The whole idea of selling a company that has the advantages of ROL is beyond me. Consider these things:

1.) This company has no long term debt. It does have some short-term exposure, but nothing like most other businesses;

2.) It is virtually a "cash business". Even the financed business is typically due in 30 day payment time frames, and that's mostly businesses. The residential portion is typically cash.

3.) The company's cash flow and balance sheet are both sterling.

4.) The executives have no reason to take excessively large amounts of cash out of the company as 'golden parachutes'. Granted, they do take their share and, in my opinion, more at times. However, such activity has never threatened to significantly affect the company.

5.) The company has a huge amount of flexability to increase and decrease the number of branches because of their utilization of leased locations rather than taking actual ownership. This can allow them to expand and contract relatively quickly, if needed. In the current climate, some branches may have to close, in order to reduce overhead,
or you may see some consolidation of residential and commercial services at single branch locations.

6.) Its trade name, ORKIN, is the most recognized name in its industry and is the name thought of by most customers who use extermination services.

7. The company has a solid reputation and a 100+ year old history.

8. Gary Rollins is brilliant. He and his family have money and know how to make it. More importantly, they know how to keep it. While the market is not under their control, ROL still is. Give 'em a break already!

Considering these facts, why on earth would anyone sell their stock in ROL?