Small Pests, Big Costs: How Infestations Can Hurt Your Business

Did you know pests are one of the most costly challenges a business can face? In just one year, U.S. companies suffered a whopping $6.8 billion in costs from pest damage. What’s worse: one survey showed that 90% of all businesses experienced a pest infestation in a five year span.

From damaged inventory to a ruined reputation, here’s how a pest infestation can harm your business — and how to prevent unwelcome critters.

1. Loss of Customers

Whether it’s a tiny fruit fly or a pesky rat, just one pest sighting can be enough to turn off loyal customers. What’s worse, they can drive away potential customers who haven’t even visited your business yet. In today’s always-online world, one bad Google or Yelp review can hurt your business for years to come, which is why treating pests before they become a problem is key.

2. Damaged Inventory

Customers aren’t the only ones who want to buy what you’re selling. Birds, rodents, and bugs are also interested in your inventory, especially if your business handles goods that attract stored product pests, like warehouse beetles, grain beetles, or flour beetles. Replacing damaged goods can cost a pretty penny, causing delays and even shutting down your business temporarily.

3. Supply Chain Delays

Nothing is worse than keeping your customers waiting, and even the smallest bugs can cause big delays. An infestation can hold up your business as you wait for replacements for damaged goods. It could also force you to turn away deliveries until you get pests under control, leading to back-ups in your orders and services.

4. Wasted Work Days

Treating an infestation takes time — and time is money. Depending on the severity of the pest problem, you could spend hours or days treating your workspace. This could interfere with employees’ ability to work, and in the worst case scenario, require you to temporarily close your business.

5. Employee Welfare and Retention

If customers are wary of spending time in a pest-infested business, imagine how employees feel. Insects and rodents create a working environment that’s not only uncomfortable, but also unsanitary. Pests can spread illness, causing workers to take more sick days. Plus, they can cause emotional distress that can lead to employee turnover.

6. Legal Liability

As bad as pests are for business, unwanted critters could be the least of your problems. Employees or customers affected by pests could take legal action against your organization, racking up expensive legal fees and causing major damage to your reputation.

How to Prevent Pests in Your Business

When it comes to infestations, the most effective pest control is prevention. Keep gaps and cracks sealed and follow proper storage guidelines for food, waste, and goods that might attract insects and rodents. And last but not least, schedule regular pest inspections and treatments to help you get ahead of pests before they take a bite out of your business.

Looking for commercial pest control? Contact the experts at Arrow to schedule service today.