New designation will allow pest management firms to address “green” trend

JULY 8, 2008 – As green services become increasingly requested by consumers, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) in conjunction with the Pest Control Operators of California is proud to announce its new “QualityPro Green Services” Program, an extension of the successful QualityPro Program.  Now available to those member companies previously designated as QualityPro, this new program will not only recognize a pest management firm’s exceptional professional services but more, provide a marketing opportunity to address the growing “green services” trend.

“Now, more than ever, consumers are seeking pest management methods that not only address their household pest problems but also, address their concerns regarding a “green service” says Rob Lederer, executive vice president for the NPMA.  “In proactively seeking – and receiving – NPMA’s QualityPro Green designation, companies are making a concerted effort to go after this growing marketplace.”

QualityPro Green Services acknowledges and embraces the importance for pest management firms to offer outstanding services that not only reflect green thinking but put that thinking into action. Lederer notes, “With 61 percent of consumers seeking pest control services that they perceive as ‘green,’ we want customers to feel confident that as an industry we are addressing their concerns.

To strengthen the scope and range of companies that can participate in QualityPro Green, NPMA has partnered with the Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC). “As California consumers look for a company that can provide safe and effective green services, we want to ensure that PCOC will be able to fill that request, says Martyn Hopper, executive vice president and CEO of PCOC. “We feel that our input has been instrumental in shaping a comprehensive and balanced program and look forward to seeing its positive effects on the pest management industry.”

More, this program offers companies a unique way in which to differentiate their businesses in a competitive marketplace.  As the green movement continues to shape consumer demands, QualityPro Green Services serves as a third party seal of approval for pest management firms service offerings.

Lederer pointed out the key differences between a QualityPro Green Services certification and other third party standards.  “The QualityPro Green Services designation is not only about environmentally advanced services.  It was built on the framework of the highly successful QualityPro program.  All companies receiving QualityPro Green Services status must continue implementing the tenants of QualityPro including background checks, drug screens and much more.”

As previously noted, the QualityPro Green Services designation is only available to those companies that have first been designated QualityPro. If QualityPro members are deemed to be in good standing, there is no additional fee to pursue QualityPro Green Services status.  For more information regarding QualityPro Green, visit www.npmaqualitypro.org or e-mail qualitypro@pestworld.org.

* Source: Harris Interactive, October 2007