SPN (Swimming Pool News) October 2020

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FAIRLOCKS PURIQ FP AUG19.qxp_Layout 1 31/07/2019 16:45 Page 3

The PURIQ Bright Series UV-C water purifier offers you assurance of crystal clear water with fewer chemicals

ALL THE INS AND OUTS The PURIQ Bright Series UV-C water purifier is available in 3 versions: Bright 40, Bright 80 and Bright 120 amalgam.

The recommendation is 1 watt per mÂł.

The PURIQ UV-C water purifier contains intelligent electronics that alert you when it is time to replace the lamp, which ensures that the unit is always operating at peak efficiency and your water is clear. This way, you always have a perfectly working device you can rely on.

Utilizing the latest technology, the lamp emits very powerful UV-C light with a wavelength

of exactly 253.7 nm that kills practically all bacteria, viruses, algae and moulds.

This results in optimal purification, so the use of chlorine and other chemicals can be reduced by up to 80%! The PURIQ UV-C system, with its 100% eco-friendly operation, provides more natural, healthier water.

Visit our website for more information.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS 14 Hanborough Business Park, Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire, OX29 8LH, UK T: 01865 988346 | E: info@fairlocks.co.uk | W: www.fairlocks.co.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor’s LS ACCESSORIES & MORE POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICA

OCTOBER 2020

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.

Even SPATEX has not escaped the shutdowns and uncertainty, meaning cancellation for the physical event in Coventry – something that was unthinkable only a few weeks ago. In its place, organisers have now also opted for a safety first approach and will have a virtual offering running over the same planned dates in February. Inside this issue, we have information and updates on both of these events along with as much other news as we’ve been able to pull together during these challenging times.

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne Co Publisher and Sales Director: Tony Weston Production: Cathy Varley Accounts: Sam Bartholomew 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 production enquiries contact Cathy on: T: +44 (0)1823 432416 E: cathy@aqua-publishing.co.uk For accounts enquiries contact Sam on: T: +44 (0)1823 430639 E: accounts@aqua-publishing.co.uk Design: Colin Halliday

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 reputable, Swimming PoolPNews can UBL I Sgive H I no NG 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.

ENCLOSURES

Attractive and effective over the top solutions

COUN TER-C URREN T SYSTE MS Making smaller swimming pools more functional

HOT TUBS IN THE COMM ERCIA L SECTOR Products that are making life easier for owners and operators

TILED SPAS & SWIM SPAS Bespoke solutions that provide the ultimate in flexibility, durability and luxury

PLUS

letter

Cover Systems | Project Showcase | Opinion STA Pool Plant – Swim School Pools | Commercial Choice | 11 Pages Of Industry News SPATEX Goes Virtual | Sandstone – The Natural 02/11/2020 21:55

SPN_October_20_Cover.indd 3

With the school holidays period now well and truly behind us, it feels like the traditional season now has some form of closure although for many, it’s still incredibly busy times – they’re just not quite as crazy as recent months as this year in general has been. The COVID-19 pandemic and all of it many direct and indirect effects mean that 2020 will definitely be a year to remember, that’s for sure!

Sadly though, for many businesses, the constant threat of lockdowns still exists and while that may not affect the domestic side of the industry too badly – and in fact it has actively helped sales and installations this year – it’s causing chaos and uncertainty in many other areas. How long this goes on for remains to be seen but as an industry, on the whole, I think many have been incredibly lucky through a turbulent year, one which I hope we look back on as unique. Should the pandemic drag on well into 2021, well, I personally just don’t want to think about the potential consequences for many people, businesses and industries.

With summer a slightly faded memory, this issue normally heralds the start of show season, however with the pandemic still raging, exhibitions are one sector that has really suffered. As a second wave of COVID-19 takes off, shows around Europe and indeed the world have either been cancelled or moved into next year and that means no previews for us to cover. The biennial show in Lyon – Piscine Global Europe – which is the most important event for the global industry, has now moved to February and has been replaced with a digital event in November.

Also in this issue, we’ve pieces on the use of Sandstone for pool and garden projects and an update from distributor Plastica who have gone from strength-to-strength over recent months.

Feature wise we cover tiled spas and swim spas – a niche sector which offers flexible, durable and bespoke solutions for both domestic and commercial markets alike plus we shine a light on some of the dedicated products within the commercial hot tub sector – a delayed feature which would normally run in our June issue.

Still on the subject of the commercial sector, we’ve a look at systems that are helping to cover pools and spas and save both energy and costs in their operation.

We look at the latest enclosure solutions too that are extending the use of the swimming pool season whilst simultaneously reducing the maintenance and costs of pool ownership.

Counter-current systems are also under the spotlight as we look at the latest products which are powering smaller pools and putting them on a par with their larger counterparts.

As if that wasn’t enough, Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams gives his opinion on the rise and use of social media, whilst the STA takes a look at the subject of swim school pools. There’s also useful information from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA plus, we’ve got our round up of all the latest industry, product, people and eco news from both here in the UK and further afield.

So with everything covered, hopefully we have provided a little of something for everyone in this slightly delayed latest issue. I hope you enjoy it and remain safe in the coming weeks and months.

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 October 2020 1 02/11/2020 22:31

CONTENTS

Inside This 46

39

50 COVER

HOT TUBS IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR

43 43

Essential items that are taking the strain out of hot tub ownership

TILED SPAS & SWIM SPAS 53

Bespoke solutions that provide the ultimate in flexibility, durability and luxury

FEATURES

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

27

STA POOL PLANT

37

COMMERCIAL COVER SYSTEMS

46

The industry’s associations dedicated pages Luke Griffiths looks at the possibility of swim school’s building their own pool

NEWS

INDUSTRY

04-09

The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip

PEOPLE

10

PRODUCT

12

New appointments, personnel updates and training

ENCLOSURES

59

Attractive and effective over the top solutions that can extend the pool season

User- and eco-friendly cover solutions for facilities in the commercial sector

COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS

65

PROJECT SHOWCASE

50

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

18

OPINION

72

All the latest news from around the world

WORLD

23

Making smaller pool spaces functional and a more complete experience

A closer look at the wellbeing experience at Cheshire’s The Spa at Carden Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams looks at the how social media use has taken off

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Innovations and new products on the market

Dedicated news for this important sector

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CONTENTS

Issue Of SPN 65

53 59

12 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 68

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

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Next Issue

• Filtration • Dosing pumps and control systems • Swim spas – entry level and party spas • Wellness – saunas, steam and more • Safety equipment Plus much, much more!

SPN October 2020 3 02/11/2020 22:30

NEWS

NEWS

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

The Charm Is In The Detail For Hampshire Pool When keen sailors Kate and John bought a plot of land on Hayling Island, their first task was to demolish the original dwelling to make space for a larger bespoke property. With the stunning house on the Hampshire coast complete, the couple were then looking for an equally eye-catching swimming pool that they could exercise in and provide an entertainment area for family and friends.

They instructed Simplex Pools, a family run company based on Hayling Island, to design a 12 metre by 5 metre concrete and tiled overflow pool and they set about the task of designing and building a pool befitting of the surroundings. Because of the risk of floods from high tides, after consulting with structural engineers and local builders, the above-ground pool was constructed so that it appears from the house to be in-ground and the finished article has the Certikin hallmark stamped through it.

It’s the attention to detail that helps contribute to this pool’s presence. The smart finish is enhanced by Certikin’s cream coloured high density polyethylene overflow grating (HDPE). This is ideal for new builds or for refurbishing pools that are beginning to look like they’ve seen better days. It looks good and offers high impact strength.

The pool is fitted with Certikin’s GeoBubble solar cover. As it is a very exposed site, the cover was made with elastic straps

Calorex Pro-Pac 22 heat pump, Quick Change PU6 U/W LED, white fittings, pipework, a Vision filter and Euroswim suction pump.

so the wind can’t get under it. An investment in a Certikin solar blanket pays dividends in terms of the payback it offers from solar gain, heat retention and the fact that it acts as a highly effective water loss barrier.

Other Certikin equipment included a

Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Simplex Pools 0345 576 1084 www.simplexpools.co.uk

Welsh Leisure Operator To Use RLSS UK Aquatic Qualifications The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is delighted to welcome Welsh leisure operator Newport Live into their fold. The organisation has committed to training their staff from the suite of RLSS UK qualifications including the professional lifeguard standard – National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ).

The Regional Pool & Tennis Centre, Newport Centre and Active Living Centre – all run by Newport Live – have also committed to becoming RLSS UK Approved Training Centres (to August 2021) and, in addition, upskill staff as RLSS UK Trainer Assessors.

By following the qualifications set out by RLSS UK, Newport Live will be improving the breadth of their training.

The Welsh operator delivers sporting, leisure and cultural activities in the city of Newport and the surrounding area, and runs a number of leisure and cultural facilities. They also deliver sports and arts development programmes on a city-wide and regional basis.

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Neil Sargeant, Director of Operations at Newport Live, said: “We have been impressed by the extent of support provided during lockdown from the Royal Life Saving Society UK and the quality of the training. Providing sporting opportunities to support the health and wellbeing of our customers, and the people of Newport is vital and, we are pleased to be able to upskill our team members and colleagues, to continue to provide safe environments in our facilities.”

“In a normal year, more than 40,000 pool lifeguards qualify with our NPLQ. We are delighted that Newport Live has decided to train all of their lifeguards, through us,” commented Jo Talbot, Commercial Director at RLSS UK. RLSS UK 0300 323 0096 www.rlss.org.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 01/11/2020 20:01

AQUASPEED

A new generation of an industry favourite The popular Aquaspeed pump, which is available exclusively from Certikin As well as a modern look, the new model has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology to provide an efficient and powerful pump. Despite this upgrade, there are no changes to the dimensions meaning it will still fit in perfectly to the original pump’s footprint and pipework connections.

