SPN (Swimming Pool News) April 2023

APRIL 2023

POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICALS ACCESSORIES & MORE

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

ONE-PIECE & FIBREGLASS POOLS

Quality products providing a stress-free pool build experience

AUTOMATIC POOL COVERS Great domestic pool cover-ups that are safe, labour saving and on trend

POOL LINERS & SYSTEMS Superb lining solutions for projects both big and small

AWARD WINNERS

Celebrating the ultimate projects from the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards

PLUS SPN_April_2023_Cover.indd 3

STA Pool Plant – A Swim School Pool | Company Focus – AstralPool UK & Sunbeach Spas | Opinion High-end Swim Spas | SPATEX Review | Company Visit – Alukov & Lighthouse | 12 Pages Of News

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FAIRLOCKS FP DEC21 COVREX.qxp_Layout 1 17/11/2021 02:57 Page 1

Covrex® slats are solid, providing both additional rigidity and a perfect finish on curves which can be cut, on site, to fit any shape.

5 YEAR WARRANTY INCLUDED

This is no ordinary pool cover, it has huge advantages over traditional PVC slatted covers in terms of insulation properties with average thermal conductivity of = 0.0821 W/(mK) or a u value of 5.8.

The profile structures are made from expanded PVC-foam, coextruded with polyurethane. The profile exterior is high density PVC, which gives a perfectly smooth surface to prevent any algae formation either above or below the water level.

Covrex® covers comply with the French safety standard NF P 90308 Version 2006, probably the strictest standard in the market.

They provide excellent resistance to weather and UV which makes them suitable for use all year round and come with an amazing standard 5 year warranty.

Covrex® is the future; so get ahead of your competitors before it’s too late!

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS 3 Landscape Close, Weston on the Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX25 3SX, UK T: 01869 934333 | E: info@fairlocks.co.uk | W: www.fairlocks.co.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor’s Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne Co Publisher and Sales Director: Tony Weston Accounts: Sam Bartholomew Design: Colin Halliday For editorial enquiries contact Jon on: T: +44 (0)20 8306 8150 E: jon@aqua-publishing.co.uk For advertising enquiries contact Tony on: T: +44 (0)1474 813433 E: tony@aqua-publishing.co.uk For accounts enquiries please email accounts@aqua-publishing.co.uk For production enquiries please email production@aqua-publishing.co.uk For general enquiries please email info@aqua-publishing.co.uk

To subscribe or amend / cancel an existing subscription, please visit our website.

Annual subscription rates (6 issues): UK £30, Europe £50 and ROW £60 SPN is published by W: www.aqua-publishing.co.uk Printed in the UK by The Manson Group Ltd Aqua Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in Swimming Pool News. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and UBL I Sgive H I no NG reputable, Swimming PoolPNews can assurance they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. The views expressed in the articles in Swimming Pool News are the contributors’ own. All rights reserved. Copyright for all materials published in SPN remains with the publishers. Material contained in this publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior permission of Aqua Publishing Ltd.

ONE-PIECE & FIBRE GLASS POOLS

Quality products providing a stress-free pool build experience

AUTOMATIC POOL COVER S Great domestic pool cover-ups that are safe, labour saving and on trend

POOL LINER S & SYSTE MS Superb lining solutions for projects both big and small

AWARD WINNERS Celebrating the ultimate projects from the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards

PLUS

www.tanbypools.co.uk

letter

part. We’ve more on the show in our review of SPATEX later in this issue.

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

Cover image courtesy of Tanby Pools –

Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson

LS ACCESSORIES & MORE

APRIL 2023

POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICA

SPN incorporating Pool & Spa Industry is the official trade magazine for the UK wet leisure markets and is the only trade publication that invests in the industry it serves.

Focus – AstralPool UK & Sunbeach Spas | Opinion STA Pool Plant – A Swim School Pool | Company Visit – Alukov & Lighthouse | 12 Pages Of News High-end Swim Spas | SPATEX Review | Company

Despite a cold and dry February for many across the UK, followed by a still cold but also incredibly wet period (which will at least hopefully ease some pressure on any potential Temporary Use Bans later in the season), the industry seems to have enjoyed another cracking start to the year, particularly on the pool side of things.

There’s also been good news for the commercial sector too – at least in England – with the Government announcing in the Spring budget ‘The Swimming Pool Support Fund’ which will be administered by Sport England. This initiative will allow local authorities to apply for funding for leisure centres with pools that face immediate pressures caused by rising energy and maintenance costs. I hope that the rest of the UK’s nations receive similar funds to assist operators with the challenges of rising costs too before the pressure gets too much for many to bear.

Reducing running costs is going to play a big part in our industry for the foreseeable future with both owners in the commercial and domestic sectors needing to plan how to keep costs down whilst maintaining safe and useable facilities. In fact energy costs and energy savings were even hotter topics than usual at this year’s SPATEX event which again took place in Coventry at the end of January and into February.

As sponsors of the new products on show, SPN were once again pleased to be at the event for its duration and chat with exhibitors and visitors about new products, services, initiatives and of course any challenges, plus get a feel for what the next 12 months may hold for the industry.

The event once again saw a superb effort from the hundred or so companies who exhibited with their professional stands really looking the

Held during SPATEX, the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards hosted by SPATA and BISHTA returned with an expanded evening event which celebrated some of the best wet leisure projects from across the industry. Inside, we’ve coverage on all the Gold Award winners from this year’s event along with a write up on the Industry Gala Evening itself. As ever, I would just like to say congratulations to all who entered and everyone who received an Award.

Elsewhere in this latest issue, we also explore what’s new in the one-piece and fibreglass swimming pools market, a sector that’s enjoyed continued success due to providing maximum convenience and one that has new entrants to it this year. Still on the subject of convenience, we’ve an in depth look at the latest automatic pool cover systems for the domestic sector too.

High-end swim spas are also featured as the sector goes from strength to strength plus we’ve the latest in pool liners and systems for new build and refurbishment projects both big and small.

If that wasn’t enough to keep you going over the next few weeks, Jamie Adams has written his last Opinion piece, which following his retirement, reflects on working within the UK wet leisure industry for almost half a century.

There’s big changes too for AstralPool UK and Sunbeach Spas as we reveal major updates from both companies.

Following visits to suppliers both in the UK and overseas, we’ve pieces on Lighthouse’s new Technical Training Centre plus a write up on Czech enclosure specialist Alukov. Plus, we’ve further valuable content as Luke Griffiths speaks to Rachel Bateson, Franchise Manager at Puddle Ducks about them building a private swim school pool.

There’s also useful information from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA plus we’ve also got our round up of all the latest industry, product, eco, people and wellness news from both here in the UK and abroad.

So that’s this latest issue pretty much covered, all that leaves me to say is I hope you find the time to enjoy it!

Jon Wadeson - Editor PS – If you are involved within the industry and have some relevant news that you would like to appear within SPN, please do get in touch.

You can now follow SPN on:

Aqua Publishing also publishes: What Pool & Hot Tub magazine – our sister publication – is the only consumer magazine in the UK that provides the complete and crucial information that potential buyers are looking for! For more information visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website at www.whatpoolandhottubmag.co.uk

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SPN April 2023 1 05/04/2023 18:14

CONTENTS

Inside This 33

56 25

53 COVER

AWARD WINNERS

All the Gold Award winners from the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards 2023

33

FEATURES

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

29

STA POOL PLANT

43

The industry’s associations dedicated pages

POOL LINERS & SYSTEMS 61

Luke Griffiths looks at how Puddle Ducks built their own swim school pool

ONE-PIECE & FIBREGLASS POOLS

A look at the annual three-day industry exhibition held in Coventry

The latest in pool liners and systems for projects of all shapes and sizes

67

Stunning pool solutions which are taking the hassle out of installations

AUTOMATIC DOMESTIC POOL COVERS

Labour saving, safe and stylish solutions for home-based pools

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75

SPATEX REVIEW

SWIM SPAS MID & HIGH-END

53

56

Offering the complete swim and relax package to families and athletes alike

OPINION

In his last ever piece, Jamie Adams reflects on a life working in wet leisure

NEWS

INDUSTRY

04

PEOPLE

10

PRODUCT / ECO

12

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

18

WORLD

25

The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip

New appointments, personnel updates and training Innovations and new products on the market

Dedicated news for this important sector

84

All the latest news from around the world

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/04/2023 17:07

CONTENTS

Issue Of SPN 30

75

67 READER SERVICES DIGITAL EDITION Read this and previous editions online at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

BUYERS GUIDE For suppliers of products and services in the pool, spa and sauna market turn to page 80

SUBSCRIPTIONS Ensure you receive a regular copy of SPN (Swimming Pool News).

Subscribe online today at www.aqua-publishing.co.uk

FORWARD FEATURES For our forward features, please visit our website at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 02-03_SPN_April_2023_Contents.indd 3

61 Next Issue

• Above-ground and wooden pools • Hot tubs (reducing running costs in an energy crisis) • Water heating options (non heat pumps) • Tiling and mosaics • Water play equipment • Events round up – what’s on in the next 12 months

Plus much, much more!

SPN April 2023 3 05/04/2023 18:22

NEWS

NEWS

All the Latest News, Info, Products and Gossip From the UK Pool and Spa Industry and Beyond

Levelling Up Funding Unlocks Newcastle Project For Willmott Dixon Willmott Dixon’s team in the North East has been appointed to develop a £26m stateof-the-art leisure facility for Newcastle City Council in West Denton.

The company has been procured through Pagabo’s Major Works Framework to build Outer West Leisure Centre after the project received almost £20m from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

We reported in our December issue how Newcastle City Council’s Cabinet were asked to approve an enhanced financial package after the costs of the centre increased from £22.3m to £26m due to general inflation and extra facilities following a public consultation.

Outer West Leisure Centre will replace the former West Denton Pool and existing All Saints Sports Centre, which have served the local community for over half a century, with a facility that includes a 25-metre eight lane swimming pool, a learner pool, splash pad and various other facilities.

The new centre is expected to attract over 500,000 visitors per year and generate 27 new full-time jobs while providing training opportunities for local people.

Willmott Dixon’s local teams are at the forefront of generating local prosperity and enabling the Government’s Levelling Up

aspirations and the Outer West Leisure Centre project will deliver a social return on

investment equivalent to 22% of the project value for local people in Newcastle.

Heatstar Ensure Building Regulation Compliance New building regulations brought in last year will see swimming pool installers look to ensure that when specifying environmental control equipment on future pool projects that compliance is met. Applicable to all new projects now presented for Local Authority planning approval, the latest Building Regulations seek to achieve a whopping 30% reduction in carbon emissions over the outgoing regulations – and they affect indoor pools.

For over 40 years Heatstar have been guiding their clients towards responsible energy solutions for swimming pools, setting the benchmark in an environmentally conscious industry.

Heatstar utilise dynamic hybrid technology to offer heat recovery on indoor pools with performances of over 90% dry heat saved from the expelled pool air

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and over 140% if also including allowance for latent recovery, all whilst staying fully compliant.

The changes in 2022 to building regulations has seen Heatstar take measures to reassure the trade that their equipment offers not only full compliance, but also the best energy efficiency of any such system on the market.

For reassurance Heatstar have put together a Technical Advice Paper to help understand these important changes. This can be viewed at https://bit. ly/41rseaS Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com

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VISION FILTERS from Certikin The clear choice for your next filter installation

A filter is one of the most important components of a swimming pool.

Therefore, you want to ensure your next installation is easy to maintain and offers good durability. Using the latest in fibreglass winding technology, the Vision range of domestic bobbin wound filters from Certikin are some of the most reliable and popular on the market. Available in top and side mount versions, the latter which comes with the patented 10″ lid, making servicing and maintenance quick and easy.

• Patented 10″ lid for ease of maintenance (side mount only) • 10 year full tank warranty for residential installations • Bobbin wound using the latest in fibreglass winding technology • Clear mounting ring on top mount models – allows a clear view of filtration and backwashing during operation • Hydraulically balanced laterals to maximise water flow and filtration

 01993 777200  info@certikin.co.uk

www.certikin.co.uk

NEWS

IN BRIEF NEW FUNDING WILL HELP KEEP ENGLAND’S LEISURE CENTRES’ POOLS AFLOAT Publicly-owned leisure centres with swimming pools have been handed a financial boost following the announcement of a major new fund.

During the Spring Budget in March, the Chancellor of the Exchequer outlined that £63m will be made available in a oneyear fund.

The Swimming Pool Support Fund, administered by Sport England, will allow local authorities to apply for funding for leisure centres with pools that face immediate pressures caused by rising energy and maintenance costs. Of the funding, £40m will go towards making pools more energy efficient in the long term, and £23m will be made available to help leisure centres deal with rising costs.

Council-run pools, as well as those run on behalf of councils by private companies and charities are all eligible for support.

DEVON POOL HEATED

BY A UK FIRST IN TECHNOLOGY Exmouth Leisure Centre in Devon is the first site in the country to benefit from heatrecaptured from a cloud data centre. The surplus heat donated to the leisure centre by a unit from British start-up Deep Green will reduce the pool’s gas requirements by 62%, saving LED Community Leisure – who manage the centre on behalf of East Devon District Council – over £30,000 a year and reducing carbon emissions by nearly 26 tonnes.

Using the latest ‘immersion cooling’ technology, Deep Green captures heat from the operating of data centre servers, transferring it into a site’s existing hot water system, free of charge. Around 96% of the heat generated by a Deep Green ‘digital boiler’ is recycled. The installation in Exmouth Leisure Centre contains just 12 state-ofthe-art computer servers.

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Green Light For Flagship Facility As Council Secures £20m Funding Funding for a new community hub with a swimming pool has been approved for Marple in Greater Manchester.

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of the Council said: “I’m delighted we have finally secured £20m worth of Capital Levelling Up monies towards The Marple Active Communities Hub. This is such great news for Marple and for Stockport.”

The hub is a long-standing ambition, of the local community, since the former Marple Baths had to close five years ago.

Cllr Colin MacAlister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “This hub is going to make a huge, positive impact on the prosperity, health and wellbeing of the residents of Marple and the borough. Marple

has an older population but also has its share of social housing and is geographically isolated.

“This new hub will really help to address the increasing health inequalities in Marple, adding to people’s quality of life, living longer and better and provide fabulous new facilities for the community.”

In addition to delivering health and wellbeing benefits, the new complex will generate footfall and create new jobs, attracting people back into Marple centre.

Importantly, the building will be made from sustainable materials and use the very latest low carbon and energy technology.

The next steps will be to review the project details ready for submitting a planning application this year.

Development Funding Makes A Splash At New Swimming Pool Money raised through local housing developments has helped to pay for the refurbishment of a swimming pool and creation of new fully-accessible changing facilities in a specialist Alton school for disabled children and young people.

East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) granted £190,000 of developers’ contributions to Treloar’s College to make essential changes to their pool.

The council also awarded a further £25,000 towards the project through its Supporting Communities Fund.

The swimming pool was in desperate need of refurbishment as the increasing complexity of Treloar’s students’ disabilities meant the number who could use the pool for swimming and hydrotherapy was dramatically reducing.

Through a successful appeal the charity raised an incredible £500,000, which has increased the capacity of the pool by 60% and brought the joy of swimming to many more students on a regular basis.

The majority of the EHDC’s contribution was drawn from a fund called the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). For every new home built, a developer pays an agreed fee to go towards local infrastructure projects, such as these.

A further £100,000 was donated by

The Gosling Foundation, a national grant-making organisation.

The changes have provided significant health and wellbeing benefits to students, local families who use the swimming pool for lessons and disability charities who use the facilities during the holidays.

Councillor Graham Hill, EHDC and Town Councillor for Holybourne, said: “Treloar’s is the largest specialist disabled centre of its kind in the UK, supporting around 170 young people on its campus in Holybourne.

“I am so pleased that EHDC has awarded Treloar’s with a grant of £190,000 from the Community Infrastructure Levy for such a worthwhile project.

We look forward to Treloar’s applying to EHDC for further funding on more projects.”

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NEWS

IN BRIEF STA’S RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN WAS AN OUTSTANDING SUCCESS STA has released the final statistics from its 2022 charitable STAnd Up for Swimming campaign, with 86% of the learners surveyed confirming they have found employment as a swimming teacher in the UK. In 2021, STA, as a national governing body for swimming, identified that UK swim schools had lost 50% of their teaching staff during the pandemic; consequently, due to the increased post-COVID demand for swimming lessons, this meant that many thousands of children across the UK were stuck on long waiting lists for swimming lessons.

STAnd Up for Swimming was launched in direct response to the swimming teacher shortage, which was impacting the opportunity for children to access swimming lessons, and learn a key life skill.

Read more about the campaign’s success on the SPN website.

LIDO’S NATIONAL LOTTERY FUNDS REMAIN SECURE DESPITE LEVELLING UP FAILURE The National Lottery Heritage Fund has confirmed it remains committed to the Ipswich’s Broomhill Lido project, even after a bid to the government’s Levelling Up Fund to get the final piece of funding required was unsuccessful.

Ipswich MP Tom Hunt and Central Suffolk and North Ipswich MP Dr Daniel Poulter wrote jointly to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, one of the original key backers of the project, to seek reassurances that the £3.4m of essential funding was still guaranteed.

Responding to the reply, Mark Ling, Chairman of the Broomhill Pool Trust, said: “It is a most welcome and emphatic response from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

“It strongly reaffirms their intent to keep their funding in place whilst all other funding avenues are explored and a solution found.”

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The Fast Track To Better Pool Lighting The newly built £20m White Oak Leisure Centre in Swanley, Kent is one of many facilities that has benefitted from innovative direct LED lighting from EVA Optic.

Supplied in the UK by wet leisure distributor Golden Coast, a number of LED lights were fitted, including 34 60w 117cm EVAline linear lights around the perimeter of the 25 metre, 6-lane swimming pool.

Around the adjacent learner pool, ten 60W 233cm EVAline linear lights were fitted, along with five EVA Optic downlights.

Unlike indirect lighting, EVA Optic direct LED lighting is positioned overhead shining down over the water, producing minimal glare and surface reflection. This allows greater visibility into the water for swimmers and lifeguards, and ensures a safer pool environment.

EVA Optic LED lighting is extremely powerful, with the main pool at White Oak achieving an average lux of 313 and uniformity of 0.84. The learner pool had an average lux of 420 with a uniformity of 0.6.

Contractor TClarke was responsible for the mechanical and electrical installation at White Oak. “I hadn’t used EVA lighting before, but it had an excellent reputation and had been recommended for this project,” said Rob Woodward, Project Engineer at TClarke.

EVAline is a modular LED line system, made

from clear anodised aluminium. A base module is connected to the ceiling, and a light module is connected to the base at any spot where light is needed. Because of this flexibility, EVAline is suitable for most locations and can be easily configured to the site’s requirements.

Rob Woodward added: “The most impressive thing for our team was how easy the EVA LED lighting is to install. It’s all very user friendly.

It was far quicker and easier than installing larger indirect lights.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

Mapei Products Specified During Aquatic Centre Reconfiguration Project Mapei systems have been used to complete an extensive reconfiguration project at The Sandwell Aquatic Centre in Smethwick, near Birmingham, prior to its opening as a community facility in summer 2023.

The Centre includes a 50-metre Olympic-size swimming and 25m dive pool; a temporary 50m training/warm-up pool and dry dive training area.

The use of Mapei products spanned the three pools plus changing rooms and atrium area.

Over 35 tile designs were installed, totalling in excess of 9,000m2, with over 6,500m2 of screed specified. Tiles were supplied by Spectile & CTD and included porcelain and ceramic designs by Agrob Buchtal, Cipagres, Pavigres and VitrA. Three preparation products were used throughout the centre’s pool areas: fast drying Topcem special hydraulic binder was applied to pool bases and Nivoplan smoothing mortar, with the addition of Planicrete Synthetic rubber latex admixture, was used to render the pool walls. Mapelastic Turbo − a two-component, quick-drying elastic cementitious mortar incorporating Mapenet 150 alkali-resistant glass fibre reinforcing mesh – was used on the pool and surrounding

floors. To tank pool walls, Mapelastic Smart – a highly flexible, cementitious waterproof membrane, also incorporating Mapenet 150 – was used.

