Atlanta-based Arrow Exterminators recently held the company’s annual 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Kickoff Summit at The Omni Hotel in Amelia Island, Fla. The two-day event celebrated achievements from the prior fiscal year, which included record-breaking milestones and a total revenue of over $450 million.
The summit also introduced the new internal fiscal year theme, “Dynamic Drive; Uncommon Greatness.” Emily Thomas Kendrick, chief executive officer of Arrow Exterminators, said, “Our success is the direct result of the skill, commitment, and passion of our team. It was an honor to present awards and personally thank those who helped us not only reach but exceed our goals.”
Day one of the summit also featured guest speaker Molly Fletcher, author of Dynamic Drive, who shared her insights about the seven keys to sustainable success.
Day two included a leadership and motivational workshop hosted by Randy Gravitt and Mark Miller for all in attendance. The workshop was based on Mark Miller’s new book, Uncommon Greatness: Five Fundamentals to Transform Your Leadership. “Randy Gravitt’s workshop was the perfect way to start our fiscal year, pushing our team to lead at their best,” said Tim Pollard, president and chief operating officer. “It inspired our managers and corporate support leaders to approach Arrow’s future with fresh ideas and renewed energy, leaving with a strong commitment to guide their teams through innovative thinking.”
About Arrow Exterminators
Family-owned and -operated since 1964, Atlanta-based Arrow Exterminators is the largest family-owned pest and termite control company in the United States ranked by revenue. Arrow boasts a modern fleet of more than 3,400 vehicles, 190 service centers, over 3,500 team members with revenues exceeding $450 million and has been named a Top USA Workplace for four years in a row. Featuring QualityPro accreditation by the National Pest Management Association, the company offers innovative and environmentally responsible services to protect the homes and businesses of customers in Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Pictured from left during the August 2025 meeting are Brad Dutoit; Drs. Tim Nowatzki and Shripat Kamble; Jeffery Preece, BCE, PHE; and Jerry Heath, BCE. PHOTO: CEMA
The Certified Entomologists of Mid-America (CEMA), a chapter of the Entomological Society of America (ESA), held its annual meeting Aug. 1-2, in Olathe, Kan.
The event kicked off with a social gathering and dinner, giving members a chance to reconnect and network in a relaxed setting. The annual board meeting took place the following morning. Afterward, the group toured the recently transformed Pollinator Prairie, where participants explored the diverse insect life thriving in the revitalized ecosystem around the former chemical collection site.
About Certified Entomologists of Mid-America (CEMA)
CEMA is a regional chapter of the Entomological Society of America dedicated to promoting the study and understanding of entomology in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa.
CEMA provides a valuable platform for entomologists to connect, collaborate and expand their knowledge. Open to both Associate Certified Entomologists (ACEs) and Board-Certified Entomologists (BCEs) in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa, CEMA fosters a diverse community of professionals.
Members come from various backgrounds, including academia, research and development, product manufacturing, consulting and pest management. This rich diversity of expertise creates a dynamic environment for learning and sharing insights.
CEMA also supports the advancement of entomology by sponsoring several awards annually for outstanding extension projects within the Entomological Society’s North Central Branch.
Flexibility is key when helping your customers choose the right termite solution. For homeowners who are interested in baiting, BASF offers two excellent options from its termite control portfolio.
For detection, Advance Termite Bait Stations (ATBS) are a premier termite monitoring system. Trelona compressed termite bait is added to the stations only when termite activity is detected.
Trelona ATBS Annual Bait Stations are ideal if homeowners prefer active protection from Day 1. The stations are preloaded with the active ingredient before being installed on the property.
Both options offer fast results because of the station design. Termites can find Trelona Annual and Advance stations quickly, which translates to faster consumption of bait and faster elimination. (Source: 2012 University of Delaware, Graduate Research Dissertation). The stations are also low-profile — sitting right at soil level to reach termite colonies, but not lawnmower blades.
Baiting solutions from BASF aren’t just excellent options for your customers, they’re good for your bottom line because you own the equipment and the accounts. Plus, the flexible label gives you the option of conducting inspections just once a year. The scannable radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags on the station lids make for quick detection and reduces the need to replace stations that might be considered lost because of overgrown shrubbery or other environmental conditions.
About BASF
BASF Corp., headquartered in Florham Park, N.J., is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,000 employees in North America and had sales of $25.7 billion in 2022.
BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future by combining economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 110,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of its customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. BASF’s portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions.
