Kness Pest Defense: Custom-Built Protector

In professional pest management, durability isn’t optional. It’s essential. 

The Kness Protector was built to deliver rugged, reliable protection where it matters most. Originally engineered to safeguard Pro-Ketch traps from forklifts and heavy machinery, it’s now available as a custom-built solution designed specifically for your trap and environment. 

When your equipment is protected, it lasts longer. When your setup is secure, service runs smoother. When performance holds up, confidence follows. 

That’s the advantage of protection built for the real world. 

• Built tough with durable steel construction
• Custom-made to fit your traps and space
• Low-profile design for tight, high-traffic areas
• Proven performance trusted by professionals 

Protect what powers your performance. Contact Kness today to build your custom protector.

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. He 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.”

Brick Kness was inducted into the Pest Management Professional Hall of Fame in 2024.

Kness.com

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Sacramento CA

MGK: Sumari Triton

New Sumari Triton Ant Gel Bait’s exclusive bait matrix takes the guesswork out of ant baiting by combining three food sources — sugar, oil and protein — to meet ants’ nutritional needs in a single bait.

This new product joins the existing Sumari System lineup, which includes an effective non-repellent insecticide spray and a popular ant gel bait. This launch follows several recent improvements to the Sumari family, specifically the insecticide:

• The Environmental Protection Agency’s acceptance of clothianidin, Sumari’s active ingredient, for use in food-handling establishments and commercial kitchens
• Expanded labeled pests with the addition of wasps, hornets and yellowjackets
• Updated ant control language emphasizing colony elimination and prevention of re-infestations

“Sumari Triton is another chapter in MGK’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in the pest control industry,” says MGK President Steve Gullickson, adding that feedback from pest management professionals (PMPs) “drove the development of the Sumari System, and it quickly became a game-changer in ant control treatments. We’re excited to bring this next-generation bait with Nutrilure technology to provide even more value to PMPs — helping reduce callbacks and increase profitability.”

Sumari Triton is powered by Nutrilure, a trademarked bait matrix developed by MGK’s research and development scientists. Nutrilure allows for the inclusion of three different nutritional sources in one bait while maintaining palatability and optimal uptake across most ant species.

MGK’s commitment to sustainable packaging and the protection of those using its products is reflected in Sumari Triton and the entire Sumari System:

• All plastic packaging, caps, syringes and tips are 100 percent recyclable
• All paper labels and inserts are sourced from sustainably managed forests
• Sumari Triton is formulated without crustacean shellfish, eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, sesame, soy or wheat to minimize allergenic impact during use
• Both Sumari gel baits include bittering agents to help protect against accidental consumption by pets and children

About MGK

MGK’s mission is to make life healthier by creating responsible products that protect people and their environments from the impact of insects. Founded in 1902 and based in Minnesota, MGK sells insect control products throughout the world, spanning several industries including professional pest control, consumer home and pet products, animal health, and crop protection. As an affiliate of Sumitomo Chemical Company, MGK is a worldwide leader in the development and distribution of the botanical insecticide pyrethrum as well as a wide range of conventional insect control technologies. MGK and its subsidiaries employ 250 people at its facilities in North America and Africa.

MGK.com/Sumari

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Sacramento CA

Tyro Group completes second US acquisition

Elverum, Norway-based Tyro Group has acquired American City Pest & Termite, a California-based pest control provider.

This marks the Group’s second acquisition in the United States, following the acquisition of EnviroSMART Multifamily Pest Solutions in Texas in November 2025.

The acquisition represents a further step in Tyro Group’s international growth strategy, as it continues to build a network of high-quality, customer-focused pest control businesses across key markets.

Founded in 1979 by Jim and Celia Shockey, American City Pest & Termite began as a family operation where customer calls, billing and fieldwork all happened from the home. What started at the Shockey family kitchen table has grown over four decades into a community-rooted service provider across Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Through its history, American City has remained guided by the same principles: work hard, treat people kindly, do the right thing and take pride in serving the families and businesses that rely on you.