Throughout the pools and surrounds, floor tiles were installed with Keraquick S1 adhesive and Kerapoxy two-component, acid resistant epoxy grout. All wall tiles were installed using Adesilex P9 cementitious adhesive and Kerapoxy grout.

Topcem, Nivoplan and Planicrete were also used to prepare floors and walls throughout the Centre’s changing areas. Surfaces were then tanked with Mapeguard WP 200 alkali-resistant waterproofing and anti-fracture membrane, Mapelastic AquaDefense ready to use, flexible, ultra-rapid drying waterproofing membrane and Mapeband alkali-resistant rubber tape. Floor tiles were installed with Keraquick S1 and walls tiles with Adesilex P9. The changing room installation was completed with Ultracolor Plus grout and Kerapoxy grout was used in the shower areas.

Tiles in the centre’s Atrium were also installed with Keraquick S1 and Ultracolor Plus products.

Mapei UK 0121 508 6970 www.mapei.co.uk

SPN April 2023 9 05/04/2023 18:24

PEOPLE NEWS

Aqua Platinum Projects Founder Hands Over Managing Director Role Award-winning luxury pool design and build company, Aqua Platinum Projects (APP), has announced a board level restructure that has seen Founder, Ryan Fronda, hand over the Managing Director role to Commercial Director, Dominic Searle.

Fronda founded APP in 2011.

Under his leadership, the brand has grown to be one of the UK’s leading luxury pool and wellness designers and contractors, expanding into key international markets and enlarging to include a further three companies under the APP brand.

Searle joined the company in 2012, becoming Commercial Director in 2020. He has worked on many of APP’s significant and award-winning projects and helped

Ryan Fronda (right), Founder and Chairman of Aqua Platinum Projects with new Managing Director Dominic Searle

to lead the development of the business into new sectors, services and locations.

Fronda, who remains with the company as Group Founder and Chairman, said: “APP has had an amazing journey over the past 12 years and Dominic has set new standards of excellence during his time with the company. I learnt early on to surround myself with good people – one of whom is Dominic.

I am delighted to hand over the reins to him and wouldn’t want APP to be in anyone else’s hands! I am confident that his leadership, vision and clarity of decision-making together with our incredible team will continue our growth trajectory in line with our brand vision of delivering the best in luxury pool, spa and wellness facilities.”

Dominic Searle said: “I am honoured and excited to take over from Ryan as MD. Ryan’s entrepreneurial vision has been a driving force in the evolution of design, innovation and build in this industry. We have something very special here with a talented team who are integral to our success, along with our unique offer. I am looking forward to leading and developing our team and delivering on the strategy we have put in place to push forward with our ambitious plans for the company.”

Aqua Platinum Projects 01489 896438 www.aquaplatinumprojects.co.uk

Bell Leisure Director Adam Loses Fight Against Cancer it is with great sadness that Bell Leisure have advised that Director Adam Palmer (known by many in the industry as ‘Cheeky Boy’) lost his fight against Bowel cancer in January at the age of just 45.

Adam always had a huge grin on his face, tremendous sense of fun and the ability to make everyone feel special when he was in their company. He was well known in the industry and was a regular at the SPATEX exhibition, meeting up with friends and colleagues annually.

Speaking about the sad news, Bell Leisure Director Lawrence Pearce said: “Ads was a great Manager / Director, but his passion was being on site with his fellow work team in a muddy hole repairing pipework or fixing a problem… but this was always done with a pit stop at the local bakers or at McDonald’s factored in.

“We are an extremely close team at Bell Leisure and the loss of such a fantastic colleague / boss has hit us all extremely hard.

“He had time for everyone, was a great listener and problem solver and would do anything for anyone, but always with a wicked sense of fun and humour.”

Adam was happily married to Zoe, and had two young boys Teddy and Bertie. He was a season ticket holder at Brighton & Hove Albion FC and previously played county league football for Storrington, Arundel and Steyning Town.

Adam started at Bell Leisure in 1994, and by 2005 was made Technical Service Manager. In 2012, Adam along with colleagues Lawrence Pearce, Steve Goldsmith and Paul McMichael completed a management buyout of the Sussexbased company which has gone from strength to strength since then and will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025.

Bell Leisure 01903 892040 www.bell-leisure.co.uk

Golden Coast Honours Long-time Staff Leading wet leisure supplier Golden Coast has always been dedicated to finding – and keeping – the best team in the business, and recently honoured several staff members for their long-time service.

Adam Clark reached his ten-year milestone, having started his career at Golden Coast as Sales Manager, before becoming Sales Director, and now, General Manager.

“They say if you find a job you love you’ll never work a day in your life, and that’s how I feel about working at Golden Coast,” said Adam. “It was a particularly proud moment for me when I was promoted to Sales Director, and I appreciate the faith and trust the Directors had in me. Golden Coast

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is now part of Pollet Pool Group, and as Golden Coast General Manager I’m looking forward to supporting the team and building on the shared family-focused ethos. The last ten years has been amazing and no doubt the future will be even better.”

Receiving recognition for his 20 years of service is Nigel Paul, HGV driver at Golden Coast.

“Nigel is a key part of the warehouse team, and for him no job is too small,” said Adam. “Nigel is so much more than a driver.

He works extremely hard, with integrity and honesty, and is liked by all our customers.

He lives and breathes Golden Coast.”

Emma Johns was also celebrated, having served two decades at Golden

Coast. As Credit Controller, Emma plays an instrumental role in operations, and is part of every stage of the customer’s journey, from account set up to payment. “A sale isn’t a sale until it’s paid for,” said Emma.

“I’ve been here for 20 years and I really enjoy what I do. I love the people, and just the general aura of the place. There have been lots of changes, but we’re always a united team here at Golden Coast.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Get Your Cleaning Covered With Waterco!

Waterco’s efficient and watersaving cleaning solutions have been extremely well received within the industry, since their release. Their unique cleaning solutions have been specifically developed to enable the user to make use of energy and water-saving advances to keep a pool clean while saving water and chemicals.

The company’s Multicyclone Ultra Vac portable filtration cart is a versatile filtration solution for every service need; giving users the ability to vacuum a swimming pool, water feature, pond or fountain with a portable pump and filter – without losing water.

Features include: • Integrated pleated filter cartridge • Extended filter cleaning cycles and increased filter cartridge life span • Supastream self-priming pump • Powder-coated structural steel trolley with large wheels for easy manoeuvrability • Built-in safety protection.

By recirculating the water through the award-winning MultiCyclone Plus, users can remove debris by vacuuming it out of the pool or water feature. The cart is constructed from strong structural steel and is powder coated for protection. The Ultra Vac is designed to last many years, even in the most demanding of environments.

The Multicyclone Ultra Vac Portable Cart offers a versatile and easily portable comprehensive cleaning solution.

Following the success of the company’s Ultra Vac portable cleaning cart, Waterco has added the option of a Leaf Trapper for cleaning bodies of water that are likely to have a concentration of leaves and other floating debris.

Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

SpaFlo Launches New WaterWall At SPATEX In line with their ‘Sanus Per Aquam’ (health through water) product range, SpaFlo launched their new WaterWall, from the SpaFlo Special Projects Division at SPATEX 2023. The standard WaterWall is made from stainless steel and can be produced to any size and to suit client requirements. SpaFlo can add personalisation; the wall can be etched with a saying, logo, branding or significant words and dates.

The WaterWall is suitable for indoor use or as an outdoor water feature and includes the reservoir and pump to run it. “The sound of running and falling water is calming and soothing; it brings health benefits to an office, restaurant or spa environment, with its relaxing properties,’ said Richard Gowland, founder and Managing Director at SpaFlo. The SpaFlo display model seen at the show measures 2.5m wide and 2.5m tall and is made from 316L stainless steel sheets.

The ‘window’ is in plexiglass acrylic; the same plastic used for pool windows, due to its strength, its ability to remain colour-safe under UV rays and for its overall clarity.

The WaterWall also features a smart pumped filtration water circuit that delivers back to the upper weir through both side columns. The Special Projects Division has developed a unique and secret overflowing weir design to deliver the perfect flow of water. The base trough and plant equipment is covered in a mosaic-tiled unit; which can also feature an array of different finishes, if preferred, for personalisation.

“Our new WaterWall provides a ‘health through water’ solution, delivered via a tiny pump which costs very little to run,” advised Richard who also commented that this special water feature can be scaled up or down to suit any residential or commercial space.

SpaFlo 0151 424 9742 www.spaflo.co.uk

Introducing The Palintest Lumiso Pooltest Expert Available through Certikin and other leading distributors, Palintest’s Lumiso Pooltest Expert is a multi-parameter benchtop photometer designed as an all-round solution for pool and spa water testing needs.

From pool managers through to professional engineers, this photometer is suitable for testing multiple times daily, quickly and accurately across key and troubleshooting parameters.

With a large touchscreen interface and simple to follow onscreen instructions, the Lumiso Pooltest Expert can be used with little or no prior training. Its robust construction and IP67 waterproof design ensures it can be used in any situation, in any environment – even with wet hands – and comes in a case made from recycled material.

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Lumiso Pooltest Expert benefits from easy results retrieval and data traceability for audit compliance purposes via USB connectivity through the Palintest Connect platform. With 35 tests, routine and troubleshooting testing is made easy, with quick and accurate results including test data, user labels and notes for audit and compliance purposes.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, the Lumiso Pooltest Expert joins three existing handheld photometers (models 3, 4 and 6) within the Palintest Pooltest range that were launched over recent years.

Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Pool Water Testing For Owners And Professionals From LaMotte Europe With equipment that ranges from test strips to sophisticated multibeam photometers, LaMotte Europe is the go-to for all water testing needs.

InstaTest strips are a market leading test strip that achieve instant, accurate results with stable, distinct colour development.

Perfect for doing a quick check on a pool that’s being serviced and a brand that customers can trust when doing their own testing at home.

New for 2023, is the ColorQ2x, a handheld photometer that takes the guesswork out of poolside water analysis. The kit includes tests for the following key parameters: Free Chlorine, Total Chlorine, Bromine, pH, Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness and Cyanuric Acid. A digital, numerical display ensures that there is no need to visually determine slight colour variations. Featuring a dual-optic design that has a wider path length than its predecessor, plus instrument grade tablet reagents, the results are exceptionally accurate. And with Bluetooth capability and a compact, waterproof design, the ColorQ2x is perfect for the pool professional working at the poolside.

Designed for service technicians, pool operators and retail professionals, the WaterLink SpinTouch is the go-to analysis system for pool professionals looking to complete a full suite of water tests. Featuring a 6-wavelength photometer, a calibration check system, touchscreen, Bluetooth, auto-record keeping and for use with precise reagent disks manufactured in a clean-room environment, this is a ground-breaking analysis system that is precise, quick and easy to use. Simply fill a reagent disk with one sample of water, insert it into the SpinTouch, wait 60 seconds for 10 parameters or 30 seconds for 3 parameters and results are displayed on screen. It’s perfect for use at the poolside or as a countertop water testing system in store.

LaMotte Europe 01926 498203 www.lamotte-europe.com

Certikin’s New Glass Media Is A Cut-above Its Rivals Destined to be one of 2023’s bestsellers, Certikin has introduced a new and improved glass media which thanks to ticking the efficiency and sustainability boxes, will, according to the Witney-based distributor, outstrip many other competing products.

Made from 100% recycled glass in the UK, the new media is produced under strict ISO9001-2015 standards to ensure decontamination of organic and ferrous materials. It undergoes a unique washing process using 100% rainwater to become possibly the best, safest and non-activated glass media available on the market.

Certikin Glass Media can remove up to 30% more material and pollutants than sand, so saves on backwashing and the resultant water, energy and chemical treatment costs. It is less dense than sand, requiring 15% less media to fill the equivalent filter and it doesn’t degrade, therefore benefits from a much

longer life span.

As an environmentally friendly alternative to sand, the new and improved glass media is suitable for both commercial and residential filters with lateral or nozzle plates.

It is available in three grades – all of which are milled down to remove any sharp points – and packed in 25kg bags.

Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

A New UK Partner For Abridéal Pool Enclosures Following the retirement of Graham Kelsey and subsequent closure of Summit Leisure, Fairlocks Pool Products are delighted and honoured to have been appointed as the new exclusive partners for Abridéal pool enclosures for the UK. Since the company’s foundation in 1979, Abridéal have manufactured premium quality, luxury enclosures exclusively utilising tempered safety glass. Tempered safety glass gives unmatched levels of clarity and transparency that won’t fade or craze over time. Their unique designs continue to appeal to a discerning clientele throughout Europe and across the globe.

The in-house research and development department employs the latest state-ofthe-art technologies, while a CE certified manufacturing processes ensure the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality and finish are consistently met.

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By choosing an Abridéal enclosure, pool owners can confidently place their trust in specialists with over 30 years’ experience from conception through to installation plus handover and beyond.

An Abridéal enclosure affords the opportunity to maximise the investment made by greatly extending the use of a pool – keeping the water warmer and cleaner,

reducing maintenance and improving the efficacy of pool chemicals. It offers the peace of mind of unparalleled levels of safety and security. Abridéal are recognised industry experts and every building is custom manufactured to each client’s exact needs and specifications – no matter how large or sophisticated the enclosure design is, be it for domestic or commercial use. Abridéal enclosures are renowned for their high quality and durability; guaranteed to last for many years into the future.

Their range contains a plethora of ideas and inspiration to show the possibilities and help customers arrive at the perfect Abridéal enclosure designed to suit all needs, desires, and tastes.

Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk

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Introducing Abridéal enclosures – setting the mood since 1979

MADE IN FRANCE

Abridéal has been designing and crafting fully customised telescopic and fixed enclosures for swimming pools, spas and patios since 1979. As specialists in toughened safety glass, Abridéal only use the highest quality materials and certified manufacturing processes.

Your enclosure is unique and by choosing Abridéal, you are guaranteed expert knowledge.

Leisure

Maintenance

Safety

Extend the swimming season by increasing the temperature by 6 to 10°C.

Keep your pool clean and protected from contamination and other debris.

Enclosures that are compliant with AFNOR NF P90-309 standards and CE certified.

Transparency

Made-to-measure

Reliability

Walls made of toughened safety glass provide a crystal-clear view of the surroundings.

Fully customised structures that can be installed anywhere and fit all pools.

Premium quality materials guarantee that our enclosures will last longer than any others.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS 3 Landscape Close, Weston on the Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX25 3SX, UK T: 01869 934333 | E: info@fairlocks.co.uk | W: www.fairlocks.co.uk

PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

hth® Test’O Pro™ – Free Software And App For Water Treatment

AstralPool Expands The UNIK Range With Revamped, Customisable Connection Boxes Usually a highly visible element, connection boxes house all the pool’s lighting wiring to protect it and prevent damage.

Following the integrative advantage of the recently launched Skimmer UNIK, AstralPool has designed a new model of connection boxes that not only can be customised to achieve seamless integration with the pool floor, but also features enhanced installation and access.

The UNIK connection box – in line with the concept behind the skimmer UNIK to unify all of the elements in a pool – can be customised by inserting a tile or slab in the same material as the exterior of the pool to integrate fully with the pool’s aesthetic. The colour of the outer frame can also be chosen from four available options: white, gryy, anthracite and beige. This creates a more harmonious and elegant-looking pool with a flawless aesthetic.

The updates in the box design represent a major upgrade in terms of installation since specialists can now choose between the installation with a hose or 50 mm pipe in the same device, unlike other models that only offer one type of accessory or the other, requiring specialists to switch models depending on the installation type.

The wiring has also been upgraded in the new box structure and is now connected from the inside, the M-25 connection system making post-installation maintenance easier.

AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk

It is through the exchange, sharing of experience and the desire always to improve the products and services provided to their customers that hth® now offer free software and an App for pool professionals in the form of hth® Test’O Pro™. The software allows professionals and seasonal staff with minimal experience the opportunity to analyse pool or spa water, interpret the results and make personalised recommendations for water treatment products. hth® Test’O Pro™ is compatible with all water analysis systems, photometers and even manual systems (pool tester, test strip etc.). It connects via Bluetooth or USB cable to the WaterLink® SpinTouch™ and to Lumiso 6, for automatic feedback of the analysed data. Use options include: • Use the WaterLink® SpinTouch™ to analyse ten parameters in 1 minute (Chlorine, Bromine, pH, TAC, Hardness, Stabilizer, Phosphates, Salt, Copper and Iron).

• Focus on the six0 main parameters with the Lumiso 6 (Chlorine, Bromine, pH, TAC, Hardness and Stabiliser) the application will automatically interpret the results.

• Use another photometer, a pool tester or tests strips. hth® Test’O Pro™ is able to interpret the data and make a personalised recommendation of water treatment products with dosage and instructions for use. Indeed, the software takes into account the size of the pool or spa, the type of treatment used, the liner and the type of filtration. A diagnosis is given to the customer or sent by email according to the preferences saved in the software. hth® Test’O Pro™ is available on computer, tablet or smartphone and can be downloaded free via the App Store, the Play Store or the company’s own website and will help dealers to boost their chemical sales by helping interpret the results of water analyses. hth® / Innovative Water Care 01924 792909 www.hthpiscine-pro.com

Hyprolyser® – Trusted Water Treatment Solutions For Projects Big And Small Firmly established for over a decade, Gaffey Hyprolyser® electrochlorination systems offer a safe, reliable alternative to traditional water chlorination methods.

Each sustainable Hyprolyser® system generates sodium hypochlorite using only harmless salt, water and electricity – it’s a technology that has been tried, tested and trusted within the swimming pool and drinking water industries for over ten years, with more than 300 systems installed around the UK. It isn’t just the UK benefitting from Hyprolyser® systems either, as Gaffey operate around the world through a trusted network of global distributors.

These worldwide partnerships mean as of 2023, there are more than 1,000 Hyprolyser® systems operating across the globe.

Hyprolyser® electrochlorination

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systems aren’t just safer for the environment, they champion workplace safety for staff and customers.

By removing the requirement for transporting, handling and storing chemicals by producing harmless sodium hypochlorite in-situ, facilities reduce the threat of chemical-based accidents, including chlorine gas leaks – which sadly still occur at leisure

facilities across the UK. According to the HSE report for health and safety at work in Great Britain, the annual cost of workplace injury in 2019/20 was £7.6bn. Over six million working days were lost due to non-fatal injuries according to self-reports from the Labour Force Survey in 2021/22, with 0.6 million workers sustaining non-fatal injuries.

By choosing Hyprolyser® electrochlorination systems, facilities ranging from small pools to drinking water plants and large theme parks can not only lower their running costs and improve their sustainability – they can also reduce workplace risk and put safety of their colleagues and customers at the forefront of their operations.

Gaffey Technical Services 01254 350180 www.gaffey.co.uk

SPN April 2023 17 05/04/2023 18:35

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Master Spas Names New President And CEO Master Spas recently announced that Terry Valmassoi has been named President and CEO of the company.

The appointment comes following the retirement of Bob Lauter. Lauter and Valmassoi founded Master Spas in 1996, with a focus on innovation and developing spas to help the world live life better.

Under their leadership, the company has grown to become the world’s largest swim spa manufacturer and largest portable hot tub manufacturer that makes 100% of its product in the USA. The growth was driven by a culture of innovation and dedicated teamwork.

A southern California native, Terry Valmassoi has worked in the spa industry for more than 40 years.

While he was attending college in

1978, he started his first business selling and installing hot tubs, and the following year, began a company that manufactured gelcoat spas. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Long Beach State in financial management and continued establishing his role as a leader in the spa industry.

In his tenure at Master Spas, Terry Valmassoi has overseen the day-today operations of the company, the expansion requirements to support continued growth, and developed a talented team dedicated to Master Spas’ culture and core values.

“I am honoured to be named President and CEO,” he said. “Bob and I worked alongside each other for 30 years. Together, we had a passion for the industry, a passion for innovation and always pushing to do better.

“And that’s something I will bring with me as we continue to grow the business.

“My focus, as we move forward, will be strategic planning and how we can continue to grow the business, take care of our customers, and support the community,” added Valmassoi.

Master Spas +1 260 436 9100 www.masterspas.com

Annual Seminar A Chance To Celebrate For Artesian Spas And Their Dealers Artesian Spas UK hosted their annual dealer seminar in March at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

It was an opportunity to highlight the successes of 2022 and also to celebrate Artesian’s 20th Anniversary in the UK and EU markets.

