The global leader in pool and wellness equipment, Fluidra is predicting a positive outlook for the sector in 2026, anticipating steady sales, despite the current economic turmoil.
The predicted figures follow strong 2025 results with sales up 7% to €2,184 million with volume growth across all regions. With a portfolio of some of the most recognised brands in the industry, including Jandy®, AstralPool®, Polaris®, Cepex®, Zodiac®, CTX Professional® and Gre®, Fluidra continues its acquisition trail.
The company purchased 100% of Variopool, a recognised specialist in the design, production and installation of movable swimming pool floors and walls (bulkheads), as well as aquatic playgrounds and underwater windows.
Fluidra has acquired 100% of BAC and Powerplastics, manufacturer and distributors of pool cover systems. Fluidra has also signed an agreement to purchase 100% of the NCWG group, a leading distributor of swimming pool equipment in Portugal, in a deal that will enable Fluidra to expand its product offering and customer portfolio, and to strengthen its geographical presence in Portugal.
FUTURE TECHNOLOGY
With an eye on future technology, Fluidra has added 100% of Pooltrackr, a best-in-class Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that streamlines every aspect of operations for pool and spa retail and service professionals.
The acquisition reinforces Fluidra’s commitment to digital innovation and marks another key milestone in delivering on the company’s strategic plan. Fluidra holds 30%+ market share in the UK pool market, ranking the nation in the top 10-15 of its global markets. Waterland Group Managing Director, Christina Connor, who has worked in the sector for three decades, met with the CEO of Fluidra as part of his recent fact-finding tour of the UK. Before joining Fluidra as CEO in 2024, Jaime A. Ramirez held various executive positions at The Black & Decker Corporation, spearheading its expansion across Latin America. Jaime has a proven track record and extensive experience in global consumer and industrial products, bringing over 30 years of P&L responsibility and a wealth of leadership expertise to the role.
The pair discussed the niche UK pool and wellness markets, with its lack of reliable statistics but estimated 1,500 new pools a year and a 300,000 pool installation base. They also recognised the Chinese manufacturers increasingly disrupting the market with improved technology, attractive prices and strong relationship-building. Jaime agreed refurbishment and service are the main growth and profit drivers, not new construction but believed: “Relationships and personality in sales and support are seen as critical for success in the industry.” Jaime confirmed that commercial pools represent 25-30% of Fluidra’s UK business while the residential market dominates with 70-75%, saying the commercial market is a strategic focus for Fluidra’s growth and innovation.
“The sector’s future is strong across both residential and commercial markets, but success will depend on specialisation, technical capability, and the ability to adapt to rising expectations around wellness, sustainability, and performance,” Jaime added.