With the acquisition, American City Pest & Termite enters a new chapter. After many years of leading the company, President Cindy Ziemke will be retiring from day-to-day operations and transitioning into a consultant role with Tyro Group.

American City’s leadership remains strong and steady. Greg Bausch and Andrea (Andi) Moreno will continue in their roles guiding the team, supporting operations and carrying forward the culture and values that have defined American City for 47 years.

About Tyro Group

Tyro Group is a leading pest control company in Europe, operating in seven countries with particularly strong market positions in the UK, Norway and Germany. We bring together the best local entrepreneurs and teams delivering the highest levels of service quality in the market. By combining operational expertise, long-term investment and shared best practices, Tyro Group is raising standards and driving innovation across the pest management industry.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/tyro-group-completes-second-us-acquisition/
Sacramento CA

Pi Chi Omega awards 6 entomology scholarships

Pi Chi Omega, the international fraternity for pest management professionals, continued its longstanding commitment to supporting the next generation of entomologists and pest management leaders through its annual scholarship program. Since establishing the program in 1976, Pi Chi Omega has awarded 189 scholarships totaling more than $301,000 to students studying entomology and related fields.

The organization’s first scholarship recipient was Bobby Corrigan, Ph.D., now one of the most respected and recognizable figures in the pest management industry on rodent control. Like many scholarship recipients over the years, Corrigan credits Pi Chi Omega’s support as an important part of his professional journey. Through the scholarship program, Pi Chi Omega not only encourages research and academic achievement that benefits the structural pest management industry but also helps cultivate a strong pipeline of talented entomologists who often go on to build careers within the industry after graduation.

Stephanie Hill, Ph.D., Chair of the Scholarship Committee and a 2010 scholarship recipient herself, shared in a news release, “This year’s applicant pool showcased an outstanding level of passion, academic achievement and commitment to advancing the pest management industry. The committee was truly encouraged by the caliber of students pursuing careers in our field.”

Hill also recognized the efforts of the scholarship committee, stating, “We are grateful to the committee members for their thoughtful evaluation process and dedication throughout the selection process. Choosing just six recipients from such a strong and deserving group of applicants was no easy task.”

Pi Chi Omega President James Miller, ACE, emphasized the organization’s continued investment in future industry leaders. “Supporting the next generation of pest management professionals and entomology researchers is central to Pi Chi Omega’s mission,” added Miller. “These students demonstrate exceptional promise and we are proud to invest in their future success.”

Miller continued, “Our scholarship program reflects Pi Chi Omega’s ongoing commitment to advancing the industry through education, leadership and research. Scholarship recipients are selected for their academic achievement, passion for the field and potential to make meaningful contributions to the profession.”

Below are the following recipients of the 2026 scholarship awards:

• John Osmun Scholarship awarded to graduate student Bandana Shrestha, University of Kentucky – $3,500
• Founders Endowment Scholarship awarded to graduate student Jun-Yin Lum, University of California, Riverside – $2,500
• Alain VanRyckeghem Memorial Scholarship awarded to graduate student Ashmita Sapkota, Auburn University – $2,500
• Austin Frishman Scholarship awarded to graduate student Fan-Ling Liu, Texas A&M University – $2,500
• Norm Ehmann Scholarship awarded to graduate student Austin McKay, Louisiana State University – $2,500
• R. Randall Rollins Memorial Scholarship awarded to graduate student Babatunji Daramola, Rutgers University – $2,500

Students interested in applying for a Pi Chi Omega scholarship can learn more here. Applications are accepted each winter beginning in mid-January and are due by mid-March.

About Pi Chi Omega

Pi Chi Omega is a national fraternity for pest management professionals. Initiated in 1950 by six students of PMP Hall of Famer Dr. John Osmun at Purdue University, including fellow Hall of Famer Bill Brehm, the fraternity today is comprised of nearly 450 members representing 38 states and 4 foreign countries. 

