International

An Accident Waiting To Happen

Category: Commercial Swimming Pools, International, News, Swimming Pools | Comment (0)

Pool and spa builders in the UK, Europe and around the world, writes Chris Carr, cannot fail to be aware of the well publicised concerns about the risks of entrapment from any of the suction fittings on a swimming pool or spa.
Indeed, the standards here in the UK were updated about ten years ago, highlighting the risks and to set out a new requirement to install a ‘dual – deep suction system’ (main drain) on all new swimming pools and spas.
I think most of us would have assumed that by adopting this ‘dual drain’ system, the risk of entrapment would have been totally resolved on the basis that if one drain was covered then the other would take priority. However, I have recently received information, from a source in the USA, which comprises of a number of documents together with three short videos relating to research undertaken regarding the risks of entrapment. From what is explained by this information, it suggests that even with a dual system fitted, the dangers may still prevail.

RESEARCH CONCERNS
Initially I was a little sceptical that the research had been called for by a manufacturer of a; “Suction Safety Device”. However, the
more I looked at their research, the more concerned I became. To understand the problem you need to imagine that the pool
(or spa) is complying with the standards insofar as it is fitted with two deep suction outlets, but otherwise it is operating in the
worst possible situation. For example: If one of the deep suction (sump) lid should become broken (no longer being in place) and if the plant room valves have been arranged so that all the flow is being directed through the deep drain (or sumps), then (according to the information provided) there is the possibility that a young child could become entrapped on the open sump (main drain – fitting) possibly resulting in a fatality.

Now, you might think that to have these conditions all at one time would be unusual and I would have to agree. However, it’s not uncommon for a property to be sold to a new owner and the previous owners may not have provided any maintenance or safety information on the pool. It could even be that the pool had been left in a poor condition (green water etc) and as a result the new owner may have been chemically treating the pool and have adjusted the valves to ensure greater circulation in the deep end.

MAIN DRAIN LIDS
In such a case it could be that the new owners are oblivious of the risks of entrapment and they may also be unaware of the condition of the main drain lids, especially if the pool was green.
With regard to the main drain lids, we know that it is quite a common occurrence for them to get broken from time to time and the swimming pool equipment distributors who will tell you how many hundreds of replacements they sell each year!

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New UK Pool And Spa Show To Go Ahead

Category: International, News, Pool & Spa Business News | Comment (0)

The organisers of the bi-ennial Lyon pool show are teaming up with UK partners to launch Piscine UK, a new show for the pool and spa sectors that will be held at Birmingham’s NEC from next year.
Piscine UK 2013, from January 23 to January 25, is a joint venture between Lyon organisers, GL events and the UK based NEW events, is aiming to provide the UK, Europe’s fourth biggest pool and spa market, with a professional event that targets international exhibitors, say the organisers.
“The launch of Piscine UK was decided after significant research and discussions with a wide range of UK suppliers who wanted to see an event that will offer the UK the type of platform it deserves,” says Claire Saunders on behalf of Piscine UK.
“It is unfortunate that when New Events spoke with a representative of BISHTA and SPATA on the opportunity to work together and make a bigger, better, more international event for the UK pool and spa industry, they chose not to take this up,” Claire added.
“We would like to continue discussions with BISHTA and SPATA after SPATEX and will be available in Brighton from 4-6th February to
chat to confirmed and potential Piscine UK exhibitors.”
Piscine UK
Tel. +44 (0)1483 420 229
Email. info@neweventsltd.com

Rallying Call To Industry

Category: International, News, Pool & Spa Business News, Pool & Spa Show Reports | Comment (1)

Enjoying a virtually free rein since its inception in 1996, SPATEX, held every February in Brighton, now faces stiff competition from a rival event.

Amid fears that a rival exhibition could strip the core pool and spa industry associations of vital future revenue, water leisure sectors are being urged to back SPATEX, the exhibition that has raised in excess of one million pounds for the industry in its 17 year history.

SPATEX is part of the BSPF umbrella group that includes the member organisations of SPATA and BISHTA. Enjoying a virtually free rein since its inception in 1996, SPATEX, held every February in Brighton, now faces stiff competition from a rival event.

Going head-to-head on timing and on price packages, the organisers of Piscines, Lyon, the world’s largest dedicated water leisure show, will launch an alternative UK pool and spa show to be held at Birmingham’s NEC in January 2013.

