National Leisure Stars In Italian Job

The first leg of the whistle-stop tour was a visit to A&T Europe in Castiglione to see the new PrimaVera above ground pool system.
The first leg of the whistle-stop tour was a visit to A&T Europe in Castiglione to see the new PrimaVera above ground pool system.

Representatives of the 20 member companies that make up the National Leisure consortium gathered in Italy recently, to gain an insight into new products for the pool sector from some of Italy’s leading suppliers. The first leg of the whistle-stop tour was a visit to A&T Europe in Castiglione to see the new PrimaVera above ground pool system.

The PrimaVera’s innovative design enables the pool to be erected on virtually any flat surface, and it can easily be disassembled and relocated if required. Steve Jones of Grayfox Swimming Pools, who attended the trip, commented: “Coming from an architectural and design background, I immediately saw the merits in the product in relation to the potential use for pop-up swim schools in converted warehouses and units. I will certainly be exploring the possibility of using the product in greater detail as and when the opportunity arises.”

The following day, the group was collected by representatives from Kerakoll and taken to their training campus for a presentation on their tile fixing and tanking materials for specific pool applications. A tour of Kerakoll’s ‘Green Lab’ explored the science behind the production of grouts and adhesives, including Kerakoll’s new Epoxy grout product.

TOP NOTCH

“Kerakoll have the answers to many problems encountered with our trade,” commented Simon Bareham of Cresta Leisure. “Their training and research facilities were top-notch and we were particularly impressed with their tanking system and the easy-clean Epoxy grout.”

Next up was a tour of the Kronos tile facility in Modena, with specific reference to the extensive range of porcelain tiles that are now available for use in both indoor and outdoor pool applications. The final leg of the four-day trip saw the group visit the Forum Piscine exhibition in Bologna, before spending a few hours enjoying the sunshine in the city.

“It was a very worthwhile few days and certainly opened our eyes to new technology products and potential new revenue streams,” said Craig Trusson of Home Counties Pools & Hot Tubs. “A good opportunity to catch up with other like-minded trade professionals within the National Leisure group and share ideas too,” he added.
Following the National Leisure philosophy of work, rest and play, the tour also took in a number of social events. The group enjoyed dinner and entertainment each evening, as well as a trip to the Ferrari museum in Modena.

Jo Harrigan of Pools & Gardens said: “I have to say this one was about the best that we’ve ever done. “Our suppliers were very generous with their time and hospitality, and I for one was really impressed with every company that we visited and the products that they manufactured. “I came away from the trip with lots of new ideas that I can’t wait to put in place. Not only that, it was great to catch up and spend time with some old friends and to come home having made some lovely new ones.”

National Leisure representative Jane Mathieson concluded: “It was a very busy but successful trip for all concerned. All companies provided us with an incredible amount of information on new products, with enquires and orders already placed with the new suppliers. “I think all the group that attended would like to thank A & T, Kerakoll and Kronos for their hospitality; it was an amazing time agreed by all.”

National Leisure Tel. 01305 259095 www.national-leisure.co.uk