Pest control has evolved over the years, and pest management professionals (PMPs) who have changed with the times have thrived. Time-saving technology, products with new active ingredients and accessible training are just three of the many factors that have helped pest control companies attract and keep customers, and most importantly, boost revenue.
PMPs cannot control every factor that affects their businesses, however. Weather, the presidential election and restrictive regulations are just a few that may have an impact.
Responses from Pest Management Professional’s (PMP’s) 2025 State of the Industry survey reveal PMPs are hard at work to adapt to changes that come their way.
Navigating challenges
2024 has been an outstanding year so far for Sarah Thomas-Clark, vice president of Thomas Pest Services. She says the Schenectady, N.Y.-based company aims to keep the momentum going into 2025.
“We must continue to focus on what we can control and adapt as needed,” she adds. “While external factors such as the economy and presidential election may cause uncertainty, it’s important to remember that these are things outside of our direct control.”
Instead, Thomas Pest Services channels its energy toward the aspects of the business it does have control over. “This includes having strong processes in place and ensuring we have the right people in the right positions,” Thomas-Clark says. “These elements will help us navigate any challenges or issues that arise.”
One factor that plays a role in pest pressure is the weather. “As unpredictable as it may be, having protocols and procedures in place, as well as strategies to drive business, will help manage the unpredictability,” she adds.
Adapting to changes
Anthony Sorrentino, ACE, director of business development for Portage, Mich.-based Pest Pros of Michigan, says he believes pest control businesses will face highs and lows in 2025.
“On the upside, technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and automation will streamline operations, improve service efficiency, and boost customer satisfaction,” he says. “The growing demand for pest control services, driven by urbanization and increased focus on health, also will create opportunities for growth.”
On tap in the coming year may be challenges such as economic uncertainty, rising operational costs and labor shortages that could limit service capacity and curtail profitability. “Success will depend on the ability to adapt to these evolving conditions,” Sorrentino adds.
PMP’s previous State of the Industry surveys show pest control companies have been grappling with inflation for years. It has been the biggest obstacle for Aaron Garza, owner of Double A Pest Management in Conroe, Texas.
“I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years, and I believe the pest control industry will continue to adapt to any challenges,” he says. “I have seen a huge shift in focusing on the health and safety of the public, and I hope the trend keeps going that way.”
For more on PMP’s 2025 projections, keep reading. Our exclusive 2025 State of the Industry supplement, sponsored by Bell Laboratories, includes benchmarking data, infographics and analyses that highlight key pest management industry trends.
PMPs at work
In July, August and September, 231 pest management professionals (PMPs) — primarily company owners and presidents — completed our 31-question State of the Industry survey. Here is some background on their companies:
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