Monies from the SPATEX exhibition have been predominantly used to promote swimming pool and spa ownership with 10% of the SPATEX profit so far being donated to the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers to support education and training.

“The trade should be warned that every penny spent at an exhibition other than SPATEX is directly reducing the money which may be donated to the UK pool trade organisations that exist to help, support and serve the industry,” warns Ross Alcock of ISPE.

Every penny spent at an exhibition other than SPATEX is directly reducing the money which may be donated to the UK pool trade organisations that exist to help, support and serve the industry,” warns Ross Alcock of ISPE

“Of course the UK pool trade could function without SPATA, the ISPE and even SPATEX but it would be a far poorer industry in all senses of the word, and a far less professional and rewarding trade to be associated with.”

SLIPPERY SLOPE

Ross adds: “As soon as SPATEX is depleted in either visitors or exhibitors it is a slippery slope and that money which has been greatly appreciated by the organisations will quickly be reduced, and the trade will suffer as a consequence.”

“The [SPATEX] motto ‘by the industry FOR the industry’ is particularly apt here as it reflects not just that the exhibition is for the industry to attend and exhibit at but the revenue raised by the exhibition is also for the industry.”

Following an industry survey, the SPATEX show organisers have opted to pin their colours to the Brighton mast, confirming the seaside location as the preferred venue not just for this year but for 2013 also.

“Despite scouring the UK for alternative venues, we have not yet found a place that matches all the facilities of the Metropole in Brighton,” comments SPATEX director, Howard Gosling and continues: “The recent [BSPF] survey still showed it [Brighton] had the biggest following.

“Companies will always exhibit where they think will be best for their business – as indeed they should – but no one should be ignorant of the ‘silent’ profit raised for advertising and PR for the pool and spa awareness, as well as education of those within the Industry, so as to ensure further growth of the pool and spa business.”

Howard continued: “For years, different businesses and people had been creaming off the exhibition profits for themselves. In 1996 this changed.” “If SPATEX were not there to make a profit every year, then all the promotional spend would be lost to all members of the pool [and spa] industry.”

SPATEX

Tel. +44 (0)1264 358558

www.spatex.co.uk

Increased Audience

Category: International, Marketplace, UK Export | Comment (0)

Clear ‘n Clean algaecide is poised to reach an increased audience within the UK and overseas as part of a new strategic alliance between Water Treatment Products and Mineral Supplies International. Clear ‘n Clean is one of the best known algaecide brands within the swimming pool market supported by extensive technical back-up for ultimate peace of mind for both trade and consumer.

Working in partnership, WTP and MSI will guarantee the supply change to the marketplace and provide extensive research and development capability to futureproof the brand including conforming with forthcoming legislation.

Water Treatment Products

Tel. +44 (0)1495 792790

www.watertreatmentproducts.co.uk

Bayrol Host Mammoth Bavarian Event

Category: International, Pool & Spa Business News | Comment (0)

During the gala dinner Daniel Ricard, far left, Managing Director of the Bayrol Group and a team of speakers, extolled the advantages and benefits of working with a strong brand.

Over 300 guests from 13 countries were invited to Bayrol’s home city to experience Bavarian hospitality and to discover the city of Munich and its surrounding area.
Heavenly Bavaria was the theme for the Bayrol customer event, which took place from October 2 – 4.
Top pool builders and pool trade companies from all over Europe were hand-picked for this first of its kind event organised by Bayrol. The main intention was to say ‘thank you’ to customers for their loyalty over the many years of collaboration.
Heavenly Bavaria was also the launch event for the new Bayrol customer loyalty scheme, which will start to be rolled out in 2012.
This new incentive scheme will be available to all Bayrol dealers ifcertain requirements are fulfilled.

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Best Value Leisure Excellence

Category: International, News, Pool & Spa Business News, UK Export | Comment (0)

Flagship Aquascape’s projects include a technically outstanding, 125ft, infinity edge pool for Lord Rothschild in the millionaire’s playground of Montenegro.

