The business of bed bugs

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Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to deal with - and they're a nightmare for any town or city that relies on a thriving hospitality industry. In October 2023, French government officials had to act rapidly following news headlines claiming there'd been a rise in infestations in Paris, in the run-up to the 2024 Olympic Games. Infestations can damage reputations, and lead to financial losses due to compensation claims and costly pest control treatments. But scientists are developing solutions to deal with the problem. In this edition of Business Daily, we speak to hotel owners, entrepreneurs, and travellers who’ve been bitten - plus the companies creating technology to help hospitality bosses tackle the problem. (Picture: A hand in a blue glove, holding a magnifying glass over some bed bugs. Credit: Getty Images) Presented and produced by Dougal Shaw