Thomas Pest employees react to winning ‘Best in Pest control’ award
Schenectady, N.Y.-based Thomas Pest Services was named the ‘Best in Pest Control’ in the Times Union’s annual “Best Of” awards for the third year in a row. The family-owned company attributes this ongoing recognition to its commitment to relationship-based pest control, a philosophy that prioritizes education, prevention and genuine partnership with customers.
“This award isn’t just about what we do; it’s about how we do it,” said Sarah Thomas-Clark, vice president and co-founder of Thomas Pest Services. “Our customers trust us not only to solve their pest problems, but to treat their homes and families like our own. That trust is what drives us every day.”
President and co-founder of Thomas Pest Services, Bill Clark said, “Winning ‘Best in Pest Control’ for three years in a row reflects our entire team’s heart and hustle. We’re grateful to our customers for voting, and even more grateful that they’ve welcomed us into their homes time and time again.”
About Thomas Pest Services
Thomas Pest Services has been protecting the health, homes, and pets of the Capital Region and Hudson Valley for three generations, offering people-first pest programs and guaranteed satisfaction. Committed to community support and customer care, Thomas Pest Services believes in treating little things like big things.
About Times Union
The Times Union is the leading news organization in New York’s Capital Region. The newspaper focuses on local news and watchdog reporting. It has won numerous state and national awards for its work on both print and digital platforms.
How many of you use standard operating procedures (SOPs)?
Go ahead, keep your hands up nice and high. Hmm, there’s not too many of you. How many of you have your SOPs in writing and use them on a daily basis? How many of you know how to create procedures and protocols?
This is a huge problem in our industry. Whenever I first interview a new pest control client about their SOPs strategy, it’s rare that they actually have something in writing. But SOPs are not just some random business jargon; they are essential to running a business.
SOPs can help your employees feel more confident in decision-making, create consistency throughout your company and protect your business from mishaps. SOPs set expectations for your customers and keep your techs organized at each job.
They’re more than just for explaining how to perform a carpenter ant job — they can guide your employees on pricing, safety training, answering phones properly, commercial sales processes, hosting training meetings, ladder safety, customer service responses and more. They also can be the place to keep the most current company organizational chart, so everyone knows who each employee reports to and what the chain of command should be.
No easy task
Like many pest management professionals (PMPs), though, Daniel Nabors admits SOPs are his least-favorite part of the job.
“Sitting down and writing them is tough, even though I see the benefit,” says Nabors, president of Quality Pest Control in Lufkin, Texas. He adds that his frustration with creating SOPs is that every job can be different; not every situation is the same. “We get hyper-focused on what we are going to do without taking into consideration the variables at each home,” he says.
For a long time, these variables prevented him from formalizing his rules for each job. In February, however, I started pushing Nabors to at least create procedures for job safety, ladder maintenance and various pest jobs.
After several months of my preaching SOPs to him, Nabors is now cranking out methods and best practices for all sorts of tasks at Quality Pest Control. He says today his team is diving headfirst into SOPS. “I wish we had done it five years ago because my life would be a lot simpler.”
Continuing the climb
Founded in 2009, Quality Pest Control is a rural company situated two hours north of Houston and an hour west of the Louisiana border. Nabors and his team hit $933,153 last year and are on track to clip $1.2 million this year. He currently has eight employees, including five full-time technicians. They are growing at a rate now where they consistently approach $100,000 each month, including June ($108,000), April ($96,000) and March ($109,000).
A pastor’s kid from Louisiana, Nabors got into pest control after finding a “help wanted” ad in the classifieds in 2003. He started working for Terminix as an outside sales representative, selling more than $20,000 per month. He also married his sweetheart, Brandy, that year, which he believes might have been his best sales pitch.
Nabors enjoyed the work and even showed up to the jobs he sold to lend a hand. This education proved valuable, as he learned many facets of the industry.
When Hurricane Katrina hit on Aug. 29, 2005, the massive storm surge caused widespread flooding, nearly 1,400 deaths and billions of dollars in damage. The compassionate part of Nabors saw the need to help out. The businessman in him saw an opportunity to make a lot of money.
Nabors did hurricane cleanup work for a few months before changing gears again and becoming a postman in 2007. In 2009, he decided to return to pest control as a side gig to his postal duties. In 2013, he was able to purchase a small competitor and decided to focus on Quality Pest Control full-time.
Working with Nabors this year has been great. In addition to creating SOPs, we’ve also worked on developing more effective meetings for his team, which includes adhering to written agendas, using training modules and placing more emphasis on core values.
“We have a lot more communication now,” he reports. “People are more open and honest in our meetings, too, which is helping our culture.”