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Sacramento CA

UPFDA Spring Conference highlights tarrifs, inflation and more

From April 21-22, PMP VP of Content and Group Manager Marty Whitford and Associate Brand Manager Mike Joyce attended the United Producers Formulators & Distributers Association (UPFDA) Spring Conference.

Talking business

This year’s conference featured many topics, including tariff and inflation impact and strategies, making AI-informed decisions and a panel led by Marty Whitford with panelists Andy Linares, president of Bug Off Pest Control Center and  Brent Bunch, business manager of BWI Companies.

VIDEO: PMP STAFF

During the panel, leading distributors share insights on consolidation, tariffs, labor, training, fuel costs and inflation — along with practical strategies to protect margins and drive growth. Expect real-world lessons, actionable ideas and a few personal stories from those helping power the industry every day.

Giving back

The event concluded with a volunteer opportunity for all attendees, hosted by P.E.S.T. Relief International which involved cleaning and installing encasements on the mattresses of One80 Place a Charleston, S.C. non-profit that serves hundreds of men facing homelessness, and several hundred families needing assistance with utilities, food and other urgent household needs.

IMAGE: PMP STAFF

Look out for our full coverage in an upcoming edition of PMP magazine.

About UPFDA

In 1968, UPFDA was formed to represent the suppliers to the pest management industry. Suppliers felt that the best way to provide service to the industry was to establish an association to voice their common concerns and position on packaging, shipping, sponsorships, conferences, legislation and regulatory affairs. For 54 years, UPFDA has been giving this important sector of the pest management industry a voice.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/upfda-spring-conference-highlights-tarrifs-inflation-and-more/
Sacramento CA

Thermacell: LIV 2.0

Thermacell Repellents Inc., a Bedford, Mass.-based manufacturer of highly effective zone mosquito repellents, announced the launch of LIV 2.0, the next generation of its on-demand outdoor mosquito protection system for backyards, restaurants, resorts and senior living. Backed by newly expanded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered claims, LIV 2.0 delivers a large protection zone against mosquitoes and no-see-ums — covering up to 3,140 square feet from a single hub with 10 repellers, without sprays, smoke, scent or mess. That is generally enough to protect a regular pool area, outdoor kitchen, dining space and lounge area combined.

LIV has expanded efficacy claims beyond mosquitoes to include no-see-ums, also known as biting midges (Culicoides spp.), addressing persistent, outdoor pests that can significantly disrupt comfort and enjoyment across residential and commercial outdoor spaces. The new LIV 2.0 was field-tested and evaluated at the Thermacell Science & Research Center in Hampton, Fla., and builds on the proven LIV product line trusted across more than 8,000 residential and commercial installations.

As the U.S. enters peak mosquito season, warmer temperatures and longer insect activity periods are increasing mosquito pressure across many regions of the country. According to surveillance data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquito-borne diseases including West Nile Virus, Dengue and Zika continue to expand geographically, increasing demand for reliable outdoor protection solutions for homes and businesses. LIV 2.0 utilizes Thermacell’s scientifically proven spatial repellent technology to repel mosquitoes that may transmit Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), West Nile Virus, Dengue and Zika Virus, consistent with EPA-registered claims.

“Outdoor spaces deserve the same level of comfort as the indoors, without mosquitoes,” Adam Goess, executive director, Global Insights & Innovation at Thermacell, said in a news release. “LIV 2.0 delivers scalable, on-demand protection that integrates seamlessly into how people live, entertain and gather outdoors, without the hassle of spraying your entire yard and reapplying again and again throughout the season.