Working from its prime office and showroom location in Essex,
formerly home to Penguin Pools, renowned pool builders of the
Seventies and Eighties, Aquascapes has not flinched from filling
such large water leisure boots.
Whether as project consultants, designers or providing a
turnkey wet leisure installation, Aquascapes has carved itself a
formidable name in the commercial water leisure sector.
BEST VALUE
With a reputation for providing top quality products and service
at best value budgets, Aquascapes has understandably forged key
relationships with big names like Bourne Leisure, Merlin Leisure,
Mace and Kier Construction as well as being the water leisure
specialists of choice for a growing number of local authorities.
Having cut his pool-building teeth, working with some of
the most respected names in the UK pool industry, Aquascapes
is headed by Sean Connelly, who, still aged under 40, is already
considered a pool industry stalwart.

Now master of his own ship, Sean has steered Aquascapes to a £1.5m annual turnover and a
pool building team that is consistently juggling more than £1m of
pool building projects on its books.

Aquascapes added this impressive 60 metre lazy river with rapids section, umbrella fountain and relaxation area to the Haven’s Holiday site in Weymouth.

“Although we are seeing main contractors dominate they
still need the specialist skills of water leisure specialists like
Aquascapes,” Sean explains.
“We hold hands with architects and stop them falling over
from a lack of specialist knowledge; typically stopping them from
making fundamental mistakes with environmental control or
specifying the wrong equipment,” says Sean.

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National Leisure Undertake Benelux Tour

Category: International, News, Pool & Spa Business News | Comment (0)

Representatives of the 26 member companies that make up the UK-based buying consortium of National Leisure gathered in Amsterdam recently.

Representatives of the 26 member companies that make up the UKbased
buying consortium of National Leisure gathered in Amsterdam
recently accompanied by Pool and Spa Scene editor, Christina Connor.
The group visited the premises of Interhiva and Starline in Holland and Belgium to find out more about the products National Leisure already stocks and to learn about many new products they could potentially add to their 2012 offering.
The tour party, including National Leisure coordinator, Angela
Bowers, was welcomed on their visit to the Interhiva headquarters by
Bart Bosman, Export Director and Francoise van Santen, Sales Office
Manager.
”Interhiva subtitles itself as ‘the leisure people’ positioning itself
as a company that chooses to build business partnerships rather
than adding customers,” Bart told the group before giving a little
background on the history of the company, its journey over nearly
four decades of business and its current product portfolio.
Founded in 1975 as end-user retailers, Interhiva has developed into
a £15m annual turnover business which is a multi-faceted supplier
both to the trade, end-users, leisure providers such as holiday parks
and health clubs as well as to multi-chain stores throughout Benelux.
The company currently has active clients in more than 18 countries
including the Middle East.

Interhiva’s impressive headquarters at Baarnveld includes 75m2 of showroom on two floors.

Interhiva’s impressive headquarters at Baarnveld includes 75m2
of showroom on two floors, 500m2 of offices with 4000m2 of
warehousing. The company rents additional warehousing as required
in the peak season.
Offering a diverse product range of pool and spa accessories from
heat pumps to splasher pools, the company’s flagship lines include

Maax Spas, saunas , solar showers and swimming pools as well as
its own-label brand of chemicals.
The National Leisure group moved on to Starline where they were
greeted by hosts, Erwin Kusters, Export Manager and Darren Brown,
UK Sales Manager.
Erwin said he hoped the visit would help strengthen links between
the two companies and give National Leisure companies an insight
into the company and the products available under the Starline flag.
In fact, Starline and its associated company, Poolquip, were founded
in the Seventies.

Starline has invested in a 5,000m2 information centre where the company sees its B2B customers but also consumers from Belgium and Holland.The company’s Roldeck automatic slatted pool cover

