With some dealers reporting sales figures up by as much as 20 per cent; the home hot tub market is enjoying a much welcomed resurgence. Extended spells of warm weather have combined with improved economic stability to kick start sales. Throw in a liberal dose of some high profile promotion, including several major high profile features both on national television and in the print media and the resulting heightened awareness, in home hot tubs and spas in general, is proving a winning combination. Vicky Wrigglesworth, managing director of one of the UK’s market leaders, Artesian Spas UK remarks on an usual year for the hot tub market to date: “Sales are higher in 2014 to date than in previous years but the busiest periods have been at times you wouldn’t expect. For example, we had a fantastic start to the year which is traditionally a quiet time, while in March and April it was slightly quieter than usual.” She continues: “I can only see the market for hot tubs growing stronger. As people become more and more aware, they will continue to do more research, brand awareness should grow and I suspect we will see a high increase at both the top end of the market and low end of the market.”
INTERNET RESEARCH
The increase in customers researching products online has impacted on the spa market in recent years, with many buyers already having an idea of what they want and at what price before they set foot in the showroom. Vicky explains: “In today’s market, customers are either looking for a luxury hot tub with realistic price expectations or expect a fantastic hot tub for only £4,000.
However, once a customer visits a showroom, views what’s on offer and is advised about what hot tub will fulfil their requirements, this can of course change.” Vicky adds: “The main benefit of the increase in internet research is that more people are looking at hot tubs and they are becoming more established as an everyday item. We have also found that with the uprising of finance options, more sales are being made to people that may not have considered one before due to the upfront cost.” Artesian’s sales have increased across the board this year, with both ends of the range selling better than in previous years.
The company’s flagship product is the Dove Canyon, which is the most popular model in the Platinum Elite Class. The Dove Canyon features an individual topside control and pump per seat, and incorporates Artesian’s patented Directflow and Variable Flow Control.
Artesian Spas UK
www.artesianspas.co.uk
Aqua Warehouse
www.aquawarehouse.co.uk
Catalina Spas
www.catalinaspas.co.uk
Master Spas Europe
www.masterspas.co.uk
Vortex Parts
www.vortexparts.eu
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