During its 20-year history, Artesian Spas UK has proudly remained focused on product integrity, quality, and customer service, with a commitment to building a strong dealer network to provide customers with the knowledge and power to make an educated purchase.

The annual dealer seminar was an amazing opportunity for Artesian to reconnect with their dealers, celebrate their achievements together and plan for 2023 and beyond.

Presentations on product innovation, sales training, social media, and the brand’s new and exciting marketing initiatives took place during the seminar to provide new and longstanding dealers with valuable information.

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Darlly Europe Launch Their All-new, Ultimate Filter Finder Filter specialists Darlly Europe are proud to announce an all-new online filter finder. Accessible directly from the company’s website, and ideal for both trade use and consumer use, the new filter finder works as a simple quiz and is perfect for when not all details for a filter or even hot tub manufacturer are known as visual guides assist through some of the process. The user will go through a series of questions step-by-step and in doing so, narrows down the parameters of their filter. Once all fields have been filled in correctly the appropriate Darlly Filter is presented at the end.

This filter finder is also free to any customer who wants it on their own website or ecommerce store. Installing the finder onto a website will take around 5 minutes and can be installed by one of Darlly Europe’s experts straight away.

This latest innovation perfectly complements the Darlly Filter Care knowledge base which has been built to help retailers and consumers get optimal use out of their hot tubs and filters. This section of the Darlly Europe website expertly answers the industry’s most basic and also most complex filter queries. With the company wanting to help promote healthy water care and optimal filter use, this will help the efficiency of both filter and hot tub use.

Darlly Europe 01952 580500 www.darlly.eu Managing Director Victoria Wrigglesworth presents the team from North Spas with a number of awards during the event

The seminar came to a close with the awards ceremony to honour the Artesian Spas dealer achievements during the past 12 months. Dealers from both the UK and elsewhere in Europe were recognised for their achievements.

Once the seminar came to an end, attendees then enjoyed a brief walk around the Yorkshire Wildlife Park before regrouping for an evening meal and celebrations after what had been an extremely successful day.

Speaking about the event, Victoria Wrigglesworth, Managing Director of the company said: “With an outstanding commitment towards energy efficiency, quality and customer care, coupled with an excellent network of dealers, Artesian Spas has grown into one of the most recognised

names within the hot tub industry. We are looking forward to the next 20 years as much as we have enjoyed the first 20 years in the wet leisure industry.”

Artesian Spas UK 01302 730295 www.artesianspas.co.uk

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Superior Wellness Listed As One Of Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies… Again!

It’s Destination Certikin For Holiday Let Hot Tubs!

Proudly announced at SPATEX 2023, Certikin has joined forces with Wellis®, one of Europe’s leading spa manufacturers, to offer a range of four stunning true-hydrotherapy hot tubs, specifically designed for both guests and operators within the holiday let market.

The commercial spas don’t just comply, but some exceed the allimportant HSG282 health and safety requirements enforced by HSE and local authorities.

The premium, energy-efficient smart spas feature an ozone generator, 24-hour filtration duration; a spa frog in-line chemical dosing system and have no perishable items such as headrests, diverter, or air valves fitted.

In addition, and going above and beyond the HSE and BISHTA regulations, the hot tubs also feature a fast drain valve, reducing drainage time to 9-10 minutes; a reduced heating time of 3-5 hours with an additional energy source; tamper

proof 2-3 button control panel and a silent, energy-saving circulation pump to protect the high-speed pumps. They can be operated via a smartphone app and Wi-Fi control that allows the operation of up to 100 spas.

The Sevilla plug and play model features one lounger and five seats and has 46 hydrotherapy jets and relaxing LED colour-therapy lighting.

Due to its low power consumption, it is ideal for parks with limited electricity supply. The Cordoba comes with 40 hydrotherapy jets, StarLight™ corners, Central LED colour therapy lighting and accommodates six people. The smallest hot tub in the range is the four-seater Porto whilst the largest is the very spacious seven-seater Valencia – both of which are awardwinning models.

Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

Superior Wellness has earned a place on the FT 1000: the seventh annual list of Europe’s fastest-growing companies for the second year running.

On 1 March 2023, the latest FT-Statista report was released highlighting the fastest-growing European companies in the three years to 2021. Superior Wellness is delighted to have achieved a place on this list, ranking 323rd up from 348th last year. This also means the company has ranked in the top 60 across the UK. Superior Wellness leads the market as the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer, creating premium, high quality products focused on improving your health and wellbeing.

The ranking shows how many businesses thrived despite the pandemic – or, in many cases, because of it. Superior Wellness was in a fortunate position to experience a monumental level of growth during that period.

The ranking lists those European companies that achieved the highest compound annual growth rate in revenue between 2018 and 2021. The minimum average growth rate required to be included on the list was 36.2% – marginally less than the 36.5% last time round.

Superior Wellness moved into its headquarters in Chesterfield in March 2021 and last year opened a 10,000 sq. ft showroom with training facilities. It now works with a global partner network of 250 hot tub retailers and is focusing on its growth across the US with two dedicated sales managers based there.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director, said: “We were so proud when we heard the news that Superior Wellness had made it once again onto the fastest-growing companies in Europe list. We ranked 323rd in Europe for the fastest growing companies and also in the top 60 in the UK! “I would like to extend my thanks to all the Superior Wellness team and our partners for making this possible.”

Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

Darlly Bucket Makes Filter Cleaning A Simpler Task Filter specialist Darlly Europe are proud to introduce the Darlly Filter Cleaning Bucket to their expanding range of cleaning accessories.

Seen on the company’s stand at the SPATEX exhibition, the Darlly Filter Cleaning Bucket has been specifically made for cleaning filters and is ideal for any engineer or hot tub owner. With a capacity of 17 litres, and able to accommodate a filter length up to 53cm by 18cm, the new bucket fits over 90% of the Darlly filter range and accepts all of the most common filters. It will also fit pairs of smaller filters including the popular SC714’s.

For years the industry has asked “what is the best equipment to clean your filter in?” and now the Darlly Filter Cleaning Bucket

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offers the perfect answer.

Available to purchase in cartons of six buckets, the product is fully collapsible for space saving and easy storage.

The Darlly Filter Cleaning Bucket is suitable for use with any filter cartridge cleaning products and is also suitable for mixing hot tub chemicals, the bucket even offers perfect functionality with a built in pouring lip. It’s a great example of a simple product idea that helps to make hot tub ownership a little bit easier.

Darlly Europe 01952 580500 www.darlly.eu

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INTRODUCING THE GREENEST WELLIS PRODUCT LINE Life hot tubs in the spirit of environment awareness

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

New Platinum Spas Deluxe Range Passes CEC Test

SCP Add New Kuusi And Kaski Barrel Sauna Options For 2023, SCP UK have added two new barrel sauna options from the Garden Leisure brand to their already extensive heat therapy line up.

‘Kuusi’ means spruce in Finnish and refers to the type of wood from which one of the new sauna barrels is made. Available in three different sizes, the Kuusi model fits into almost any garden and is available with a number of configuration options and includes a roof covering made from black bitumen roof shingle. One variant offers a small terrace with seating, so users can maximise rest and relaxation outside the cabin too.

If users prefer more daylight within the cabin, they can choose from two different rear window elements to let the sunshine in – half moon or full glass.

The idea for the other new barrel sauna was that if it fell on ‘fertile soil’ a Finn would say ‘Kaski’.

Like the Kuusi model, the new Kaski sauna offers a cosy atmosphere of a barrel combined

with the option of a view and is also available in half moon or full glass along with three different sizes.

The biggest visible difference between the two new models is the dark Thermo-Pine wood of the Kaski which harmonises perfectly with the lime interior and gives the whole barrel a stylish touch.

Thermally modified wood is a natural, non-toxic alternative to chemically treated wood products for the home. The wood is essentially ‘cooked’ in oxygenfree ovens at high temperatures which changes the cellular and molecular make up of wood by removing all organic compounds from the wood cells.

In essence, the cooking of the wood with high heat creates a naturally durable wood product that will, in theory, be permanently resistant to water, fungus, insects and decay.

SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

Superior Wellness is proud to announce their new Platinum Spas Deluxe Range has been CEC tested which shows the commitment to being more energy efficient. The CEC (California Energy Commission) is the only third-party accreditation organisation recognised by the spa and hot tub industry.

Gareth Ward, Sales Director said: “We are delighted that the new range is CEC certified. The Deluxe range now includes the awardwinning energy efficient insulation Platinum Premium Shield. This is designed by the Superior Heatlock Insulation Process which provides a considerable difference in the heat retained in the hot tub as well as a reduction in energy costs.”

There’s five models in the range, all now boasting premium features and upgrades – the Tahiti, Refresh, Happy, Palma and the brand new all-seater Seville.

With a brand-new look and feel, the Deluxe range has changed with a more aesthetically pleasing design with the curvature of the acrylic. Designed with comfort in mind, the seats are now more sculpted and shaped.

For a cleaner look, the control panel is now solely located on one side without the distraction of other components and features. Featuring more modern and premium looking side panels complete with an LED Platinum Spas logo, the new models are certainly more stylish.

The new range includes a number of technology improvements too. The jets and diverters have been upgraded promoting a better hydrotherapy massage. The audio system has also improved with brand new speakers which are located on top of the acrylic rather than on side panels and the circulation pump has also been upgraded to a much quieter and more energy efficient version.

The hot tub cover is now fabric instead of vinyl with the overall thickness increasing to provide greater insulation and create energy savings, which again shows the company’s commitment to improving the overall efficiency for their customers.

Platinum Spas 01246 559071 www.platinum-spas.com

A ‘Green’ Approach And Modern Looks... The New Wellis Life Range New design, new solutions, and a new insulation system are just some of the groundbreaking and game changing features of Wellis’ updated hot tubs which are available to order now.

With 61 patents and lots of unique innovations, according to Wellis, the new product line is unrivalled in the world in terms of energy efficiency. Thanks to the extremely favorable energy usage, daily consumption has been reduced greatly to 2.9 kW (from a daily consumption of around 5 kW) in the case of a 5-person model.

These are CEC (California Energy Commission) Standard measurements.

For the past three years, designers have been working to create the greenest Wellis spa collection to date. According to the brand, these will be the greenest spas in the world, since they have achieved more efficient test

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results during use than the current bestconsumption hot tubs on the market.

Wellis have paid special attention to energy-efficient solutions, and during production, they prioritise sustainability and environmentally conscious production technologies. Accordingly, Wellis’ revised hot tubs have been given the name ‘Life’.

This is carried forward by both of the brand’s product lines – PeakLife and CityLife.

In addition to the innovative technological solutions, a lot of emphasis on the smallest

details of the various design elements has been applied too. Already available in 2023, Wellis Life product lines will bring a unique massage experience to the homes of customers worldwide as flagships of innovation and energy efficiency.

As a result of the company’s further unique innovative developments, and by using half as many hydromassage motors, Wellis say they can achieve a much stronger performance and the massage experience will be even more relaxing.

This is another huge step for Wellis to become one of the top three hot tub manufacturers in the world.

Wellis +36 29 564 380 www.wellis.com

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WORLD NEWS

IN BRIEF PISCINE GLOBAL EUROPE IS RETURNING TO EUREXPO LYON Organised in partnership with the French Federation for Pool and Spa Professionals (FFP), Piscine Global Europe returns from 19 to 22 November 2024 and now, more than ever, is a strategic international event.

Florence Rousson Mompo, Director of the GreenTech+ Department of GL events Exhibitions Operations, confirms: “With 860 exhibitors and brands already confirming their attendance, Piscine Global Europe is consolidating its position as a key event for the sector. After four years of absence, players in the sector can’t wait to meet in person in Lyon once again. We are so looking forward to sharing this exhibition with all the professionals: it’s a key moment for doing business and presenting new products, but also a time for getting together socially!”

HAYWARD STRENGTHENS ITS TECHNOLOGY POSITION Hayward Holdings, Inc announced in January the acquisition of Water Works Technologies Group, LLC, a manufacturer of water features including water bowls and sheer waterfalls with LED lighting options.

This acquisition follows the recent acquisitions of two internet of things (IoT) technology businesses, SmartPower and SmartValve.

Together, these acquisitions further extend Hayward’s position in smart, IoT-enabled technologies designed to bring greater control and ambiance to the pool while simplifying ease of use and cost of ownership.

Water Works manufactures a variety of water bowls in both resin and glass in an assortment of colours and finishes as well as Sheer Waterfalls. These high-end water features all have colour illumination through LED lighting options which allow Smart app coordination with other pool, spa or landscape lighting colours and shows.

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Ezarri Decorates Luxury Pool At What Was Dubai’s Most Expensive Villa Ezarri’s luxury pool tiling arguably stole the show at what was at the time, the most expensive villa in Dubai when it was sold in 2022. This stunning waterfront mansion was purchased for a whopping US$83m back in July last year and in doing so, held the record for most expensive property – until it was overtaken by a property that sold in October for a staggering US$163m!

Ezarri’s role was to decorate the outdoor luxury swimming pool at the Casa Del Sole on Palm Jumeirah, the smallest of three palm-shaped artificial islands known as Palm Islands located in the United Arab Emirates on Dubai’s Jumeirah waterfront. Together with the other ‘palms’, it is one of the largest man-made islands in the world.

It is in this luxurious, paradise-like playground that this exclusive villa was sold and this is where Ezarri met the challenge head-on by tiling the villa’s outdoor luxury pool to the customer’s highest

specifications.

The buyer of this villa is now the proud owner of a ten-bedroom mansion, complete with gym, hair salon, 70 metres of private beachfront, and of course a spectacular outdoor swimming pool.

The incredible luxury swimming pool decorated

by Ezarri sits on an elegant terrace designed for leisure activities. The swimming pool spans almost the entire side of the building and features an integrated spa and bar. The infinity-style pool offers stunning views over the Persian Gulf.

Kiwi mosaic tiles from the Topping collection were used to achieve its original design, using a combination of mosaic tiles and playful digital printing.

Ezarri Mosaico +34 943 164 140 www.ezarri.com

NIVEKO Pool Provides Visual Perfection For A German Family’s Modern Home A swimming pool is one of the best possible additions to a beautiful, modern home and visual synergies can be achieved by choosing the right design. Thanks to the wide range of configuration options, it was a NIVEKO pool that made the Geserick family’s project absolute perfection.

Right from the very start, the young German family’s new home was designed as a stylish work of architecture combining elegance with practical features to make day-to-day life more convenient.

The building, which features a strong emphasis on rectangular design, is instantly eye-catching and is the perfect example of the power and charm of simplicity. Supplied by POOL+HOME GmbH, a NIVEKO Overflow Evolution pool was tastefully chosen for this concept. The Evolution is characterised by its minimalist lines, making it a timeless choice. The grey colour matches the house and accentuates the main idea behind the project.

However, functionality was a high priority too – the family also purchased the pool for the children.

Now they can all spend those sweltering summer days by their own luxury pool, in perfect privacy and comfort. The Evolution also

offers something extra with its built-in countercurrent, meaning even experienced swimmers will have plenty of fun in it – sports and relaxation, a complete experience in every respect. At 10.0 x 3.2 x 1.4 m in size, the pool is a real multipurpose leisure centre point for the whole family.

The NIVEKO Plus stainless steel buit-in parts complement the pool nicely, with premium quality details adding to the overall impression.

The pool is accessed via a set of Modern stairs with a shallow end, and their design perfectly reflects the overall concept. Collaboration with the German NIVEKO Profi Partner POOL+HOME went very smoothly and the Gesericks could not praise their new pool highly enough.

NIVEKO s.r.o. +420 572 693 246 www.niveko-pools.com

SPN April 2023 25 05/04/2023 18:41

WORLD NEWS

BIO-UV Group Signs A New Partnership Agreement With Polish Integrator TRANSCOM BIO-UV Group, a specialist in water treatment and disinfection systems by UV, salt electrolysis, ozone and AOP, have announced the signing of a commercial partnership with Transcom Poland, a manufacturer and system integrator of swimming pools, water parks and aquariums. This two-year commitment (until 2025) will allow the polish company to address the market with BIO-UV Group’s UV-C reactors (MPTS for commercial pools and TTPE for aquarium). Two large-scale projects integrating BIO-UV Group water treatment systems have already been completed and several are ongoing.

One of the completed projects equipped with BIO-UV Group products is at the sports and recreation centre in Świdnica, a city in south-western Poland.

For the renovation of the facility’s aquatic park in 2022, Transcom installed equipment from BIO-UV Group’s MPTS range, ideal for ensuring optimal disinfection and dechloramination of the water. UV-C offers additional pool water sanitation by destroying

chlorine-resistant micro-organisms while reducing chemical consumption and limiting the risk of irritation for swimmers.

The 2,500m2 park includes two leisure pools with attractions (slides, a wild river, massage jets, a wave generator), a sports pool with seven 25 metres long lanes, and a water games area. Since its renovation, the pool has already welcomed 36,000 bathers to the facility.

BIO-UV Group +33 499 133 911 www.bio-uv.com

Asia and Oceania for the first time in 2019, further fuelling demand for swimming pools and associated equipment.

“Relaxed visa restrictions and a fastgrowing tourism market have seen the construction of commercial swimming pool equipment rise considerably,” said Waterco Europe CEO Tony Fisher. “This in turn has increased demand for Waterco’s high-quality water treatment products.”

The company’s manufacturing plant in Selangor, Malaysia coupled with its understanding of the region gives it a distinct advantage over other competitors hoping to enter the lucrative Vietnamese market.

“Well-established manufacturing and export facilities in Kuala Lumpur give Waterco a competitive advantage, in terms of readily available product supply and sales support,” said Fisher.

Economic reforms since the launch of in 1986 have helped propel Vietnam from being one of the world’s poorest nations to a middle-income economy in one generation.

“Vietnam’s growing wealth, changing consumer attitudes and greater urbanisation is pushing the country through a period of great change, one that we are very excited to be part of,” added Fisher.

Fluidra has announced that it will carry out a project to refurbish and extend the Aquatic Centre in Chile’s National Stadium, which will host the 2023 Pan American and Parapan American Games that will be held in October and November in Santiago de Chile.

The overall cost of the project amounts to €3.6m and consists of the renovation of the competition pool (50 x 25 x 3 metres) and the training pool (50 x 25 x 2 metres), as well as the refurbishment and extension of the diving pool (20 x 25 x 5 metres). All of the work will be carried out in line with the requisites set in the regulation on facilities by World Aquatics, formerly the International Swimming Federation (FINA).

In the case of the competition and training pools, Fluidra’s proposal includes the renovation of the pools’ coping using Skypool renovation panels in galvanised steel, the replacement of the current hydraulic system units and new swimming competition accessories.

For the diving pool, the project includes the renovation of the pool’s coping using Skypool galvanised steel panels 1.2 metres in height, plus the walkway, the sparger and agitation systems. In addition, it has been proposed to replace and extend the current hydraulic system units with filters, filtration pumps, valves and a disinfection system.

“We are extremely happy to be able to form part of the 2023 Pan American and Parapan American Games in Chile.

The alliances that we are building with the main aquatic sports organisations at a world level demonstrate our leading position in the commercial pool sector and our commitment to the sport that we hope to strengthen in the future,” said José R Fornieles, General Manager of the Commercial Pool, Wellness, Fountains & Lagoons Division at Fluidra.

Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

Fluidra +34 937 243 900 www.fluidra.com

Waterco Expands Operations To Vietnam Global water treatment and pool equipment manufacturer Waterco Limited has opened a branch in Vietnam following strong sales growth in the developing region.

Company Founder, CEO and Executive Chairman Soon Sinn Goh attributes the country’s high-growth economy and progressively wealthier population to the increasing demand for its water filtration and sanitisation products.

“Vietnam’s economy grew at the fastest pace in Asia last year and Waterco aims to improve market share by increasing awareness of its innovations in the region,” he explained. “With the population becoming progressively wealthier, research is showing that swimming pools and access to clean water are considered an important investment in improving quality of life.”

Vietnam’s reputation as a leading luxury travel destination in Asia gained traction since it hosted the World Travel Awards of

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Fluidra Secures Aquatic Centre Project For 2023 Pan American Games

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 05/04/2023 18:41

Pool Cleaning Accessories Ad.indd 1

02/03/2022 5:07 PM

SPATEX2023 A4 THANK YOU.qxp_Layout 1 10/03/2023 14:59 Page 1

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR STAND VISIT:

WWW.SPATEX.CO.UK OR CALL +44 (0)1264 358558

POOLS SPAS

THANK YOU

A big thank you to all our wonderful exhibitors and visitors at SPATEX 2023 – you make the event the industry success story it is! We look forward to seeing you all again in 2024.

