It all began in 1996, when Nick Grobler started a business from his home in Witpoortjie, with only a bakkie and a small team of staff. Later they moved to Ontdekkers Road and eventually to Randfontein.
In 1999, the Pest Control West Rand brand was officially established and grew to three dedicated teams. It was also in this time that the young Michael Grobler, Nick’s son, became involved in the business, but like everyone else, he had to start at the bottom and was appointed as an assistant to the Assistant Operator, which meant that he too had to travel with the staff in the back of the bakkie.
In 2008, Michael bought the Randfontein franchise from his father and ran the branch with three teams. Nick then decided to establish another branch on the East Rand and in 2011, he expanded the business again, to Johannesburg City and South, where Michael became manager.
In January 2014, Nick decided that after years of hard work, it was time for him to retire. The East Rand branch was sold and Michael bought the remaining branches.
Today Pest Control Specialists have 35 branches countrywide, however Randfontein remains the number one franchise, with all West Rand and Johannesburg teams working from 22 and 24 Homestead Avenue.
The dedicated team behind Pest Control West Rand is made up of Michael Grobler, the owner; Hennie van Eck, the Branch Manager; Steven Aucamp, the Contracts Manager; Tiaan Esterhuizen, the Fleet and Operations Manager, and Rina van der Merwe, the Office Manager.
Michael wants to thank his wife, Sandra, for the supporting role she plays in the business. Together, they want to thank their entire team for their excellent customer service and professionalism.
“Our staff play a big role in the success of our company. We firmly believe that if you look after your staff they will look after our clients. By doing this we can only grow from strength to strength.”
Pest Control Specialists would like to give back to the Randfontein community, so the first 20 readers to visit their office at 24 Homestead Avenue with this article will receive a free can of insecticide surface spray or a handy wet-wipe holder for their cars or handbags.