LIV 2.0 Key Features & Benefits

• Large, Scalable Coverage: Protects up to 3,140 square feet with a single hub and up to 10 repellers, with the ability to add multiple hubs for expanded coverage across larger properties and commercial venues.
• Expanded Protection Beyond Mosquitoes: Repels mosquitoes, including Aedes albopictus, and repels no-see-ums (Culicoides spp.).
• Scientifically Proven Performance: EPA-registered and rigorously field-tested in real-world mosquito environments.
• People, Pet and Outdoor Friendly Design: A scent-free, smoke-free solution that integrates discreetly into outdoor spaces without the disruption of sprays or misting systems.
• App-Enabled, On-Demand Control: Activate, schedule and monitor the system remotely via the LIV+2 app, with added voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home (available in July).
• Long-Lasting Refills: Professional-grade 1.7-ounce refills, available through pest control professionals, provide extended full season protection for most home users with refill-runout notifications through the App.
• Built for Outdoor Residential and Commercial Use: From everyday backyards to restaurants, resorts and senior living spaces, LIV 2.0 delivers discreet, large-scale mosquito and no-see-um protection zone that helps keep outdoor spaces comfortable.

LIV 2.0 is available nationwide through Thermacell professional installers. Systems are customized based on property layout and coverage needs.

About Thermacell

Thermacell Repellents Inc., designs, manufactures and markets zone mosquito repellent and insect control solutions. Thermacell repellers have been in the market for over 25 years, with tens of millions of devices being sold in more than 30 countries worldwide.

Thermacell.com/series/liv

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Sacramento CA

PestWorld 2026 speakers and programming announced

The National Pest Management Association announced the keynote speakers and Main Stage programming for PestWorld 2026, taking place October 20–23, 2026, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas. This year’s event will bring together pest management professionals from around the world for four days of education, networking, innovation, and industry celebration centered around the theme “Built for Your Business.”

PestWorld 2026 will begin on Tuesday, October 20, with the Opening Ceremony on the Main Stage, sponsored by envu, featuring emcee and mentalist Sean Bott. Designed to energize attendees and set the tone for the week ahead, the Opening Ceremony will bring the entire industry together for an unforgettable start to the event. Through his engaging mix of entertainment, audience interaction, and inspiration, Bott will help attendees build momentum and prepare to make the most of everything PestWorld has to offer.

On Wednesday, October 21, sponsored by Corteva, award-winning broadcaster and human connection expert Riaz Meghji will take the Main Stage with his keynote presentation, Every Conversation Counts: Building Extraordinary Relationships in a Changed World. Drawing from his experience interviewing influential leaders across industries, Meghji will share practical strategies for creating authentic conversations, building trust, and fostering meaningful connections. Attendees will gain insights into communicating with purpose, navigating conflict with empathy, and asking the right questions to create breakthrough moments that inspire action.

The Main Stage programming will conclude on Thursday, October 22, with keynote speaker Kyle Scheele and the annual Industry Awards presentation, sponsored by Syngenta. In his keynote, Becoming an Idea Factory, Scheele will challenge the myth that creativity is something people are simply born with, demonstrating instead how innovation can become a skill cultivated throughout an organization. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to generate stronger ideas, unlock their teams’ creative potential, and build cultures where innovation thrives.

Following the keynote, NPMA will recognize outstanding individuals and organizations whose contributions continue to shape and strengthen the pest management industry during the annual Industry Awards presentation. Awards presented during PestWorld 2026 will include the Pinnacle Award, Culture Catalyst Award, Technology Adopter Award, Emerging Leaders Award, Women of Excellence Award, Excellence in Sustainability Award, NPMA Gives Award, Committee of the Year Award, and Committee Chair of the Year Award.

Click for more on how you can attend PestWorld 2026.

About the NPMA

The National Pest Management Association is a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members. It was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. The association has had many notable leaders over the years, including Pest Management Professional Hall of Famers Bill Buettner (Class of 1998), Dr. Ralph Heal (Class of 2003), Dr. Phil Spear (Class of 2004) and Bob Rosenberg (Class of 2013), to name just a few.

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Sacramento CA