WELLNESS AND MORE

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Events And Initiatives Play An Important Role BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes highlights the importance of industry events, and the education, networking and promotional benefits they offer to association members and the wider industry

I

t was great to see so many exhibitors and visitors in Coventry for SPATEX 2023, and in speaking with a number of people, the feedback received has been hugely positive.

This feedback indicates that everyone learned a little bit more about what is going on in the industry, not only in terms of products and services, but also in terms of networking and education. One new addition this year, which proved very popular, was that SPATEX provided an opportunity for 140 beer and curry lovers to combine their passions with an evening visit to Dhillon’s Brewery for a tour, sampling and some food to accompany the drinks!

SPATEX is also vital for refreshing your knowledge and picking up CPD points via the education programme. Many thanks to Ross Alcock and his team at the ISPE for putting their workshop programme together. Thanks also to other industry bodies such as the STA, PWTAG, IoS and RLSS UK for their respective contributions to the SPATEX seminars. I trust that the updates provided by SPATA and BISHTA were also helpful to attendees.

For those present, I hope you enjoyed the Industry Gala Evening, and congratulations to all of the SPATA and BISHTA award winners revealed as part of the 2023 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards ceremony. Congratulations also to the 2022 ISPE Award winners for being re-presented with their trophies. A great deal of PR has been gained for the winners and the wider industry, especially

on social media, so we have another year’s worth of great installations to showcase for potential pool and hot tub projects. For a full run-down on the winners this year, please see the following pages in this issue.

A huge thank you to all the award sponsors for supporting the event too; their logos appear below.

The next opportunity for some of the 2023 British Pool & Hot Tub Award winners is to be short-listed for the 2023 EUSA Awards.

The winners will be announced at aquanale, in Cologne, on Tuesday 24 October, so good luck to anyone lucky to be nominated.

This year, we have taken an opportunity to invest in producing some videos of the Industry Gala Evening and of SPATEX to show what happens in Coventry and why it is worth making the trip to be part of it. My thanks to Nick Clamp and his colleagues at TAYA Media Ltd for the videos supplied so far. They are now busy working through the interview footage to provide more visitor and exhibitor feedback.

These videos will be used to promote SPATEX and also the industry gala evening, which is always open to the whole industry to attend.

A series of webinars are being planned for this year, and the contributors will include our friends from the Home Office, HSE, Surrey and Buckinghamshire Trading Standards, Nsure and Wright Hassall. We are working on other webinars and will have them recorded, where the speakers grant permission to share with with SPATA and / or BISHTA members, as applicable.

SPATA and BISHTA will also continue to run an Information and Networking Day (combined with the AGM and the respective committee meeting) for members to get actively involved. It is planned for each day to be face-to-face (but if member feedback is

This feedback indicates that everyone learned a little bit more about what is going on in the industry, not only in terms of products and services, but also in terms of networking and education”

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for the event to remain online, then this will be possible).

SPATA will also be running regional meetings online where required to ensure that members can stay in touch with fellow members in their area. Participants will benefit from updates on various services that are on offer. There are ongoing discussions too about other services that members can benefit from, so watch this space, as it is hoped to announce at least one new service soon!

It is important for the industry to be aware that SPATA and BISHTA are working with the HSE to find out (anonymously) how companies in our industry and operators in business / commercial settings are using the guidance in HSG 282 as part of their Pool Safety Operating Procedures (PSOPs). The HSE are keen to understand what bits of HSG 282 are being used and what bits are not being taken up (and why) to determine what needs to happen to their guidance in the future.

Should there be any changes to HSG 282 or any of the European standards, this will be reflected in updated versions of BISHTA Standards and SPATA Standards. Both trade associations have plans to produce amendments to their respective standards (and potentially other guidance) this year.

That’s all from me – I hope you have a prosperous year.

DIARY DATES 2023 25 May 30 May

8 Jun 7 Jul 28 Jul 15 – 17 Sep 27 Sep

28 Sep

SPATA National Council, WebEx BISHTA Committee, WebEx BISHTA Technical Committee, WebEx PIP Committee, WebEx BSPF Board, WebEx SPATEX Board Meeting and AGM, WebEx President’s Weekend Birmingham BISHTA Committee, WebEx BISHTA Technical Committee, WebEx SPATA National Council, Andover / Hybrid

SPN April 2023 29 05/04/2023 17:41

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

A Chance To Celebrate At The Annual Industry Gala Evening & Awards As the Industry’s biggest social event of the year, the annual Gala Evening held during SPATEX in Coventry brought the UK’s most skilled wet leisure companies together for a celebration of excellence and a night to remember for many!

T

he annual Industry Gala Evening & Awards (hosted by the BSPF) always provides a fantastic opportunity for friends, colleagues and peers to come together in celebration at an outstanding social event during SPATEX, the largest pool, spa and wellness show in the UK. Providing a red carpet, ‘oscar-esque’ experience (with black tie optional), it is held in the Premier Lounge of the Coventry Building Society Arena. Guests are welcomed with a networking drinks reception, dinner, live entertainment, photo opportunities and dance, and the evening showcased the 2023 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards ceremony and the representation of the ISPE Awards for 2022.

The event also provides the chance to remember those we have lost and acknowledge achievements and contributions to the wet leisure industry. This year the BSPF recognised the outstanding service and contribution of Jim Gordon from Jim Gordon Associates – a man who made a huge difference to our industry over many decades.

Jim sadly passed away in 2022, and his son Phil Gordon collected the award on behalf of

his family.

Phil Oldershaw hosted the night, and presenting this year’s awards were; the BSPF President Pete Grinnall, SPATA Chairman Ben Studdy and the BISHTA Chairman Dorian Davies. The special guest of honour was Kerianne Payne, the South African-born British swimmer specialising in marathon open water swimming and long-distance freestyle swimming in the pool. She is a two-time 10-kilometre open water world champion and an Olympic silver medalist.

All the Gold Award winners from this year’s British Pool & Hot Tub Awards can be seen in the following pages of this issue.

A brand new BISHTA award category was launched for 2023 – the Peter Newbery Award for UK Innovation – in recognition of Peter Newbery, who was a driving force in the hot tub industry when he was the owner of Spaform. Peter was a hugely creative person and someone who believed in innovation from every one of his team members. The award showcases individuals, staff members, organisations, companies and partnerships for introducing initiatives, products or processes with inventive approaches as

The quality of work from this year’s winning companies is outstanding and demonstrates the talent, skill and quality of the UK wet leisure industry”

30 April 2023 SPN 30-31_SPN_April_23_BSPF_Gala_Evening.indd 30

they navigate a developing and competitive industry. The 2023 winner is Darlly Europe, awarded for their Sanistream System.

Ultimately, the Awards are an essential platform to showcase initiatives and in particular, the best hot tubs, spas, swimming pools and wellness projects, which raises the profile of the wet leisure industry (as a whole) through consumer awareness at home and abroad.

Chris Hayes (Managing Director of SPATA and BISHTA) commented: “This year’s entries superbly demonstrate the skilled projects undertaken by SPATA and BISHTA members. The quality of work from this year’s winning companies is outstanding and demonstrates the talent, skill and quality of the UK wet leisure industry. Congratulations to all the winners; we wish all of them continued success moving forward through 2023 and beyond.”

The 2023 winner’s galleries, which include all Gold, Silver and Bronze winners for SPATA and BISHTA are available to view online now!

Just visit each organisation’s website and look under the ‘News’ tab!

BISHTA 01264 356211 www.bishta.co.uk SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 05/04/2023 17:42

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

The Hot Tub Suppliers team along with special guest Keri-anne Payne show off the various BISHTA Awards they won on the evening

The Tanby Pools team were on stage to collect the Outstanding Pool Of The Year Award – one of several Awards for the company

Keri-anne Payne lends a hand to the Hydropool Devon team who collected three Gold BISHTA Awards during the evening

Whitewaters were the big winners on the night collecting various Awards along with the much-coveted title of The Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor Of The Year

SpaFlo’s Richard Gowland with one of the company’s two Gold BISHTA Awards on the evening

Origin Leisure collect a Gold and one of their three Silver SPATA Awards of the evening

The XL Pools team collected a Gold and two Silver Awards for their stunning pools

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During the evening, All Weather Leisure Midlands picked up three BISHTA Awards

The Darlly Europe team were presented with the first ever Peter Newbery Award for UK Innovation

Ten SPATA Awards were presented across the evening to an ecstatic Centurian Leisure team

The Peter Geekie Award For Retail Excellence was won

by Oyster Pools & Hot Tubs

Another company with a big haul of Awards across the evening were the team at Cresta Leisure

With their pools enjoying triple Gold Award successes, the delighted team from Mermaid Pools

SPN April 2023 31 05/04/2023 17:43

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BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023

Celebrating The Ultimate Projects From The UK’s Pool And Hot Tub Industry

Overall Winner Of Pools Under £200,000 Plus Outstanding Pool Of The Year Tanby Pools 01883 622335 www. tanbypools.co.uk

We highlight the winners from the 2023 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards held by SPATA and BISHTA at the Industry Gala Evening during the SPATEX trade show

H

ighlighting the cream of the crop, the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards hosted by SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trade Association) and BISHTA (British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association) spotlights companies striving to meet (and in some cases exceed) the trade association standards and an industry-recognised code of ethics, Residential Outdoor Concrete Pools Under £125,000 Tanby Pools 01883 622335 www.tanbypools.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 33-40_SPN_April_2023_Award_Winners.indd 33

distinguishing themselves as high-calibre professionals within their field. Through their dedication, they are helping to raise standards for the industry.

These awards not only recognise companies for their superior work, celebrating both the technical and aesthetic aspects, but they also create an inspirational gallery of awardwinning projects for consumers to view, in the knowledge that as trade association members, every company is expected to work to British and European standards, and trade ethically.

SPATA and BISHTA annually invite

Residential Outdoor Concrete Pools £125,000 And Over Mermaid Pools 01580 753031 www.mermaidpools.co.uk

SPN April 2023 33 06/04/2023 17:33

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023

Residential Outdoor Liner Pools £75,000 And Over Cresta Leisure 01305 259253 www.cresta-leisure.co.uk

their members to enter the awards, which combine swimming pool, spa, hot tub and wellness industry categories and attract entries from companies across the British Isles (and some also come from overseas members), celebrating the best of construction, design, installation, retail, hire, service and innovation.

Before entries are submitted to the experts and specialist panel of judges from the pool and hot tub industry, all entries are reviewed for their technical merit to assess whether entries meet industry standards as a minimum requirement.

In 2023, SPATA introduced some additional judging criteria for award entries.

Using a points system, the judges awarded Gold and Silver Standards and Bronze awards based on the technical and aesthetic aspects of the project, also taking into account (where applicable) the plant room installation and the paperwork provided to the client. The decision to enhance the SPATA Awards element of the British Pool Residential Outdoor Liner Pools Under £75,000 Mermaid Pools 01580 753031 www.mermaidpools.co.uk

34 April 2023 SPN 33-40_SPN_April_2023_Award_Winners.indd 34

With 32 categories to be contested, this year’s winning and highly commended entries demonstrate the breadth of talent and commitment to quality and service in the Wet Leisure Industry” & Hot Tub Awards was made by the SPATA National Council and Technical Committee to continue encouraging members to meet and exceed SPATA Standards. These awards are the highest (and most stringent) accolades in the British swimming pool industry.

With 32 categories to be contested, this year’s winning and highly commended entries demonstrate the breadth of talent and commitment to quality and service in the Wet Leisure Industry.

The 2023 award ceremony took place on the evening of Tuesday 31 January 2023, and is annually part of the Industry Gala Evening, hosted by the BSPF (British

Swimming Pool Federation) at the Coventry Building Society Arena in the West Midlands on the first night of the three-day SPATEX exhibition, the UK’s only dedicated international pool, spa and wellness show.

Entry for the 2024 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards opens for BISHTA and SPATA members online in June, and members are encouraged to start planning their entries now. The more entries made provide even more opportunity to win and aim to claim top awards such as the SPATA Dick Millward Trophy Pool for Contractor of the Year or for BISHTA to enter the Peter Newbery Award for UK Innovation.

Residential Outdoor Concrete Pools Under £125,000 Centurion Leisure 01708 463090 www.centurionleisure.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/04/2023 17:32

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023 Special Requirement Pool of the Year Plus Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor of the Year Whitewaters 0191 551 2048 www.whitewaters.co.uk

SPATA WINNERS: RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR LINER POOLS UNDER £75,000 Gold: Mermaid Pools Silver: Albatross Pools & Spas Silver: Centurion Leisure Silver: Cresta Leisure (2) Silver: New Dawn Pools RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR LINER POOLS £75,000 AND OVER Gold: Cresta Leisure Silver: Cresta Leisure Silver: Mermaid Pools Silver: Waterstream (2) RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR ONE-PIECE POOLS Gold: Centurion Leisure Silver: Centurion Leisure Silver: Waterstream (2) Silver: XL Pools (2)

Residential Outdoor Concrete Pools £125,000 And Over Tanby Pools 01883 622335 www.tanbypools.co.uk

Residential Indoor Freeboard Pools Under £150,000 Plus Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor of the Year Whitewaters 0191 551 2048 www.whitewaters.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR CONCRETE POOLS UNDER £125,000 Overall: Albatross Pools & Spas Gold: Centurion Leisure Gold: Tanby Pools Silver: Albatross Pools & Spas Silver: Centurion Leisure Silver: Falcon Pools Silver: Tanby Pools Silver: Whitewaters

Residential Indoor Freeboard Pools Under £150,000 XL Pools 01233 840336 www.xlpools.com

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SPN April 2023 35 06/04/2023 17:28

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023 Residential Outdoor One-Piece Pools Centurion Leisure 01708 463090 www.centurionleisure.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR CONCRETE POOLS £125,000 AND OVER Overall: Whitewaters Gold: Mermaid Pools Gold: Tanby Pools Silver: Centurion Leisure Silver: Letts Swimming Pools Silver: New Dawn Pools Silver: Tanby Pools Bronze: Falcon Pools

Residential Outdoor Concrete Pools Under £125,000 Albatross Pools & Spas 01277 624653 www.albatrosspools.co.uk Residential Indoor Overflow Pools Under £200,000 Plus Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor of the Year Whitewaters 0191 551 2048 www.whitewaters.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL INDOOR FREEBOARD POOLS UNDER £150,000 Overall: Whitewaters Gold: XL Pools Silver: Centurion Leisure Silver: Cresta Leisure Silver: Origin Leisure (2) Silver: Tanby Pools Silver: Whitewaters RESIDENTIAL INDOOR FREEBOARD POOLS £150,000 AND OVER Gold: Origin Leisure Silver: Origin Leisure RESIDENTIAL INDOOR OVERFLOW POOLS UNDER £200,000 Overall: Tanby Pools Gold: Whitewaters

36 April 2023 SPN 33-40_SPN_April_2023_Award_Winners.indd 36

Overseas Residential Pool of the Year Exterior Experience Landscaping +971 525 526 090 www.xterior.ae

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/04/2023 17:28

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023 Refurbishment Pool Of The Year Mermaid Pools 01580 753031 www.mermaidpools.co.uk

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT POOL OF THE YEAR Gold: Whitewaters Silver: Centurion Leisure Silver: Whitewaters COMMERCIAL POOL OF THE YEAR Gold: Cresta Leisure OVERSEAS RESIDENTIAL POOL OF THE YEAR Gold: Exterior Experience Landscaping Silver: Exterior Experience Landscaping Bronze: Niveko (2)

Commercial Pool Of The Year Cresta Leisure 01305 259253 www.cresta-leisure.co.uk In-ground Spas Plus Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor of the Year Whitewaters 0191 551 2048 www.whitewaters.co.uk

REFURBISHMENT POOL OF THE YEAR Gold: Mermaid Pools Silver: Cresta Leisure Silver: Tanby Pools (2) IN-GROUND SPAS Gold: Whitewaters Silver: Centurion Leisure (2) Silver: Falcon Pools Silver: Tanby Pools (2) Silver: Whitewaters WELLNESS Gold: Whitewaters Silver: Cresta Leisure Silver: Whitewaters

Residential Indoor Freeboard Pools £150,000 And Over Origin Leisure 01895 823366 www.originpools.co.uk

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SPN April 2023 37 06/04/2023 17:29

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023 LIFESTYLE IMAGE OF THE YEAR Gold: Blue Cube Pools Silver: Tanby Pools (2)

Residential Outdoor Concrete Pools £125,000 And Over Plus Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor of the Year Whitewaters 0191 551 2048 www.whitewaters.co.uk

PETER GEEKIE AWARD FOR RETAIL EXCELLENCE Winner: Oyster Pools & Hot Tubs PAUL KITE AWARD FOR ‘POOL STAR OF THE YEAR’ Winner: Chris Davies of Cresta Leisure OUTSTANDING POOL OF THE YEAR Winner: Tanby Pools DICK MILLWARD TROPHY FOR POOL CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR Winner: Whitewaters

Peter Geekie Award For Retail Excellence Oyster Pools & Hot Tubs 01291 690614 www.oysterpools.co.uk

Wellness Plus Dick Millward Trophy for Pool Contractor of the Year Whitewaters 0191 551 2048 www.whitewaters.co.uk

Paul Kite Award for ‘Pool Star Of The Year’ Chris Davies of Cresta Leisure

Lifestyle Image Of The Year Blue Cube Pools 0800 037 0803 www.bluecubepools.co.uk

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www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/04/2023 17:29

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023 BISHTA WINNERS: RESIDENTIAL HOT TUBS BELOW £7,000 Gold: Cornish Hot Tubs Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers Bronze: Concept Spa Bronze: Hydropool Devon (2) Bronze: Tanby Pools RESIDENTIAL HOT TUBS £7,000 TO £14,000 Gold: Hydropool Devon Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers Silver: Hydropool Devon Bronze: All Weather Leisure Midlands Bronze: Barnsley Hot Tubs Bronze: Hyperion Hot Tubs Residential Hot Tubs £7,000 To £14,000 Hydropool Devon 01803 872666 www.hydropooldevon.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL HOT TUBS £14,000 AND OVER Gold: SpaFlo Silver: North Spas Bronze: Barnsley Hot Tubs Bronze: Cornish Hot Tubs Bronze: North Spas SWIM / EXERCISE SPAS Gold: SpaFlo Silver: Hydropool Devon Bronze: North Spas

Residential Hot Tubs £14,000 And Over SpaFlo 0151 424 9742 www.spaflo.co.uk Best Use Of Digital Media Hot Tub Suppliers 0116 251 3378 www.hottubsuppliers.com

Residential Hot Tubs Below £7,000 Cornish Hot Tubs 01872 573350 www.cornishhottubs.co.uk

HOT TUBS CHANGE LIVES Gold: Hot Tub Suppliers Silver: Hydropool Devon Bronze: Hydropool Devon

Swim / Exercise Spas SpaFlo 0151 424 9742 www.spaflo.co.uk

Hot Tubs Change Lives Hot Tub Suppliers 0116 251 3378 www.hottubsuppliers.com

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SPN April 2023 39 06/04/2023 17:29

BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARD WINNERS 2023 HOT TUBS IN A HOLIDAY SETTING Gold: Hot Tub Suppliers Silver: Hydropool Devon Bronze: Holivans Bronze: Hydropool Devon HOT TUB HAPPINESS Gold: Hydropool Devon Silver: Hydropool Devon Bronze: All Weather Leisure Midlands Bronze: Hot Tub Suppliers SHOWROOM OF THE YEAR Gold: Hydropool Devon Silver: All Weather Leisure Midlands Bronze: 1 Stop Spas Bronze: Marquise Spas BEST USE OF DIGITAL MEDIA Gold: Hot Tub Suppliers THE PETER NEWBERY AWARD FOR UK INNOVATION Winner: Darlly Europe

Hot Tubs In A Holiday Setting Hot Tub Suppliers 0116 251 3378 www.hottubsuppliers.com

Showroom Of The Year Hydropool Devon 01803 872666 www.hydropooldevon.co.uk

The Peter Newbery Award For UK Innovation Darlly Europe 01952 580500 www.darlly.eu

Hot Tub Happiness Hydropool Devon 01803 872666 www.hydropooldevon.co.uk

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STA POOL PLANT – A PRIVATE SWIM SCHOOL POOL

Bringing Swimming To A High Street Near You In this issue, Luke Griffiths, STA’s Qualification Development Manager for Pool Plant spoke to Rachel Bateson, Franchise Manager at Puddle Ducks about why building a swimming pool in Barons Quay Shopping Centre in Northwich made perfect sense

P

rivate swim schools occupy a large percentage of the learn to swim market, especially for baby swimming, but for those who want to expand their business and are reliant on hiring pools, it can be challenging to find a pool, one with the right temperature, or find pool space at a time that suits young customers.

