Excel Pest Services Acquires Arnold’s Pest Control

CRANFORD, N.J. — Excel Pest Services, based in River Edge, N.J., has acquired Arnold’s Pest Control, based in Cranford, N.J. The acquisition was announced by The Aust Group, which served as exclusive financial adviser to Arnold’s Pest Control on this transaction.

Sam Hagopian III, executive vice president of Excel, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Arnold's Pest Control into the Excel Pest Services family; we have always greatly admired their commitment to exceptional service and strong brand recognition throughout the Union County area. This acquisition brings together two dedicated teams, and we look forward to the outstanding work we will achieve together."

Arnold’s Pest Control was established by Arnold Santoro and has provided pest and termite control services to residential and commercial customers in Union County for more than 70 years. Brian Denny, Santoro’s son-in-law, joined the business in 1990 and assumed ownership in 1996. Under his leadership, the company became a member of the National Pest Management Association and the New Jersey Pest Management Association and increased its involvement in local community organizations.

“Selling my business was one of the most important events of my life,” said Denny. “Using The Aust Group to represent my business was one of the best decisions. I could not imagine going through the acquisition process without them. They literally did all the work.”

Stuart Aust, principal and founder of The Aust Group, said it was “a pleasure” for the firm to represent Denny. “Having known Brian for many years, it was rewarding to learn more about the company he built,” Aust said. “We’re excited for Brian, his team, and the entire Excel organization as they continue growing into one of the region’s leading pest control providers.”

The transaction closed Oct. 16. Terms were not disclosed, according to The Aust Group.