; they were nesting in several bags of potting soil. The customer agreed to let me add granular insecticide to each of the eight bags of soil.
On my second visit a month later, I saw no activity in the potting soil and just a few straggler ants in the kitchen and crawlspace. I treated the exterior with a termiticide approved for ants.
At each visit thereafter, only a few ants were trailing into the house. I continue to treat with granular and gel. The infestation is 99 percent better.
This customer agreed to professional pest management because her neighbors, who are also my clients, told her they had a great service provider. The neighbors paid for my new client’s first service to prove a point about qualified pest management.
Caribbean crazy ants (Nylanderia pubens) PHOTO: ABDUL LATIF / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS / GETTY IMAGES
An infestation of Caribbean crazy ants was so severe that the clients could no longer live in their home. Piles and piles of dead ants were in the bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen and living room. They were in every corner of the house, including on the exterior.
I reached out to entomologists at the University of Florida’s Pest Management University. Dr. Faith Oi and her team helped me with a treatment plan that significantly reduced the ant population.
The property was roughly 1 acre. The first month, we treated the lawn with imidacloprid. We used granular bait on the following month’s visit. For the third month, we used gel bait mixed with a gallon of water and one cup of sugar, which helped the ants take the bait because they preferred liquids.
We used this treatment for another two months. It was important to start treatment in February to help get ahead of the infestation, as the ants would start multiplying as the weather got warmer.
While we never achieved 100 percent control, we were able to reduce the population drastically. The clients were satisfied with the results.
– Jacob Morehouse, director of pest prevention for Honor Services in Melbourne, Fla.
Pavement ants (Tetramorium spp.)
Pavement ants (Tetramorium spp.) PHOTO: DR. MICHAEL GREENE
A significant pavement ant infestation occurred at a residential barn on a concrete slab that had been converted to a mother-in-law suite. The barn had T1-11 exterior panel siding.
After inspecting the property, we treated areas with active colonies. We sprayed the exterior areas where activity was present and applied a preventive treatment to the rest of the exterior. We sprayed through the floor opening where a metal support beam entered the concrete, baited under the sink area and behind the stove, and sprayed along the header of the old garage door where we detected activity.
We also baited to reduce the carpenter ant (Camponotus spp.) infestation on the second floor. We tried to access the wall cavity for direct treatment, but the walls were filled with spray foam insulation. The carpenter ants made a colony in the spray foam. Spray foam insulation provides carpenter ants with an easily workable medium, as well as coverage from the elements and predators. They flourish in this environment. We typically recommend a multi-product treatment that includes spraying the interior and exterior of the structure, using a non-toxic ant granular application around the exterior foundation and a liquid bait in areas with significant activity levels. We also consider power dusting into wall voids for carpenter ants in traditional batt insulation applications, but with spray foam insulating applications, it is almost futile.
– Michael Listopad, owner, AAA Pest Pros, West Middlesex, Pa.
Argentine ants (Linepithema humile)
Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) PHOTO: iStock.com/paule858
For nearly a year, a homeowner had been battling persistent ant activity on her kitchen counter every single day. Frustrated, she made it clear that she would no longer tolerate the infestation and demanded a permanent solution, not a recurring treatment plan that required ongoing maintenance. We implemented a targeted integrated pest management (IPM) strategy designed for rapid and lasting results.
The first critical step was addressing environmental factors that were sustaining the ant population.
Massive redwood trees surrounded the home, and fallen leaves had accumulated along the exterior walls of the kitchen, providing harborage and protection for the ants.
To eliminate this conducive condition, we subcontracted a landscape company to clear all debris, cutting off a key nesting site right against the foundation. We work very well together, and we only bring them in for larger projects. The competitive rate for their services is included in our estimate, along with a detailed breakdown of services and full disclosure of any project management fees associated with it, as transparency is key.
Next, we sealed all kitchen entry points, including windows, counters and baseboards, to block access routes into the home. At the same time, we conducted a deep cleaning behind and underneath the stove, where accumulated grease and food debris had been attracting ants.
With the environment addressed, the third phase involved precise chemical applications tailored to the infestation. We applied liquid treatments at key access points to establish an effective barrier. We used dust in voids and cracks to eliminate hidden colonies. We placed granular baits in high-traffic areas to disrupt foraging activity.
The entire process required three visits over the course of one month. At the final follow-up, the homeowner reported she had not seen a single ant in her home. Legend has it the infestation never returned!