If I order a burrito in Denver, Colo., from Chipotle, it had better be the same as what I would get in Orlando, Fla. SOPs are what can keep you and your employees consistent, keep your customers informed and will help ensure everyone rows the boat in the same direction. Without protocols, there is too much risk of chaos, anger, frustration, canceled clients and unhappy workers.
The Asian needle ant (Brachyponera chinensis) has made headlines in recent months, as this invasive species has been confirmed in new parts of the country, further expanding its range across the United States. One important cause for concern surrounding this species is its ability to deliver a painful, venomous sting that can lead to a potentially life-threatening response to those allergic to insect venom.
Dr. Michael Bentley, BCE
The Asian needle ant is native to China, Japan and Korea. It was first discovered in the United States in 1932 but wasn’t formally recognized as a pest here until 2006. Since then, this ant has been reported in several states including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, New England, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin and, most recently, Washington. This list expected to grow as the ant expands its range.
One important concern with the spread of this invasive species is its ability to outcompete other
ants for food, displacing native species and disrupting ecosystems. This species prefers to feed on termites, but workers can be found foraging on a wide range of other arthropods and sugary human foods.
Colony size can vary from a few individuals to thousands of workers depending on the nest site and the time of year. Colonies are both polygynous (multiple queens per colony) and polydomous (multiple nest sites), adding to the layer of challenges when containing and controlling the spread of this invasive pest.
Research is ongoing to develop a formalized control strategy for this species, but anecdotal reports and field recommendations suggest the use of protein-based insecticidal ant baits used according to label instructions can be successful.
Inflation, or the sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services, has far-reaching consequences across nearly every industry — and pest control is no exception. For pest management professionals (PMPs), inflation brings a mix of rising costs, pricing challenges, labor concerns and even opportunities for business adaptation and growth.
Rising operational costs
Nick Stein
One of the immediate effects of inflation for PMPs is the increased cost of doing business. Materials, chemicals and equipment often see price hikes because of increased input costs. Vehicle costs also rise significantly during inflationary periods. Fuel, maintenance and even new vehicle purchases become more expensive, especially on routes with more windshield time. To combat this, focus on route optimization to help offset rising vehicle and labor costs.
Labor market pressures
Inflation also affects labor costs. As the cost of living increases, employees expect higher wages to maintain their standard of living. PMPs may face pressure to raise wages and offer better benefits to attract and retain technicians, especially in a tight labor market.
These added expenses and competition for quality talent make employee turnover particularly painful during inflationary times, emphasizing the importance of retention strategies.
Pricing dilemmas and customer retention
One of the most difficult challenges for PMPs during inflation is adjusting pricing structures. On the one hand, businesses must increase prices to cover rising costs. On the other hand, they risk losing clients who are also feeling the financial pinch and may deprioritize pest control as a non-essential service.
This puts PMPs in a delicate balancing act: raising prices enough to stay profitable, but not so much that they alienate loyal customers. Transparent communication and customer education become vital. Explaining price changes and reinforcing the value of professional pest control services can help maintain customer trust and loyalty.
Supply chain disruptions
Inflation often goes hand in hand with supply chain disruptions. Global shipping delays, raw material shortages and manufacturing slowdowns serve to increase inflation and can impact the availability of pest control products. This unpredictability requires PMPs to be more strategic about inventory management, possibly purchasing in bulk or diversifying suppliers to mitigate risks.
Strategic opportunities
Despite the challenges, inflationary periods also can offer strategic opportunities. Businesses that streamline operations, invest in automation and renegotiate vendor contracts may improve efficiency and protect margins. PMPs also can leverage technology — like route optimization software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems and digital invoicing — to cut costs and improve service delivery.
Marketing also plays a key role during inflation. By emphasizing the preventive nature of pest control and the potential long-term savings from avoiding infestations, PMPs can reposition their services as a wise investment rather than a discretionary expense.
Conquering challenges
Inflation poses real challenges for PMPs, from higher costs and wage demands to pricing pressures and supply uncertainties. However, with careful planning, clear communication and strategic adaptation, they can weather inflationary storms and even come out stronger. For those willing to embrace change and focus on efficiency, inflation can be more than a hurdle; it can be a catalyst for growth.
Stein is a financial director for Cetane Associates, New Milford, Conn. He can be reached at pmpeditor@northcoastmedia.net.
J.T. Eaton is now a distributor for Mylva’s Ultimatum Pest Roach Gel Bait. Mylva is a global leader in insecticides and has carefully crafted this gel to work on American, German, Brown-Banded, and Oriental cockroach species. Available as a case of six packs of four tubes, this gel is designed to be easy to use and place and has long-lasting effects to keep cockroaches away for an extended period of time.