Aquaspeed Pump

Aquaspeed ECO-V Variable Speed Pump

• Available in a choice of sizes from 0.5hp to 3hp • Solid clear lid for easy inspection of the basket • Comes with 2” quick connect unions • 316 high grade mechanical seal • Suitable for salt chlorinated pools • Hydraulically efficient impeller and diffuser design • Limited 2 year warranty • UV stabilised and corrosion resistant pump body • Straight swap for all old style Aquaspeed pumps

All the features of the Aquaspeed Pump plus: • State of the art permanent magnet brushless motor which uses components chosen for their quality performance and reliability • 3 variable programmable speeds for efficient and cost effective performance • Direct replacement for single speed Aquaspeed pumps • Rapid payback due to huge reductions in running costs

 01993 777200  info@certikin.co.uk

www.certikin.co.uk

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NEWS

IN BRIEF NEW LIDO IS A POSSIBILITY FOR WIRRAL A new outdoor swimming pool is included within major plans to revitalise New Brighton in the Wirral.

Wirral Council is drawing up a regeneration agenda for the town for the next 15 years, and an exciting prospect of a new lido for the seaside resort has been included.

New Brighton did have an outdoor public pool until 1990 when it was damaged beyond repair by a storm.

Having a new lido could be a huge step forward for the town’s hopes of improving its leisure and swimming offering during the 2020s and beyond and the council has commissioned a team who will consult with local people regarding what facilities they would like for their town over the next 15 years.

WILLMOTT DIXON LAND £21M MORPETH CONTRACT Willmott Dixon has been picked to deliver a £21m leisure centre and community hub in Morpeth for Northumberland County Council.

The scheme is funded entirely by the council, with Willmott Dixon aiming to start construction work on The Terrace site on Gas House Lane in Morpeth before the end of the year in order to hand over the keys to the centre in summer 2022.

When complete, it will support the health and wellbeing of local residents with a range of facilities that on the wet leisure side include a six-lane swimming pool with spectator gallery, learner pool and spa facilities.

The new sports complex will be run by Active Northumberland, the charitable trust that manages leisure services across the county on behalf of Northumberland County Council.

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THIS: The new premises – The Old Ferrari Garage as its known – was an independent dealership during the 1970s and early 1980s LEFT: Inside the company’s new shop which offers a wide selection of chemicals, maintenance equipment plus a trade counter

Progressive Open A New Chapter In Their Long History Swimming Pool Supplies Ltd – better known to many as ‘Progressive’ pools have begun a new chapter in their story. Established in 1971, ‘Progressive’ were originally located in a garden centre in Kenilworth, Warwickshire.

Then in 1984 they relocated to Rugby, Warwickshire.

After numerous years the current director Carl Enticott MISPE felt it was the right time to relocate and to further ‘progress’ the business (pardon the pun!)

Earlier this year, the company moved to new bespoke premises on the outskirts of Coventry.

The new premises – The Old Ferrari Garage as its known – was an independent dealership during the 1970s and early 1980s then in the mid ‘80s the agreement with the Italian brand ended, but the large Ferrari sign remained on the building and became a local landmark. Prior to the installation of new, ‘progressive’ signage, Carl was even approached by several people offering to purchase the old Ferrari sign.

The company’s proud new home provides much more space plus ample parking and easy access. The newly renovated building enjoys a

prime roadside location in the village of Brandon in Warwickshire. Inside, the company’s new shop offers a wide selection of swimming pool and hot tub chemicals, maintenance equipment plus a trade counter. The building also houses a store with an extensive stock of pool equipment, spares and various other accessories.

Speaking about the move, Carl, said: We were very apprehensive moving during the current situation but, it’s possibly one of the best decisions ‘progressive’ has made. We now have large bespoke offices where we can adapt to the changing environment.”

Since moving ‘progressive’ have seen a major increase in trade and plan to develop the business further with the new brand, and are looking forward to continuing the story next year when they will celebrate their 50th anniversary.

Progressive Pools 01788 577005 www.progressive-pools.com

Take Part In The Wet Leisure Industry Survey 2020 Companies working in the wet leisure sector are being invited to take part in an annual survey designed to highlight trends and developments within the industry.

The Wet Leisure Industry Survey is launched every year by Golden Coast in association with leading organisations including SPN. By gathering feedback from across the country, the survey generates statistics and insights that companies can use to make decisions over the coming months.

Jamie Adams, Managing Director at Golden Coast said: “The pandemic has had a devastating and life-changing impact for countless reasons.

2020 will always stand out as an unprecedented year, so we expect this survey will show interesting and varied results. In some ways, the wet leisure industry has thrived. This was certainly bolstered by the spell of good weather and the number of people on furlough making domestic purchases, such as hot tubs, to make the most of their time at home. Understandably the commercial side

may tell a different story, but that is why the survey is so crucial. We want to see what has been happening in all areas of the industry so that businesses can make as many preparations as possible given the ever-changing circumstances.

“We encourage anyone who works within the wet leisure industry to take part, as the more input we receive the more detailed a picture we can create of the state of our sector.”

The Survey can be found online at www.wetleisure.com or paper versions can be requested from Golden Coast. It is anonymous, does not contain compulsory questions, and only takes a few minutes to complete.

Once the data has been collected and analysed, the survey report will be made freely available as a download from www.wetleisure.com and during SPATEX Virtual in 2021.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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NEWS

IN BRIEF BIRTHDAY TIME FOR HPB Incredibly it’s been five years since the launch of Historic Pools of Britain (HPB).

What began as a vision has turned into a fully-fledged organisation, with both pools and individuals as members, plus a vital national voice.

Collaboration and collective passion have become watch words for Historic Pools of Britain and all those who support it.

The central driving force has been founder Gill Wright, who said: “I am immensely proud of what we have achieved over the last five years and the difference that having an organisation like Historic Pools of Britain is having.

“What has struck me in this time is just how loved historic pools are within their local areas, with community groups often behind the campaigns to save pools that have closed, and the breadth of the role that they play in bringing people together, generating community spirit and promoting wellbeing. We are passionate about continuing to grow the influence and work of Historic Pools of Britain, with exciting plans for the future of the organisation and what it can accomplish.”

EXHIBITION DELAYS EVENT UNTIL MARCH 2021 With the COVID-19 pandemic effectively closing down the exhibitions across the UK and beyond, Holiday Park & Resort Innovation has reschedule its 2020 event and the exhibition will now run over two days on 18 and 19 March in 2021. With a number of shows opting for virtual exhibition options, the organising team of the event are planning that restrictions will be lifted in time for the event to take place unhindered at Birmingham’s NEC venue.

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Somewhere Over The Rainbow…

Dreams Come True With Ustigate

Nairn Splashpad is a community driven project with a heart-warming story to tell. It is a lasting legacy that celebrates the lives of a local boy and his mother, both of whom sadly lost their lives to cancer. After three years of fundraising from charities and the local community plus help from the Highland Council, enough funds were raised to established the Splashpad. The new water play area with zero standing water at The Links will generate much happiness for all ages and abilities in Nairn for many years to come. Bright and cheerful rainbows feature prominently in the design as rainbows hold a special place in the family’s heart.

Red, orange, yellow, green and purple are the vibrant colours depicted in Nairn’s rainbows and to carry this bright and cheerful theme throughout the play area, all of the aboveground products are in these colours too. Several

products include Seeflow™ technology to reflect lovely, colourful shadows upon the pad. The colour blue provides a perfect basecoat for the pad as it takes the form of our encompassing sky and allows all products and rainbows to stand out and shine through.

Nairn Splashpad has a total of 17 water features and an inclusive bollard inviting everyone to push the button to start the fun.

Upon opening, visitors were guaranteed plenty of fun, with a number of options to soak all sides.

Nairn Splashpad is the first of its kind in The Highlands and an exciting new development for the town.

Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

Swim Every Season With Dura Pro From Golden Coast When a domestic customer in Buckinghamshire was looking to heat an outdoor pool all year round, maintenance company Pool Guys turned to wet leisure distributers Golden Coast for a long-term and viable solution.

“The customer’s pool was leaking, which meant the plant room had to be completely refurbished and the lining needed to be replaced,” said Andy Wheildon, Pool Engineer at Pool Guys.

“The original heating equipment for the pool was also outdated and needed to be upgraded. They wanted to make the switch from a gas boiler to an inverter heat pump, so that they had the flexibility to use the pool throughout the year.”

Simon Wilkes, Technical Sales at Golden Coast, therefore suggested the Dura Pro 21 heat pump. Dura Pro pumps can reach extremely high coefficients of performance regardless of outside temperature, meaning pools are swim-ready in no time.

Compared to standard

heat pumps, inverter driven heat pumps automatically optimise the refrigerant flow rate by varying the speed of both the fan and the compressor. This means it uses less energy whilst maintaining the pool’s temperature.

Simon explained: “With its titanium heat exchanger and automatic hot gas defrost, the Dura Pro 21 is a great option for those looking to use their pool in every season. The pump is also quiet and easy to use, and the soft start technology reduces the peak on the electricity supply.”

The Dura Pro 21 heat pump has a controller with a 5-inch touch-screen display, enabling the user to monitor temperature and power usage.

Andy added: “The customer was extremely happy with the Dura Pro 21.

It heats the pool quickly, and its efficiency means the customer has been able to save a significant amount on energy bills.”

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

SPN October 2020 9 01/11/2020 20:01

PEOPLE NEWS

ISPE Opens The Door To CSCS Cards New £1.5m Re-training Fund Launches For CIMSPA Qualifications As an official awarding organisation partner for CIMSPA, Safety Training Awards welcomes the announcement that £1.5m training is being made available to retool the sport and physical workforce. This will include funding for STA’s pool plant operator, swimming teaching, open water swimming and lifeguard qualifications as they are all endorsed by CIMSPA against the sector’s Professional Standards.

Launched by CIMSPA on 8 September 2020, ReTrain is a new £1.5m training initiative that is being funded by the National Lottery through Sport England. The funding announcement follows a recent CIMSPA survey which indicated that up to 6% of the activity workforce (30,000) people are planning to leave the sector.

