Reflecting on PestWorld 2024: Building Connections in the Heart of the Rockies

Exploring New Partnerships, Strengthening Industry Bonds, and Embracing the Energy of Pest Control’s Biggest Event

PestWorld 2024 was a great success for me and for my company! This is one of my favorite events of the year, the largest gathering of the industry (over 4,000 people this year!), offering a unique opportunity to network, learn, and build relationships across all categories of the pest control industry. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains outside Denver, Colorado, the local influence was felt throughout the week’s events.

Tuesday: Kicking Off with Connections and Learning

The week began with my first Pi Chi Omega meeting since becoming a member earlier this year. Pi Chi Omega is a professional fraternity dedicated to advancing the science of pest control. Building my network within this organization is sure to benefit our company and our ongoing commitment to improving our products.

I then had a great meeting with the team from PCT magazine, where I shared all the exciting things happening at Web-Cote this year. They offered some fantastic advice on furthering our visibility, and I always enjoy talking with them!

Later that afternoon, PestWorld 2024 officially kicked off. The opening ceremony brought the industry together, setting an energetic tone for the week. With a John Denver tribute band performing, we all got a taste of that Rocky Mountain high! Afterward, we explored the tradeshow floor, saying hello to some of our valued customers.

Wednesday: A Day on the Tradeshow Floor

Al, our Director of Sales, and I spent much of the day on the tradeshow floor, one of the highlights of the event. We reconnected with current customers and met some exciting potential ones.

The evening was packed with receptions, including the United Producers, Formulators and Distributors Association (UPFDA) membership meeting and reception. It’s always a valuable experience connecting with fellow industry suppliers, manufacturers, and even some customers to share ideas and discuss trends. We also attended the Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA) event—Web-Cote is proud to be a Supplier Investor, supporting their mission to educate consumers on the importance of professional pest control.

Thursday: New Ideas and Stronger Connections

Thursday was another busy day, packed with meetings with potential new customers and brainstorming ideas for additional products for existing customers. The opportunities pouring in are incredible, and it feels like all our hard work reintroducing ourselves is paying off!

That evening, we took the team from one of our biggest customers out to dinner. Spending time together in a more personal setting helped us deepen our relationship with them, and the night ended with the Pi Chi Omega “Raise the Bar” event, where Web-Cote was a proud sponsor. It was another chance to make new connections.

Friday: Saying Goodbye and Looking Forward

The last day of PestWorld 2024 is always bittersweet. I had planned to participate in the annual PWIPM 5K but decided against it with the 34-degree morning temperatures—I didn’t pack warm enough for that! We did one final round of goodbyes on the show floor, saying farewell to friends and customers, both old and new. It felt like the end of summer camp, except we left energized and ready to follow up on the new business opportunities ahead.

The day wrapped up with the PestFest sendoff party, where I even ran into my 5K buddy from last year in Hawaii!

Looking Ahead to Orlando

I’m already looking forward to next year’s PestWorld in Orlando. Now, it’s time to buckle down and start turning all these new opportunities into reality!