Andrew Ratka of Appleton found himself drawn to a surprising business opportunity after facing career challenges during an economic downturn in 2008. He and his wife, Kat, stumbled upon the franchise opportunity with Mosquito Squad of Northeast Wisconsin, a decision influenced by their faith and the desire to rid properties of pesky mosquitoes.
Despite initial concerns about product safety, the couple went through a rigorous onboarding process to secure the franchise rights for northeastern Wisconsin. It was a challenging journey, with securing financing being a major hurdle. However, with determination and support from other franchisees, they successfully launched the business in February 2014.
The early years were tough, making it several years before Andrew was able to take a salary. Kat, with her strategic ideas and management skills, played a crucial role in keeping the business afloat during this period. Their complementary skills in sales, operations, and marketing laid a strong foundation for the business, which has since been recognized as one of the top 13% fastest-growing franchises in the nation by INC Magazine.
Embracing technology advancements, the Ratkas have transformed their business operations, moving from paper to iPads and implementing app-driven services for clients. This shift has allowed them to streamline operations and improve customer service. With 21 trucks and over 30 employees, the franchise has grown significantly under their leadership.
Drawing from his early experiences in entrepreneurship, Andrew understands the importance of balancing income throughout the year. This led to the inception of Lighting Squad, a new business venture offering a variety of lighting solutions. Their commitment to customer service and 100% satisfaction guarantee sets them apart in a competitive market.
Despite the demands of running a seasonal business, Andrew remains dedicated to providing exceptional service, even if it means working long hours seven days a week. The couple’s commitment to excellence is reflected in their 4.5-star Google rating and their unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction.
As they continue to grow and expand their business ventures, the Ratkas prioritize delivering top-notch service and creating unique offerings to meet customer needs. Through their hard work, dedication, and innovative approach, they have established themselves as industry leaders in mosquito control and lighting solutions in northeastern Wisconsin.
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