I’ve been visiting local spa stores to prepare for my seminars at the International Pool | Spa | Patio show in Las Vegas and The Pool & Spa Show in Atlantic City. I stopped into Spas of Oregon in Gladstone, Oregon, the other day and was inspired by its renovation and a huge new space…
The always-evolving spa industry is driven by innovation: upgrades, advances and product improvements are the norm. Yet one device continues to stand out as the apex in its niche no matter how much it stays the same. The SpaDolly is a lot like the great white shark. The ages pass by, yet it remains at…
Olympic Hot Tub celebrates its 41st anniversary a grand opening at its new retail store in Woodinville, Washington. At 10 a.m. on August 4th the newest 3400-sq. ft. showroom will open its doors to the public. This is the Hot Spring Spas dealer’s seventh location in the Seattle metro, and the second new location opened…
More and more tech companies are developing software for the hot tub industry, which is good news for spa retailers looking for modern solutions to age-old challenges. The right software can go a long way in shoring up three common problem areas: scheduling, multi-department integration and the pursuit of the almighty, all-powerful online review. Here’s…
Portable spas have been sold for more than 40 years, and there are thousands in homes all over North America. And yet, the industry seems to be more focused on the next big thing rather then capitalizing on existing spas. Aftermarket sales of accessories and upgrades are not anywhere near what other industries are and…
What do you think the government’s role should be in governing small businesses? “Hold [small businesses] accountable to professional standards and certifications, but don’t handcuff them so they can’t afford to operate.” “Small business is the backbone of our employment system in the United States. Over the last 30 years, small business is responsible for over…
Given all the photo-centric social media options that appeal to spa retailers, engaging on LinkedIn may be a low priority. The LinkedIn of the past was all about finding a job, but these days, the platform is a melting pot of professionals sharing content and establishing credibility in their area of expertise. John Boyles, founder…
It never hurts to look beyond your backyard and see how the other guys are doing things. While the overseas hot tub dealer has challenges unique to their markets, caring for customers is a first priority no matter where you do business. Virtually Everywhere Jim Luciano, vice president of sales and marketing for Clearwater Spas…
Everyone has a preference in competitive markets: Burger King versus McDonald’s, Walmart versus Amazon and even the hot tubs in your showroom are the brand you prefer over others. And in the world of chlorine versus bromine, the competition is likewise fierce. What’s the difference? You can’t have a good matchup without a little back-story…
Paolo (Paul) Benedetti CEO, Aquatic Technology Pool & Spa (Morgan Hill, California) IPSSA Water Chemistry Certification, CPO Certified and Instructor, AST Certified and Instructor, CA – CSLB Industry Expert, Society of Watershape Designer – MASTER, Genesis Instructor Chlorine Pros: Can be stabilized and protected from UV degradation, economical, easy to find Cons: Once chlorine combines…