By combining habitat modification, exclusion techniques and targeted treatments, we delivered not just a temporary fix but a long-term, sustainable resolution to the client’s ant problem.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/pest-management-professionals-share-advice-on-managing-challenging-ant-infestations/ Sacramento CA
Twelve top industry suppliers share their cutting-edge solutions, valuable insights and what’s next for the business of ant management for pest management professionals (PMPs). We also want to hear from you: What are your go-to ant strategies, and what new approaches are on your radar?
Recent innovations: The B&G Pressurizing Tank Top (PTT) replaces the B&G Primeline tanks’ hand pump assembly, maintaining consistent pressure without manual pumping. That means every pull of the trigger delivers the same flow rate and droplet size. Residuals and repellents go down at the label required rate instead of the “best guess” that comes with declining tank pressure.
The PTT has been a great new tool for ant management, because uniform applications save products, reduce callbacks and shorten stop time.
Other features include:
The PTT retains optimal pressure (25 to 30 pounds per square inch, or PSI) in the sprayer from the time it is filled to when it is empty.
It attaches to the top of B&G Primeline tanks.
It saves an estimated 5 minutes per gallon, reducing fatigue on every job.
Its long-lasting rechargeable battery provides up to four hours of continuous use, between 27 and 30 gallons.
Conveniently charge on-the go with the included car charging adapter.
A tank lid for secure closure is also included for use while the PTT is being charged.
Predictions: We are seeing a trend where ant control is shifting away from broad perimeter sprays and toward precise spot treatments. This means chemical formulations are applied exactly where they are needed for effective control. We expect this precision trend to accelerate.
Recent innovations: Take a two-step attack on ants with help from BASF.
1. Nonrepellent liquid applications. Hit fast, but don’t scare them off. Nonrepellents are key because anything that spooks the ants can cause colony budding, exacerbating the problem. Top BASF solutions include Termidor SC termiticide/insecticide, Alpine WSG water-soluble granule insecticide, and PT Phantom II pressurized insecticide. These products move slowly enough to avoid alarms. Alpine WSG and Termidor SC have the added bonus of a transfer effect, spreading deep into the colony. New tools like Ridesco WG insecticide (pictured) can offer a quick knockdown option, but be smart: Keep it away from bait zones to avoid cutting off the ants’ movement to baits.
2. Better baiting. Baiting isn’t about wiping out the workers you see; it’s about taking down the larvae and the queens you don’t see. Use slow-acting Advance 375A granular ant bait to make sure it gets passed around the whole colony. It’s labeled for odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile, or OHA) and pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis), but field studies show it’s also tough on rover ants (Brachymyrmex patagonicus) and Asian needle ants (Brachyponera chinensis).
Fun fact: A Clemson University study (Benson and Joon, 2020) found that texture matters just as much as taste. Ant larvae can only digest solid food at the fourth instar. Get bait near larvae, and you’re getting close to the queen.
Predictions: These strategies are effective, but they aren’t instantaneous. Setting customer expectations early is critical. Let them know we’re not just chasing ants; we’re taking out the colony.
Recent innovations: Control Solutions Inc. (CSI) continues to develop new solutions to simplify ant control. Our liquid concentrates, aerosols and baits can help PMPs get better results with fewer visits.
Our latest ant control product is Doxem Plus Fire Ant Bait (pictured). This ant bait granule is highly attractive to imported fire ants (Solenopsis spp.) as well as big-headed ants (Pheidole megacephala), pavement ants (Tetramorium immigrans) and turfgrass ants (Lasius neoniger). It is designed to manage difficult ant populations by killing the queen and the entire colony. Better still, it is not a restricted-use product (RUP).
In addition, Doxem Precise is a dry flowable bait designed for use with the Precision Delivery System (PDS). The dry flowable formulation and proprietary applicator enable PMPs to more effectively treat cracks, crevices and voids where ants may harbor or gain entry. The bait is durable and long-lasting, so a single application can help maintain control over time.
Doxem NXT aerosol, meanwhile, combines four nonrepellent active ingredients (AIs) and is compatible with baits and other nonrepellent applications, making it an ideal tool in an ant management program. It has a broad label that allows for applications in food-handling establishments and other sensitive areas, making it a great option for ant control in almost any setting.
Predictions: Ant control always has been a challenge for PMPs. The traits that make ants, especially tramp species, so successful make them particularly hard to control. There will never be a “silver bullet” solution for all ant species, but continued innovation will make ant identification and control simpler for technicians. Combination products, various new formulations and more accessible resources will help ensure results.
Ensystex David Newfang, ACE, PHE, technical sales representative
PHOTO: ENSYSTEX
Recent innovations: At Ensystex, precision and practicality drive our approach to pest management — and our Abathor line is a clear reflection of that. Designed for professional use in both structural and landscape environments, Abathor products deliver effective control against a wide range of ant species using a proven active ingredient (AI): abamectin B1.