As a result, even prior to the pandemic and the energy crisis, STA is seeing more and more swim schools start to build and have control over their own pools – but they are not all being built in places you might think are obvious. They are being built in units on industrial estates where there is ample customer parking, or in disused pubs in the heart of communities, and in the case of this Puddle Ducks franchise, on the high street in Northwich, as Rachel explained here.

desperate for them to catch up on this essential life skill.

By having complete control over our own pool, we were uniquely positioned to be able to cope with this increase in demand.

A HIGH STREET LOCATION IS UNUSUAL, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE KEY BENEFITS? From our perspective, the footfall from the high street brings us high-visibility – at Barons Quay, a thousand people a week walk from one end of the shopping area to where we are located. Convenience is also definitely a benefit – parking is plentiful and close by with lift access for those with buggies/prams.

Customers are also able to combine their swimming lesson with other retail activities, either pleasure or essential day-to-day jobs.

EVEN IN ‘NORMAL’ TIMES POOLS ARE A BIG INVESTMENT, BUT IN THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES, HOW HAVE YOU FOUND IT IN NORTHWICH?

WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO A SWIM SCHOOL WANTING TO DO SIMILAR?

There hasn’t been a ‘certain’ period since pre-covid. Having navigated the time when we couldn’t swim at all, whilst simultaneously building the pool at Barons Quay, we found ourselves re-opening our business in a very favourable environment – we had retained a huge percentage of our customers due to the trust in the brand, plus we were launching a new, state-of-the-art pool at a time of unprecedented demand for lessons. Children had missed out on swimming lessons for up to 18 months in some cases, and parents were

Expertise is key and we had a specialist team on board from the beginning, including a property consultant, legal team, architect, structural engineer and a commercial pool specialist, as well as a full-time project manager.

Being in a strong financial position is crucial. A detailed plan that’s well costed and tightly managed is essential and build costs will change as you progress so have a contingency in place.

Running a swim school is challenging, but operating a swimming pool and the

associated facilities 24/7 is complex.

Pool plant training with STA early on was crucial so we could gain the experience and knowledge required to manage both pool operations and facilities management.

WHAT WERE THE KEY ASPECTS OF THE POOL DESIGN? Twenty years in the swimming industry has given us a unique insight into what makes a good venue. From a customer perspective the building ‘flows’; everything from the reception and buggy park, to the individual changing rooms all with change tables and underfloor heating, to the viewing gallery, down to the child friendly poolside bathroom – everything was designed with our customers in mind.

The pool and plant design were equally important, because we wanted the highest pool water and air quality, along with energy efficiency that’s reliable and easy to manage.

If this case study has inspired and provided the interest to build, own or operate a pool of your own, please get in touch with the STA and our technical team will be happy to help.

STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk

A detailed plan that’s well costed and tightly managed is essential and build costs will change as you progress so have a contingency in place” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 43_SPN_April_2023_STA.indd 43

SPN April 2023 43 06/04/2023 15:22

SPN APR 2023.qxp_Layout 1 06/04/2023 14:39 Page 44

COMPANY VISIT

Lighthouse Open New Technical Training Centre It’s been a busy period for the team at distributor Lighthouse, who at the end of January, officially opened their new ‘Technical Training Centre’ in Oxford.

With a wide variety of products on display, numerous trade guests including ourselves have already been able to enjoy an up close and personal look at the new facility. Here we look in detail at about what it means for the company, its trade partners and their clients By Jon Wadeson

L

ighting the way, specialist, independent distributor Lighthouse is standing proud with its winter achievements by opening the first UK Technical Training Centre for the pool industry.

With two fully operational, heated and treated HeatForm exercise pools ready for use, this centre of excellence has been designed and built by the team at Lighthouse to assist the trade with sales across its amazing range of products.

The facility is designed to help people understand the workings and installation of swimming pools and any associated equipment. The pools boast a version of the company’s Velocity counter-current unit – one with an over the wall option and the other with the popular hidden version – and take pride of place in the showroom. Each is available for a test swim by appointment and with this fantastic set up, Lighthouse have really created a game changer for the distribution sector.

With the new facility, pool professionals can now bring their clients and show them the benefits of the Lighthouse products, plus they can also bring their engineers and staff to learn about the products they are selling and installing, all within a working environment.

This is already proving to be popular with pool professionals from across the UK and Europe too, with visitors already using the centre for potential new clients. Lighthouse have even had athletes from swim England as well as triathlete coaches in the pools, testing the power of the Velocity swim jet.

Once clients test the pools and realise the performance that is offered from these counter-current units, they immediately understand the potential that can be gained from fitting one on to a project.

To finish off the two pools, a Hydrodeck slatted cover and Coverseal safety cover have been installed. Being able to see these type of products in situ and operational also provides clients with the opportunity to understand the advantages and difference between both types of pool cover that Lighthouse offers.

The Hydrodeck system is top mounted and shows how the slats float on the water’s surface, creating a smart, clean, hard surface over the pool, whilst reducing heat loss and promoting solar gain.

The Coverseal system is very different to a slatted cover, being battery operated ensures easy installation into any garden. The housing runs in a track along the paving or surround,

The facility is designed to help people understand the workings and installation of swimming pools and any associated equipment” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 46_SPN_April_2023_Company_Focus_Lighthouse.indd 45

zipping the cover into place and sealing the whole pool off under its clean, flat, material cover. This in turn is able to support up to 200kg per m/sq making it one of the safer covers on the market. Due to the taught surface the cover offers, there is no need for a cover pump, something which adds huge appeal to its looks.

Lighthouse are proud to say that they have always been one step ahead with technical training, getting deep into the equipment rather than just selling the benefits of products from a power point presentation. Offering the opportunity to be able to see items in a working environment means that engineers can now both fully understand and test the products.

Lighthouse’s technical training has run continuously through March and into April with small groups of pool engineers and sales staff going through the company’s complete ranges. From robotic pool cleaners to pumps, and filtration to lighting, all have been covered along with more in-depth training on water treatment and air source heat pumps.

To enhance any staff knowledge and experience further, Lighthouse is happy to offer more specific training sessions tailored to particular needs for those operating within the trade. To discuss options further and book a unique training experience, please contact the Lighthouse office.

Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

SPN April 2023 45 06/04/2023 15:18

COMPANY VISIT

Alukov UK Host British Partners At Impressive Czech Headquarters With pool and spa enclosures becoming a more common sight in settings around the UK and beyond, Czech manufacturer Alukov is undoubtedly one of the most important companies in the sector, producing some 3,000 enclosures annually. So when an invitation was received for SPN to discover more about the company and its products, we jumped at the chance to see why it has gone from strength-to-strength over recent years By Jon Wadeson

A

s one of the leading manufacturers of pool, spa and patio enclosures, Alukov, has established connections in 40 countries all over the world, and has created one of the largest sales networks in the sector.

In conjunction with its UK division, which operates from offices in Surrey, the enclosure manufacturer recently organised one of its most important events of the year so far – a training event for significant and long term partners from the UK – something which the company is looking to do again later this year.

The training took place after a two-year COVID hiatus for the company but during that pause, both product offerings and facilities have been improved and expanded, so it was the perfect time to see what was new.

As key partners, representatives from six British companies along with SPN flew in to Prague Airport at lunchtime on Monday 27 February for the start of a visit to the Czech Republic which was to include a full training programme plus tour of Alukov’s recently expanded and enhanced headquarters.

After meeting at arrivals with Alzbeta Murray – head of Alukov UK and the trip’s main organiser – guests were transferred to the EA Hotel Kraskov in Třemošnice to checkin and unwind at the spa resort ahead of what would prove to be a busy and insightful visit.

The next morning, after a minibus transfer of approximately half an hour, the group arrived at Alukov’s impressive headquarters in Orel. Following coffees, introductions followed from Zdenek Novak, International Business Director and Export Manager Thaddeus Rejl, who would lead the sessions supported by Zdenek and Alzbeta. The training presentation commenced with in-depth information about the Alukov Group and its history. From extremely humble beginnings in 1995, the business now boasts a turnover in excess of €60m and operates two manufacturing sites in the Czech Republic, plus further sites in

Slovakia and Hungary.

The company’s size allows the manufacturer to continuously innovate its products and activities on the basis of customer requirements, and this was demonstrated via a complete run through of the comprehensive enclosure range it offers, followed with explanations about the company’s latest innovations.

Next it was outside where partners had the opportunity to walk around the recently expanded production facilities. This provided a great opportunity to take a peek into the actual manufacture of a number of the company’s predominantly bespoke pool, spa and patio enclosure models that are produced at the Orel site. It also allowed guests to see first hand the traditional craftsmanship that is involved with the production of each and every Alukov enclosure.

...the enclosure manufacturer recently organised one of its most important events of the year so far – a training event for significant and long term partners from the UK” 46 April 2023 SPN 46_SPN_April_2023_Company_Focus_Alukov.indd 46

Following a break for lunch in the on site restaurant, the second part of the facilities tour took partners back outside to see the new modern showroom which was opened just six months ago. Here, several Alukov enclosures are on show from across the range. Display models included both low and high options for swimming pools and swim spas plus the very latest designs including the Pergola Spa with its distinctive shading panels, integrated LED lights and retractable roof. Outside is where Alukov also showcased some of their other, non wet leisure innovations such as solar powered rechargeable bike stations and car ports.

Training resumed inside with a more technical presentation which included installation information followed by marketing support and sales features / benefits. All in all, the day was thoroughly informative for anyone looking to understand more about Alukov, the brand’s values, its wide range of products – and a real must attend venue for retailers who are looking to include them in any portfolio – in my opinion anyway!

After leaving Orel, it was back to the hotel where drinks and dinner were again expertly hosted by the Alukov team.

After a well earned night’s sleep, next morning it was back to Prague Airport following what can only be described as a positive and rewarding experience – sentiments which were echoed from all of the partners that were present – and Alukov UK are looking to do a further client trip again in the autumn.

Alukov UK 0118 909 9844 www.alukov.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/04/2023 15:37

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ASTRALPOOL FP APR23.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2023 00:16 Page 1

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COMPANY FOCUS

Recent Developments At AstralPool UK Incorporate ‘Heritage And The Future’ Following a move to new offices and a change to warehousing, we spoke to well-known wet leisure distributor AstralPool UK to get a better understanding about the changes and some of the benefits they will bring to the Fareham-based company and its customers By Jon Wadeson

A

stralPool UK Ltd has remodelled their business’s warehousing and distribution arm by relocating these functions to their ‘sister company’ and fellow Fluidra member, Certikin International in Witney. The decision to relocate this part of the business followed a strategic review of the UK operations and the expiry of the current premises’ lease in April 2023.

Dyfed Thompson-Smith, General Manager of AstralPool UK Ltd, explained the rationales behind the decision: “The decision to streamline the warehouse and logistics operations brings several advantages to the existing business and enables AstralPool UK to position itself well for future challenges and opportunities. Streamlining operations will help the business improve customer service through increased efficiency and productivity.”

Dyfed also advised that the change will eliminate duplication in the supply chain and enable AstralPool UK to consolidate stock holdings. By working with their sister company, AstralPool are providing synergies that will manage and optimise inventory levels and generate greater efficiencies, which in turn, should lead to greater levels of customer service for AstralPool UK customers across the country.

Alongside the relocation of the warehouse operations, AstralPool UK has moved into a new 3,000sq ft dedicated sales office in Fareham on the landmark Cams Hall Estate. The central location for the sales office enables AstralPool to keep one of its fundamental assets – its staff – and it’s the experienced and knowledgeable personnel who provide a unique mix in terms of association with AstralPool from its founding nearly 40 years ago to more recent additions to the team. With the central location for

the sales office, AstralPool teams can work together more effectively to promote and sell both products and services to their customers, and in addition, continue to build and manage strong relationships to improve customer satisfaction even further.

From a customer’s perspective, the dayto-day interaction with AstralPool UK will not change in any noticeable way – when a customer contacts the company, the call will be answered by an AstralPool team member as usual. The company’s staff will continue to handle and process all customer dialogue, including placing orders, technical queries/ support, stock enquiries, delivery updates and quotation / pricing information.

Speaking more about the transition, Dyfed went on to say that: “As with any change process, we also understand that there may be the inevitable questions of uncertainty regarding the future of AstralPool UK Ltd. However, I want to reassure all stakeholders

The change will allow us to concentrate more fully on the elements where we feel we add significant value to our customers, such as personalised contact coupled with credible and visible technical support and service” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 49_SPN_April_2023_Company_Focus_AstralPool.indd 49

that AstralPool UK remains committed to developing its standing in the UK wet leisure market. The change will allow us to concentrate more fully on the elements where we feel we add significant value to our customers, such as personalised contact coupled with credible and visible technical support and service, all backed up by Fluidra, the Spanish multinational listed group, recognised as the global leader in the pool and wellness industry.”

Dyfed concluded by adding that the move also contained a “nod to the past” and specifically to one of AstralPool UK’s founding fathers – Alan White – by linking the values and heritage brought by Alan and the company’s history to the present-day business and its core values of continuity and authenticity for the AstralPool brand. This messaging is visible around the new offices and the ultimate homage has been paid with a dedicated meeting facilty within the new offices being named ‘The Alan White Suite’.

With almost 40 years of UK heritage and experience within the wet leisure sector, here’s to the next 40 years for the Hampshire-based business!

AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com

SPN April 2023 49 06/04/2023 15:28

COMPANY FOCUS The Woodpecker display sauna was shown at SPATEX

The joint venture was announced at SPATEX

Sunbeach Spas Announce A Major Joint Venture And More!

In this issue, we take a look at major developments for Mansfield-based Sunbeach Spas who announced at SPATEX both a major joint venture with one of China’s largest hot tub and swim spa manufacturers plus a new partnership with a European sauna and spa manufacturer too! By Jon Wadeson

S

unbeach Spas, the multi-award winning UK distributor of hot tubs and swim spas are delighted to announce that they have entered into a joint venture with Crystal Island Leisure Products, one of the largest spa manufacturers in China. This venture is set to cement Sunbeach Spas’ position as one of the sector’s top tier suppliers in the UK. Whilst not a household name in Britain, Crystal Island are the powerhouse behind many well known brands including Oasis, Riptide and Allseas, and have been supplying hot tubs, swim spas and spa products around the globe for over a decade.

Sunbeach Spas have been the exclusive UK distributor of Crystal Island’s Oasis Spas brand since 2020, when they sought an additional supplier of quality spas to complement their own brand range as market demand rocketed during the pandemic lockdowns of that year. In the intervening time, Sunbeach Spas have built a strong relationship with Crystal Island, leading to discussions for further investment into the UK company by the Chinese spa giant. This massive investment is set not to simply promote Sunbeach Spas as a standalone supplier, but to position it as the distribution centre for all of the Crystal Island brands in the UK too, utilising Sunbeach Spas’ understanding of the local market and their expanding countrywide dealership network.

Crystal Island is currently in the closing stages of a massive upgrade to their production and storage facilities with a brand new, state-of-the-art factory being constructed in China’s Guangdong province, which is

projected to be fully operational by October of this year. The 1.6 million sq. ft. facility will allow additional production capacity of over 300,000 hot tub and swim spa units per year, with on site warehousing for over 6,000 spas over 24 floors, all handled by a bespoke, highly automated system.

Oasis Spas are renowned for being high quality, well built hot tubs and swim spas, and have earned Sunbeach Spas multiple awards for energy efficiency with their R18 insulation system and SmartSpa+ technology.

Sunbeach Spas’ dealer network in the UK can expect to reap significant benefits from this venture, including: • bigger and better marketing campaigns, with Sunbeach Spas leaning on Crystal Island’s years of global experience • bigger UK warehousing facilities leading to more locally available stock and reduced lead times • better direct dealership support, particularly regarding display units and payment terms.

Speaking about the venture, Wayne Green, CEO of Sunbeach Spas said: “This partnership will be a driving force for good for both our dealers and their customers. With our in-depth knowledge of the UK market, Crystal Island’s global clout, and our combined energy and drive for innovation, there are big things coming – watch this space!”

The company are also delighted to announce their recent partnership with Woodpecker Tubs, bringing the brand’s premium quality range of hand-crafted

With our in-depth knowledge of the UK market, Crystal Island’s global clout, and our combined energy and drive for innovation, there are big things coming – watch this space” 50 April 2023 SPN 50_SPN_April_2023_Company_Focus_Sunbeach.indd 50

saunas and wood-fired spas to the UK as their exclusive distributor.

For over 15 years, Woodpecker have created a range of hand-built outdoor products with an emphasis on the use of natural materials and fuels. Their products are already widely available across Europe and the Nordic regions, and Sunbeach Spas are pleased to have been offered the opportunity to be their exclusive distributor for the UK. A family-run company, Woodpecker employs skilled craftsmen to design and build their products, using AAA-grade timber to ensure the very best quality for the end user. They pride themselves in both the quality of their products, as well as having a clear understanding of their customers’ needs, as demonstrated by their range of six different saunas with a variety of sizes and finishes, and with a choice of five Harvia-branded heater options.

All saunas provided by Sunbeach Spas come fully constructed and are plug-and-play – however, flat pack options are always available too. Each wood-fired spa or sauna comes with a wide range of customisable options, from heater units to custom graphics, and the most popular configurations are held instock in the UK. Sunbeach Spas have also worked with Woodpecker to help alleviate a problem faced by a large number of dealerships who are interested in selling saunas – that being the issue of showroom display space. To get around this problem, and with the help of the team at Woodpecker, Sunbeach Spas have designed and developed a truly unique, specialised display unit consisting of the full frontal aspect of the sauna with all the key elements on display. However, at only 900mm deep, it takes up no more space than a hot tub standing on its side, making it ideal for every showroom.

Sunbeach Spas 01623 706185 www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/04/2023 15:28

SPN Ad March 2023.qxp_Layout 1 24/03/2023 16:55 Page 1

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SPATEX, COVENTRY BUILDING SOCIETY ARENA, COVENTRY

SHOW REVIEW

SPATEX Stands And Delivers!

More than 1,400 visitors from 23 countries worked their way around over a hundred stands

The water leisure industry from the UK and further afield arrived at the Coventry Building Society Arena at the end of January for the annual threeday SPATEX exhibition. Celebrating its 26th edition as a live event, and with more than just a products and stands on offer, there was plenty for visitors to see and do at the Midlands venue By Jon Wadeson

K

nown as the go-to event for water leisure in the UK, the three-day SPATEX exhibition held annually at the Coventry Building Society Arena attracts a wide range of visitors involved in the provision of water leisure products and the operation of them. Installers, retailers, leisure operators, local authorities, hoteliers, architects and more – all know the value that the event offers.

Following the lifting of COVID restrictions just prior to last year’s event, 2023’s offering was firmly back to being a normal and worry-free show.

Looking around the hall, once again it was apparent that the majority of exhibitors had gone to great efforts with their stands and had pulled out all the stops to make the Show look as professional as possible.

With the doors opening on the Tuesday morning, the buzz of conversations once again filled the air as the exhibition confirmed itself as the perfect platform for companies to unveil new products and discuss the latest developments to a unique industry audience.

More than that though, SPATEX has established itself as an annual

chance to network face to face, which for a variety of reasons, isn’t always possible.

The wide range of products on view plus services on offer, combined with the training resources that were provided by various associations and businesses, meant there really was something for everyone who attended. Add in the BSPF hosted Gala Evening and its Awards, both of which are covered earlier on in this issue, plus various social opportunities, and you can see that SPATEX really is an annually held one-stop shop and the place to be for anyone involved within the UK wet leisure industry.