system, available in the UK through Certikin, was first developed in
1973 and has become a market leader in many countries.
The company branched into one piece pools in the mid Nineties,
at first acting as distributors but, unhappy with the quality of
the product available, gone on to develop their own moulds and
manufacturing facilities.
Today, the concept of the one-piece Monoblock together with
integrated Roldeck with safety and standing ledge has been
fundamental to the on-going success of Starline.
As well as the Monoblock and Roldeck, Starline supply modular pools,
filters for residential and commercial markets, ozonators; ionisers and ph
dosing pumps – all self-developed and self-produced. The company is
also an official distributor for Sundance and Jacuzzi products.
ROBOTIC PRODUCTION
Starline undertakes a continuous programme of investment both
in products and facilities. In 2009 they moved into a new fibreglass
production factory that incorporates robotic production methods
– believed to be the most modern fibreglass manufacturing factory
in Europe. The wraps are due to come off a further 5,000m2 of
manufacturing space in 2012.
The company has also invested in a 5,000m2 information centre
where the company sees its B2B customers but also consumers from
Belgium and Holland who then must buy product via their trade
suppliers.
Erwin said: “The goal is to have all production and logistics form
one single location leading to shorter lead times.
“Our company is customer-orientated; we supply top quality
products, we have strong brand name, all backed by excellent service.
On behalf of National Leisure Angela said: “These types of trips are
vital as we constantly strive to build knowledge of products and links
with our key suppliers – which has got to be a win, win situation.
“Much more than that, these opportunities give us a priceless platform
for networking of our member companies who share problems and
solutions; views and reviews – it really is a unique self-support forum.”
Following the National Leisure philosophy of work, rest and play,
the tour also took in a number of social events. The group enjoyed
trips to several museums in central Amsterdam as well as notorious
other highlights in the Dutch capital.
For many one of the highlights was an entertaining river boat
dinner cruise around the Amsterdam water ways only capped by a
memorable tour and dinner at the football stadium of PSV Eindhoven.
National Leisure is looking to expand its network in strategic
geographic areas. If you are want to find out more about the group
and its many advantages – then they call Angela Bowers for more
information.
National Leisure
Tel. +44 (0)1305 824610
Email. pools@national-leisure.co.uk
www.national-leisure.co.uk

Boom Time For Spa Tourism

Category: International, Wellbeing | Comment (0)

Architectural spa trends are returning to making people feel comfortable and at ease.

The international tourism industry continues to be boosted by global spa travel, a trend predicted by leading spa industry guru, Heinz Schletterer.
Increased mobility and globalisation is leading to fierce
competition on an international level
Especially within the tourism industry, new products and high quality standards are more important than ever. Only if these are guaranteed can regulars be kept and new customers attracted in growing target markets such as Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
An influential personality in the spa industry development,
Herr Schletterer has already established more than 1,500 spa installations of over 2 million square metres.
Not just a spa expert and pioneer, Schletterer is also CEO of
Schletterer Wellness & Spa Design, whose range includes small
home spas, cruise ships and large destination spas. Schletterer
Wellness & Spa Design boasts in excess of 70 employees at the
company`s head office in Strass/Zillertal regularly reaching an
annual turnover of e20 million.
“There is an enormous competitive pressure among spa hotels,” says
Heinz Schletterer. “Ten years ago a spa area used to be a competitive
advantage; today it is just part of the standard equipment.”
SPECIALIST SERVICES
Heinz sees two aspects in the future development of spa and
tourism companies: One is further specialisation; the other is
personalising the range of services offered.

An influential personality in the spa industry development, Herr Schletterer has already established more than 1,500 spa installations of over 2 million square metres.

“The spa hotel of the future must be outstanding,” he says. “No
matter which specialisation hoteliers choose, they will only be
successful if they themselves are passionate about the subject –
and if the staff share this enthusiasm.”
In the next 10 years specialised hotels will obtain a market
share of 25 to 30% predicts Herr Schletterer who defines three
distinct development areas for hotel resorts as:
• Hotels built around a central theme such as health or sports
• Hotels focusing on a specific target group such as children
or seniors
• Low-function hotels addressing a larger, cosmopolitan target
group
Simultaneously, says Schletterer, a new trend is emerging. All
over the world numerous medical spa hotels are opening. These
hotels integrate health and medical care by specialists into spas.
Yet, according to Schletterer, the number of these hotels will be
limited due to the high acquisition costs within the medical area.

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British Architects Get Inside Track on Moving Floors

Category: International, Pool & Spa Business News, Swimming Pools | Comment (0)

As designers and manufacturers, Hydrofloors can offer a complete turnkey service working hand in glove with pool builders and main contractors.

UK architects visited a Belgium home that included both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool at basement level.