Abathor Granular Ant Bait is formulated to eliminate a variety of common household and nuisance ants, including OHA, pavement, Argentine (Linepithema humile) and little black (Monomorium minimum) ant species, among others. With just 0.011 percent abamectin, this slow-acting bait exploits ant foraging behavior, enabling worker ants to carry the granules back to the colony for widespread impact. It’s labeled for use both indoors and outdoors, including residential areas, warehouses, hotels, schools and non-patient zones of healthcare facilities. It’s also ideal for green spaces, such as parks, golf courses and lawns.
For fire ants, Abathor Fire Ant Bait offers a focused solution. Also featuring abamectin B1 at 0.011 percent, this product targets fire ant colonies at their source. It’s labeled for use on turf, lawns, and other non-crop areas and is effective indoors in commercial and residential buildings. The bait is available in a large, economical 25-pound bulk size, making it a practical choice for treating large properties such as golf courses and public landscapes where fire ants can pose serious safety concerns.
Both formulations work by exploiting natural ant behavior, delivering abamectin directly into the heart of the colony. This means better control, longer-lasting results and less disruption to treated areas.
Predictions: As the ant control market continues to expand, Ensystex remains committed to providing PMPs with effective, scalable and field-tested tools. The Abathor line is built for performance, whether you’re treating a lawn, a schoolyard or a storage facility.
Recent innovations: Innovative Pest Control Products has been supporting PMPs with effective ant management tools for more than 24 years. Our philosophy is simple: Use ants’ natural behaviors to carry slow-acting toxicants back to the colony, where they can eliminate the queen(s) and disrupt the population at its source.
Our Antopia 6 Bait Station (pictured) is designed specifically for colony elimination. It holds up to 6 ounces of liquid or granular bait, is protected by an ultraviolet light (UV)-resistant cover, and includes a screw-in anchor for secure, above-ground placement. Its high capacity minimizes service visits while protecting bait from rain and sprinklers.
For faster indoor relief, gel baits with quicker-acting AIs are ideal. Gourmet Ant Bait Gel, which contains
6 percent disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (DOT), has been trusted for more than two decades to provide effective knockdown of foraging ants.
To extend bait life and improve delivery, we offer two versatile stations:
Ant Cafés are pet- and child-resistant, using a zip-tie-style closure for safety and double-sided tape for secure placement.
BugBar Bait Stations are compact, cost-effective and ideal for countertop use. Their textured ramps and clamshell design make them attractive to ants and cockroaches while protecting bait from contamination and evaporation.
Predictions: Ant control will continue to be a steady revenue stream. As global temperatures rise, we anticipate changes in the distributions of ant species. However, invasive tramp ants with large colonies and multiple queens will likely continue to dominate, keeping the demand for effective, colony-focused solutions strong.
Recent innovations: MGK’s newst innovation in ant control is Sumari Ant Gel Bait. It’s formulated with clothianidin, a powerful neonicotinoid designed to deliver colony-level control through ingestion and trophallaxis. This bait is part of the broader Sumari System, built to streamline ant control across a wide range of structural environments.
Sumari Ant Gel offers high palatability and consistency, making it an ideal choice for use in various conditions. Foraging ants consume and share the bait with nestmates, allowing clothianidin to spread throughout the colony, including the queens and brood. The result is not just the knockdown of workers but the complete disruption and collapse of the colony.
PMPs appreciate its non-drip formulation, long-lasting attractiveness and ability to hold up in indoor and outdoor settings. The gel applies cleanly, stays where it’s placed and delivers reliable performance without mess or odor. It’s ideal for use in sensitive accounts such as commercial kitchens, healthcare facilities or multi-unit housing.
Predictions: MGK anticipates a continued shift toward targeted, low-impact control solutions that deliver maximum effectiveness with minimal disruption. Ant control will increasingly rely on bait-based approaches, particularly those that can be integrated into broader integrated pest management (IPM) programs and be rotated for resistance management.
With growing regulatory pressure on older chemistries and rising customer expectations for cleaner, more sustainable products, the demand for nonrepellent, slow-acting baits like Sumari will expand. New formulations of existing chemistries and new additions may become increasingly important.