In fact the post Show figures reveal that more than 1,400 visitors from 23 countries made their way to the Coventry Building Society Arena and worked their way around over a hundred stands, showcasing the latest innovations from the world’s leading suppliers and manufacturers – both big and small.

With a large presence once again within the hall, plus a milestone to celebrate, Certikin’s Richard Way commented: “Another great

A range of wellness products took up a significant part of the SCP UK stand this year

The exhibition attracts a wide range of visitors involved in the provision of water leisure products and the operation of them

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 53-55_SPN_Apr_2023_SPATEX_Review.indd 53

SPN April 2023 53 05/04/2023 17:47

SHOW REVIEW

SPATEX, COVENTRY BUILDING SOCIETY ARENA, COVENTRY

SPATEX showcases the latest innovations from the world’s leading suppliers and manufacturers – both big and small

Superior Wellness used their impressive stand at SPATEX to showcase existing products and launch new models and products

The wide range of products on view plus services on offer meant there really was something for everyone who attended

SPATEX employed the services of a video production team to capture testimonials as seen here with Golden Coast’s Adam Clark

show delivered by Michele and the team and, as always, we saw a number of high-quality visitors. This year, Certikin celebrates its 60th anniversary and it is fair to say that SPATEX has played an important part in its success. The show provides a platform for them to launch their new products for the upcoming season as well as being a fantastic opportunity to meet old and new customers alike.

New exhibitors were impressed too. Nils Rouwendal of Carropools, one of a number of overseas-based companies said: “This was the first time we exhibited in the UK. We were impressed by the high quality of the stands and products from co-exhibitors. We’ve gathered

...post Show figures reveal that more than 1,400 visitors from 23 countries made their way to the Coventry Building Society Arena and worked their way around over a hundred stands...”

so many valuable insights, contacts with British pool builders and fun experiences that we’ve decided to return next year.”

Visitors gave high praise to the exhibition too. Jane Veysey of All Swim commented: “Definitely make the time. It’s really good to see suppliers who you don’t necessarily speak to on a day-to-day basis.

The seminars are really, really worthwhile as well.”

Miles Laflin, aka ‘ThePoolGuy’ to many on various social media channels said: “I’ve been in the swimming pool game for around 15 years but have only recently been coming to SPATEX and I enjoy coming. Meeting everyone, seeing faces and being able to network with all the companies.”

The strong presence from hot tub and spa related companies continued from previous years and there was also an expansion on the wider wellness theme with more saunas around the hall than I recall seeing than before, joined by several ice bath products.

A new initiative was the launch of the Swimming Teachers’ Association ‘Swim to the Beat’ campaign, to raise valuable funds throughout February for the British Heart Foundation. Utilising a large swim spa on the Aqua Warehouse stand, a synchronised swimmer, a rower and a counter-current swimmer were all put through their paces

The strong presence from hot tub and spa related companies continued from previous years

A new initiative was the launch of the Swimming Teachers’ Association ‘Swim to the Beat’ campaign

54 April 2023 SPN 53-55_SPN_Apr_2023_SPATEX_Review.indd 54

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 05/04/2023 17:48

SPATEX, COVENTRY BUILDING SOCIETY ARENA, COVENTRY

SHOW REVIEW

Installers, retailers, leisure operators, local authorities, hoteliers, architects and more – all know the value that the event offers

Certikin celebrates its 60th anniversary and SPATEX has played an important part in its success over the years

A number of overseas companies exhibit at SPATEX including Czech-based pool producer NIVEKO

Fairlocks Pool Products are one of the distributors who utilise the Show to launch new products

and drew attention.

Also new for 2023, SPATEX employed the services of a video production team to capture testimonials from the exhibition floor from both exhibitors and visitors – all of which can all be accessed from the SPATEX website or from their YouTube channel.

As already touched on, in addition to the wide variety of exhibitors and products, SPATEX featured impressive and free education and training within two Arenas. According to the Show’s organisers, over a third of visitors sampled the free ISPE Workshops and presentations held by a variety of organisations in the parallel seminar programme, where energy saving and sustainability, along with the latest health and safety guidance, were hot topics.

As ever, it’s impossible to provide more details all workshops or the products that stood out from the three days – but as new product sponsor for SPATEX, some of the innovations on show and topics discussed have certainly been included throughout this issue either as news or within our features. More of them will follow either online or in subsequent issues and of course, some we have already featured in previous issues.

Finally, outside of the exhibition hall, there were the other

networking opportunities – which were plentiful and very well attended. As you will hopefully have seen earlier in the issue, there was the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards on the Tuesday evening, which was followed by the traditional after-show visitor and exhibitor themed SPATEX Networking Party on the Wednesday. Many delegates also enjoyed a special curry and artisan beer night in the local Dhillon’s Brewery located within minutes of the Arena – a new initiative that proved to be a different, tasty and popular event.

So, in summary, with a lot going on, SPATEX 2023 appeared to tick all the boxes once again. In fact, if the show’s success is an industry barometer, then the forecast is set fair for a vibrant, busy season ahead.

If you’ve never visited SPATEX or perhaps haven’t been for several years, it really is an event worth going to. Next year, SPATEX returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena for its 27th edition and takes place a little later – from Tuesday 6 to Thursday 8 February – SPN will hopefully see you there!

SPATEX 01264 358558 www.spatex.co.uk According to the Show’s organisers, over a third of visitors sampled the free ISPE Workshops and presentations in the parallel seminar programme

The majority of exhibitors had gone to great efforts with their stands – a great example being Ocea UK

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 53-55_SPN_Apr_2023_SPATEX_Review.indd 55

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SWIM SPAS – MID & HIGH-END

Swim Spas That Offer The Complete Package As an increasingly popular choice for many over recent years, mid and high-end swim spas have become a widely accepted training aid plus an alternative to more traditional pool choices. Offering the very latest in counter-current technology plus spa options incorporated, they provide a complete swim and relax package. So what’s currently on offer? We take a look at some of the premium choices available in this buoyant sector By Jon Wadeson

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s a product that offers the benefits of an effective swimming area combined with the relaxation aspects of a spa or hot tub, swim spas have steadily increased in popularity over recent years and the appeal for mid and high-end options has remained steady despite a slow down that’s been experienced in other areas of the spa sector.

Whilst still somewhat niche when compared to the overall pool and hot tub markets, manufacturers and retailers alike clearly see the potential in the swim spa sector with both expanding their offerings for these high value and often flagship products.

Competitive pricing, ownership convenience and of course, that certain wow factor has resulted in an appeal that is much wider than for dedicated swimming alone. Of course, keep fit fanatics, athletes and even people recovering from various injuries and ailments can all benefit from access to, or ownership of, a swim spa, and these are to intended target market. However, the argument for choosing a quality swim spa has never been stronger for families that are also in search of for a premium, multi-use product too.

So it seems the many boxes ticked by a swim spa, especially one with all the latest bells and whistles, is a tough product to resist for those with larger budgets, regardless of the intended final use.

So what’s on offer this year for those who are looking past entry-levels models? In this

issue, we examine just some of the swim spa brands and models that are competing for business in this competitive sector.

2023’S CX SERIES HERALDS A NEW ERA FOR CATALINA As the original swim spa manufacturer, Catalina Spas is the longest established swim spa brand in the world.

With well over 30 years of experience in the sector, the company are well known for producing some of the most efficient, powerful and beautiful models that money can buy.

With all the knowledge gained over the years, Catalina have adapted their range of swim spas to remain at the cutting edge of innovation, and 2023 has heralded the start of a new era for the brand in the UK. For some time, and prior to the pandemic, the Salisbury-based operation had been in extensive discussions about manufacturing their own range of spas and swim spas.

They have now partnered with like-minded professionals, all of with extensive experience in the design, production and manufacturing of vacuum formed acrylic spas and swim spas.

Prototype production began in early 2022 and the first models finished were tested and scrutinised in detail. They were sent for Attestation of Conformity and achieved UKCA, CEE and TUV certification.

The company has now released a new and updated 3.8m Mardi Gras and a 5.8m

New for 2023, Catalina Spas’ 5.8m Dual Temperature Marathon is part of the new CX range of spas and swim spas

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Marathon and Dual Temperature Marathon with three further models to come. Both of the Marathon models feature three river jets for exercise and 27 stainless steel hydrotherapy jets for relaxation.

Manufacturing their own range has given the company the ability to take control of their supply chain and the ability to prioritise their customers. Over time it is the company’s intention to add more models to the range and these will be developed based on customer feedback and demand.

Through the new facility, the company are also able to provide contract moulding services to clients who desire their own unique spa or swim spa models or ranges.

WELLIS’S TURBINE MODELS OFFER POWERFUL PERFORMANCE Wellis offer three swim spa models with each having both W-Flow and Turbine variants, but for serious swimmers, it’s the Turbine models that will appeal most to those in search of the ultimate water-based workout.

Sitting at the top of their range is the Rio Grande. This large swim spa measures 6m x 2.35m and as with all models in the Wellis range, it has a generous depth of 1.47m.

Thanks to the unique solutions of the counter-current system, it serves as a swimming pool, and after an exhausting swim, users can relax in the separate spa massage section which has the same ergonomic design taken from the brand’s popular Malaga model meaning the Rio Grande truly provides a combined experience for its users.

The Turbine – instead of the three hydromassage pumps – is capable of propelling 50-160m3 water per hour. In contrast to standard swim spa pumps, the Rio Grande’s turbine consumes 75% less power while delivering twice the amount of water – that’s incredible performance combined with energy savings.

As a relatively new model, the Rio Grande also benefits from the latest in good looks too. Its 5mm fibreglass reinforced acrylic shell is available in Sterling Silver, is

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SWIM SPAS – MID & HIGH-END

It’s the Turbine models of Wellis’ Rio Grande that will appeal most to those in search of the ultimate water-based workout

complemented by a choice of black, brown or grey brushed cabinet and comes as standard with a hardcover.

Two UV-C water sanitiser and five antibacterial filters look after the water while two Smart Touch control panels located in each distinctive section of the Rio Grande make operation a simple task.

There’s a total of 40 jets on offer in the Rio Grande’s spa section and chromotherapy lighting, aromatic therapy and a swim tether all come as standard too.

THERMALS PRO SWIM SPAS PROVIDE A PROFESSIONAL AQUATIC WORKOUT Launched two years ago, the Thermals by Superior Wellness range includes a range of swim spas, but for those looking to exercise more seriously, the PRO swim spas are the models that will get most attention.

Both measuring in at 5.9m in length, the dual-zone Apollo and single-zone Athena have been designed around a state-of-the-art propulsion system with a professional workout in mind.

With these advanced devices, users have all the options at their fingertips. A leisurely, relaxing swim, high-intensity workouts or just relaxing in the water with friends, these swim

spas can do it all.

Thermals PRO swim spas are available in a number of shell, cover and skirt colours and a selection of further configuration options means a high degree of customisation is available.

The Thermals propeller and swim pump system can produce a broad, deep and powerful waterflow without adding air and at an extremely low noise level. Specifically designed diverters in the water outlets create an ideal swimming environment, even for ambitious swimmers.

For the PRO swim spas series, the manufacturer developed a dedicated low pressure backwater system. Unlike traditional water suction systems, PRO swim spas feature generously proportioned water inlets which drastically reduce the flow speed through the water suction inlets. Not only does this almost completely eliminate undesired currents, but it also contributes to a unique, ocean-like swimming experience.

Both models can also be upgraded to include a treadmill too. This high-tech option greatly improves the sense of technology of these two PRO swim spas, and increases the interest as well as function of them.

INNOVATIVE OPTIONS ARE ALL PART OF PASSION SPAS’ HIGH-END MODELS The swim spa designs from Passion Spas combine the company’s exclusive CurrentLift Technology, which allows the swimmer to remain on the surface of the water at any level of intensity of the current, with some of

For those looking to exercise more seriously, the PRO swim spas in the Thermals by Superior Wellness range will get most attention

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the most innovative spa massage techniques ever developed to provide an all round swim spa experience.

At the top end of the brand’s swim spas range, Spirit, Vitality and Energy models can be found along with their ‘deep’ variants.

It’s in these premium models that Passion Spas have combined all of their unique massage therapy innovations into a single swim spa package.

Aqua Rolling Massage™, Intense Therapy Zone™ and Therapy Wave Zone™ are all included in these three models, giving users a full menu of therapy choices. In addition, because the swim and spa sections are separate, users can vary the temperatures between the two units, experiencing a lower temperature workout in the swim lane before soothing tired muscles in the hot water of the spa. The Dual Zone heating systems in the Spirit, Vitality and Energy swim spas allows the best of both worlds – swimming and relaxing in a single spa product.

The Energy is the largest model that Passion Spas produce and it’s closely followed by the Vitality. Both of these models measure in excess of seven metres in length, so if space isn’t an issue but creating an impression is, with so many innovative features included, they’re sure to receive a lot of attention in showrooms and beyond.

TIDALFIT OFFER VARIABLE FLOW OPTIONS PLUS A UNIQUE LAYOUT TidalFit is the swim spa brand of Artesian Spas and the company produce a variety of models to suit a range of budgets and needs.

At the top end of their range, you’ll find the DT (dual temperature) models and then something a little different in the DTL. The DTL range consists of two models – the DTL-6 and DTL-8. Unsurprisingly, the DT also stands for dual temperature, but these two swim spas are arranged in an ‘L’ shape.

Each combine Tidalfit’s world-class 14ft exercise pool with a choice of either 6 or 8 feet of hydrotherapy spa, and the company seamlessly integrate both into one amazing L-shaped unit.

If space isn’t an issue but creating an impression is, with so many innovative features included, the Passion Spas Vitality is a complete package

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SWIM SPAS – MID & HIGH-END

Sunbeach Spas’ range of Oasis produced swim spas consists of dedicated swim spas and combined units such as the AS-55D and AS-60D models

Both models come with Tidalfit’s Quad Swim Jet System as standard, however there is the option to upgrade to the company’s Variable Flow Swift Water Trainer (VFSWT) which incorporates a powerful swim system containing true variable speed pumps and expertly designed jets to provide a balanced, stable swim current. This system allows a variety of swim options by varying swim resistance, simply by pushing a button on the Touch Screen LCD panel. Swimming resistance can be set anywhere from 0% to 100%.

Interval Training can be set up by using the ten available swim programmes, which can be varied in time from 1 minute to 30 minutes and power from 0% to 100%. This allows the TidalFit to be used by beginners through to advanced swimmers. There’s also the option to add the new Advanced Integrated

Competitive pricing, ownership convenience and of course, that certain wow factor has resulted in an appeal that is much wider than for dedicated swimming alone” Streaming Stereo. Owners simply connect through Bluetooth with any smart device to start enjoying their favourite songs instantly.

PEDIGREE SHINES THROUGH WITH THE OASIS SWIM SPA RANGE FROM SUNBEACH Sunbeach Spas’ range of Oasis produced swim spas consists of dedicated swim spas and combined units, each of which sets themselves ahead of the crowd with some key features.

Firstly, power. With up to four Turbo jets that are unlike any others on the market, and create a smooth, straight stream of counter-current with up to 2,000+ gallons per minute of flow, free of both turbulence and air bubbles to give a sublime swimming experience, no matter what the ability level of the user might be.

With power, also comes control. Unlike swim spas with limited, physical control valves, the included inverter system allows for full electronic control of the jet speed ensuring that users will always be able to find a comfortable swim speed, no matter what

their ability level.

Finally, build. These share the same pedigree of design and construction as the company’s Oasis Spas range, including the full-foam, multi-density insulation system for superlative heat retention and energy saving.

With energy costs hitting the headlines, owners will be pleased to hear that all models in the range feature R18+ Thermal Lock Insulation to lock the heat inside the spa within the cabinet. Thermal Lock uses closed cell foam insulation, full foam open cell, heat reflective wraps and high density side skirts to provide some of the best energy efficiencies on the market.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Artesian Spas 01302 730295 www.artesianspas.co.uk Catalina Spas 01980 611555 www.catalinaspas.co.uk Passion Spas +31 577 456 040 www.passionspas.com Sunbeach Spas 01623 706185 www.sunbeachspas.co.uk

Tidalfit’s worldclass 14ft exercise pool combines with a choice of either a 6, or as here, 8 feet of hydrotherapy spa to create DTL models

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Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk Wellis +36 29 564 380 www.wellis.com

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POOL LINERS & SYSTEMS

Sensational Lining Solutions For Projects Of Any Size With liner pools being a popular choice in the UK, there will always be demand for a variety of pool lining solutions for both new build and refurbishment projects.

Thankfully, the days of limited lining choices are a distant memory thanks to an ever-expanding offering of the latest on-trend, high quality and durable solutions, many of which are now texturised. So what’s available this year? Here we examine just some of the options By Jon Wadeson

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here are variety of ways to transform a dated looking swimming pool, but when it comes to liner pools located both indoors or outside, one of the simplest and most effective way is a complete refresh of the interior – and that means some form of new lining.

With manufacturers keeping a close eye on the latest trends, over recent seasons, the quality and depth of ranges has increased with new designs, colours, patterns and textures all being made available. As a result pool owners who wish to transform or renovate what was once their pride and joy, can do so fairly quickly and at a relatively low cost too.

With the latest liners now being at the cutting edge in the trend stakes, many of which often imitate their tiled counterparts, numerous pool owners are jumping at the chance to bring their pool right up to date with the latest contemporary styles. Of course, that’s not to say that traditional options and colours don’t still have a place in the market but the variety of choice on offer today has become seriously impressive and has lead to companies in the sector remaining as busy as ever as owners realise the value of a revamp.

Of course, it goes without saying that these products are suitable for new projects, but they really come into their own when

Available from Aquaflex, CGT Aquasense in Fidji Green is a beautiful stone design inspired directly from Indonesia

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refurbishing existing pools, as the visual contrasts are so much more apparent.

Whether produced in a factory or applied on site, a new liner for a pool of any size or shape has the ability to give a tired, often unwelcoming installation a new lease of life and the chance to once again impress its owners and guests.

Regardless of pool size, style or the aesthetic requirement, there’s sure to be a liner or lining solution that ticks all the necessary boxes and we take a look at just some of the available lining options and companies that are providing them.

STUNNING AND UNIQUE LINING OPTIONS FROM AQUAFLEX Aquaflex is proud to provide the UK swimming pool industry with site lining teams to cover the ever growing commercial and domestic swimming pool market.

Site lining is the perfect solution for non-uniform shaped pools and offers a cost effective solution compared to other finishes such as ceramic tiles.

With an expanding range of 1.5 and 2.0mm site lining patterns, customers have a variety of choices ranging from natural and ceramic embossed designs to conventional standard patterns used widely in the commercial market.

Added to their range and new for the

2023 season is Alkorplan’s latest creation TILE – a product that simulates large format tiles. Perfectly combining elegance and functionality, the two colours in the range, Quartz (grey) and Jade (green), give the pool a sober and elegant look and both are very versatile in any environment. Featuring an embossed structure and optimum anti-slip resistance, with a thickness of 2mm, TILE is a very resistant and robust option.

Also new are two CGT Aquasense options.

Brown Basalt creates an enduring look and feel of natural stone creating warm teal blue waters, whilst Fidji Green is a beautiful stone design inspired directly from Indonesia – a design that brings a peaceful and quiet atmosphere to a swimming pool.

Both feature an exclusive Aquasense finish for full embossed texture and have been engineered with added chemical resistance and industry leading UV protection.

One of the company’s popular innovations is their Synergy offering. This perfect blend of Aquaflex pool lining system and ceramics offers a unique and beautiful combination, transforming any pool and giving it a sophisticated and elegant look.

Lastly, Aquaflex also produces .750mm pretailored liners in their factory in Salisbury, where they have a strong reputation for complex designs and non-conventional steps and features.

Giving the pool a sober and elegant look, Alkorplan’s latest creation TILE – a product that simulates large format tiles here in Jade

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POOL LINERS & SYSTEMS 2023 sees the addition of six new colours in Certikin’s Aquasense Granit range including (this) Calacatta Marble and (left) Black Slate

IT’S ALL IN THE LINE OF BEAUTY FOR CERTIKIN As a leading liner supplier, Certikin offers a comprehensive portfolio of stylish, high quality, durable options and the line up is growing.

