Rentokil Initial

Rentokil Initial plc is a global leader in business services, specializing primarily in pest control and hygiene and wellbeing services. Founded in 1925 by Professor Harold Maxwell-Lefroy, the company originated from a need to exterminate death watch beetles at Westminster Hall in London. This led to the creation of an anti-woodworm fluid and the establishment of Rentokil Ltd. Over the decades, the company has expanded its expertise and global footprint, evolving from a UK-based pest control business into a diversified, international services organization. A pivotal moment in its history was the 1996 hostile takeover of BET plc, a much larger competitor. This acquisition brought the 'Initial' brand, with its century-long history in laundry and washroom services, into the fold, creating the Rentokil Initial entity known today. This strategic move significantly broadened the company's service portfolio, which now includes a wide range of facilities management solutions.

Operating in over 90 countries and covering approximately 90% of the world's GDP, Rentokil Initial serves a diverse client base, from global food producers and hotel chains to residential customers. The company's core mission is to 'Protect People, Enhance Lives, and Preserve our Planet'. This is achieved through its primary brands: Rentokil, the world's leading commercial pest control provider; Initial, a global leader in commercial hygiene services; and Ambius, which offers premium interior landscaping and scenting services. The company is structured into geographic regions, allowing it to operate as a 'multi-local' organization that combines global expertise with local service delivery. Innovation is a cornerstone of its strategy, with a dedicated Global Science Centre for research and development. Rentokil Initial increasingly leverages digital technologies, such as its award-winning PestConnect system, a remote monitoring solution that provides customers with 24/7 protection against rodents. Listed on the London Stock Exchange and a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index, the company continues to grow through strategic acquisitions, including the landmark purchase of Terminix, which solidified its position as the world's premier pest control company.