Entomo Brands: CenterOak Partners Expands Pest Control Footprint with PestNow Acquisition

CenterOak Partners LLC, a leading private equity firm based in Dallas, has announced its acquisition of PestNow and the formation of Entomo Brands. Entomo Brands will manage multiple insect-related service companies operating under established regional and local brands. With its corporate headquarters remaining in Charleston, South Carolina, the combined business will be led by Brian Butler, CEO of Palmetto Exterminators, CenterOak's portfolio company.

The acquisition of PestNow marks a significant milestone for CenterOak and showcases their theme-driven investment strategy, focusing on high-quality, closely held companies. Leveraging their expertise and capital, CenterOak aims to support the growth of Entomo Brands and tap into the lucrative pest control services sector.

PestNow, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Sterling, Virginia, provides residential and commercial pest control services across Virginia, Maryland, D.C., and West Virginia. With eight branches in operation, PestNow has established itself as a trusted provider in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Following the acquisition, Entomo Brands now boasts a team of over 350 members and operates 17 branches across six states, further solidifying its presence in the target regions.

Recognized as one of the top 25 largest providers of general pest, recurring termite, and mosquito control services in the United States, Entomo Brands is set to continue its organic growth and pursue additional acquisitions.

Eric Holter, Managing Director at CenterOak, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating that it effectively doubles the footprint and earnings of the company since CenterOak's majority investment in Palmetto Exterminators in 2022. The move aligns with CenterOak's investment thesis, aiming to scale Entomo Brands into a formidable player in the pest control services industry.

The addition of PestNow expands Entomo Brands' service area, providing a strong entry point into the thriving Virginia, Maryland, D.C., and West Virginia markets. Brian Butler, CEO of Entomo Brands, highlights the synergies between PestNow and the company's existing family of brands, emphasizing their shared commitment to exceptional customer care. Customers in the expanded service area can expect a wider range of services and enhanced support.

LR Tullius acted as the financial advisor to PestNow during the transaction, contributing to the successful completion of the deal.

About Entomo Brands:

Entomo Brands is a renowned provider of general pest, recurring termite, and mosquito control services for both residential and commercial customers. With 17 branches strategically located across South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Georgia, North Carolina, D.C., and West Virginia, the company is committed to offering superior customer care and technician training. For more information, please visit their official website at www.entomobrands.com.

About CenterOak Partners LLC:

CenterOak Partners LLC specializes in making control-oriented investments in middle-market companies headquartered or operating in the United States. With a focus on three key industry sectors - Industrial Growth, Consumer, and Business Services - the private equity firm, based in Dallas, Texas, has a track record of generating significant value through operational improvements. Having managed over $2.4 billion of equity capital commitments and completed more than 150 transactions valued at over $8 billion, CenterOak and its partners have established themselves as leaders in the industry. For additional information, please visit www.centeroakpartners.com.

In conclusion, CenterOak Partners' acquisition of PestNow and the subsequent formation of Entomo Brands mark an exciting chapter in the growth of the pest control services industry. With an expanded footprint and a dedicated focus on exceptional customer care, Entomo Brands is poised to become a dominant player in the market, delivering high-quality pest control services across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.