A new independent report – commissioned by British Pest Control Association – found that professional pest management saves UK households and businesses £1.9 billion a year.
The No Small Matter report, produced by Pragmatix Advisory and launched ahead of World Pest Day on June 6, sets out the economic and social value of the UK pest management sector.
The report found that pest control contributes £1bn in gross value added to the UK economy, while helping businesses, public services and households avoid a further £1.9bn in direct costs each year.
It also estimates that pest professionals attend more than 4.4 million client jobs annually across homes, high streets, hospitals, schools, warehouses, farms, transport hubs and other sites across the UK.
BPCA said the findings provide clear evidence that professional pest management is not just a reactive service, but a vital part of the UK’s public health, food safety, housing and business infrastructure.
BPCA chief executive Rosina Robson said: “We’ve always known the value pest management provides to society, but we haven’t had the data to prove it.
“This report gives the sector the evidence it needs to show government, clients and the public that pest management is not just reactive work, but a professional, preventative service that protects health, homes and the economy.”
According to the report, around 64% of pest management work is reactive rather than preventative, while around 32% of client jobs involve significant infestations or emergency response.
The report also calls for greater recognition of the skill and responsibility involved in professional pest management.
BPCA is encouraging members to use the report to help explain the value of professional pest management to clients, local decision-makers and the wider public.
