PPMA packs plenty of projects into 2023

NPMA’s director of training and education, Dr. Michael Bentley, BCE, hosts “Will They Eat It?” PHOTO: PROFESSIONAL PEST MANAGEMENT ALLIANCE

2022 was a banner year for the Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA), which serves as the public outreach arm of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), as we celebrated 25 years of advocacy and service to the pest control industry. It was also a year of change, as we welcomed new at-large members to PPMA’s board of directors and seamlessly navigated a succession plan for the executive leadership role. There was much to celebrate.

If last year’s theme was celebration, this year’s theme is energy. Yes, PPMA is building on its continued momentum to educate consumers on the important work pest management professionals (PMPs) do every day to protect our health and homes through new and amplified programming. We also are focusing on energizing our supporters and reaching out to others in the industry to get them involved in PPMA.

Embracing change in digital

In today’s fast-paced environment, it’s important to meet consumers where they are. PPMA has done just that by developing a strong digital program inclusive of organic and paid social media content. In January, we officially launched our organic presence on Instagram. Give us a follow @PestWorldOfficial if you haven’t already, as we’ll be sharing lighthearted and engaging Reels video content.

PPMA also is hard at work on a new website design for PestWorld.org, which will be unveiled later this year. This redesign will ensure our consumer website continues to be an engaging resource for users and is equipped to meet their needs. Of course, our Zip Code Locator that enables users to find local PMPs also will be a key component.

Reenergizing our video content

Jim Fredericks

In 2023, we’re coming back big with some of our most popular video series and releasing new episodes. For example, “Will They Eat It?”, our video series that demonstrates the eating power of hungry termites, will return for a second season. We’re adding bigger and better household items to the termite tank to keep viewers guessing whether the termites are up to the task.

Also, we are adding new episodes to our high-energy Bug Battles video series. New pest matchups will go head-to-head to determine the Bug Battles winner. These videos are great for sharing on your own social media channels, for homeowner and children’s audiences alike.

A new PSA enters production

PPMA’s public service announcement (PSA) program is an important aspect of educating consumers on the threats many pests can pose to human health. We are already starting production on a brand-new PSA campaign, set to debut this summer. Our PSAs air across the U.S. on national networks and local affiliates in the Top 210 media markets — right in your own communities. We’ll also be launching our first streaming service PSA campaign with a pilot on Connected TV, with details to come soon.

PPMA’s continued success is only made possible by the generous support of industry leaders. The work mentioned above, and more, is funded by voluntary contributions from pest control companies and those in the supplier community. Yes, these are separate financial pledges, not to be confused with NPMA membership dues. If you’re interested in pledging your support to growing this industry, please reach out to me at jfredericks@pestworld.org or email PPMA@pestworld.org.