A group of British architects was given the
inside track on the potential for moving
swimming pool floors when they gathered in
Belgium recently.
As guests of UK swimming pool builders,
Guncast and world-leading moving floor
manufacturers, Hydrofloors, the British
delegation was exclusively accompanied by
Pool and Spa Scene editor, Christina Connor.
The visit included a tour of the Hydrofloors
moving floors manufacturing base and the
Ocea slatted covers factory near Brussels.
It also took in a top drawer Belgian home
that included both an indoor and outdoor
swimming pool at basement level featuring a
Hydrofloors moving floor, moving boom and
an Ocea cover system.
The indoor section of the pool featured
a moving floor that moving at about 20mm
per minute transformed the pool into an
aerobics workout area for the sporty owners.
It was separated from the outdoor pool by
a pool boom that disappeared at the push of
a button. The outdoor pool also had an Ocea
slatted cover that completely disappeared
when the pool was in use.
”Given our unpredictable climate, for
many luxury home owners in the northern
hemisphere, it can be difficult to decide
between an indoor or outdoor swimming
pool,” says Jack Harding, Director of Guncast.
“In fact, they can enjoy the best of both
worlds by installing a moving boom.
“Equally, by incorporating a moving floor
in your design, you are utilising your indoor
pool hall as a multifunctional room; creating
additional floor space which enhances
both the functionality and the value of
properties.”
Basement swimming pools with moving
floors are becoming increasingly fashionable,
particularly in parts of London and other
areas where space is at a premium.
The mechanically powered Hydrofloors
system offers adjustable depth and a moving
floor that is sturdy enough to act as a
standard floor, allowing the room to be filled
to capacity with people.
As designers and manufacturers,
Hydrofloors can offer a complete turnkey
service working hand in glove with pool
builders and main contractors.

Beware Cheap Imitations

Category: Hot Tubs & Spas, International, News | Comment (0)

Western manufacturers fear the impact of pirate brands mostly sourced in China

European and North American spa and hot tub manufacturers
could be wiped out within 18 months by Chinese-sourced pirate
copies of their designs on sale at knock down prices.
Some China-based companies are simply ripping off Western
brands and producing products that are often promoted with
material and direct images lifted from Western brochures and
websites – even in some instances – using the same product codes.
The rogue trading is being undertaken by companies that
are incurring no design or development costs, nor, are subject
to no quality audits, while the working conditions, wages and
environmental practices employed in manufacture would
have Western business operators facing heavy fines or even
imprisonment.
While the companies importing these cheap imitations
are simply selling and disappearing; the only winners are
unscrupulous ‘here today, gone, tomorrow’ importers.
”We were approached by a Chinese manufacturer offering us
a range of spas and gazebos,” reveals Stephen Crabb of US-made,
Catalina Spas.
“On checking, many of the products they were offering were
marketed using images that were lifted directly from our own
brochure.
“In one instance, they had not even removed the Catalina logo
from the headrests,” Stephen continues.
“They had an image of a gazebo in their brochure that was
taken of our stand at that year’s Lyon pool show! It even had a
member of our sales team in the picture!”

Rob Stirland of Artesian Spas had a similar experience: “In some ways it is a compliment that they want to copy our products.
“The problem often occurs that the copy is perceived to be the
real thing and it can be difficult to educate the consumer of the
difference, as externally, they look very similar,” says Rob who
estimates the copycat practice has been building over the past seven
years but with a tangible increase in pace over the past 36 months.”

2012 London Aquatics Centre Opens To Universal Acclaim

Category: Commercial Swimming Pools, International, News, Swimming Pools | Comment (0)

British Olympic hopeful, Tom Daley, marked with official opening of the London 2012 Aquatics Centre by being the first person to dive in to the pool.

EXACTLY one year ahead of London 2012 Games, the Aquatics Centre is now complete, the last of the six main Olympic Park venues to finish construction.
The Aquatics Centre was officially unveiled with British Olympic
hopeful Tom Daley making the first dive into the pool.
Double Commonwealth Gold medallist and 2012 hopeful Tom
Daley said: “Marking the one year to go, by diving in the Aquatics
Centre is an incredible honour.
“Only a few years ago, this was a distant dream. The fact that I
qualified at the weekend and am taking the first dive is a complete privilege. I can’t wait for next year and the honour of representing Team GB.”