ReTrain has been designed to support employer partners of CIMSPA, CLUK and ukactive with sites in England, by providing free training for new and existing staff, to enable them to work in new areas. CIMSPA state this will allow employers to continue providing valuable services to their

local community, and that there will be a particular emphasis on areas of social deprivation.

During Phase 1 of the funding process, CIMSPA have confirmed the focus will be on courses that lead to CIMSPA endorsed qualifications – qualifications that are endorsed against the sector’s Professional Standards – to help businesses recover after lockdown.

Claire Brisbourne, Safety Training Awards Director, says: “This is fantastic news for all of STA’s swim school members and partners that are employer partners of CIMSPA, CLUK or ukactive. The leisure industry has been hit hard by the pandemic and as CIMSPA’s survey indicates we are in danger of losing valuable skilled people. This much-welcomed funding will positively help the aquatics industry plug the skills gaps so that they continue to deliver their services.”

Safety Training Awards 01922 645097 www.safetytrainingawards.co.uk

With registration cards becoming essential for all tradespeople working in the plumbing industry, the UK-PHMES CSCS Registration Scheme, administered by the JIB-PMES (Joint Industry Board for Plumbing Mechanical and Engineering Services in England and Wales) has become invaluable.

The card shows site managers, employers and other tradespeople that the card holder is qualified for the work they are doing, and has passed a Health & Safety Test.

Following a recent change in how cards for PMES related occupations are issued, the JIB-PMES has introduced a specific CSCS Related Occupation card category for ‘Swimming Pool and Leisure System Installers’ and: • Any applicant who can demonstrate successful completion of the ISPE Home Study Course will meet the eligibility criteria for the above card • Applicants who can demonstrate current membership of ISPE – i.e. who meet the ‘Certified Technician’ criteria ‘TnISPE(Cert.)’ – or full membership ‘MISPE’ will also meet the eligibility criteria for the above card.

The new PMES card category, ‘Swimming Pool and Leisure Systems Installer’ (Blue card) is intended for those whose work includes the installation, servicing and maintenance of swimming pools, saunas/steam rooms and hot tubs. Applicants must also have passed a valid Heath, Safety and Environment test.

Applicants may apply for the new card, and further details are available on the JIB PMES website – www.jib-pmes.org ISPE Company Secretary, Chris Carr, FISPE, said, “This will give enormous additional value to Institute members, especially those who work on site, and company owners/ employers will see the extra value of ISPE membership and the ISPE Home Study Course.”

ISPE 01603 499959 www.ispe.co.uk

RLSS UK Welcomes Loan A Lifeguard As New Partner A shared vision of keeping people safe around water and improving water safety has seen Loan A Lifeguard become a Water Safety Partner of the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK).

RLSS UK’s water safety partnerships are designed with one aim in mind: to bring together the water safety and drowning prevention work of the Society, in collaboration with products and services that innovate and celebrate the safe enjoyment of water for everyone.

“Working in collaboration with partners and our customers, is essential if we are to succeed in the aim of reducing fatalities and mitigating the risk of water-related injuries and non-fatal drowning,” said Rebecca Collinson, Loan A Lifeguard Co-Owner.

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As people look to the future and the welcome return of private and corporate, functions and events, the Loan A Lifeguard team are ready to fulfil shortterm, temporary business and private hire positions. Fully-qualified from RLSS UK’s suite of professionally recognised, national lifeguarding qualifications, as well as qualified to administer basic first-aid, DBS checked and insured, Loan A Lifeguard offer the largest network of lifeguards and spa operatives across the UK. “We are exceptionally proud to be working with, learning from and supporting RLSS UK, to be a world-

leader in lifeguarding and delivering more drowning prevention education,” added Ms Collinson.

A commercial and mutually beneficial relationship, an RLSS UK Water Safety Partner can profit from the bespoke and robust guidance, advice and training that RLSS UK experts provide them, which in turn confers reassurance and peace-ofmind for their customers. In return, RLSS UK is able to align themselves with the very highest standard of product or service provider that share their vision of nations without drowning, where everyone can enjoy water, safely.

RLSS UK 0300 323 0096 www.rlss.org.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 01/11/2020 20:09

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

An Assured Solution For Effective Fresh Air Ventilation The Heatstar XF EC is a high efficiency heat recovery ventilation system offering full rate fresh air ventilation centred upon a ‘Cross Flow’ multi-plate heat recuperator. To reduce the heat loss incurred through the product’s ventilation process, warm expelled room air is passively conducted, via a series of adjoining plates, directly to the incoming colder fresh air.

The ability of the ‘Cross Flow’ heat recuperator to provide genuine heat recovery from expelled room air actually increases as the outside fresh air becomes colder, so the system is able to maintain its outstanding heat recovery efficiency, even during cold winter weather. Therefore it always exceeds the minimum efficiencies stipulated by UK Building Regulations.

Ideal for all indoor swimming pools where a higher level of demand is anticipated – the XF EC also provides effective humidity control, along with both pool room air ventilation and pool water heating.

The system has an enviable reputation for offering an assured solution for both effective and efficient natural dehumidification of swimming pool halls and by utilising the introduction of fresh air, the air temperature of the pool room is also regulated.

With current industry focus placed upon COVID-19 and how ventilation equipment and air distribution affect an indoor pool environment, users can be assured that the XF EC can be tailored to best suit any applications demands.

As standard the expelled air volume is precisely regulated by the combined effect of a motorised air damper and the automated power of the exhaust air fan inside the system. This procedure ensures that the unit is setup to perform as energy efficiently as possible.

To cope with the current situation the XF EC has the ability to have both the fresh air dampers and exhaust fan speeds adjusted for enhanced 100% outside air ventilation.

Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com

Good Vibes All Round With Del Tixit

With the latest addition to the ever-popular DEL pool cover range, pool owners can bring the party to the pool with the DEL Tixit above-ground automatic slatted cover which now features built-in Bluetooth speakers.

The Tixit is currently available in solar and electric variations and can be purchased from wet leisure distributor Golden Coast.

“Gone are the days when your pool cover used to look plain and unsightly,” said Luke Honnoraty, Technical Sales at Golden Coast. “The end stands of the DEL Tixit pool cover are a modern, slim rectangular design that subtly blends in with surrounding aesthetics. They are a bit different to other products on the market, particularly as the electric models offer LED lighting for an added night-time glow. The Bluetooth speakers also add a bit of fun and can enhance the owner’s enjoyment of their pool.”

DEL Tixit end-stands are available in matt grey, white or black, with a textured power-coated aluminium finish, and are even 100% recyclable.

Customers can select from either solar polycarbonate slats, which also heat the pool water and come in six colours, or opaque PVC slats in grey, white, beige or blue. All DEL Tixit cover slats meet standard NF P 90-308.

“With the DEL Tixit the customer can choose the end-stand and slat combination that suits their own style,” said Luke. “Most importantly, the cover makes the area safer as it prevents anyone, particularly young children, from entering the pool. It can be opened or closed in a matter of minutes, and customers can also add locking kits for extra security.”

The DEL Tixit cover can be remotely operated by the wireless Wi-key control box, which is password protected to stop unauthorised access.

Covers can be retrofitted to pools of 2.5m x 3m up to 5m x 13.5m.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

Hayward’s Innovative AquaVac® 6 – A Unique Cleaning Solution The AquaVac® 6 Series pool cleaners from Hayward are reinventing the robotic cleaner market with first-of-their-kind capabilities.

While other cleaners can lose suction, AquaVac 6 Series cleaners feature patented SpinTech™ filterless technology with 18 hydrocyclones, maintaining the maximum constant and powerful suction power.

In addition, the six variable-speed-driven rollers with HexaDrive™ adaptive traction expertly navigates, climbs and scrubs all pool surfaces, offering wall-to-wall cleaning on any pool surface. After cleaning, with the press of a simple quick release button, the unique TouchFree™ debris canister –

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designed for effortless cleanup – empties and or Android™ device, SpotClean remote rinses itself. AquaVac 6 Series cleaners are steering and multiple programmable colour the perfect solution for pool owners who want themes (AquaVac 650 only) the latest in innovation and smart technology. • Caddy cart and power supply included with Additional features of the 6 Series cleaners both models. include: • AquaVac 600 operates on a recurring Available through SCP UK, the AquaVac 48-hour cleaning mode, while AquaVac 6 Series is one of a number of new pool 650 offers a cleaners from a variety of brands programmable to have been introduced by the weekly cleaning distributor in 2020. schedule • Wi-Fi® offers SCP UK 01293 546126 control from an www.scpeurope.com iPhone®, iPad®

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

A Quality Cover Solution – Rollo Solar From Lighthouse Available through Lighthouse, Rollo Solar is one of the highest quality slatted cover systems on the market today.

Housing designs for any pool, above-ground or in-pool are available.

Pit exit rollers, reduce damage to the top of the slats whilst they exit cave pits. Stainless steel frames are designed for easy access, and accessory design and manufacture are second to none. With its own design tubular motor system installed within the roller shaft, specifically designed and built in house, it features slats that push the profile to a new level of excellence.

Rollo Solar slats are truly some of the best on the market and their design features prove this. The thing that stands out is that the slat profile is curved, offering better roll dimensions and more secure storage on the roller shaft. This in turn allows for longer end sections to be achieved on the roll.

The slat also has been modified along the back edge, a curved rib has been added into the slat’s design giving a fourth air chamber. Not only does this increase the buoyancy of the slat but helps reduce the dirt and debris build up. By sealing off this edge, the top of the slat remains clean, algae is no longer able to grow plus state-of-the-art welding the end caps ensures a crystal clear finish all round.

As well as a myriad of colours to complement the white, blue, grey and coloured solar slats, a RAL colour service is offered for those customers looking for that special effect, plus there’s a new Copper Solar slat option – simply a stunning colour to compliment a pool and house!

