ATLANTA - Orkin announced the acquisition of Florida-based Tri-County Pest Control South.

Maria and Charles Baker started Tri-County Pest Control South in 2004. Prior, they owned Tri-County Pest Control North, in Detroit, which they sold to Orkin in 2004.

"Based on the success and ease of that 2004 merger, they called us to purchase their Florida-based business," said Kemp Anderson, Southeast Division acquisition manager for Orkin. "Through the years, they have built two successful businesses, and the entire acquisition process has been fruitful for both parties."

"The teaming together of Orkin and Tri-County Pest Control will be a benefit to Tri-County customers and employees," said Greg Clendenin, Orkin's Southeast Division president. "As the largest pest control company in the United States, Orkin's resources will be made available to all of Tri-County's new team members and customers."

Residential and commercial accounts will be distributed among branches in the western Florida region. The Bakers said they plan on retiring after the transition.