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: ‘The Aquatics Centre will be a
fantastic gateway to the Games in 2012 and a much-needed new
community and elite sporting venue for the capital afterwards. Five years ago, in July 2006, we published a delivery timetable which set
out the ambitious target to complete the main venues a year before
the Games. Today, with the completion of the sixth main permanent
venue, I am proud to say that we have delivered on that commitment.
‘The completion of the Aquatics Centre is the latest chapter in a
British success story where tens of thousands of workers and business
from across the UK have demonstrated the ability of this country to
successfully deliver major projects.’
Construction started on the Zaha Hadid-designed Aquatics Centre
just over three years ago in June 2008 and has been completed on
time and with an exemplary safety record.
Over 3630 people have worked on the construction of the venue
and over 370 UK businesses have won contracts including the steel
for the roof from Wales, pool lights from Scotland, pumps from
Bedfordshire, under-floor heating by a company from Newcastleupon-
Tyne and water testing done by a Flintshire-based business.
In total, over 40,000 people have worked on the Park since
April 2008 and over 1500 direct contracts worth £6bn have been
distributed to thousands of companies across the UK.
The Aquatics Centre will have a capacity of 17,500 during the
Games, hosting swimming, diving, synchronised swimming, and the
swimming element of the Modern Pentathlon.
major events
After the Games, the venue is reduced to a maximum of 2,500, with
the ability to add 1,000 for major events, and provides two 50m
swimming pools with moveable floors and separation booms, a diving
pool and dry diving area for a full range of community and elite use.
The sweeping roof, which is 160m long and 90m at its widest point,
is an innovative steel structure weighing over 3000 tonnes with a
striking and robust aluminium covering, half of which is recycled,
resting on three supports.
LOCOG Chair Sebastian Coe said: “With construction now complete
on the Aquatics Centre, we are another step closer to the spectacular
Olympic Park which will be host to world class sport in 2012. And
after the Games, the venue will become a much-needed swimming
facility for London with community use at its heart, epitomising the
spirit of London’s bid – a Games which would bring lasting change
and encourage people to choose sport. Everyone involved can be very
proud of this venue and the progress of the Olympic Park as a whole. I
congratulate the ODA and their teams who have done a fantastic job.”

DISCOVER THE POOL & SPA BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN THAILAND

Category: International | Comment (0)

The launch of the first edition of the Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 on 21 – 23 September 2011 in Thailand, Bangkok at Impact Convention and Exhibition Center, is timely and particularly in line with Thailand’s Cabinet approval of the 6.65 billion baht (US$218 million) budget on its National Tourism Development Plan, 2012 – 2016.

With the aim to increase tourism income by at least 5 percent during the 5-year plan, the tourism plan covers 385 tourism development projects in eight tourism clusters for upgrading of basic infrastructure, landscaping and convenience at tourist sites nationwide. The beach resorts will get the biggest budget with 3.98 billion baht to fund 141 projects.

Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 is the only dedicated must-attend trade exhibition in Bangkok for manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, pool & spa builders, operators, contractors, architects, engineers, landscaper and pool & spa service technicians. The event provides vast opportunities to showcase products, network and build relationships with decision makers, distributors and buyers in Asia.

“Thailand has the largest pool and spa industry in South East Asia, with the overall market in 2011 valued at over 14 billion baht, and an expected growth of 20 to 25% from last year. Therefore, we are optimistic of the success of this inaugural event”, commented Ms. Rosalind Ng, Managing Director (Asia) of IIR Exhibitions Pte Ltd.

Many leading international companies participating include Pentair, Zodiac, Pool & Spa, Smart Pool, Water Co, ESPA Pump, Shanghai Open Chem, Puyang Cleanway, Glong Electric, Above Ground Pool, Poolsafe, Magnor, and Sunwei Pools Enterprise who will be showcasing their latest products and services.

“As the demand for eco friendly and sustainable products are growing in all Asian markets, we believe that Pentair is able to bring the required innovation, technology and knowledge to Asia, especially to Thailand since we have our Southeast Asia offices based in Bangkok”, stated Mr. Hugh Smith of Pentair Water Pool & Spa.

Mr. AJ Meenai from SmartPools™ International added, “We believe that Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 will be an ideal place to showcase our products and to network with the Asian Pool & Spa community, while further strengthening our local market presence at the same time”.

Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 has also drawn keen interest from established local companies like Helicol, Pool & FT, J D Pools, Isand Pools, Kenzai Ceramic and CMI who have confirmed their participation in this show.

