After more than four decades in the industry David Mathers, former chairman of the company, has retired from SCP UK.
One of the highest profile figures in the pool and spa sectors, David’s highly successful career in the pool industry began 40 years ago with Crystal Pools in Leatherhead — still flourishing today and now owned by his former manager, Peter Solley and his family.
Two branches were added in 1974; one in Chichester, managed by Chris Bell, another well known figure and now operating under the Blue Ribband name in Chichester, and thirdly, a branch in St Brelade Bay, Jersey.
David moved from retail to wholesale when joining NorCal in 1981. NorCal went on to be one of the top two wholesale distributors in the UK. David’s time with SCP began when SCP/PoolCorp USA, were looking to venture outside of America for the very first time. Logically they purchased NorCal, as a leading wholesale distributor for the UK.
Completed in time for the new Millennium, subsequently, PoolCorp purchased The Swimming Pool Warehouse in Basildon, owned and managed by Ian Pratt and his family. Since then PoolCorp have added 13 new locations in seven countries, making formidable advances into Europe in a relatively short space of time.
Sylvia Montfort, SCP EU Managing Director commented: “David was the one who hired me and trusted me to take SCP forward in Europe after leaving Hayward 13 years ago. I still feel very grateful to him for offering me the opportunity to join a top company such as SCP PoolCorp.
“We learnt a lot from each other over the past 13 years. Europe and indeed each country within Europe, have distinctly different cultures and ideas which take time to integrate and combine with the vast experience of the largest distributor of pool and hot tubs in the world, has brought us.”
OUTSIDE INTERESTS
David’s retirement, which came into effect at the end of August, will allow him to concentrate on outside interests, in particular, his football club, Sutton United, where he is Vice Chairman, as they are embark on a huge ground redevelopment programme. David will also continue to support his daughter Karen, as she represents the country at dressage and aims for an Olympic appearance.
David is not leaving the industry completely, as he is frequently asked for help and advice from friends in the industry, so will continue on a limited scale to offer help and advice as a freelance consultant, including, in part, for SCP, and will release details of how-to get in touch with him at a later date.
David comments: “I have enjoyed working for SCP/PoolCorp and being part of their very successful expansion programme throughout Europe, working with so many great colleagues where I have been most fortunate.
“Many of those I have worked with have become personal and family friends. I will miss the daily camaraderie but for sure, the friendships will continue.
“I wish everyone at SCP UK continued success, especially the new management team of Dash and Ian, and how nice to see at last a summer to give them, and indeed all of us, that welcome boost for the industry.”
