Atlanta, GA, Nov. 27— The Home Depot is teaming up with The ServiceMaster Company, the nation's leading provider of home services, to test the sale of a wide range of co-branded residential maintenance and repair services to its retail customers.

Illinois based ServiceMaster’s home services include professional lawn, tree and shrub care, landscape installation and maintenance, termite and pest control, plumbing and drain cleaning, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and home warranties. These services will complement Home Depot's existing offering of product installation and home improvement services, which include carpet and hard flooring installation, kitchen cabinet and countertop installation, door and window replacements, and roof replacements, among other services.

"An expanded offering of home services is a core part of Home Depot's growth strategy and a logical extension of our brand," said Robert Nardelli, president and CEO of The Home Depot. "An increasing number of our customers are asking us to handle their home improvement projects and home maintenance needs because they don't have the time or desire to take on these projects themselves. ServiceMaster's wide range of residential services and their reputation for offering excellent customer care make them an ideal partner."

A pilot program will be launched in three test markets early next year. During the pilot program, the new co-branded services will be offered in approximately 30 stores. The program will be promoted in the test stores through kiosks, signage and promotional activities. Direct marketing to Home Depot customers and other prospects will also be employed.

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