Certikin Enhance Their EPS Easy Build Corner Steps Range As a leading supplier of the wet leisure and water treatment equipment in the UK, the in-house Development Team at Certikin are constantly researching, sourcing and developing new products, so they remain at the forefront of innovation.

Following on from the launch of their EPS easy build in-pool corner steps earlier this year, Certikin have announced the addition of a new size to the product range. In addition to the existing 3 sizes, they are now able to offer a 3-tread step to suit 1,020mm (3’4”) depth pools. Additionally, all sizes of steps are now suitable for 90° and 6” radius corner pools.

The EPS steps are quick and easy to assemble with one customer quoting “it takes longer to unpack the steps than to install them!”. Made from a 25kg/m3 density EPS block which is covered in shaped noncorrosive Magnelis steel sheeting, the units are lightweight and easy to handle. No concreting or rendering is needed, and with adhesives included and no specialist tools required, the build time is approximately one hour.

Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

Bespoke Panels Offer Control And Flexibility For private customers, the decision to invest in a pool is often driven by emotion and that sometimes can include having a very visual indication of their success. In these instances appearance may well be the driver when deciding on who to offer the contract to. Of course, often price will also be an important factor.

Given that customers will often want the best looking pool for the lowest investment, if a compromise is needed, it can make sense for this to be on the parts of the pool that are unseen. The contents of the plant room are often of the least interest to customers, but are crucial to ensure a pool runs effectively. Within the plant room, one of the pivotal parts is the control panel, and

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there are numerous off the shelf solutions.

So why have a bespoke panel made up?

If there’s uncertainty about the best control panel to suit the project, the expert advice a panel builder will offer can take away some of the risk and stress.

Seeking advice will help create the right specification and get the best panel for a project.

Also, the very best solution has been designed to a customer’s brief, so why compromise on the electrical controls? A bespoke panel provides more flexibility to incorporate different features, and make the

electrical installation much simpler.

In most instances a bespoke panel will be designed in such a way as to accommodate changes to the plan, or even retrofit parts.

This means there’s the opportunity to amend the design during the process and even years after.

A bespoke panel will also have the contact details prominently displayed. For years to come, if a customer wants repairs, or servicing, this ensures follow up work.

CN Controls 01295 266704 www.cncontrols.co.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Vortex International’s TwinSplash Wins MVP Award Vortex International is pleased to announce its TwinSplash has been named as a Most Valuable Product (MVP) in 2020 by readers of US-based magazine Aquatics International.

The Aquatics International media network is a trusted source for industry professionals in all fields related to the development, outfitting, and maintenance of aquatic facilities. Every year, Aquatics International magazine readers vote on the industry’s best new products, with the top 25 receiving the Most Valuable Product award and a feature in the magazine’s Awards issue.

This year, they selected Vortex’s TwinSplash, an iconic and exciting Splashpad® experience for children of all ages.

The unique design of the TwinSplash offers two successive waves, creating a double surprise effect that is suitable for the whole family. Older children standing closer to the structure will experience the first more intense splash, while younger children can hang back to experience the second, wider and softer splash further away from the structure. It encourages communicative and interactive experiences as children anticipate the splash and enjoy the fun. It also provides a visual experience – the Seeflow™ casts colourful reflections created with a combination of bright colours, water and sunlight.

Innovation is a core value at Vortex, and their entire team along with staff at their UK distributors Ustigate Waterplay, are delighted to have the TwinSplash’s design efforts validated by customers and industry peers. Such acknowledgements serve as a catalyst to inspire team members to new heights in the development and manufacturing of water attractions that provide high play value for families and children of all ages and abilities.

This marks the fourth time a Vortex product has caught the eye of Aquatics International magazine readers and follows successes in 2018, 2016 and 2015.

Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

The Unique Design Of NIVEKO’s Overflow Underflow The range of swimming pools from one-piece manufacturer NIVEKO has always been based on the option to adapt each pool to suit the individual requirements of every customer. Therefore the selection of literally all elements for a NIVEKO pool depends solely on the ideas and dreams of each owner, which the company will then bring to life. There are seven different types of swimming pool to choose from, every detail of which can be customised to suit different needs.

The Overflow Underflow pool is a unique mix of the very best features of skimmer and overflow pools.

The fact that the water surface disappears below the surrounding terrace means the minimum of water is lost as users swim, keeping the level as high as possible. This is the best type of pool for using a built-in counter-current to enhance

everybody’s enjoyment while swimming, and the sound of the water filter can be eliminated using the silent ‘Whisper’ variant of the overflow gutter. However, practical functionality is not the Overflow Underflow’s only strong point – the invisible edge of the pool, which disappears below the surround, easily makes the pool a decorative and dominant feature of every garden space.

Thanks to the Overflow Underflow, NIVEKO are able to offer a unique pool design for customers with a clear idea of what they want and with specific requirements in mind. Its features and design make it a great choice for every family home.

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

Lo-Chlor’s Simple To Use Liquid Pool Blanket For many swimming pool owners, ongoing maintenance and management of a pool can often be a hassle, and this is particularly true for domestic pool owners with smaller pools.

The use of covers, despite their many benefits, can sometimes fall into this category too. So for those who are looking for an effective but more importantly, an extremely easy to use pool cover, Lo-Chlor’s has developed Liquid Pool Blanket – a solution which is one of the simplest ways to provide a cover to a pool. This new product, which was introduced at the start of the year,

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is a specially blended formula that forms an ultra-thin and invisible protective layer on the pool water surface. As with any type of pool cover, this reduces evaporation and heat loss from the water to the atmosphere. Liquid Pool Blanket is compatible with all types of swimming pool and all disinfection treatments/pool chemicals. It has minimal impact on the pH of the water within the pool too. Other benefits include: • Very easy application.

• Each dosage provides a month of protection.

• Reduces evaporation by approximately 25% and temperature loss by 3-4°C • It is up to 20% more effective than other similar products.

• Non-flammable formula.

Liquid Pool Blanket is a safe alternative to traditional swimming pool covers and a 1 litre bottle will provide 4 months of treatment for a 50,000 litre pool.

Total Water Products Ltd 01639 823233 www.lo-chlor.co.uk

SPN October 2020 17 01/11/2020 20:15

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Expansion Plans In Place For Build A Spa Following an unprecedented surge in interest for hot tubs, Hartlepool-based manufacturer Build A Spa have announced big plans for the future which start with the November opening of their first showroom in the town, plus a further new showroom for south Wales in the new year.

The staff owned business boasts a production capacity of 2,500 spas per year with the whole manufacturing and assembly process taking place in the UK from a vast 40,000 ft² Head Office and production facility.

Within the Build A Spa factory, production and assembly encompasses a wide range of processes – something the company are immensely proud of – and thanks to continued growth, manufacturing will be further enhanced during a two week shutdown in January through the installation of a 20,000 ft² mezzanine floor, new trimming machine and robotic machinery for the manufacturer of cabinets. This will create an impressive production capacity to encompass a wholesale arm of the business, headed up by Business Development Manager Paul Richards.

As the business continues to grow on the back of its quality, it’s clear to see that the marketplace is hungry for British-made products and Build A Spa will continue to align its core values and products’ in a way that will furnish the marketplace with an unrivalled and affordable range. In 2021, the business will commence its national satellite growth strategy, furthering the products reach nationwide.

The company currently has two products available to the wider market – their Zeus and Nemesis models. With a wide array of acrylic from industry giants Lucite and Aristech, they are able to offer over 20 different colours plus dozens of custom extras. Lead times are impressive too with a current turnaround time of just four weeks.

Build A Spa 0800 009 6430 www.buildaspa.co.uk

Martyn Is Part Of Master Plan Master Spas® are widely recognised as one of the world’s leading hot tub and swim spa manufacturers. As both the world’s largest privately owned hot tub company and the largest manufacturer that make 100% of their products within the US, they have an enviable reputation for quality. Master Spas UK – part of the successful Hot Tub Superstore group – are building a network of local Master Spa dealers, bringing the worldclass brand to a location near you. With this in mind, the company are pleased to welcome Martyn Winstone to Master Spas UK as their National Sales Manager.

Martyn comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience from the hot tub industry having worked for Jacuzzi Group for over 20

18 October 2020 SPN 20+23_SPN_October_20_Wellness.indd 18

years. Talking about his recent appointment, Martyn said: “I am very excited to join Master Spas UK and really looking forward to working with the team on all their development ideas and expansion plans. Master Spas have some amazing products in their portfolio such as the Michael Phelps Signature swim spas, Legend spas and Getaway holiday park 13amp spas.

“I am passionate about customer service and I feel being part of this family company encompasses my own beliefs in getting the best for my customers in product and service.”

Master Spas UK 01253 599 330 www.masterspas.co.uk

Superior Spas Expand Both At Home And Abroad Superior Spas continue to grow both at home and in Europe and have expanded their export team with the addition of Amaury Maeder (pictured above) as Export Sales Manager.

Based in Strasbourg, Amaury will be focusing on the Scandinavian market and has joined with a wealth of experience from his previous role being Sales Manager for Be Well Canadian Spas.

Superior Spas now have a presence in France, Germany, Belgium, Holland, Poland and Spain and have plans to expand into Scandinavia as well as America, Canada and New Zealand.

The Export team is led by Gareth Ward, Sales Director and consists of Costa Alecrim, Alyssa Blackbourn, Alberto Hernando – all of whom are bilingual. Graham Message focuses on the UK market. The team are working hard to secure new relationships plus focusing on their existing relationships.

In addition to Amaury’s appointment, Gemma Cogan has joined the company as Head of Customer Experience. Gemma brings a wealth of Customer Service Management experience having previously worked for Silver X Group as their Client Relations Manager.

Gemma’s role is to ensure that all customers receive the best experience at all times, and will be implementing processes throughout the business to make sure this always happens.

Joseph Dixey and Ben Duncan have joined as new Technical Support Engineers.

