Nov-2017

140 141 adequate control of the pest population around their home. It comes down to teaching service professionals to understand what the problems are, the source, and the smartest, most effective treatments to use with the smallest impact on the environment. They are also taught several different forms of technology and how to track what’s done at each service visit. Proper record- ing of data is a critical process from a customer service standpoint. Pearson notes, “One of our biggest goals as a company is to ‘wow’ our customers. We have a culture where our service pros and CLS have fun figuring out how to go the extra mile. We’re looking to create customers for life, and we know we can do that through the wow interac- tions we have with them.” Business relationships also play a key role. Av- ery describes the value of working closely with vendors and long-time suppliers. “BWI provides us with our pest control products; we’ve had a strong relationship with them for the past six years, in our previous company and now with Aptive. They provide us with the right equip- ment and the best products for our customers in a timely manner. To cover the busy summer influx of extra services, we rent a lot of vehicles from Enterprise Rent-a-Car and the Avis Budget Group. Having tight relationships with these companies is important to ensure the proper execution of service delivery.” Advancements in product development regu- larly appear on the pest control industry radar. But, Aptive remains cautious about using the right products in the right area at the right time. Many factors affect product usage: winter vs. summer, and the type and location of the pest. Service pros adapt to each situation with a thor- ough, customized treatment, and base changes in product use on individual circumstances. Aptive uses biodegradable products, with minimal or reduced impact on the environment. Avery reports, “We always look for opportunities to limit the amount of applied products by using Advancing the power of pest control As a leading solutions provider to the pest control industry, BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, giving Pest Management Professionals the products, services and strategies their businesses need to reach their full potential. Through continuous research and technological innovation, BASF renews its commitment to providing the industry’s smartest, most effective solutions for emerging pest control challenges—today and in the future. APTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL