WORLD NEWS
Exhibition Rides The Waves Of A Thriving Sector! The Piscine Global Europe exhibition took place from 13 to 16 November in Lyon and for the latest edition, the industry-leading event decided resolutely to shift its focus towards the pool lifestyle, design and innovation. It reasserted its position as the benchmark exhibition for the pool and wellness sector and remains the biennial event many exhibitors cannot afford to miss. Post-event statistics revealed that the 2018 edition brought together 629 exhibitors (+5.4%) from the entire pool and spa sector in more than 28,000 net sqm of floor space. The number of professional visitors rose 7.11% compared to the previous show, reaching 19,845. In addition to discussions with exhibitors, visitors had opportunities to attend a host of events tailored to meet their expectations. Close to 30 seminars were organised on topics ranging from market intelligence to the latest trends.
“I am delighted with this edition of Piscine Global Europe, both from a commercial viewpoint, with very high satisfaction regarding the calibre of visitors, and in terms of the atmosphere at the exhibition, with lots of fruitful discussions and networking. The business climate is strong. I also see a new area of focus developing around the pool renovation sector. The market trends that stood out during this year’s show concern renovation but also feature-packed small pools and wellness products proposed as add-on sales. “We organisers are delighted with the support we have received from the entire profession, particularly via the participation of our partner, the FPP, but also from the specialised press and the federations who attended the show. Last but not least, I should like to thank the exhibitors for their continuing loyalty to the sector’s leading event,” underlined Noémi Petit, Managing Director of Piscine Global Europe.
Center Parcs Set To Open Ireland’s Largest Waterpark Irish mother and son Lego artist duo unveil the 55,667 brick model that showcases all that Ireland’s largest waterpark will offer Irish families. Center Parcs is set to make a splash in Ireland this year and has revealed plans for Ireland’s first ever Subtropical Swimming Paradise. The new forest resort in Longford, is due to open its doors in summer 2019 and is set to transform family getaways. The facility will be Ireland’s largest waterpark and promises to offer families a slice of paradise in the heart of the island. Heated to 29.5oC all year round and nestled amongst lush green tropical plants, the 3,500m2 Subtropical Swimming Paradise will provide endless hours of fun for all the family. To mark the reveal, Center Parcs teamed up with
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internationally renowned Lego artists, mother and son duo Jessica and Faolán Farrell from Rathangan, Co. Kildare, to create a show-stopping Lego replica of the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. The amazingly detailed 2m x 1.5m Lego model took 105 days to build and uses 55,667 Lego bricks. It perfectly showcases what the wet leisure facility will offer Irish families when it opens its doors. Guests will be able to take a dip in a large family wave pool, tackle Wild Water Rapids, make a splash in the children’s water play areas or relax in the tranquil whirlpools. The indoor waterpark will come complete with 350m of adrenaline-charged rides and flumes suitable for all ages.
Pamplona Acquires Controlling Interest in Latham Pool Products
In December, Pamplona Capital Management announced that it had acquired a controlling interest in Latham Pool Products, Inc. from Wynnchurch Capital which will remain a significant investor in the company. The deal values Latham at US$375m. Headquartered in Latham, NY, the company is a leading manufacturer of pool components and accessories in North America. The company’s product offering includes fibreglass pools, automatic safety covers, in-ground vinyl pool liners, polymer and steel pool wall systems and other related accessories. The company has over 20 manufacturing facilities and distribution centres across the US and Canada. Russell Gehrett, Partner at Pamplona said: “We are excited to work with Wynnchurch and the Latham management team to build on the company’s 62 years of customer relationships and market leadership. Latham already has a reputation for building the most reliable, high quality, innovative and affordable pools in the industry, and this will remain the focus going forward.” Pamplona, Wynnchurch, management, and the founding family have partnered to position the business for meaningful growth, innovation and international expansion. The investors are pleased to be backing the current management team, led by CEO Scott Rajeski, which will continue to lead the company post acquisition. Chris O’Brien, Managing Partner at Wynnchurch said: “We are very pleased with the extraordinary progress that Latham has made and believe the business, under Scott’s leadership, is poised for future growth. Pamplona brings global resources and significant experience supporting growth businesses, which will help continue Latham’s development as the leader in the pool industry.”
www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 17/01/2019 16:43