2023 sees the addition of six new colours in the Aquasense Granit range. These are Golden Riviera, White Riviera, Nordic Stone, Black Slate, Brown Basalt and Calacatta Marble. The Aquasense liner is designed with real-to-touch natural textures enhancing smooth surfaces into three-dimensional patterns.

Introduced last year and proving highly popular is Vogue by Renolit. Available in three luxurious textures, this 2mm reinforced laminate is inspired by the latest trends and has the same properties as the Touch range.

New for 2023 is Vogue Tropical. Inspired by the island of Tahiti, the colourway is described as being a combination of lagoon blue and forest green.

There’s now a huge variety in styles and patterns. The traditional classics have been joined by liners featuring vibrant colours, photographic printing, metallic, pearlescent finishes and engraved finishes that offer a natural stone look.

The site applied lining option is increasingly popular with domestic owners due to its durability. Certikin’s Infinite On-site Lining range uses a 1.5mm – 2mm three ply product compared to the traditional single ply 0.75mm vinyl used for factory made liners.

The service is quick and efficient – taking around four working days for an average sized

SCP UK introduced wood effect 3D options with this Larch Fresco and Larch Nature (right) options

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...numerous pool owners are jumping at the chance to bring their pool right up to date with the latest contemporary styles” domestic hopper pool with steps and there is no curing or standing period. It’s suitable for both new and old pools of domestic and commercial size and can accommodate complex shapes, steps, ledges and pits. The longevity of the product, when compared to thinner linings or paints, is a major advantage, particularly for commercial pools.

It comes with a 15-year pro rata warranty but the life expectancy can be double this in a well-maintained pool.

SCP INTRODUCE NEW LATHAM LINERS AND EXPAND 3D OFFERING Available from SCP UK, the Latham UltraSeam 30 Gauge Vinyl Liner offering has been greatly refreshed for the 2023 season with nine new design options added to the patterned liner range which now consists of 23 designs.

SCP’s on-site lining options have also been boosted with the introduction of a new Haogenplast product. Stonetile is a 3D premium pool lining range available in three designs: Stonetile Golden, Stonetile Elegance and Stonetile Grey. With a genuine stone appearance and feel (which they say is so real even mother nature gets confused), this new introduction provides the following benefits:

• Ultimate long term waterproofing solution • Intense chlorine and other stains resistance • Strong resistance to UV damages • Slip resistance • The asymmetric configuration makes the 1.70mm products easier to cut and adjust during installation.

Suitable for both domestic and public pools, it comes with 12-year waterproofing warranty and is NF EN 15836-2 compliant.

The latest Stonetile options join an already extensive range of 3D products offered by SCP UK. They include the introduction last year, at the end of a long developing process, two wood effect designs that were added in the form of Larch Fresco and Larch Nature. Through a complex printing and embossing process, with the Larch products, Haogenplast have produced a liner that blends right into the look and feel of the most up-scale swimming pools.

With these options plus plain and full pattern lacquered options available too, thankfully there is an app that allows all the options within the Haogenplast collection to be seen in stunning images, breathtaking video clips plus there’s even a virtual reality mode to see what a specific pool will look like!

New 3D options available in 2023 from SCP UK include Stonetile Golden

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POOL LINERS & SYSTEMS ENJOY ACCESS TO ALL THE LEADING BRANDS WITH ON-SITE POOL LININGS The last few years has seen new ranges and patterns introduced to the swimming pool market, and according to specialists On-site Pool Linings, it’s definitely an exciting time for the pool industry with all the leading manufacturers producing exciting new options for customers to choose from. There are designs and colours to suit all tastes, from the traditional swimming pool linings to more modern, contemporary looking ranges which often have some unique finishes.

The experienced team at On-site Pool Linings are able to install the full range of materials – from all leading manufacturers – giving their customers the widest possible choice in swimming pool liners. They are the only company that offers this benefit to their customers and they are able to install liners into domestic pools, commercial pools, schools, hydrotherapy pools, holiday parks, health clubs, ponds and natural swimming pools.

As a specialist company, their business focuses solely on-site lining, so they are able to concentrate on this specific area, giving their customers excellent service before, during and after any installation.

With a team of professional installers who have over 60 years of experience between them, they offer a free quotation service with advice at each stage of the process – from quote to installation through to after care.

Their friendly, professional staff are always happy to help!

On-site liners have a quick installation time, low maintenance and are tailored for an exact fit to any size, shape or design of the pool.

The linings are suitable for both new and existing pools, allowing the ability to design, build or change the pool into something any customer has always dreamed of.

The experienced team at On-site Pool Linings are able to install the full range of materials – from all leading manufacturers

PLASTICA HAVE GOT THE MEASURE OF POOL LINERS! Through the first quarter of 2023, Plastica have invested in many departments including an improvement to their liner plotter/cutter.

Andy, their long-serving Liners Supervisor said: “The plotter/cutter is an upgrade from our last one in 2015, so the hardware and tech is quicker, it also runs a lot quieter as the vacuum unit is housed within the machine meaning no ear defenders are required and it has a smaller footprint than the last machine, so takes up slightly less space.”

As the UK’s longest standing liner manufacturer, which celebrated 50 years of trading last year, Plastica understand that a pool liner is only as good as the team that creates it. They know how important it is to their customers to have the perfect fitting liner and their team is one of the most experienced in the industry. Plastica’s CAD technicians, combined with the high-end plotter/cutter means they can manufacture

liners for virtually any size or shape of pool.

The company’s on-site lining service is expanding too with a new team being trained up by experts in-house to cover the whole of the UK. Increase in demand has warranted the Extreme teams to expand, as schools, hotels and holiday parks schedule in repairs to their swimming pools.

The tough material is hard wearing, 1.5mm thick and made of reinforced PVC, making it perfect for high use pools such as health clubs, leisure centres and hydrotherapy pools – and is guaranteed for ten years with temperatures up to 32°C. The Extreme pool lining system is a costeffective way to repair leaks in old pools and is also ideal for fitting in new ones too. With many colours and textures to choose from, the 3D liners incorporate a natural looking texture such as slate, sandstone or marble surfaces – as well as a ceramic tile effect but at a fraction of the price and a lot less upkeep.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Aquaflex 01722 328873 www.aquaflex.co.uk Certikin (Liners & Covers) 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk On-Site Pool Linings 01709 542128 www.on-sitepoollinings.com Plastica Pools 01424 857802 www.plasticapools.net

Plastica’s CAD technicians, combined with the high-end plotter/cutter means they can manufacture liners for virtually any size or shape of pool

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SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

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ONE-PIECE & FIBREGLASS POOLS

One-piece Pools – An Increasingly Popular And Stress-free Solution

With over 60 years of experience and innovating design of one-piece solutions, the LPW pool brand is a popular choice

With installation times that can be measured in days and weeks rather than weeks and months, combined with quality materials and finishes one-piece pools are the perfect solution for a convenient and hassle-free pool build experience. Add in some impressive warranties plus more options than ever before and it’s easy to see why they are such a success and increasingly chosen by both the trade and customers alike. In this issue, we discover what’s on the market By Jon Wadeson

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ith demand in the UK for swimming pools proving to be resilient, one-piece and fibreglass options have remained as front running options as a result of ticking many of the boxes for both the trade and for customers too.

The promise of convenience on many fronts is their biggest draw. Whether it is the initial choosing of one, the delivery times (at least under normal circumstances), their relatively straightforward installation or the fact that a lot of the fittings and equipment are in place and ready to go direct from the factory, pools of this type definitely provide a quick, straightforward and stress-free solution, ensuring as minimal disruption as possible.

Add in a wide range of options, low ongoing maintenance costs, stunning modern looks, competitive pricing, peace of mind warranties… the list goes on and for the vast majority of needs, there’s a suitable option on offer.

So, as a complete package, for most aspiring owners and for pool installers too, it’s no great surprise that they are being embraced more and more.

There’s now such a wide range of models, stairs and finishing options that pools can be customised to meet the needs of even the most particular and demanding customers.

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Putting aside requirements for a really specific, unusual design or of course, unique or bespoke shape, frankly, it’s difficult to identify any real downsides to these onepiece pool wonders.

Even installation sites with access challenges are rarely an issue thanks to an array of creative delivery methods plus further options to split some pools and join them together once on site.

In short, one-piece pools provide an impressive and hard to ignore list of benefits versus other more traditional pool options and for many, they are a tempting option that are just too hard to ignore.

So what’s available for the UK market for the season ahead? Well there’s more options in the sector than ever before and in this issue, we examine some of what’s on offer.

LPW’S ONE-PIECE POOLS – MAKING MEMORIES FOR LIFE With over 60 years of experience and innovating design of one-piece solutions, the LPW pool brand is a popular choice on the continent and is making its mark via Fairlocks Pool Products within the UK too.

The pools are manufactured as a single, complete pool shell that can be lowered into a pre-prepared hole in the ground. A strictly

controlled construction process ensures the pools are built to the highest quality. With an insulating honeycomb structure forming the core on which there are six layers of vinyl ester resin with further glass fibre support, the reinforced structure provides strength and rigidity as well a high degree of insulation.

Uncompromising quality control throughout the process enables LPW to ensure every customer gets the best out of Belgian knowhow and experience too. This gives LPW the confidence to offer the only lifetime guarantee available in the market today – how is that for peace of mind!

The unique design enables the added advantage for the pools to be fitted with the Covrex Automatic Slatted Cover system – one of the best options on the market. This combination minimises energy consumption and improves pool safety as well as security.

LPW offer various pool models – there’s 12 different styles, shapes and models to choose from – and each has been created and designed to satisfy a wide range of needs and budgets.

All models from LPW Pools can be supplied with an electrical control panel to control the pool pump, lights and the heater.

There is also an option to provide variable speed control of the circulation pump to

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ONE-PIECE & FIBREGLASS POOLS minimise running costs further.

Built in the factory and installed in a matter of weeks with far less disruption than more conventional builds… it’s easy to see why they are a popular choice. Combine that with a lifetime warranty and LPW’s one-piece pools could well be the future!

NEW EVI POOLS OFFER THE COMPLETE PACKAGE TO THE TRADE One-piece pool pioneers Waterstream, the home of Compass Pools in the UK, is pleased to announce the launch of EVi Pools, an exclusive range of complete pool packages for the trade.

In recent years, the company have received numerous enquiries from trade professionals who are keen to gain access to the wet leisure industry and offer their clients a high-end installation experience.

Waterstream understand that the installation of a one-piece pool should be a swift and straightforward process, requiring no retaining walls enabling quick installation with minimal disruption and long lasting results.

To simplify this process further, the company are able to provide guidance and support throughout the installation process, ensuring that the groundworks team has all the technical information required to prepare for delivery day, when they also provide assistance with the movement and placement of the pool, connecting the pool plumbing to the Pool Pod cabinet (plant room), ensuring a safe, high-quality result every time.

All of the EVi Pools base packages include a pre-fitted shell with lights, a pre-plumbed and wired Pool Pod complete with air source heat pump, pump, and filtration equipment, and any additional equipment required by the client such as counter-current turbine or safety cover.

By offering a complete pool package, EVi Pools can help trade professionals gain access to the one-piece market quickly and easily, providing a simple installation solution that will give their clients premium results every time. This new range offers trade professionals a simple, stress free process, that includes everything the trade

By offering a complete pool package, EVi Pools can help trade professionals gain access to the one-piece market quickly and easily

professional needs to create a stunning, high quality pool for their client regardless of their requirements or budget.

STARLINE MONOBLOCK POOLS GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Available through Ocea UK, Starline Monoblock luxury, one-piece pools have gone from strength to strength over the last few years since the relaunch of the UK franchise prior to the pandemic.

Starline have been manufacturing for 50 years and the swimming pools are 100% ‘Dutch’ design and have a minimalist look.

With a range of nine pool types spanning from 4.5m to 12m in length, there’s an option on offer to suit the requirements of the vast majority of customers and various budgets too.

The brand’s one-piece pools are manufactured using only the very best materials, with high quality composite and a very sustainable, double-walled insulated structure.

Each pool can be completely personalised with entrance steps, various options and chic accessories plus all are available in a range

of different colours – choose from a palette of seven across the majority of the range.

A Starline swimming pool is a clean swimming pool, with the top layer of the walls being UV-resistant, scratch-proof and indestructible. The material is extremely hard and very smooth, making it both antibacterial and soft to the touch too.

When it comes to safety, the company have given this a lot of thought. Various pools come with a standing ledge and a safety rim for the Roldeck cover, meaning children can safely play around the swimming pool.

Starline offer guarantees for all their products. This includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee on their swimming pools, as well as lifetime guarantees on the water tightness of the vinyl ester top layer and the tub. As the company’s swimming pools are completely fitted in the factory, any pool will be ready to use in a home or garden within one week.

NIVEKO’S HIGHLY CONFIGURABLE POOLS PROVIDE A UNIQUE ONEPIECE SOLUTION It is no coincidence that NIVEKO monopools are popular with both the trade and

Creating a mirror effect, Starline Infinity Line swimming pools allow the water to melt subtly into their surroundings

The compact Urban Active is the smallest Starline option in a range of nine pool types spanning from 4.5m to 12m in length

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ONE-PIECE & FIBREGLASS POOLS

There’s now such a wide range of models, stairs and finishing options that pools can be customised to meet the needs of even the most particular and demanding customers”

As the company’s pools are always custom made, NIVEKO are able to cater to a client’s wishes right down to the very last detail

customers alike. As the company’s pools are always custom made, NIVEKO are able to cater to a client’s wishes right down to the very last detail. There are no restrictions as regards shape or uniform design meaning each pool that leaves NIVEKO’s production hall is unique.

The installation of a NIVEKO monopool is a quick and easy process – the pool leaves production with everything prepared, to ensure that the installation goes as smoothly as possible and that the customer can use it immediately.

There are seven pool types in the NIVEKO pool portfolio – two skimmer variants and five overflow designs – with the idea of a pool that will fulfil the wishes of its owner down to the finest detail being reflected.

NIVEKO’s range covers a diverse selection of pools, from the proven and simple Skimmer Top Level type through to design specialties suitable for more demanding users, which the Infinity Overflow will suit.

Each type has its own characteristic qualities and design, each is suited to a different environment and the entire range makes up a comprehensive portfolio.

To accompany its pools NIVEKO also offers exclusive components to the highest quality standards combined with functionality and design from the NIVEKO Plus series.

The recessed stainless steel fittings of this concept are another piece of a unique jigsaw puzzle tailored precisely to suit the customer.

Practically every part of a NIVEKO monopools is configurable. As regards the pool itself, there are six colours to choose from. There is also a wide range of slat covers available, if the cover is ordered together with the pool, as well as numerous built-in features and accessories. It goes without saying that the firm offers various design options for entering the pool too.

XL POOLS LAUNCH AQUA TECHNICS BRAND TO THE UK MARKET Tony Exell and the team behind multi awardwinning XL Pools are excited to announce the launch of Aqua Technics one-piece swimming pools to the UK trade and with many benefits plus unrivalled dealer support and attractive margins available, applications from prospective dealers are being welcomed. Manufactured by Aquatic Leisure

XL Pools are excited to announce the launch of Aqua Technics one-piece swimming pools to the UK trade

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Technologies of Western Australia, their pools are renowned for their unparalleled quality, high-tech construction materials and exceptional design.

One-piece swimming pools have been a popular choice for homeowners due to their ease and rapidity of installation, however not all are created equally. Aqua Technics pools are engineered using the latest technology and the highest quality materials, ensuring that they are some of the best in the world.

Australia is the home of the swimming pool, boasting more domestic installations per-capita than any other country in the world, and Aquatic Leisure Technologies have been at the forefront of the market for 46 years, with the same founding family at the helm. The company’s pools are exported all over the globe and stocks of the most popular options are held at XL’s Kent distribution centre, meaning rapid delivery and installation times can be achieved.

Their commitment to customer satisfaction doesn’t stop at stocking these exceptional pools in the UK. Pools are fitted out in customer options in Kent and tested before being shipped out. Similarly, prefabricated plant rooms are manufactured and comprehensively tested and shipped out on the same truck as the pool, meaning a dealer’s engineers merely have to run an electricity supply to the plant room and connect pipe runs between the pool and plant room when it’s installed.

Prefabricated plant rooms are manufactured and comprehensively tested and shipped out on the same truck as the Aqua Technics pool

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ONE-PIECE & FIBREGLASS POOLS Deliveries to site are completed by a purpose-built articulated vehicle with rear-end steering and built-in crane, so in instances where the excavation is within reach of the crane, pools can be lowered straight in.

QBIG BENEFIT POOLS – PROVIDE TIME AND ENERGY SAVINGS ALBIXON, which has 30 years of experience in the production of one-piece pools, has a solution for everybody. Clients can chose from mass-produced pools as well as bespoke models, overflow as well as skimmer pools, and different colour options plus stair positions. High quality materials such as ALBISTONE® and POLYSTONE® from RÖCHLING, modern design and intelligent pool technology is a must. And if clients want to prolong the swimming season, they can easily add a pool enclosure, which ensures not only security, but also cleaner and warmer water.

Thanks to decades of experience with swimming pools, ALBIXON have come up with a unique pool production solution with their QBIG BENEFIT pools. The company removed all the ribbing from the outside of the pool and replaced it with 25cm thick thermal construction which after pouring concrete, serves as both a load-bearing and thermal insulating element of the pool. As the names suggests, these pools are full of benefits: very quick and easy construction work, simple maintenance, high thermal isolation and pipe protection.

In addition, these pools save water – with proper maintenance and compliance with the prescribed parameters of pool water, owners do not have to drain the pool, even at the end of the season. Therefore any necessary water replacement is only minimal.

For a clean design and the feeling of an infinite surface, opt for ALIBIXON’s overflow pools which feature a unique solution for the top edge. Their specially designed grid structure provides an ergonomic shape which is comfortable to walk on and significantly reduces the overrunning of water from the pool during water fun. For time-tested swimming pools in a new design select the skimmer pools, which are now even better,

Leisure Pools models are supplied inclusive of Lifetime Structural Warranty and Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranties on all their swimming pools

thanks to the possibility of finishing with an elegant X-SHAPE trim.

LEISURE POOLS’ WARRANTIES PROVIDE PEACE OF MIND FOR LIFE Proud to be one of the largest one-piece pool manufacturers in Australia and the USA, Leisure Pools has now grown to develop one of Europe’s most experienced fibreglass swimming pool dealer networks, installing quality fibreglass one-piece swimming pools, plunge pools and lap pools from a range of ten designs.

Extensive market research combined with the industry’s most experienced fibreglass pool designers has enabled Leisure Pools to develop one of Europe’s most architecturally modern and innovative range of pools which are available at competitive prices that will suit any family and budget.

Through their global experience, the company have developed state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and with superior raw materials, backed by in-house research and stringent quality control, every Leisure Pool product is assured of being of the highest standard.

Leisure Pools are a leader in swimming pool technology. Their patented Composite

Armour™ which features Du Pont™ Kevlar® and Carbon Fibre in all strategic structural points of the pools, combines with the company’s patent pending full vinyl ester resin construction. This combination allows all Leisure Pools models to be supplied inclusive of Lifetime Structural Warranty and Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranties on all their swimming pools.

The combination of the company’s patent USPs that include invisible high water lines, sharp understated designs and their modern range of colours combined with the some of the strongest warranties on the market today, are all contributors to the brand’s strong growth in Europe and the UK.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: ALBIXON a.s. +420 775 853 120 www.albixon.com Aqua Technics Pools UK 01233 840336 www.xlpools.com EVi Pools 01403 577674 www.trade.evi.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.lpwpools.co.uk Leisure Pools +44 33 08 08 48 22 www.leisurepools.eu NIVEKO s.r.o. +420 572 693 246 www.niveko-pools.com

For a clean design and the feeling of an infinite surface, ALIBIXON’s overflow pools which feature a unique solution for the top edge

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Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceauk.com

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AUTOMATIC DOMESTIC POOL COVERS

Automatic Covers For Safety, Style And More!

The installation of a pool cover is an obvious and logical step to make domestic pool ownership ‘greener’ and reduce running costs. Automatic pool covers go a step further by providing an effortless and stylish solution with the additional benefits of safety built in. With further innovations and numerous brands in the sector, there’s now more choice than ever and we take a closer look at what’s on offer in 2023 By Jon Wadeson

W

ith so many companies now operating within the sector, when it comes to automatic pool covers, there’s a wide array of brands, materials and colours to choose, meaning even the most discerning of clients are bound to find their perfect pool solution.