“We are confident that the organisers of Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 are professionals with the expertise in this field to facilitate us in accomplishing our business objectives. This exhibition provides an ideal platform in matching our products to the target group”, commented Mr. Aroon Decha-anatchai of Civil Master International Co., Ltd.

A series of pool & spa seminars will be held concurrently with the exhibition, which includes topics focusing on eco-friendly construction, planning, engineering, innovations & management of swimming pool & spa. Each seminar track is designed to provide the latest updates in technologies and product development in the industry. Participants can expect to listen to strategic tips from international expert speakers coming from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and USA.

Co-organised by IIR Exhibitions Pte Ltd and IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., Ltd, Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 is poised as the gateway to South East Asia’s highly lucrative pool and spa industry, providing swimming pool deck & equipment manufacturers, spa equipment manufacturers and landscaping suppliers, architects and interior designers with the opportunity to make first contact with potential buyers and tap on the flourishing pool and spa business in Thailand.

“Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011 provides suppliers with a personal and direct way to do business and meet their targeted buyers all in one place at the same time. The exhibition also serves as the annual gathering place for industry experts and trade professionals to network, exchange views and update themselves on the latest industry trends and technologies”, added Mr. Loy Joon How, General Manager of IMPACT Exhibition Management.

For enquiries on the exhibition, please contact the Pool & Spa Team at +65 6319 2668 or visit their website www.poolspaasia.com

About Pool & Spa Exhibition Asia 2011

Pool & Spa Asia 2011 is a targeted event aimed only at those directly involved in the planning, design, build, operations, maintenance and management of pool & spa facilities. Participants will have access to important relevant sector of the market with buyer power. Organized by IIR Exhibitions (part of the Informa group) and Impact , two of the leading event businesses in the region, Pool & Spa Asia 2011 is the destination for the International market, to meet and do business.

The Education Journey

Category: International, Pool & Spa Business News | Comment (0)

Founded in 1998, the American-based Genesis 3 Design Group has grown to become a major international force in the water leisure industry.

Inspired and run by pool designers, David Tisherman, Skip Phillips and Brian Van Bower, Genesis 3 aims to continuously raise the bar for quality-minded professionals.

”Education is a journey, not an end,” says Brian Van Bower. “Our program base continues to expand with new topics and new ideas on a regular basis.

“We realised long ago that we are not for everyone. There are those that ‘get it’ and change their thinking, adapting to a higher level of performance and those that are stuck were they are, happy to continue to perform in the regular way.”

From a single school, Genesis 3 has evolved into a series of themed educational schools featuring international experts in design and construction. To date, more than 400 individuals have graduated from the various Genesis 3 programs.

Genesis 3 Inc.

Tel. +01 305.383.7266

Email. bvanbower@aol.com

www.genesis3.com

For more on this story see Pool & Spa Magazine

Falcon are Early Birds

Category: Home Pools & Spas, International, News, Residential Swimming Pools | Comment (0)

Falcon Pools is the first UK company to adopt the patented Biodesign method of construction for its green credentials and speed of build.

Already boasting some of the most prestigious pool builds in Britain, leading UK swimming pool exponents, Falcon Pools, have become the first company in the UK to back the new low impact Biodesign swimming pool construction method.

Offering a very low environmental impact, without the use of any reinforced concrete, the Biodesign pool is designed to harmoniously blend into the garden landscape. What is more, it is a quicker construction process than traditional methods.

“We feel the Biodesign system bridges the gap between natural pools and standard swimming pools,” says Falcon Pools’ Ian Storr.

“Used in conjunction with the MagnaPool system it also adds ‘green’ appeal which is a growing demand from customers.”

For more on this story see Pool & Spa Scene Magazine

Biodesign Pools Tel. +39 049 886 29 61

Email. international@biodesignpools.com

www.biodesignpools.com

Open And Shut Case

Category: International, Marketplace | Comment (0)

Hydrofloors specialise in the concept, design and manufacture of systems that cover and divide swimming pools.

Designed to work for indoor and outdoor use and flexible enough to work with pools of any shape or size, Hydrofloors’ systems include moveable floors, submersible booms and motorised hatches.

Available with complete installation, technical support and extended warranties.