Ultimatum Pest Roach Gel Bait uses a 0.05 percent active ingredient of fipronil, which is proven to have a fast-acting quick knockdown with an effective mortality rate. It’s highly versatile for homes, apartments and commercial spaces. Other features include:
Allows precise placement in cracks and crevices.
The gel bait syringe design makes application mess and hassle-free.
Provides sustained indoor protection, reducing the need for frequent applications.
Use J.T. Eaton Item #ULTROACHBAIT to request it from your favorite distributor.
About J.T. Eaton
Founded in 1932 by Jasper T. Eaton as a mail-order house for pest control products for professional use, J.T. Eaton was brought to prominence when Pest Management Professional (PMP) Hall of Famer Stanley Baker (Class of 1999) purchased it in 1949. Before his death in 2005 at the age of 87, he built it up to a multi-million-dollar company. Baker was a lifelong innovator, and is credited for creating the paraffin rodent bait block in 1962. He is also credited with developing the modern glue board design, in 1980. In 1999, he helped patent an ant and cockroach product that uses just 1 percent boric acid. Still family-owned and -operated by the Baker family, J.T. Eaton’s product line includes products for rodents, wildlife, bed bugs, mosquitoes and other flying insects and more.
The trademarked Reach-Key (Model No. WCSRKKIT1) is a new, time-saving tool for checking bait stations. It offers universal mounting capability for virtually any bait station key. The Reach-Key allows technicians to open and check bait stations without bending or kneeling. Wildlife Control Supplies’ (WCS’) Reach-Key Pest Management Professional (PMP) Kit also features a telescope extension and a carry case. Bait keys are not included in the kit.
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.
One Small Step was founded on the belief that two people with different political views could find common ground and understanding through meaningful conversations, which would contribute to the healing of our divided society.
Support from organizations like Massey Services enables Central Florida Public Media to continue the initiative.
“At its heart, One Small Step is about seeing the person behind the opinion,” said Andrea Massey-Farrell, president and CEO of the Harvey and Carol Massey Foundation and Massey Services senior vice president of Community Relations. “These conversations remind us that, despite our differences, we have more in common than we think. Massey Services is honored to help create moments where neighbors can truly listen to one another and build understanding that strengthens our entire community.”
Since Central Florida Public Media joined the One Small Step initiative, it has hosted 40, 50-minute conversations between Central Florida residents with differing beliefs, connecting those who may never have spoken otherwise.
“In a world full of divisiveness, initiatives like One Small Step are critical to fostering understanding and empathy in our community,” said Judith Smelser, president and general manager of Central Florida Public Media. “The generosity of local organizations like Massey Services allows us to keep offering unique opportunities for Central Floridians to connect.”
Central Florida Public Media is a nonprofit, public media news organization based in Orlando, Fla., serving nine counties across Central Florida with independent journalism. Community owned and independently operated for over four decades, Central Florida Public Media is primarily supported by generous individual donors, foundations and corporate sponsors. As Central Florida’s primary provider of NPR programming and local journalism, Central Florida Public Media can be heard on multiple platforms including the Central Florida Public Media app and website.
About Massey Services
Massey Services is based in Orlando, Fla., and is one of the nation’s largest service companies in the pest management industry. Celebrating 40 consecutive years of profitable growth, Massey Services and its subsidiary organizations employ more than 2,900 team members who provide residential and commercial pest prevention, termite protection, landscape and irrigation services for nearly one million customers from 193 service centers throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Virginia and Tennessee.
The Big Snap-E Rat Trap offers a tough, reliable solution for serious rodent control. For added safety and a cleaner appearance, pair it with the Big Snap-E Cover. Its tunnel-style design is made to sit flush against walls — where rats prefer to travel — boosting both placement accuracy and trap success. Built with professionals in mind, it’s simple to set and features a strong snap for consistent, effective results. Its rugged construction stands up to demanding conditions, making it a go-to choice across commercial, industrial and residential settings. It’s trusted by pest control pros everywhere, so upgrade your rodent control strategy today.
About Kness Pest Defense
Per company history, the Ketch-All was invented by a young, widowed father of six, Austin Enos “Brick” Kness, in 1924. Mice were prevalent at the high school in which Kness was a custodian, and led him to the idea of the “box” trap. Kness, a Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer (Class of 2024), built the first trap from a square oilcan, a Tuxedo Tobacco can, a spring from a curtain rod, and the wood base of a crate. The first night he set his trap, he captured five mice.