Automatic options are a great choice for domestic pools, saving their owners both time and effort in terms of maintenance, plus of course, energy and therefore money too!

Powered versions make opening and closing the pool as simple as turning a key, pushing a button or even tapping on a smartphone now that an increasing number of models are accessible remotely.

In short, these covers are as varied as they are dependable and manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to improve their offerings both in terms of quality and operation.

With plenty of options on offer, this issue, we take a look at some of the stylish coverups that are available for the domestic pool market this season.

FORGET BREXIT ISSUES AND BUY BRITISH SAFETY COVERS FROM AQUATRAC The substantial forward purchasing of materials, increased stock levels, a focus on buying the best the UK can offer and a genuine drive to reduce the company’s environmental impact… these measures and

more have proved to be increasingly attractive to discerning clients and likeminded pool companies working with Essex-based safety cover manufacturer Aquatrac.

Following multiple decades of installations, the mechanics of the Aquatrac safety cover have been established as some of the most reliable in the sector. The low volt drive unit with no hydraulics or power concerns by the poolside is unrivalled and all moving parts are high quality stainless steel or industrial plastics proven to last.

Whether fitted flush behind copings or below, standard and bespoke models all come with track colour choices. There are various pit cover types to suit a variety of surrounds whilst enabling full access to the cover and mechanism.

All options allow for full retraction of the cover leading edge beneath the pit top as standard, ensuring the ultimate desired finish is achieved without compromise. In addition, a variety of water levels can now be achieved with Aquatrac’s range of leading-edge beams.

Available in a multitude of colours as standard, the Aquatrac high gloss PVC material is cross woven with polyester mesh which not only guarantees complete safety, but additionally offers insulation, operational and easy cleaning benefits that may not initially be considered by the new pool owner, but will very quickly become seen as invaluable!

Available in a multitude of colours as standard, the Aquatrac high gloss PVC material is cross woven with polyester mesh

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OCEA OFFER OVER TWO DECADES OF EXCELLENCE, ELEGANCE AND ENGINEERING By continuing to manufacture their own cover materials, Ocea are able to ensure that quality and elegance remain their objectives.

As a leading manufacturer of fully automatic pool covers, and thanks to their innovative approach, they have a solution to suit every pool, whether indoors or outside.

Ocea’s slatted covers are available in a wide range of colours and finishes (18 to be precise) and are made using cutting edge materials which work hard to provide safety, retain heat, reduce condensation and algae, resist UV – all whilst providing a spectacular finish to any pool.

Two material options are offered for their pool covers – polycarbonate and PVC. Both materials offer temperature resistance and UV protection, shock resistance, rigidity and safety, however polycarbonate is the superior material, offering the highest benefits and widest colour range and comes with a five-year guarantee, whilst PVC is the more affordable option and is available in a range of classic colours and comes with a two-year guarantee.

Both in pool and above-ground options are available and each is suitable for all types of pool and are made to measure. When it comes to drive systems, whether for an existing or a new swimming pool, Ocea offers two kinds of systems for pool their covers:

Ocea’s slatted covers are available in a wide range of colours and finishes (18 to be precise) and are made using cutting edge materials

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AUTOMATIC DOMESTIC POOL COVERS the Logic system and the Classic system.

Boasting a 25 year industry pedigree, the Classic motor system is the traditional method for motorising an automatic pool cover whereas the advantage of the Ocea Logic motor system is that it is fitted inside the cover roller itself, thus minimalising the installation space with no moving parts outside of the pool.

Available from Fairlocks Pool Products, CovLock+ is an automatic cover that combines comfort and safety

SLATTED OR FABRIC – THE CHOICE IS YOURS WITH ASTRALPOOL AstralPool UK offer a number of automatic pool cover choices, with both slatted and fabric options available.

The company is continually incorporating the latest innovations to its products in matters of safety. As such their slatted automatic pool covers have been developed to meet the demands of the French standard NF P90 308, which guarantees maximum user safety.

These options cover the whole pool and are easily rolled up or spread thanks to their built-in motorised roller. The turning of a key is all that is needed to get it working.

Manufactured with rigid slats which are available in various colours, the design and composition produce a floating cover that fits over the entire pool and makes for very effective heat insulation. AstralPool have seven models to cover the equipment needs of new and existing pools, with submerged, above-ground and above-ground with a bench all available.

The Roussillon submerged automatic models allow for seamless integration with the pool. The roller mechanism is located in a separate sunken compartment sectioned off from the pool by a brick or PVC panel.

The above-ground models such as Carlit, Octea, Sveltea and Bellasun are ideal for existing pools as the winding shaft is fastened in place to the pool decking.

AstralPool UK offer a number of automatic pool cover choices, with both fabric and slatted models, such as this Sveltea option available

Also suitable for above-ground on existing pools, Narbonne and Zenit both provide a bench that covers the mechanical installation, giving it a high-quality finish.

If a material cover is required, Cover-Pools’ multitasking option will act as a safety cover, solar cover and winter cover whilst saving operating costs for its owners. Strong and with a smaller footprint, the Cover-Pools T4 system is the only automatic pool cover system designed for stainless steel cable which doesn’t stretch like traditional rope.

AUTOMATIC COVERS WITH FORM AND FUNCTION FROM FAIRLOCKS Available from Fairlocks Pool Products, CovLock+ is a cover that combines comfort and safety. As it’s automated, handling it is so simple, with quick opening and closing available at the turn of a key. It can be adapted to all types of pools too, thanks to its different models and a wide range of colour choices.

CovLock+ is completely waterproof around the whole perimeter, so the pool will stay clean in both summer and winter. It also prevents heat loss and stops evaporation.

Made in France, the product is fully complaint to the French safety standard NF P90-308 and includes four types of rail options to adapt to all pool types.

If a slatted option is required, Fairlocks offer their Covrex© solution. The differences between Covrex© and other slatted pool covers are numerous. Conceptual and intelligent, the systems consist of highquality PVC slats specially developed for use in both outdoor and indoor pool applications. The slats are co-extruded and integrally bonded with hinges made of PUR (polyurethane). The cross-section design permits tight coiling radii making Covrex© systems extremely

compact, with their space saving design meaning they are ideal for retrofitting as well as faultless initial installations.

The Covrex© design also means that old fashioned bacteria collecting endcaps are not necessary and therefore a considerable amount of fabrication work in the factory is eliminated.

This allows the covers to be fine-tuned and adapted to the finished pool on site, which guarantees precise fitting down to the last millimetre, and provides choice and flexibility in pools where conventional solutions are inadequate or completely unsuitable.

Covrex© automatic pool covers are the result of more than 40 years’ experience and client feedback. They are fully compliant with stringent French safety standard NF P90-308 and come with a five-year warranty on slats – the longest on the market.

GOLDEN COAST HAVE YOU COVERED WITH DEL AND AQUADECK Golden Coast provides a range of pool covers from renowned manufacturers DEL and Aquadeck.

One option for in-ground pool owners looking to maintain a clean and uncluttered look is to install an Aquadeck cover as an underwater in-cave system. This innovative design keeps the cover out of sight and eliminates the need for unsightly aboveground tracks or rollers.

When it comes to material options, Aquadeck slats are available in both PVC and polycarbonate. The slats are designed with a sleek, understated look that adds a touch of sophistication to the pool area. In addition, some models are equipped with integrated solar chambers that convert solar energy into heat, making it an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solution for a pool.

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AUTOMATIC DOMESTIC POOL COVERS The patented CoverSeal cover comprises a unique mechanism that allows the fabric to be cleanly unrolled onto the pool whilst locking it in place

Available through Golden Coast, the slats on Aquadeck covers are designed with a sleek, understated look that adds a touch of sophistication

With Aquadeck covers, owners can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their pool is protected, while also adding an attractive and energy-efficient feature.

One of the newest additions to the wellloved DEL pool cover range is the Tixit aboveground automatic slatted cover. It is available in both solar and electric versions, providing options for all pool owners. With built-in Bluetooth speakers, the Tixit allows pool owners to enjoy their favourite music while swimming or lounging poolside.

The Tixit’s rectangular end stands give it a modern look that is sure to complement any pool area. Additionally, the electric models of the Tixit feature LED lighting that creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere at night.

The DEL Tixit can be customised to suit the pool aesthetic. For example, owners can also choose between solar polycarbonate slats in six different colours, or opaque PVC slats available in grey, white, blue, or beige. The end-stands come in matt grey, white, or black, with a textured powder-coated aluminium finish, and are completely recyclable.

LIGHTHOUSE ADD COVERSEAL SAFETY COVERS FOR THE 2023 SEASON The patented CoverSeal cover comprises a unique mechanism that allows the fabric to be cleanly unrolled onto the pool whilst locking it in place in an extra-flat, extremely discreet, parallel guide rail system.

In a change from the norm, the cover housing is driven down the length of the area to be covered, unrolling the high-quality fabric as it goes. This means freeform pools and pools with large surround areas incorporating spas can easily be catered for.

With a maximum width of 11m and length of 26m, even the most difficult of open spaces should now be able to be covered and secured.

The fabric was developed by the Serge Ferrari brand, a world leader in this market, and offers high UV resistance, extreme climatic conditions performance and exacting standards, including AFNOR NF P90-308.

There are three styles of unit available: Automatic, Semi-Automatic and Manual – meaning the cover is suited to all sectors of

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the pool market.

Concentrating on the powered options, the battery solar powered ‘Automatic’ model is the top of the range, combining technology, aesthetics and respect for the environment.

Activated by a wired or wireless control unit (in sight of the pool), it provides optimum convenience and allows you to uncover or make the pool safe in less than a minute. This cover is chosen by demanding customers who refuse to compromise between aesthetics and performance.

The ‘Semi-Automatic’ features a control unit equipped with a rechargeable battery pack which will last for approximately 25 opening / closing cycles. Making the pool safe or opening it up to enjoy it is effortless and takes less than a minute.

ENJOY EUROPEAN STYLE AND SAFETY WITH ABRIBLUE’S COVER RANGE Available in the UK through SCP, Abriblue offer a wide range of automatic cover options. With in-pool, above-ground, in-ground, solar and bench versions all available, there is an efficient, sustainable and safe cover solution available that will provide owners with peace of mind as each is made to comply with the French Norm NF P 90-308 standard.

Three of their popular models are the OPEN AERO, OPEN SOLAR 2 and IMM’AX Cover.

The OPEN AERO connected automatic cover is more than a safety cover. It features all the technical advantages of the OPEN CLASSIC above-water slatted pool cover but boasts a newer design, adjustable integrated ambient lighting, and above all, a remote connection, so is controllable from a smartphone.

The new OPEN SOLAR 2 cover is easy to install, environmentally friendly and ideal for existing pools. It is a compact deck solution to secure a pool and needs eight hours of sunlight to charge the batteries fully.

Lastly, there’s the IMM’AX cover – a motorised, submerged slatted cover providing the ideal balance between safety, functionality, discretion and aesthetics. This cover can be fitted either in the wall directly or fitted under the coping stones.

The IMM’AX cover creates a really special look to the pool area. With the cover submerged and the motor located within the spindle it takes up hardly any space.

Joining these popular choices for the 2023 season is the new BANC D.Sign model – an automatic slatted cover that blends into its environment and offers built-in relaxation areas.

It has a number of combinations to help it blend perfectly into its environment and fulfil an owner’s desire for swimming, sunshine and safety! Deckchairs, planters, shelves, LED lights and storage can all be incorporated into this model which is controlled as standard using a smartphone.

Available through SCP UK, Abriblue’s new BANC D.Sign model blends into its environment and offers built-in relaxation areas

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AUTOMATIC DOMESTIC POOL COVERS DRIPOOL – PROVIDING PEACE OF MIND POOLS FOR ALMOST FOUR DECADES Cover producer Dripool have been at the forefront of pool safety for nearly four decades and remain the UK’s only designers and manufacturers of automatic safety covers, for all types of swimming pool.

One of the market leaders is their flagship Driglide under coping system and it offers several unique features. Patented beam assisted cantilevers enable the cover housing to be paved and coped identically to the rest of the pool area, giving the most aesthetically pleasing finish available, whilst allowing even the heaviest of bather to jump or dive from on top of the housing. This also ensures the cover can be housed at either end of the pool with minimal design requirements.

The patented winding extrusion and tensioned leading edge ‘super Cam’ ensures that no front beam is required, making the Driglide the only automatic swimming pool cover that completely disappears from the pool when uncovered.

The AutoSafe is the most recent addition to Dripool’s range of products and is an under coping system that is predominantly designed to ensure safety, debris control and heat retention on new build, rectangular pools.

Whilst the AutoSafe incorporates the same unique winding technology and exacting standards as the company’s Driglide system, it has been cleverly simplified for the more budget conscious customer.

Whilst Dripool’s in-house engineers are more than happy to install the system anywhere in the UK, if required, the AutoSafe has been designed to allow shipping directly to site for self-installation, throughout the UK and beyond.

Once installed, both of these systems are easily operated via a discreet control panel simply by turning a key and pressing a button.

THE ROLDECK – AS STYLISH AS IT IS FUNCTIONAL For the ultimate in energy saving, evaporation control and durability, Certikin have the

If required, the AutoSafe has been designed to allow shipping directly to site for self-installation, throughout the UK and beyond

Roldeck. It offers a wide variety of installation options, plus of course creates an attractive finish to any pool.

Each Roldeck is made to measure for new or existing pools with the coiling mechanism installed above or below ground or in the pool itself. In an above-ground installation, the protective roller cover can be reinforced to create a bench. Touch pad type switch and remote control for easy calibration and operation, a safety lock available for new builds and the ability to interlock with the air handling system (indoor pools), are just some of its outstanding features.

Roldeck’s standard PVC slats come in white, blue, cream, grey, solar and transparent (with a blue tint). The transparent slats allow under water lighting to shine through whilst the solar option, with a black base, collects heat from the sun and transfers it directly into the water, greatly reducing heating costs.

In addition to the PVC range, there is a choice of six Eclipse® polycarbonate slats to choose from – three with solar gain, plus the crystal-clear version and all with a fiveyear pro-rata warranty. The Eclipse® range includes a special layer of UV protection, plus a new chamber design to help prevent algae formation.

The Roldeck is powered by a 24 volt

in-roller motor system (negating the need for a separate motor pit) that features Formula 1 shock absorber seal technology and built-in pressure sensor.

The Roldeck Easy Cover is an affordable electronic automatic cover, suitable for pools up to a maximum of 12m x 6m. It is available as a solar powered or full electronic system and is ideal if space around the pool is limited, as it is supplied with slim and discreet end stands.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Aquatrac 01268 571515 www.aquatrac.co.uk AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Dripool Ltd 02380 663131 www.dripool.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceacovers.co.uk

For the ultimate in energy saving, evaporation control and durability, Certikin have the Roldeck automatic cover option

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SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

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BUYERS GUIDE CONTROL PANELS

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FORJUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

HEAT EXCHANGERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1.50 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL BUILDERS

POOL COVERS

POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1.50 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL COVERS

POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

POOL ENGINEERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FORJUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL LIFTS & SPA HOISTS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL EQUIPMENT

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1.50 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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POOL EQUIPMENT

RECRUITMENT

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

PRESSURE TESTING & LEAK DETECTION EQUIP

SAUNA & STEAM

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FORJUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE SPRAYED CONCRETE

TILED SPAS

WATER MONITORING & CONTROL

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Alukov UK

47

Aqua Technics Pools UK

71

Aquaflex

60

Artesian Spas

IBC

AstralPool UK

48

Certikin

65 & 74

Complete Pool Controls

59

Darlly Europe

19

Dripool

79

EVi Pools

66

Fairlocks Pool Products Gaffey

13

GMT Spas

41

Golden Coast

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UNDERWATER DIVING REPAIRS

WATER TREATMENT

11, 19 & 59

Heatstar Europe

32

ISPE

42

J.A.K. Water Systems

08

LaMotte Europe

SPRAYED CONCRETE

IFC & 14

Lighthouse

42 & 65 OBC & 44

Mikel Tube WDB

05

NIVEKO

24

Ocea UK

72 & 73

On-site Pool Linings

65

One Pool & Spa

22

Plastica

60

RCK

41

Ryam Steels

24

SCP UK

14 & 63

SPATEX

28

STA

42

Sunbeach Spas

51

Superior Wellness

52

T&A

74

Waterco

27

Waterco/Certikin

06

Wellis

21

SPN April 2023 83 05/04/2023 17 02

OPINION

It’s Time To Get Out Of The Pool “I can hear voices from sun-soaked summers many years ago. I can hear my brothers; in fact I can hear my whole family calling. It’s been fun, but it’s time to get out of the pool and towel down.” In his last Opinion piece for SPN, Jamie Adams reflects on working for almost half a century within the UK wet leisure industry

M

y life in the wet leisure business began when I was 14, building a pool with my father, David. It was the summer of ’76 so all my memories are halcyon but I think I would have felt that this was an idyllic moment even if there had been the odd grey cloud in the sky. I enjoyed the practicality of building, I enjoyed the fact that this was a family project and I enjoyed dive-bombing into the deep end – when it was finished and full.

Those few weeks of that glorious summer set me on a path that I have followed for the last 47 years.

MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS I don’t think I would have stayed on that course if I hadn’t found it rewarding right from the outset and I don’t just mean money, I mean experiences, memories and fun.

I can look back on carefree days in the infancy of the business delivering pool chemicals and equipment to local customers and holiday parks before heading off to enjoy one of the surf spots on the beautiful North Devon Coast.

I designed the original Golden Coast logo and I was very proud to have it big and bold on my van until one night I drove a load of mates to a client’s pool for an illicit swim. Woken by the noise, the pool owner watched us all pile into the van – with GC’s contact details nice and clear beneath the logo – and drive off into the night. Dad wasn’t impressed with the call he received the following morning.

I remember being interviewed for a job by the late, great Peter Geekie who, while driving me around the dreaming spires of Oxford, managed to knock an innocent student off their bike but at least one of us had good luck that day, I got the job.

REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES Award weekends used to be very glitzy affairs and perhaps the high point of this trend was meant to be a bash on the then recently recommissioned QE2. Unfortunately there was a reason that Cunard had offered us such a good price. There had been relaunch staff

party the night before our awards do leaving most of the crew hideously hung over and, for some reason, the ship’s stabilisers were out of operation. Watching award winners skittering from side to side across the ballroom floor as they negotiated the rolling ship to collect their awards was one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen.

Back in the day when meeting up and chatting face to face was the only way to really communicate Thames Valley SPATA meetings when I was with Geekies were eagerly awaited events as they were not only informative but were really social events where you got to catch up with so many colleagues and friends in the industry.

BITTER SWEET MEMORIES Working, learning and developing with Peter Geekie Pools, later to become Certikin, was something I really enjoyed but it’s hard to describe the pride and excitement I felt on finally joining the family business back in 1996.

Twenty-seven years later there was the bitter sweet moment of selling the Golden Coast business but never being able to celebrate it properly as a family after Covid cruelly took my mother just weeks after completion, especially as she had done so much to build the business with my dad in

Like all businesses we had ups and downs, good times and bad but every event, even the ones we thought at the time were going to knock us off course, did in fact help make the business what it is today” 84 April 2023 SPN 84_SPN_April_2023_Opinion.indd 84

the early days.

And along the way, buying my first house, getting married to my lovely wife, Adele, and overcoming the hurdles of IVF and having two wonderful children who’s drive, determination and humour never cease to amaze me.

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS Now I have the opportunity to step back, to take stock of the journey so far and plan to make more of the most important things in life.

Hindsight as they say is an exact science but to be honest, I wouldn’t do anything differently. Like all businesses we had ups and downs, good times and bad but every event, even the ones we thought at the time were going to knock us off course, did in fact help make the business what it is today. And that is something very special.

THANK YOU I’ve made some great friends over the years and seen so many good businesses flourish, unfortunate ones fail and some miraculously rise from the ashes.

To everyone I have met on my journey so far, to everyone I have worked with, I would like to say, ‘Thank you. It’s been a privilege and a pleasure.’ I’d like to wish the best of luck to #Team GC, although I’m sure you know that you all make your own luck.

For now, I’m going to pull a lounger up by the side of the pool and perhaps have a small drink. Cheers.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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