Joseph joins Superior Spas with a wealth of experience as a Signals Operator with the British Army and Ben brings 17 years of tech and product support experience from British Gas. Their roles role will be to provide technical support to all customers who require it and to be constantly finding ways to improve products and services.

Finally, Petra Nolan, recently started as a Junior Designer/Marketing Assistant and joins a growing marketing team striving to increase brand awareness, sales and revenue. Jay Lunn, has also returned to Superior Spas as an experienced hot tub engineer/technician.

Superior Spas 01246 559071 www.superiorspas.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 01/11/2020 20:18

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Pre-measured Hot Tub And Spa Treatments From Impact With hot tub use seeing a sharp increase this year, easy to use treatments take the hassle out of ownership and SCP UK have a couple of products in their new Impact range of pre-measured water care tablets that make life a lot easier, the first is Bubble Stop.

There are countless reasons why foaming occurs in a spa. The primary cause is the soaps, detergents, shampoos and lotions that users bring into a hot tub. Add jet action and all of that is brought tout of the water and up to the surface. As the name suggests, Bubble Stop prevents the foam from staying on the surface and allows the foam-causing impurities to be collected and trapped in the filter.

The second is Clari-Spa – the perfect water clarifying tablet for every spa.

The product works both as a problem solving and preventative maintenance water clarifier. Clari-Spa will prevent cloudy water by trapping even the smallest dirt particles that can pass through the filtration system. Use Clari-Spa routinely to keep the water in a hot tub or spa crystal clear.

Both products require the use of one tablet every 7-10 days – it really couldn’t be any simpler.

Wrapped individually to prevent damage, Impact use biodegradable boxes to eliminate plastic bottles as the company wants to provide an ecofriendly approach and a positive impact on everyone’s hot tub and spa enjoyment. With easy to use products and green credentials, what’s not to like!

SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

Barcelona Model Showcases A New Philosophy For Platinum Spas Platinum Spas are pleased to announce the launch of their new Barcelona hot tub model. With two loungers and three seats, it’s the perfect hot tub for a family.

Featuring four pumps (three hydrotherapy and one circulation pump) and with quadruple insulation to keep the water warm, the Barcelona also comes with 86 jets which gives users a powerful massage due to the jet layout and quantity, leaving them feeling relaxed and revitalised.

Other features include: a waterfall, backlit jets, LED mood lighting plus Bluetooth connectivity so users can listen to their favourite music – all controlled by an easy to use and smart looking SpaTouch 2 control system from Balboa.

As the brand continues to innovate, customer research was undertaken to ensure that the model moved forward. The result was that this new design from Platinum Spas has moved away from the stereotypical Chinese manufacturing to a North American philosophy – with the company sourcing the highest quality components and craftsmanship available.

The Barcelona hot tub stands out in this range due to its full specification and the four pumps – making it the ideal choice for families looking for an exceptional quality hot tub – and since the launch, Platinum Spas have already had a large number of preorders from both customers and their partners.

Platinum Spas 01246 559071 www.platinumspas.co.uk

Welsh Hot Tub Entrepreneur Continues To Make Waves With the Coronavirus and spring heatwave leading to a surge in sales, UK Leisure Living Group has sold more hot tubs in 2020 than previous years put together.

He is also proud to have been named a finalist in three categories at the National SME Business Awards, to be held at Wembley Arena next spring: Best Enterprising Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year, and for Service Excellence.

“While this year has been challenging for all businesses, we have been able to retain all of our staff and employ an apprentice full-time by capitalising on the initial lockdown period,” said Gareth.

“Protecting our local supply chain has also been hugely important to us and supporting

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companies in the Welsh tourism and hospitality sector when they need it most.

“By introducing new product lines – outdoor kitchens, the swim spas centre, saunas and the US-based Bull barbecue and grill range – the company will be even more sustainable in the future and not reliant on one product to get us through dire and unprecedented circumstances such as these.”

By focusing on the end-to-end leisure experience. Gareth has also launched the Holiday Let Advice Centre, an independent hub for owners of holiday cottages, park owners and glamping site owners to get free and friendly advice.

“We will be a single port of call for the staycation market, offering free guidance on a range of topics from energy saving advice to maximising bookings, hot tub maintenance, accommodation types, electric car charging and any number of issues they will come across. We will also bring in key partners to help with funding, taxation and planning,” he said.

UK Leisure Living 01492 548525 www.ukleisureliving.co.uk

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RCS LYON 380 552 976 - Document non contractuel - Illustration : © elvistheagence.fr

YOUR VISIT BEGINS WITH PISCINE CONNECT, THE DIGITAL EVENT, ON 17 AND 18 NOVEMBER 2020.

REQUEST YOUR BADGE ON PISCINE-GLOBAL-EUROPE.COM AT THE BEGINNING OF NOVEMBER WITH THE CODE PPGEN

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CONTACT VISITOR visitorpiscine@gl-events.com +33 (0)4 78 176 324

26/10/2020 11:37

WORLD NEWS

IN BRIEF ‘TASTEFUL’ CONCEPT LAUNCHED BY FINNISH SAUNA ORGANISATION Sauna from Finland is a network that promotes the business of companies within the sauna field. It also assists hotels and spas all around the world to implement an authentic Finnish sauna experience.

The organisation’s latest initiative incorporates Finnish food and kitchenware companies into the authentic sauna experience to open up markets with innovative products and service options.

Called ‘Tasteful by Sauna from Finland’, the new concept includes Finnish recipes, menus and settings to make the authentic sauna experience more memorable and provide a unique selling point for service providers. The new collaborations containing saunathemed products from different Finnish companies and targeting various customer groups will help the companies to enhance their visibility and to enter international markets.

AUSTRALIAN POOL BARRIER STANDARD TO BE REWRITTEN An initiative to amend Australian Standard AS1926.1 – Swimming pool safety – Safety barriers for swimming pools, has been scrapped in favour of a complete rewrite.

An amendment review began in 2017 and changes proposed in an initial draft included a number of new requirements that had the potential to impact the pool and spa industry.

However concerns were raised that the new draft may be more complex than necessary, may not achieve the initial proposed objective to reduce the need for interpretation and the potential for ambiguity, and may not provide the clarification that was required.

In view of the comments received, plus new data that has emerged since 2017, Standards Australia has made the decision to cancel the revision project and a new programme and proposals will follow.

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Fluidra Earns Seventh FINA Certificate In Indonesia Fluidra has bolstered its leading position in the competition pool segment after the International Swimming Federation (FINA) certified that the Arena Aquatic PON XX Papua in Jayapura, the capital of the Indonesian province of Papua, can host international championships. The debut top-tier event is set to be the Indonesian National Sports Week, ‘Pekan Olah Raga Nasional (PON) 2021’, an event held every four years with athletes from all the country’s provinces.

The group, which has been designing and equipping both competition and training pools for over 45 years, has participated in the design, planning, and execution of multiple facilities for FINAorganised International Swimming Championships.

The project, valued at over €4m, and the subsequent FINA certification once again solidifies Fluidra’s reputation as the partner of choice for sports competitions around the world.

“We started working in Papua in April 2019 as part of the support team for the PT Waskita

Karya construction company and the Indonesian Swimming Federation. Despite the restrictions imposed by COVID19, we are proud that our team was able to complete the project successfully and on time,” explained Xavier Pavon, Fluidra’s Managing Director in Asia.

With this new certification, Fluidra’s subsidiary in Indonesia now has seven FINA-certified swimming pools, together with Aquatic GBK and Aquatic PPOP Ragunan. The pool designed and built for the 19th Sukma Games

in Malaysia also features FINA certification, further enhancing Fluidra’s leadership in the competition pool segment in Asia.

The Arena Aquatic PON XX Papua comprises three pools: an Olympic competition pool measuring 50x25x3m with a movable bulkhead that adapts to all swimming events; a 25x20x5m diving pool (both made with SKYPOOL technology); and a concrete, 50x21m warm-up pool with a variable depth of 1 to 2m.

Discover Piscine Connect In November – The Digital Event Organised to run during the usual dates for Piscine Global Europe, Piscine Connect is a complementary digital solution which takes place on 17 and 18 November this year.

The event will allow everyone within the industy to benefit from the opportunity to connect and meet during the sales launch season. It is a tool specifically designed for the sector, in order to meet the requirements of suppliers and buyers.

Thanks to Piscine Connect, professionals will be able to discover new products and innovations for the market in November, before discovering them physically when Piscine Global Europe runs from 9 to 12 February 2021, at Lyon’s Eurexpo venue, It’s a new experience to discover and there are many reasons to be involved: • Discover, as a preview, the new products and innovations in the pool and spa sector thanks to the platform dedicated to new products and via the associated webinars • Take part in webinars hosted by experts in the sector: from presentations of the latest products from manufacturers to conferences about relevant trends by exhibition partners, these interactive webinars provide information on the latest news from the swimming pool and spa markets and find out how to take advantage

of the latest innovations • Participate in high-quality business appointments via the video meeting platform which allows you to develop business opportunities and expand your network with efficiency and simplicity • Consolidate your professional network with the digital networking solution, including a chat and automatic profile suggestion functions for effective and rapid sourcing of new suppliers • Develop your business without leaving your office and hence continue to develop your activity and create new opportunities, at the most suitable timeslots for your activity.

Piscine Connect is free to access online and via a mobile app.

Piscine Global Europe +33 478 176 324 www.piscine-global-europe.com

SPN October 2020 23 01/11/2020 20:22

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WORLD NEWS

CYA SMART™ LAUNCHES HISTORIC COLLABORATION Industry leaders have joined together to introduce the CYA Smart Alliance, a movement for better, healthier, sustainable and chemically safe and consistent water care. Centred on the principle that pool water should be stable, simple to manage and healthier for swimmers and the environment, the CYA Smart Alliance provides pool and spa professionals from across the industry the ability to join the alliance at www.cyasmart. org and adopt a simpler, more complete water care approach.

By adopting smarter methods, the alliance aims to significantly reduce overstabilisation and the problems it brings. Thus, ending the cycle of chemical overtreatment leading to water and chemical waste and establishing a win for pool professionals, swimmers, health and the environment.

Members will gain access to free educational materials to support their proactive involvement and will be able to display the CYA Smart badge on their website and marketing materials to be recognised as a business committed to better water.

LAS VEGAS SHOW BECOMES VIRTUAL With the numbers of COVID19 cases continuing to climb, organisers of the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo, originally scheduled to take place in Las Vegas, have decided to deliver the event online – a choice many within the exhibition sector are adopting.

While the decision was difficult, it came after owners and organisers Informa surveyed its clients. “We just really wanted to do what was right for the pool, decking and outdoor living community,” said Ray Giovine, Group Director for Informa Marketing.

The event will still take place on its original dates of 11-13 November 2020 and educational sessions will still feature too.

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In the foothills of the Mahogany Mountain range in Utah, just south of Salt Lake City, a family have installed a striking pool slide like no other. Designed by Splinterworks, it not only adds hours of endless pool-side fun, but the Waha slide also serves as a striking piece of sculpture in their beautiful garden.

The elegant design was inspired by surfing a waha, barrel wave. The aqueous shape appears to gather momentum and reach a crescendo, just like a wave, circling back on itself.

This piece of functioning sculpture not only enhances its spectacular surroundings, but when in use, provides a lot of fun for the whole family.

What really attracted the family to it, was this water slide is specifically designed for clients who have existing pools, and who want to bolt the slide easily into their pool deck with minimal upheaval. It is shaped with a twist at the end, which not only makes for a more thrilling ride and a more beautiful shape, but allows for the structure to be placed parallel to the pool. This meant it could easily fit with their existing

Images courtesy of Splinterworks / Meagan Larsen Photography

IN BRIEF

Pool Slide Adds Sculptural Intrigue To Mountain Range Garden

deck and not take up too much space.

Water jets spray the entire sliding surface keeping it slippery and cool even on the hottest summer day. The hand rails are also internally water cooled to ensure it doesn’t get too hot to touch in the strong

Utah sunshine.

Made from a single skin of stainless steel, it is their simplest design from their range of sculptural water slides.

Designed with customisation in mind, they are handmade from scratch and typically take 5-6 months from initial conversations through to finished installation – so planning for summer 2021 starts now!

Splinter Works Ltd 01225 464957 www.splinterworks.co.uk

Team Horner Group Recognised With Cigna Well-Being Award Cigna has selected Team Horner Group as a recipient of the annual Cigna Well-Being Award for demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the health and well-being of its employees through a workplace wellness programme.

Team Horner Group’s well-being programme, called ‘Color Me Healthy’, was noted for its employee teams having the power to choose the initiatives on offer. These initiatives address many aspects of well-being and provide support in a variety of ways including one to one coaching for nutrition, stress, fitness, financial concerns and parenting.

“At Team Horner Group, the well-being of our 500 employees and their families is a top priority. We are honoured to be selected as a recipient of the Cigna Well-Being Award,”

said Bill Kent, CEO. “We know psychologically healthy employees are happier, more productive and better engaged with their work, which is good for everyone.”

While poor health takes a physical toll on workers, it is also a burden to employers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), US employers lose more than US$225bn each year in productivity due to employee health problems.

Cigna Well-Being Award applicants are evaluated based on the core components of their wellness programme, including leadership engagement, company culture, strategy and goals, implementation, and employee engagement. All applications are scored and reviewed by a panel of Cigna health promotion experts.

SPN October 2020 25 01/11/2020 20:23

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Tel 01293 546 126 / 01268 273 040 Fax 01293 528 442 / 01268 273 041 email info.uk@scppool.com / Head Office & Distribution Centre / 1 Church Road / Lowfield Heath / Crawley / West Sussex /RH11 0PQ

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Remote Working Helps To Keep The Wheels Turning BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes provides an update on a number of initiatives taking place online that are helping to keep the industry moving forward

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vast majority of my time this year has been spent online. As we entered the last quarter of this calendar year, it has been very gratifying to appreciate how much work has been able to be done remotely. A flavour of what has been achieved is included below.

With recent Government announcements meaning there is huge uncertainty hanging over the exhibition industry, SPATEX has decided to offer a virtual show for February 2021. Naturally, all involved are sad that they will not be bringing the UK and International industry together under one roof at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena in the traditional way next year. However, after extensive thought and research, the organisers firmly believe that this is the best option to promote our industry in the coming year and will provide protection to both visitors and exhibitors.

Discussions are still being held about the most suitable way of hosting the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards too, so look out for news between now and the end of the year!

Whatever format we arrive at, the winners of the 2021 Awards will be announced at the same time as SPATEX. Further details of the event format will be confirmed shortly to both members and the wider industry.

Some previous winners of the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards have been entered into the European Pool and Spa Awards for 2020. Award-winners are expected to be announced at Piscine Global Europe in Lyon.

This event in France has been rescheduled for Wednesday 10 February 2021 (the week after SPATEX). Good luck to all of the UK entries.

This time of year sees many industry events, including the annual Information Days for both BISHTA and SPATA. In keeping with the wishes of members at this challenging time, both of these events were held online, with the respective dates being Thursday 1 October (SPATA) and Thursday 8 October (BISHTA). A wide range of industry and external speakers were assembled for these days. Both BISHTA and SPATA members received updates on how our industry can help to prevent terrorists getting hold of our chemicals, ways in which Trading Standards can provide advice and support, and explored what ethical trading means for members.

There was news from the trade associations on how they have been helping members over the year, plus feedback was sought from members on AGM business (including a proposed rule change to allow the annual meeting to be online if the situation is ever required in future). There was an update on the #everydaycation campaign – see pages 28 and 29 for more on this initiative.

BISHTA members specifically looked at practical examples of how unsafe products can be removed from the marketplace, and there was an update on training / workforce education. Meanwhile, SPATA members had bespoke sessions on dealing with difficult customers, and with the help of legal experts – Wright Hassall – a session explored how to work safely with main contractors. For more details of the itinerary that took place, please see page 30 of this issue.

Both BISHTA and SPATA members are also members of the BSPF. The three respective AGMs for these companies will be held on Thursday 5 November in Andover.

Feedback on the BSPF was also sought at both the BISHTA and SPATA annual

Information Days in October.

Also in this issue, on page 31 there is an article on the importance of keeping customers satisfied, no easy feat with the problems caused by COVID-19.

Work with our European colleagues in EUSA continues too, and having met in person in Brussels back in March, the decision was taken to hold the next meeting online rather than in Cologne. Meetings will likely take place in Germany in 2021 and with the EUSA Awards planned to be announced in Lyon in February 2021, this will be an excellent opportunity to meet up with colleagues.

France will be hosting the WAPSA meeting in February when the World Alliance of Pool and Spa Associations (WAPSA) will gather to promote learning around the globe.

Partners in Latin America (especially from Brazil and Mexico) have been very busy helping their colleagues work towards an Association that can support individual countries to strengthen their own associations or set one up where they do not currently exist. The plan is also to support Caribbean countries in providing support for pool and spa companies in these countries which will further strengthen the voice of WAPSA and mean there are even more countries to learn from to help members here in the British Isles.

Please stay safe, and I look forward to seeing many of you soon!

DIARY DATES 2020 5 Nov 5 Nov 5 Nov 10 Nov

A huge amount of guidance has been issued in our industry from various organisations, and my thanks are expressed to the members of the various Boards, Councils and Committees for their superb contributions” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 29_SPN_Oct_2020_CH_Rev.indd 27

24 Nov 4 Dec

SPATA Council + AGM, Andover BSPF AGM, Andover BISHTA Committee + AGM, Andover SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx PIP Committee, WebEx SPATEX Board, Andover

2021 2 – 4 Feb SPATEX 2021, Virtual 8 Feb WAPSA Meeting, Lyon

SPN October 2020 27 02/11/2020 22:20

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

#everydaycation – Finishing The Season On A High!

PIP PR & Marketing Manager Sallie Leslie-Golding provides an update on the latest activity from the industry marketing campaign

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he Pool Industry Promotions (PIP), campaign to promote the UK hot tub and pool industry started in June this year and ran through to the end of October. Over the last two issues of SPN, I have given updates on the latest activity from the industry campaign and the results generated. As the campaign draws to a close for 2020, I have outlined in this article the final elements that have been undertaken for this year.

The PIP committee had a summary meeting with our campaign agency (Speed Communications) at the end of October while this latest issue of SPN is at print, as our initial contract for 2020 comes to a close.

Following this, the PIP Committee will be meeting in November for the annual PIP Strategic Planning meeting to review the effectiveness of the PIP strategy for 2020 and to plan activity for 2021.

LIFESTYLE INFLUENCER

an exclusive three-month agreement with threepieces of activity posted via her Instagram account with in excess of 100k followers.

Laura has built her career on finding Brits their holiday homes abroad, best known as a presenter on Channel 4’s ‘A Place in the Sun’ programme. Laura has her very own plush pad right here in the UK, situated in Surrey, with her husband Alex Goward and their two children Rocco and Tahlia. Laura’s stunning home boasts a swimming pool and a lush garden, as well as very chic decor inside.

Laura is exceptionally active on Instagram and has been sharing updates of several of the house projects she has taken on during lockdown as well as images enjoying her garden and swimming pool. On 29 August, Laura shared her first video. At the time of writing this article, this will shortly be followed up will another video and posts about swimming pool ownership and the benefits it can bring to the lifestyle of pool owners.

