Advanced Pest Control

Year established: 1980

Product or services offered: Pest, termite and weed control.

Number of employees: 22

Location: 821 Progress, Cape Girardeau

Owners: Gene and Dorothy Schuessler

Describe your business/occupation in exactly five words.: Residential and Commercial Pest Control

What is your vision for your business and/or your industry in 2012?

Gene Schuessler, owner: To continue offering the best quality service to our customers. There has been an increase of bedbugs in the Southeast Missouri area, and with our experienced team of technicians, we have the most updated resources on the method of controlling the outbreak of bedbugs.

Does your business have a mission statement? What is it?

GS: Treat others as you would want to be treated. My father taught me this years ago, and I have always demanded that his technicians have a professional and friendly approach to not only the customer, but to everyone in life. I value discipline in all employees, and that is why I feel my business in the pest industry remains one of the best.

What do you think is the community's biggest asset from a business perspective?

GS: We receive compliments about our knowledgeable and friendly staff. We offer the most prompt service, and we call every customer to set up an appointment in advance instead of just showing up at the door unexpectedly. Some pest businesses may charge a fee if you are unavailable, but at Advanced Pest we don't charge a fee for your absence. We understand that things happen.