He was elated and showed the teachers and his friends. He was encouraged to build others for his friends and to seek a patent. By 1927, Kness Mfg. Co. was formed to produce the KetchAll Automatic Mousetrap and another of Kness’ inventions, the RotoBow tree saw.
Dick Sameth is survived by three children and six grandchildren, as well as his brother and longtime Western Pest Services President Bob Sameth. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Polly.
Now through Aug. 31, 2025, Veseris is offering one pest management pro the chance to win a $1,000 Veseris gift card in its Power-Up Giveaway. Veseris brings you all the best brands — in-store and online — all in one place.
Learn more and enter to win online.
About Veseris
Headquartered in Austin, Texas, 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 structural pest, turf and ornamental, public health, wildlife and vegetation management with unparalleled products and services, as well as educational and technology resources, including Veseris.com, a best-in-class online resource for pest management professionals.
In this latest edition in the “Pro Training for Veseris” webinar series, the Aug. 21 edition will be “Promotion and Profit Through Private Labeling.” The free, one-hour webinar takes place from noon to 1 p.m. Eastern.
Jim Shaver, the western regional manager for Catchmaster Pro, will discuss how to unlock the potential of your brand with Catchmaster’s exclusive private-label program. Customize Catchmaster Pro’s high-quality glue boards, snap traps and multi-catch traps by adding your logo, contact information and a captivating marketing message.
Don’t miss the chance to elevate your brand presence. Learn more and sign up today here.
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.
About Catchmaster Pro
Catchmaster Pro is the professional brand of AP&G Co., a leading manufacturer of pest management solutions. Using a science-based approach, the company creates high-quality products for rodent, insect and mosquito management. Founded in 1952 in Brooklyn, N.Y., by Moses Frisch, an immigrant chemist from Hungary, AP&G Co. started with the production of specialty adhesives. Now based in Bayonne, N.J., with third-generation Frisch family members at the helm, AP&G has helped to support PMPs in their control, monitoring and prevention work of pests worldwide.
“When encountering a pest species I haven’t seen before, whether truly novel or simply unfamiliar, my protocol begins with principles, not prescriptions. The first priority is to document the context: where and how the pest was found, what environmental conditions were present, and whether photos or specimens can be safely collected for identification. I then assess whether the finding is incidental or indicative of a broader issue. Was it a single specimen or several? Did it fly or crawl? A lone flying insect may be an intellectual curiosity, while a single crawler, especially one found deep inside a structure, raises different questions. If multiple specimens are found, I begin investigating potential breeding or feeding sources. That discipline applies whether the pest is unexpected or entirely unknown.”
“Get a positive ID. If it is indeed a new pest not encountered in your area, contact your local university extension office, as they might need to report it. Then they can advise you on control measures.”
“While you may want to jump into services for any new species, it is very important to conduct hands-on research yourself first. You have to be confident your service program will work before you charge your clients.”
“When encountering a new invasive species, do as much online research as possible. Have a relationship with university resources in your area that can give you advice. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your peers in the industry; we as a group are incredible at helping one another.”
“Luckily, this does not happen very often — but one we currently are dealing with in Texas is the hammerhead worm, or Bipalium kewense. According to what we have been informed by our state, this worm is an invasive species that can cause skin irritation on contact and is a predator of beneficial earthworms. The warning is that if you cut one in half, it will regenerate and become two separate worms — and if you cut one again, it will regenerate again. Due to their invasive and regenerating nature, they are like a small horror movie and are not to be taken lightly. This is just a current example of the importance of knowing what you are dealing with when facing something you are unfamiliar with and getting information before taking control measures. It’s the ready-aim-fire and not the ready-fire-aim thought process.”
The Clendenin Consulting Group provides a full range of pest and lawn management business consulting services, including representing, advising and guiding owners who have decided to sell their company, through the entire acquisition process. This includes finding the right buyer, negotiating the right price and getting the right terms. TCCG also specializes in helping companies achieve sustained exponential growth and taking most of that increase in revenue to their bottom lines. Check out what past clients have to say on TCCG’s website under Testimonials, and industry experience under the bio of CEO Greg Clendenin. Whether your company is a full-range pest control company, a lawn spray and fertilization company, or a combination thereof, TCCG is a go-to consulting and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) firm.