NATIONAL CAMPAIGN WITH THE METRO

For the social influencer part of the campaign and to promote swimming pool ownership (#everydaycation and SPATA), we have been working with TV presenter Laura Hamilton in

BISHTA put out a request to all members, asking if they would like to become a prize

TV presenter Laura Hamilton was used in an exclusive three-month agreement for the #everydaycation campaign

Campaign activity drives visitors to the campaign website which provided a tool to engage and inspire visitors

28 October 2020 SPN 30-31_SPN_October_20_BSPF_Everydaystaycation.indd 28

sponsor for the competition element of the #everydaycation campaign, working with the Metro on a national competition during September and October, in return for national promotional coverage. We are pleased to announce that Chris Brady at 1StopSpas agreed to sponsor the hot tub prize for the #everydaycation competition this year.

Entry to the competition was open to subscribers of the Metro’s property e-newsletter (The Key) and the competition was further promoted through the use of digital, social media and print advertisements. With a circulation of 2 million, the competition provided excellent national coverage for the hot tub industry, as well as promoting the #everydaycation campaign, BISHTA and 1StopSpas.

#EVERYDAYCATION LOCATION As people have spent so much time at home in recent months, a lot more of their money has been, and will likely continue to be, spent on home improvements. To capitalise on this trend and the surge in demand for domestic hot tubs and swimming pools, an element of our #everydaycation campaign was to run a social media Facebook competition. The competition was aimed at hot tub and pool owners to enter photos of their #everydaycation moments and their creative garden set-ups. There have been a lot more people sharing images on social media of their themed garden set-ups, such as holiday resorts, spa locations or owners have personalised their garden space with the addition of creative extras, such as projection screens, outdoor gyms, outdoor buildings, seating areas and outside bars.

The ‘#everydaycation location’ Facebook

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 02/11/2020 22:21

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY competition ran during September with John Lewis gift vouchers as prizes.

The purpose of the competition is that all of the entry images will be agreed for use by PIP for promotional and marketing purposes with the plan to work with home and lifestyle magazine publications on ‘#everydaycation location’ features with a Reflection of Summer 2020, providing a fantastic opportunity to promote hot tub and pool ownership along with BISHTA and SPATA.

As people have spent so much time at home in recent months, a lot more of their money has been, and will likely continue to be, spent on home improvements”

GETTING SOCIAL The #everydaycation message is being promoted across the campaign accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as well as the BISHTA and SPATA Facebook pages. We are spreading the hashtag #everydaycation far and wide along with eye-catching lifestyle images and links to the campaign website to inspire consumers to purchase, educating them along the way with water leisure tips and lifestyle improvements.

Social Adverts – we are currently running a variety of social media adverts across Facebook and Instagram to boost our following and gain increased post-interaction.

We’ve seen some very successful results through increased followers, likes and website traffic.

Statistics for Social Media Adverts: • Reached over 1 million people • Driven over 21,000 link clicks.

Demographic Snapshot: • Hot Tub content skews 84% female, 25-34 • Pool content 60/40 Female/Male, skewing 45-54.

DRIVING ONLINE ACTIVITY All of the campaign activity drives visitors to the campaign website –www.everydaycation. co.uk – and the site provides a tool to engage and inspire visitors, then push them through to the BISHTA and SPATA websites to find lots of free information and to find their nearest BISHTA/SPATA members.

Statistics for Website Traffic: • SPATA: up 104% on 2019 • BISHTA: up 240% on 2019 • Everydaycation: users continuing to go up, including direct, which is an excellent indicator of the halo effect of the campaign.

The #everydaycation message is being promoted across the campaign accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

WHAT’S PLANNED GOING FORWARD? Following a campaign summary meeting with Speed Comms and the PIP committee this month, a PIP Strategy Planning Meeting for 2021’s PR and Marketing activity will also take place in November. Topics of discussion include: • Working with lifestyle, home, garden and luxury publications • Continuing to promote the industry research stats across the national press • Promoting Autumn and Winter Hot Tub messages to the national press • Promoting ‘Plan Now for 2021 Swimming Pool Installations’ to the national press

2021 BRITISH POOL & HOT TUB AWARDS With the surge in demand for hot tubs and pools and increased workload, please don’t forget to capture images of all the fantastic projects you are installing. Collect a variety of pictures from each of your installation projects, and make sure they include shots of the hot tub, exercise spa or pool with water in and that the photos highlight the best views of the project and its surroundings from multiple angles. Where permission is granted, it would also be great to have some lifestyle images of your customers using their pools and hot tubs.

For BISHTA and SPATA members, we hope that you have entered the latest annual British

Pool & Hot Tub Awards. Being the longestrunning and most well-established industry awards, they play a crucial role in promoting the industry, not only to the trade but more importantly, to a broader regional and national consumer audience. These awards have been established to appeal to a broad crosssection of the consumer press with coverage for award-winners gaining more and more momentum both locally and nationally. The British Pool & Hot Tub Awards are run for the benefit of promoting and celebrating the excellence of BISHTA and SPATA members (nationwide and overseas) endorsing companies who strive for the best, as members working to the recognised industry standards and the respective Association’s Code of Ethics.

The prospect for award-winners is increased publicity through our complimentary press distribution and the opportunity to boost the turnover of successful companies. With next year being a landmark anniversary year for BISHTA (20th), SPATA (60th) and SPATEX (25th), 2021 will be a year to put an even bigger spotlight on our industry.

If you are not a member and would like to join, please get in touch to discuss the membership options available for your company.

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

The annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards are the longest-running and most well-established industry awards

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SPN October 2020 29 02/11/2020 22:21

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

The Trade Association Annual Information Days This year, the SPATA and BISHTA Information Days were held online, making these events easily accessible for members

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he trade association ‘Information Days’ provide an invaluable opportunity to share topical information with members and hear members feedback in preparation for the year ahead. Here, we provide an outline of the topics covered.

trade association must be vigilant about unsafe products entering the market. Mike Kearney from BEIS and Susan Winsor from OPSS jointly presented, on how we can all work together to keep consumers safe.

SPATA INFORMATION DAY – THURSDAY 1 OCTOBER How do we stop terrorists getting our chemicals?

• SPATA is working with the Home Office and a number of other partners to raise awareness of the potential threats posed by terrorists purchasing chemicals in-store and/or online. Detective Inspector, Sarah Barrett from the Home Office, presented this session which explored how you can ‘Know Your Customer’ and be aware of suspicious purchases.

Trading Standards are here to help us • Through SPATA’s Primary Authority Partnership (PAP) with Hampshire County Council Trading Standards team, Adam Chambers (Senior Trading Standards Officer) provided updates on crucial issues of interest to members, along with topical information on the latest guidance for business owners.

What does ethical trading mean to you?

• Ben Studdy, Business Development Manager at Fairlocks Pool Products Ltd, provided a session to explore why The Code of Ethics is so essential for members to uphold, and the strength it provides for reputation, as a trusted trade association member and reassurance for consumers to purchase.

Dealing with difficult customers • Peter Lang is a SPATA Technical Advisor, Chair of the technical committee, and he is also a SPATA inspector. Peter shared his experiences of working on dispute resolutions, sharing key lessons learned to minimise the chances of this happening to other members and he gave an insight into how SPATA can support members with the dispute resolution process.

Working safely with main contractors • Paul Slinger is a Partner at Wright Hassall; he gave a review of the vital information to be aware of for members to take advantage of working with main contractors and how not to get into difficulties with contractual disputes or added responsibilities.

SPATA and BSPF Review • Chris Hayes, SPATA’s Managing Director gave a presentation outlining the value businesses can get from trade association membership, and the benefits membership can bring to a business.

Making the most of the #everydaycation industry campaign • Sallie Leslie-Golding, PIP PR & Marketing Manager, presented an overview of the hot tub and pool industry campaign launched by Pool Industry Promotions (PIP) this summer, along with an update on the impact of the campaign revealing the stats so far.

BISHTA INFORMATION DAY– THURSDAY 8 OCTOBER How do we stop terrorists getting our chemicals?

• BISHTA is working with the Home Office and a number of other partners to raise awareness of potential threats posed by terrorists purchasing chemicals in-store and/or online. Detective Inspector Sarah Barrett from the Home Office provided a presentation on awareness around spotting suspicious transactions.

Promoting Safe Hot Tub Standards • With help from BISHTA members, the

The trade association ‘Information Days’ provide an invaluable opportunity to share topical information with members and hear members’ feedback in preparation for the year ahead” 30 October 2020 SPN 32_SPN_October_20_BSPF_Info_Days.indd 30

Trading Standards are here to help us • Adam Chambers (Senior Trading Standards Officer) presented topical information on the latest guidance for business owners, aligned through BISHTA’s Primary Authority Partnership (PAP) with Hampshire County Council Trading Standards team.

What does ethical trading mean to you?

• BISHTA Chair, Pete Grinnall explored the updated Code of Ethics and shared news of the BISHTA Pledge, and how both of these principles can support and grow your business and provide trust and peace of mind for purchasers.

Training / Workforce Education • A session that gave an update on what training options are in place and provided news on planned training courses for 2020/21. BISHTA has been working with its trainers to develop its courses to provide more online learning incorporating location training with safe and accessible adjustments.

BISHTA and BSPF Review • This session looked at the value BISHTA and BSPF membership provides to members and highlighted key tools, resources and benefits available to members to help manage and grow their businesses.

Making the most of the #everydaycation industry campaign • Sallie Leslie-Golding presented an update on the impact of the #everydaycation campaign, with news on the actions and stats to date.

BISHTA and SPATA would like to thank all of the presenters who gave their time and shared their expertise over these two days.

Members can access videos, presentations and reference tools from the days on the BISHTA and SPATA online ‘Members Hub’.

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

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 02/11/2020 22:24

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Keeping Your Customers Satisfied In this article, Chris Hayes looks at some of the key items that can ensure harmonious customer relations and highlights how their absence can create extreme issues that can be costly, both in terms of money and undue stress

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ell-run companies succeed because they have established outstanding work practices, procedures and communication networks to demonstrate their excellence. Not only will their customers be impressed with the quality of their work, but their administration and communication will also be well-tuned. Having great quality products and services are an absolute must, but if customers are let down by empty promises, poor timekeeping and ineffective communication, this can turn what should have been a happy customer into somebody that not only chooses to complain to their family and friends, but could also give negative online feedback that may be seen by potential new customers.