Neogen Andrew Fisher, BCE, PHE, business unit specialist
PHOTO: NEOGEN
Recent innovations: Neogen is excited about our recent collaboration with PMPs on the redesign of our case packaging for SureKill Gel baits (pictured), which meets the increased demand for sustainable packaging and reduced plastic waste. Our new SureKill Gel Bait 30-packs reduce up to 1.5 pounds of plastic waste compared to the industry average, thanks to our 40-gram fill size in standard syringes and the elimination of unnecessary clamshell packaging. We are proud to be a leader in reducing our carbon footprint while providing excellent products, such as our SureKill Ant Gel bait, to PMPs.
Selecting the right gel bait can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially when your job requires a single product that meets the majority of your needs.
The SureKill Ant Gel Bait was formulated specifically for this purpose and, when paired with the SureKill Gel Bait Pro Applicator, precision placement is achieved.
Other features include:
Industry-trusted imidacloprid in low concentrations provides effective control throughout the entire colony.
The SureKill Ant Gel Bait matrix is balanced with sugars and proteins, making it appealing to various species of ants and helping to reduce consumption time.
Hygroscopic properties within the matrix help increase moisture retention and provide extended foraging opportunities after application.
Predictions: Ant control remains a leading cause of callbacks year after year, posing a constant challenge for PMPs. Extensive technician training on species identification and product choice will continue to be one of the most important aspects of controlling and achieving success in ant management. As product selection evolves, PMPs must rely on multiple modes of action and bait formulations to maximize control. Neogen is committed to continued innovation within the SureKill product line and providing technical support to ensure PMPs are prepared for the demands in the field.
Nisus Dr. Jamel Sandidge, BCE, national director of technical services
PHOTO: NISUS
Recent innovations: Ant callbacks are a revenue killer. When ants are the call, the detective work begins, and it’s time to start investigating why they’re there in the first place. Even if you use a perimeter spray, ants can cross the treatment zone when they are actively trailing and searching for food. However, we all know the callback is imminent if a perimeter treatment is the first and only line of defense while ants are in wall voids, protected under mulch or thatch, and building nests in gutters, behind brick, in potted plants, around gardens, under landscaping rocks and timbers or in other protected areas. When ants are in these areas, liquid applications may fail because they can travel underneath these treated layers. Therefore, locating where ants are nesting on the first trip is essential.
In these circumstances, a multi-faceted approach is your best bet to avoid callbacks. Try applying a nonrepellent, long-lasting dust like Nibor-D (pictured) or a fine granular bait such as Niban-FG into any voids and crevices to help reduce the risk of callbacks.
You also can take advantage of ants’ internal drive to forage for food continuously. Ants prefer liquids, so try adding DominAnt Liquid Bait on your first visit. It’s highly attractive and allows ants to bring the bait back to spread throughout the colony.
Plus, Niban Granular Bait features weather-resistant granules that withstand heat and sunlight,. By applying it around the structure perimeter and other problem areas — such as on or near wood piles, garden areas and tree stumps — you can once again use ants’ foraging instincts to help eradicate the colony.
Predictions: Invasive ant species will continue to be a problem in multiple regions across the country. This issue makes species identification even more crucial in establishing control over an infestation.
Recent innovations: Unlike kitchens or bathrooms, which offer ants food and moisture, attics can provide them with shelter and warmth — especially in cooler months.
Ants often enter attics through small openings, such as gaps in roofing, vents and eaves. They may seek refuge in insulation, wooden beams and cardboard storage boxes. Once established, they may venture deeper into the home, drawn by accessible food sources.
Carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.), in particular, pose a greater threat, as they burrow into wood, potentially damaging structures. Other species, such as OHA, seek out sugary substances and can quickly spread once they are inside.
To prevent ants from migrating into living spaces, inspect the attic for signs of an infestation, such as wood shavings or ant trails. Work with your customers on sealing entry points, removing potential nesting materials, storing food securely and insulating with TAP Pest Control Insulation. As a pesticide registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, TAP is an excellent IPM component, stopping ants as they travel through the insulation.
Predictions: Ant populations are influenced by climate changes, habitat availability and human activity. Warmer temperatures and urban expansion can lead to increased ant infestations in homes, as ants seek shelter and food sources. Argentine ants, fire ants and other invasive ant species may continue to spread in certain regions, disrupting local ecosystems.
Advancements in pest control methods, including eco-friendly solutions like TAP, may help manage ant populations more effectively. However, as ants adapt to new environments and food sources, PMPs must remain vigilant in implementing prevention strategies.
Recent innovations: Rockwell offers several widely used ant control products, of which InTice 10 Perimeter Bait (pictured) is our best-known. As a granular bait with 10 percent boric acid, it shines as a regular perimeter treatment to help control ant colonies before they can develop into major problems. With long-lasting weather resistance, it’s perfect for extended service intervals. A combination of sweet, oil and protein attractants gives it broad-spectrum palatability.