About TCCG
Over the course of his nearly five-decade career, Greg Clendenin and his associates have overseen the acquisition and/or sale of more than $500 million worth of transactions. Clendenin began his career in the lawn and pest control in 1979. In 1982, he became the general manager and partner of Middleton Lawn & Pest Control, eventually becoming CEO and leading Middleton to become the 14th largest company in an industry comprised of approximately 20,000 companies in 2005. Clendenin led the organic growth of Middleton from five employees and $488,000 in annual revenue in 1982 to approximately 300 employees and annual revenues of $35 million in 2005. This was accomplished with no acquisitions.
After the acquisition of Middleton in 2005, Clendenin was the CEO of the public company from June 2005 until October 2007. While Middleton was a full-service pest control company, it was also considered to be the fifth-largest lawn care/spray company in the nation. From 2005 to 2007, Clendenin led the negotiations, acquisition and integration of 12 companies into the Middleton platform. From 2010-2018, he held senior-level management positions, including CEO of Heron Lawn and Pest Control, later rebranded as Heron Home & Outdoor. He launched TCCG in 2018.
On July 31, the North Carolina Pest Management Association’s (NCPMA) welcomed its new slate of board members for 2025-2026. The new board of directors was installed during the 2025 Carolinas/Mid-Atlantic Summer Meeting, which took place in Savannah, Ga.
The new officers of the board of directors for 2025-2026 include:
President: Allen Langley, H&H Pest Control and Water Proofing (Shelby)
Vice President: Thomas Cheek, Terminix Triad (Greensboro)
Secretary/Treasurer: Patrick Thompson, Pest Management Systems, Inc. (Sandhills)
Past President: Scott Canady, Canady’s Termite and Pest Control (Lumber Bridge)
Thomas Cheek
“The pest management industry has given so much to me throughout my life and career. It is an immense honor to be representing the best industry alongside this impressive board of directors,” said Langley in his first address as NCPMA president. “We are excited about the opportunities to promote our industry statewide and continue to improve upon the amazing legacy of this association.”
The officers and board members will serve a one-year term ending July 2026. Each of the executive officers has served previous terms on the board of directors and has been active in board committees.
Patrick Thompson
The executive officers and board members were sworn in during the Board Meeting and General Membership Meetings at the 2025 Carolinas/Mid-Atlantic Summer Meeting in Savannah, Ga. which took place July 31-Aug. 2, 2025.
About the NCPMA
Scott Canady
Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA) is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in the Tar Heel State. NCPMA is considered to be the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals.
Envu, a global environmental science company, has published its second annual Sustainability Report, detailing progress across fiscal year 2024. The report offers a transparent look at how Envu is turning ambition into action through science-based solutions, nature-positive innovation and long-term partnerships.
The release of the report marks another milestone in the company’s journey to advance healthy environments for everyone everywhere. In 2024, Envu deepened this commitment by becoming an official signatory of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and submitting its first Communication on Progress, affirming alignment with the UNGC’s Ten Principles related to human rights, labor, the environment and anti-corruption.
“At Envu, we aim to ‘Be a Force With Nature,’ working in alignment with natural systems to solve challenges that matter to both people and the planet,” CEO Gilles Galliou said in a news release. “Whether through innovation, stewardship or working together across the value chain, we’re focused on building lasting impact. This report reflects how far we’ve come in just a few short years and how we’re helping shape a more sustainable, collaborative and science-driven future in the years ahead.”
Key highlights
The report outlines how Envu is advancing its Decarbonization Pathway, which includes emissions reductions across operations, expanded engagement with suppliers on Scope 3 targets and third-party validation of decarbonization goals by the Science Based Targets initiative. Together, these efforts reflect a growing focus on reducing impact across the entire value chain. In addition, the company:
Protected 7.9 million households from mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue through targeted vector control treatments
Restored 103,000 hectares of degraded land and expanded product registrations to support biodiversity and invasive species control
Reduced operational emissions through decarbonization levers, including fleet electrification (with more than 50 vehicles transitioned in Germany and France) and emerging reverse logistics initiatives in Brazil, which eliminated 194 tons of packaging waste
Earned the EcoVadis Gold Medal, placing Envu among the Top 5 percent of companies evaluated globally for sustainability performance
Earned “Great Place To Work” Certifications in the U.S., France and India, recently renewed for the second year, reflecting a strong culture of teamwork, belonging and employee engagement
The report also features real-world case studies that bring Envu sustainability efforts to life — from helping prevent the spread of emerging monkey malaria in Malaysia, to contributing to the long-term sustainability of urban green spaces with the introduction of our first biostimulant for turfgrass in Europe, to protecting 70 million metric tons of grain from post-harvest loss through targeted Envu insecticide solutions. These examples reflect how our science and partnerships are making a difference where it matters most: in the field, in communities and across ecosystems.
