ohDEER is a niche franchise in the pest control industry that focuses on all-natural outdoor pest services such as deer repellent, tick control, and mosquito treatment. The brand was founded in 2006 by Kurt and Colleen Upham, starting as a deer repellent business and expanding into mosquito and tick services over time.

Headquartered in Wayland, Massachusetts, ohDEER began franchising in 2013, with its first franchise locations opening soon after. The company has since grown to serve multiple regions across the United States, including Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, Virginia, and Rhode Island.

ohDEER offers eco-friendly pest control services using natural formulas that are safe for children, pets, and the environment. Its unique “Saturation Method” ensures effective coverage without harsh chemicals.

Training

ohDEER provides a structured and mandatory training program to prepare its franchisees for launching and operating their deer, tick, and mosquito control service business. Here are the key training components:

1. Annual Conference Training
   Franchisees must attend an Annual Conference held once a year. The conference covers substantive training content, and attendance is mandatory. Franchisees bear all related travel, lodging, and meal costs, and failure to attend results in a $2,500 fee.
2. Technology and Systems Training
   Franchisees must be equipped with a computer system capable of running specific software, including Microsoft Office 365, QuickBooks Online, field service quoting software, and credit card processing tools. Training ensures franchisees can operate these systems effectively for business operations and communication with corporate. The franchisee must maintain and upgrade the system as required.
3. Operations Manual and Marketing Compliance
   Franchisees are trained to develop and follow an In-Territory Marketing plan, with a minimum spend of $30,000 annually, unless gross sales exceed $500,000 or $1,000,000—triggering different percentage-based requirements. ohDEER provides guidance through an Operations Manual and requires monthly or semi-annual compliance verification. Franchisees may also create custom advertising, subject to prior approval.

Territory Protection

ohDEER provides its franchisees with a defined and protected territory to operate their business. This territory is specified in the Franchise Agreement and is intended to prevent the franchisor from granting another franchise within the same area.

The protection helps franchisees establish and grow their customer base without direct competition from other ohDEER franchise locations.

However, the franchisor may still engage in activities that could indirectly affect the territory. For instance, ohDEER reserves the right to conduct general marketing or branding initiatives that may reach beyond specific franchise territories.