April 11, 2023 – In the era of mega mergers and acquisitions (M&A), the pest control industry has witnessed significant consolidation, with giants like Rollins Inc., Anticimex, and Rentokil absorbing smaller companies at an unprecedented rate. However, amidst the M&A frenzy, family-owned businesses like Sprague Pest Solutions have not only stood their ground but have proven to be both a stabilizing and innovative force in the industry.
Sprague, a 4th generation family-owned business, has been providing expert pest management services since 1926. With a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, they have managed to hold their own in an increasingly competitive landscape.
In my view, one of the key advantages of family-owned businesses is their nimbleness, which enables them to adapt and innovate quickly. This agility has allowed companies like Sprague to stay ahead of industry trends and embrace cutting-edge technologies such as remote monitoring and eco-friendly pest management solutions.
Furthermore, I think that family-owned businesses provide stability not only for their employees and customers but also for industry partners such as suppliers, manufacturers, and state and national associations. Family businesses tend to value long-term relationships, which fosters loyalty and trust. This stability benefits suppliers and manufacturers by providing consistent demand for their products and services, and it bolsters state and national associations by ensuring reliable membership and participation.
An often overlooked, yet critically important aspect of family businesses is their focus on employees. In small and medium-sized family businesses, people are a much more central part of the story. With smaller organization sizes comes the opportunity to be seen, cared for, and developed. This level of deep engagement with those who work in the business is repeatedly touted as a major benefit to family businesses by those who work within them.
To sum up, I believe that family-owned businesses like Sprague play a crucial role in the pest control industry by providing stability, fostering innovation, and engaging with their employees. Amidst the age of mega mergers, these businesses continue to thrive, reminding us that sometimes, the key to success lies in staying true to one’s roots while embracing the challenges of a constantly evolving market.
By AJ Treleven, Director of Operations