In addition, the report highlights new peer-reviewed research published in 2024 in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey, which found that removing invasive annual grasses from degraded rangelands can help protect soil carbon stocks. These findings underscore the multiple benefits of targeted vegetation management — from restoring biodiversity and mitigating wildfire risk to advancing climate resilience.
“We’re extremely proud to report on the steps we’ve taken and remain committed to the work ahead,” said Envu Chief Sustainability Officer Marine Sanouiller said in the news release. “At Envu, sustainability isn’t a separate initiative. It drives our strategy, inspires innovation and strengthens the trust our customers place in us.”
Skyhawk Trapmate is now in a strategic partnership with Insects Limited Inc., a pioneer in pheromone technology and insect behavior research. Together, the two companies are working to introduce a new collaborative product that will set a new standard for digital insect monitoring.
The new product — developed by combining Trapmate’s remote monitoring platform with Insects Limited’s deep understanding of insect behavior and attractants — will be officially unveiled at the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA’s) PestWorld 2025 event in Orlando, Fla.
“Our partnership with Insects Limited marks a major milestone in our mission to deliver smarter, more effective solutions to pest control operators,” Mitch Goldstein, director of sales and customer success at Skyhawk, said in a news release. “We’re excited to co-develop a tool that redefines what’s possible in insect detection and digital monitoring.”
Insect Limited CEO Tom Mueller agrees. “The integration of our biological expertise with Trapmate’s smart technology creates a solution that’s truly forward-thinking,” he said in the news release. “We’re excited to reveal how this collaboration can help the industry detect and respond to insect activity faster and with greater confidence.”
This is the first time Skyhawk Trapmate has expanded its monitoring line into insect-specific solutions. The forthcoming product is expected to streamline workflows, reduce labor costs, and increase accuracy in integrated pest management (IPM) programs across residential, commercial and industrial environments.
Trapmate and Insects Limited invite attendees to visit their joint product launch at PestWorld booth #1200 to experience the future of insect monitoring firsthand.
About Skyhawk Trapmate
Skyhawk Trapmate is a division of Skyhawk, a U.S.-based company specializing in remote monitoring technology for pest and wildlife professionals. Trapmate’s wireless, battery-powered sensors provide real-time trap activity and data to enhance technician efficiency, reduce service visits, and increase client retention.
About Insects Limited
Insects Limited has been an industry leader in pheromone-based monitoring and control solutions for over 40 years. With a strong foundation in research and development, Insects Limited provides sustainable, science-based tools for the pest control and food protection industries. Based in Westfield, Ind., the company was founded in 1982 by David Mueller, BCE, a member of the Pest Management Professional Hall of Fame (Class of 2019).
Knox corporate headquarters in Columbus, Ga. PHOTO: KNOX PEST CONTROL
Knox Pest Control, based in Columbus, Ga, has opened two new offices in Daytona Beach and Freeport, Fla. Both will focus on residential and commercial service, with the Freeport office serving northern Florida from Tallhassee to Fort Walton Beach.
In a news release, co-owners Justin and Sean Knox noted that this “is an exciting time for Knox Pest Control and marks a huge milestone for the company. We believe our growth is a direct result of our emphasis on delivering quality customer service and building one-on-one relationships with our customers. Our newest locations are a direct reflection of our motto and founding principles of ‘It’s not the customer you get, but the customer you keep.’”
Blake Grimsley, ACE, senior vice president of operations, agreed, adding in the news release, “We are very proud to be able to offer our customers as well as our team members a much better environment as well as convenient location to serve the Florida markets better.”
About Knox Pest Control
Founded in 1929, Knox Pest Control is a fourth-generation, family-owned pest control company that serves customers in Georgia, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina and Mississippi. Knox Pest Control offers services in pest control, wildlife control, termite control and lawn care.
Bell Laboratories is pleased to announce that it has been acquired by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. The transaction closed on July 31, 2025; financial details were not disclosed.
Under Berkshire Hathaway’s ownership, Bell Laboratories will continue to operate independently, maintaining its leadership, culture and strategic direction.
On Aug. 4, Bell Laboratories welcomed Berkshire Hathaway Chairman and CEO Warren Buffett, as well as Greg Abel, Howard Buffett and other members of the Berkshire Hathaway team to its corporate headquarters in Windsor, Wis. In a conversation with Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer Steve Levy (Class of 2022), president and CEO of Bell Laboratories, Warren Buffett extended his congratulations on Bell’s 50-year legacy and offered his perspective on the future.