Hydrofloors Tel. +44 (0)1865 604882

www.hydrofloors.be

Aquavia Serves A Tennis Ace

Category: Hot Tubs & Spas, International | Comment (0)

Top ranking tennis players at Barcelona’s Open Banc Sabadell tournament were able to relax in an Aquavia spa between matches. Recovery facilities at the event were run by Mapfre Medical Services.

The sports stars were able to enjoy both hydromassage and the water cascade, in addition to the ozonised water, chromotherapy and aromatherapy available with Aquavia’s Futura 40 spa.

Rafael Nadal, the world’s number one tennis seed, went on to win his latest trophy, the Comte de Godó, at the tournament that was held in April.

AQUAVIA Tel. (+34) 973 533 795

Email. aquaviaspa@aquaviaspa.com

www.aquaviaspa.com

Thirty Year Anniversary For Waterco

Category: International, Pool & Spa Business News | Comment (0)

Now a major international player, Waterco is celebrating its third decade in the pool and water treatment market.

From humble beginnings, Waterco now claims more than 25 per cent of the Australian residential swimming pool equipment market with manufacturing and assembly plants in the UK, USA, Australia, Malaysia, China and Canada.

The company delivers high quality, award-winning products to over 40 countries globally and employs more than 500 employees worldwide.

“Our success has been founded on our innovative engineering as well as our efficient manufacturing processes, enabling us to deliver the very best products to markets all around the world,” says founder and chief executive officer Soon Sinn Goh.

“I’m proud of the fact that we are the only company in Australia which has gone international, riding on a volume from a relatively small Australian market, compared with the much larger markets in the US and Europe,” Soon Sinn says.

“Our European market is an important area for us. We are seeing signs of positive growth this year and there’s great potential in expanding further into these markets.

Waterco General Enquiries

Tel. +61 2 9898 8600

Email. administration@waterco.com

www.waterco.com

For more on this story see Pool & Spa Sceen Magazine

Italian Show Raises International Bar

Category: International | Comment (0)

It would have been difficult to improve on the already excellent results achieved in 2010, but this February’s ForumPiscine 2011 in Bologna, Italy, was able to surpass it all the same.

The number of exhibitors shot up by 15%, with 150 companies taking part, while visitor numbers were ten per cent up on the previous year with 6.500 attending the three-day event.

Alongside the main exhibition, the International Congress attracted more than 1,000 attendees for lectures with most interest in subjects around renewable energy, pool safety, operational management and the design of wellness and spa areas.

With an exhibition area of more than 16,000 m2, all the latest and most important technological innovations were on show for pool and spa, equipment, installations and services for wellness areas.

ForumClub-ForumPiscine Bologna’s Fair

February 23 to 25, 2012

www.forumpiscine.it

Out Of The Box

Category: Home Pools & Spas, International, Swimming Pools | Comment (0)

ABOVE: With its patented layered construction method, Biodesign is set to take outdoor pool design out of the box.

Think home swimming pools and immediately your mind conjures up images of light blue rectangular shaped boxes in the gardens of Middle England.

Previously indoor pools, rather than outdoor pools, have offered up more potential to express artistic design.

Set to challenge that concept, Biodesign Pools, by API Italia, is currently building up a network of approved UK installers with a goal to take swimming pool design into another dimension.

For more on this story see Pool and Spa Scene magazine

National Gallery

Category: International, Swimming Pools | Comment (0)

ABOVE: UK Pool Contractors of the Year, Portrait Pools, triumphed in the category for residential indoor pools over £75,000 and up to £150,000 with this

In one of the closest contests in memory, Portrait Pools, of Southport, was crowned UK Pool Contractors of the Year, narrowly defeating runners-up, Tanby Pools, of Surrey, in this year’s sp ata Design Awards.

The competition proved to be a thrilling two-horse race as the teams from Portrait and Tanby went head to head with first one edging in front and then the other.

With more strings to their bow and more categories entered, the national pool building team, of Portrait Pools emerged victorious. They won eight individual awards including three golds, four silvers, and a bronze as well as the top title of both Residential Pool Of The Year, all combining to win them the title of UK Pool Contractor of the Year.

The event, held in February at the Brighton Metropole Hotel, coincided with 50th anniversary celebrations of SPATA, the organisation that represents some of the water leisure companies in the UK.

For more on this story and to view all 2011 SPATA winners see Pool and Spa Scene Magazine