InVict Xpress and InVict Blitz are granular baits that feature 0.5 percent imidacloprid for lightning-fast control. Both baits offer a rich and highly palatable food matrix that also contains weather-resistant particles, providing a combination knockdown and a longer-lasting effect. With a use rate as low as 4 ounces per 1,000 square feet, they also are an economical choice.
InVict Xpress is a broader-spectrum product, like InTice 10, and controls other common perimeter pests, such as crickets, cockroaches, earwigs and silverfish. InVict Blitz has a bait matrix particularly targeted to mega-colony species such as Argentine and tawny crazy (Nylanderia fulva) ants.
Rockwell’s patented InTice Gelanimo Ant Bait features borax in an exclusive “rigid gel” matrix similar to gelatin. It provides ants with the sugar and moisture they crave but is spillproof, quick and easy to use. Plus, ants cannot drown in this bait, which would cause them to emit an alarm pheromone to deter other ants. The palatable, non-dripping gel also is available in a syringe for use in crack-and-crevice areas and on vertical surfaces.
Predictions: Ants remain the No. 1 structural pest. That’s unlikely to change, given their significant impact on the revenue of pest management firms. Because of this market importance, we expect that novel products will continue to enter the market, featuring different AIs, novel formulations and innovative methods of use.
Syngenta Dr. Tim Husen, BCE, PHE, PCQI, technical services manager, professional pest management
PHOTO: SYNGENTA
Recent innovations: The latest nuisance ant management tool from Syngenta, the Advion Ant gel station (pictured), is a ready-to-use solution containing the popular Advion Ant gel bait. This station can add value to service offerings as a unique leave-behind product to help prevent ant resurgences between scheduled treatments or for situations where typical bait applications are not desired.
Advion MicroFlow insect bait is another recent nuisance ant management tool from Syngenta. It provides an alternative to traditional gel baits that can reach deep into voids, cracks and crevices where ants nest and forage. It’s finely milled, enabling applications with commonly used dusting equipment, such as electric dusters or bulb and bellows dusters. To prevent cross-contamination, use separate application devices for repellent (amorphous silica/silicon dioxide) or acute-kill (pyrethroid) dusts and nondeterrent products like Advion MicroFlow.
Predictions: Be on the lookout for new nuisance ant control products in the future. The regulatory clock is ticking on many currently used ant control sprayable products, formulations, AIs and their structural use patterns. Finding viable candidates to fill these potential gaps is essential. Newly formulated bait and liquid insecticide products containing brand-new, nondeterrent AI classes will be a big step in the right direction.
We expect nuisance ant management toolboxes to become even more diverse in the next five years. Structure-infesting ants, in particular, are not one-tool pests. PMPs should continue to incorporate new products, AIs and formulations (such as dry flowable baits) into their management strategies while also increasing use of pest ant identification-based physical, mechanical, cultural and sanitation control options.
Zoëcon Mel Whitson, director of sales & marketing, pest control
PHOTO: ZOECON PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS
Recent innovations: Ant infestations are among the most common and frustrating issues PMPs face today. Whether they’re invading residential kitchens, industrial warehouses or outdoor recreational spaces, ants continue to challenge even the most seasoned PMPs with their adaptability and colony persistence.
Formitrol Ant Bait Gel is designed to combat nuisance ants with efficiency. The formulation combines two powerful AIs: our (S)-methoprene and dinotefuran. This creates a dual-action bait for comprehensive control.
Approved for indoor and outdoor use on residential, industrial and commercial sites, Formitrol Ant Bait Gel comes in a syringe format for precise applications. This low-odor, sugar-based formulation aids in colony management of over 20 ant species, including acrobat (Crematogaster spp.), ghost (Tapinoma melanocephalum) and rover (Brachymyrmex spp.) ants.
Predictions: Looking ahead, the ant control market is poised for continued growth. Industry trends indicate an increase in infestation pressures over the next five years, driven by rising moisture levels, shifting weather patterns and the emergence of new or invasive ant species. These changes will require PMPs to stay agile and proactive in their treatment approaches.
Zoëcon Professional Products is committed to supporting PMPs through these evolving challenges. With innovative solutions like Formitrol Ant Bait Gel, we’re focused on helping PMPs stay one step ahead — delivering products that provide precise control and reduce callbacks. As conditions change and infestations rise, PMPs can rely on Zoëcon Professional Products to deliver the tools and technology needed to take down ant problems at the source quickly, cleanly and completely.