“Mr. Buffett congratulated Bell on 50 years of success,” said Levy, “and shared that, because of this transaction, Bell can expect to be around for the next 50 years.”
In a news release, Patrick Lynch, CCO of Bell and president of Bell Sensing, shared that “Bell is excited that Berkshire Hathaway is now a part of the pest control industry. Due to Berkshire’s commitment to maintaining our leadership and culture, we are happy to reassure our partners that Bell will continue to lead our industry, providing the widest breadth and highest quality rodent control tools on the market.”
Bell remains steadfast in its mission to deliver innovative, science-driven rodent control solutions while upholding the values that have shaped the company since its founding in 1975 by Pest Management Professional Hall of Famer Malcolm Stack (Class of 2004). Emphasizing this continued vision, Levy stated, “We are grateful for the enduring commitment the Malcolm Stack family has made to the pest control industry, and we look forward to building on that legacy in partnership with Berkshire Hathaway.”
RoBan Barrier Non-Toxic Paste (formerly RodentStop) is an innovative physical barrier formulation that seals cracks, seams, holes, gnawed openings and other open areas to prevent entry from rodents and other pests. Using a caulking gun, it is quick and easy to apply onto many surfaces, inside and out. It is instantly waterproof, paintable when dry and unaffected by extreme temperatures. RoBan Barrier is particularly well suited to food manufacturing and preparation facilities, and around plumbing and electrical cables. The product contains expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads and metal fibers; it contains no pesticides or biocides.
RoBan joins PelGar USA’s many other products for pest management professionals, including rodenticide mainstays Brigand Wax Blocks (WB), Brigand Soft Bait (SB) and Monark Difenacoum Soft Bait. New this year for rodent control are the NG Mouse Box, available in five colors, the NZ snap traps for rats and mice, the PelGar Alert Station, featuring a mechanism to easily tell whether one of the traps has been triggered; and the PelGar Bandit Station, which features an exclusive rat trap holder. In addition, the new Eradisect Insect Monitor Station is a slim plastic monitor for crawling insects.
Based in the United Kingdom, PelGar provides products and expertise in more than 60 countries worldwide, including the United States. The company supports customers who are directly involved in controlling nuisance pests, national campaigns against the vectors of disease, and local and national Conservation in Partnership (CiP) projects. PelGar’s global network of experienced staff and in-country resources guarantee an exceptional level of service.
Bird Barrier’s Eagle Eye is a sustainable, scientifically based, open-area bird deterrent system that scares birds away from unwanted areas by making use of light beams reflected from direct sunlight. The light spectrum from spinning Eagle Eyes disorients birds in flight by limiting their vision significantly. This causes the bird to deviate in flight and fly to another destination. Eagle Eyes are ideal for parking lots, rooftops, warehouse doors, building facades, agricultural settings and public spaces.
Typically, Eagle Eyes are recommended every 200 feet. Smaller units, called Pro-Pellers, should be placed in between for added coverage. Eagle Eyes are available in wind-powered and 12-volt versions. The 12-volt unit can be powered by a solar panel or plugged into a wall receptacle. Pro-Pellers are wind-powered.
The key to Eagle Eye installation is proper placement based on the building’s orientation, environment, obstacles and the movement of the sun. Bird Barrier provides a placement guide for every project using satellite photos. Technicians can use this as a guide to install the units. Kits include mounting brackets and hardware.
About Bird Barrier America
Established in 1993, Bird Barrier America is an eco-friendly manufacturer and supplier of bird control products and services to a global market. It specializes in urban and natural bird control to effectively relocate pest birds humanely and without harm. The Carson, Calif.-based company takes pride in providing new and modern technology that improves successful bird control and prevents unwanted birds from landing, roosting or nesting in locations that need protection.
The theme for this year’s New York Pest Expo, taking place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern on Nov. 14 at the George Washington Bridge Doubletree Hotel in Fort Lee, N.J. is “Above and Beyond.” Never stop growing. Never stop improving. Aim to be the best. Come sharpen your cognitive skills with key insights from some of the industry’s most outstanding talents. Harness the power of the New York Pest Expo — a major pest management event.
The 2025 Edition promises to be bigger and better than ever with more exhibitors and attendees than in years past. Stay tech-savvy and sharp as you visit with dozens of manufacturers and business support providers. Take advantage of great promotions and blowout pricing on supplies and equipment. Up your game and don’t miss out.
Total New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Credits for the event are as follows: CORE: 1.00, 7A: 5.00, 7F: 2.00, 8: 2.00