A-1 Inc. Exterminators Celebrates 35th Anniversary

The company was founded in 1970 and provides general pest control, wood-destroying-insect control and moisture control for the Tidewater, Va., area. In 2002, A-1 added turf management, which includes everything from seeding and aeration to fertilization, disease control, insect control, mole control and shrub service. The company's customer base is about 80-percent residential. In 2004, the company recorded its highest revenues ever, finishing at more than $1 million in sales.

Karen Pye, president of A-1, says a key to her company’s success is its attention to detail and customer service, noting that A-1 customers like the fact that they are able dictate their appointment date, time and technician. She also indicated that the company’s lawn services are a major reason the company has grown since 2002.

“Our people are extraordinary,” Pye says. “Our technicians are of the highest caliber. Most carry at least three or four separate certifications with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and we maintain a policy of our office staff attaining the status of Registered Technician after their first year with us.”

Pye added that the A-1 staff participates in community-wide charity efforts such as food drives. A-1 Inc. holds an annual catered company/family picnic that includes a magician. Pye says this year’s event will be enhanced in order to commemorate the company’s 35th anniversary.