BISHTA and SPATA require their respective members to build to industry standards and to abide by the applicable Association’s ‘Code of Ethics’. Through discussing good practice, various practical resources have been generated from member feedback to share what works well for them. For SPATA, these include project planners to capture the detail wanted by the clients, sample contracts, communication forms, commissioning sheets and handover certificates, all of which are available in the online members’ hub.

YOU ONLY GET ONE CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION Many businesses can turn to their satisfied customers as their best form of advertising when it comes to winning new business.

Either the customer recommends your company, they may provide an endorsement online, or they may be willing to have a prospective customer shown around their home to see your completed work.

Online searches are an ever-growing resource for consumers to research their purchases. With this in mind, it is imperative that companies think of their websites as their 24-hour shop window.

A company website, in most cases, is the first impression a customer has of your business, so if it has great imagery from your installations, runs smoothly and meets the customer’s expectations, they are more likely to make an enquiry. Also, consider your marketing materials, everything that promotes your company should have common branding and provide customers with your company credentials to choose your business rather than a competitor.

Gathering and following up on leads is also imperative, but it is often surprising (and

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 33_SPN_October_20_BSPF_Customer_Satisfaction.indd 31

concerning) to hear how many customers claim they have made an enquiry and never received a response. When you weigh up the average amount of money a company spends on advertising and marketing along with the potential value of a lost lead, it’s surprising how much money can be wasted from not having effective customer relationship management (CRM) in place.

verbal conversation may be difficult to recall or can be challenged by the other person who has a different recollection of events!

It is possible that there have been delays through inclement weather or possibly with an equipment supply issue. Have you been on top of the discussion with the client?

GET TO KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER

• Do you provide a decent specification that is easy for the client to understand?

• How robust is your contract, and is it clear what your payment terms are?

• At handover, do you get the client to sign off the project (confirming any snagging, if applicable)?

Building a business relationship with your client is the key to a happy customer. Getting to know what their expectations are from the project and ensuring this information is recorded in writing so as to avoid any misunderstandings is a further development of your CRM. It helps if you ask the right questions; about other work they may have had completed as this will give you an insight into their expectations. Depending on the nature and complexity of the project, check who is to be the main point of contact; is it the owner, an architect, a main contractor?

Explain what system is being employed to deal with variations to the contract. Manage the client’s expectations regarding what is being provided for the budget and be realistic about timescales for completion. If there is an end date that the client has in mind, it is essential to meet it, or identify that it may need adjusting.

Once you have been awarded a contract, provide the client with documentation that is clear for them to understand. It is very easy to skip over an essential piece of detail; most domestic clients are unlikely to comprehend design drawings, so make sure they know what they are getting from the outset, this will save any costly corrections or timeline delays at a later date.

ARE ALL PARTS OF THE PROJECT AS GOOD AS THE BEST BITS? The project looks great, but does the plantroom match? An untidy, poorly laid out plantroom can be unsightly, but can also become an issue for ongoing maintenance, service and repair.

How good have you been with your communication? Is it always written, as a

GET THE PAPERWORK RIGHT

IF THERE SHOULD BE A PROBLEM… Do you deal with it while it is manageable, or do you ignore it?

Where the issue is with one of your subcontractors, be aware that you are still responsible for their actions, and the client will expect you to deal with the matter – they are the customer!

BISHTA and SPATA members are aware that they can access free support services as members, these include; • The Stakeholder account is in place to safeguard monies for the members and customers. Non-members can request this service from solicitors, but please note there will be a fee for this service.

• Both trade associations can offer Alternative Dispute Resolution through mediation, or signpost to adjudication services. And if legal advice is needed, then help can be obtained from Wright Hassall LLP. Our industry helps to turn so many dreams into reality, and the vast majority of the projects usually go very smoothly, with happy clients. But on the rare occasions when something goes wrong, there are always important lessons to be learnt to avoid any repetition.

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

Through discussing good practice, various practical resources have been generated from member feedback to share what works well for them” SPN October 2020 31 02/11/2020 22:27

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

SPATEX Embarks On An Exciting New Virtual Venture

With the COVID-19 pandemic closing down physical events around the UK, SPATEX – the UK’s only dedicated international water leisure expo – has announced a unique virtual event for 2021, and the initial feedback for it looks positive!

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PATEX has received overwhelming industry support and endorsement following its recent announcement to hold a virtual show in place of its live 25th anniversary event at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena in February 2021.

In order to ensure the safety of its exhibitors and visitors against COVID-19, the SPATEX directors appointed the market leading virtual event provider, vFairs, to host an innovative, all-inclusive virtual platform. SPATEX Virtual will be accessible from all laptops, desktops and tablets and does not require a webcam or Zoom. It will be available to all visitors free of charge throughout the live days of Tuesday 2 to Thursday 4 February and for at least thirty days after the show closes.

The SPATEX team are currently busy signing up all interested parties, following a recent online presentation by vFairs’ Nick Brake which gave potential exhibitors an excellent appreciation of how a virtual show works. Available to view on YouTube, the demonstration attracted an audience well in excess of a hundred people and received the following accolades from industry stalwarts: Steve Martin, Managing Director of Paramount Pool Products said: “I was most impressed with the professional delivery of the vFairs presentation by Nick Brake and the BSPF’s Chris Hayes. The platform looks very straight forward to navigate and explore and, overall, seems good value for money. If the site remains live longer than the suggested thirty days I think it could have even more potential if run in conjunction with social/website media. Great effort from the SPATEX team!”

Richard Hart, Managing Director of Aqua Warehouse Group commented: “Going Virtual has inspired our team to look at all the new possibilities that a physical show couldn’t offer. We are excited to explore new avenues, using the technology, to open up sales potential with many international customers as well as UK that might not have attended Coventry. Let’s turn the negative into a positive. A big thank you to SPATEX. We are with you all the way!”

Selwyn Mindel, Managing Director of Unipools Ltd added: “Unipools is delighted to sign up to SPATEX Virtual. I had little

• Access to watch videos – from key suppliers • Free expertise – source impartial expert advice for projects.

idea of what a virtual exhibition constituted until I watched the vFairs presentation and I was amazed at just what is possible and can be achieved. It, of course, doesn’t replace face to face contact but in the challenging times we currently live in, it is an excellent alternative and we wholeheartedly embrace the new platform.”

Delighted SPATEX Organiser, Michele Bridle, said: “We are really heartened by the reception this new concept has received and we are grateful for the continued support of our loyal exhibitors and visitors as we embark on this exciting new venture.

“Naturally, we are sad that we will not be bringing the UK and International industry together under one roof at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena in a live event but given the current ‘new normal’ we firmly believe that this is the best option to promote our industry in the coming year. It is an excellent temporary measure and we hope to be back at the Ricoh Arena in 2022.”

The new format will allow exhibiting companies to interact with a global audience to generate new leads and similar to the physical exhibition, SPATEX Virtual will allow visitors to stay ahead of the game and see the latest products and innovations and compare and contrast them in this, the first European show of 2021. A full list of the many reasons to be involved can be seen on page 36 of this issue, but in short, SPATEX Virtual facilitates the following: • Live online meetings – throughout the three days • Greater contact – provide a platform for customers and suppliers to meet via simple to use chatrooms and direct messaging • Easy to source information – download specific product information and email either to yourself or others via a virtual show bag

It is an excellent temporary measure and we hope to be back at the Ricoh Arena in 2022” 32 October 2020 SPN 35_SPN_October_20_SPATEX_Update.indd 32

The ISPE workshops, so much an integral and popular part of the SPATEX live experience, are given equal prominence in the virtual show, and visitors will be able to access and enjoy discussions from top industry experts on a whole host of industry topics in a programme of workshops. The beauty of the virtual show is that all sessions are recorded and are available for at least 30 days after the live event.

General Secretary of the ISPE, Ross Alcock said: “We will continue with the initial plans that were in place for the ISPE Workshop programme at Coventry, but these will be expanded upon. The programme will be delivered in a mixture of live and pre-recorded sessions with some having the option of a Q and A.” Speaking about the benefits for exhibitors, Organiser Michele Bridle commented: “SPATEX Virtual will be unique as it gives exhibitors a host of new benefits such as in-depth analytics that offer in-built tracking, lead management and attendee profiles to provide a more detailed look into what their target audience is looking for.”

All exhibitors can rest assured that vFairs and the SPATEX team are available to offer free technical advice and guidance on creating their stand, both in advance of the show and during. In addition to virtual stands, there’s a variety of sponsorship opportunities too.

Michele added: “We appreciate that the virtual show is a new concept for our exhibitors and to thank their muchvalued loyalty, and to celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are offering an amazing 50% off the virtual exhibitor stands in a special introductory deal. There are five packages to suit budgets of all sizes, details of which can be found on our website. Given the exposure a virtual stand provides, participation represents true value for money, especially when coupled with the fact that there is no staff travel, lodging or meals and no printing of company brochures etc. It is a no brainer!”

SPATEX 01264 358558 www.spatex.co.uk

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SPATEX2021 A4 TRADE VIRTUAL FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 02/11/2020 16:09 Page 1

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MAKING RIPPLES - FEBRUARY 2021 SPATEX represents all sectors of the wet leisure industry from pools, spas, saunas to hydrotherapy, steam rooms and play equipment, in both the domestic and commercial arena. Enjoy all your favourite SPATEX experiences but in a digital environment in 2021.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR STAND VISIT:

WWW.SPATEX.CO.UK OR CALL +44 1264 358558

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

25 Reasons To Get Involved In SPATEX Virtual 2021!

With COVID-19 putting a pause on live events, SPATEX will be hosted online from Tuesday 2 to Thursday 4 February and there are many reasons to be involved and it can all be done from the comfort of a home or office environment

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ever in SPATEX’s history has there been a more landmark event than the 25th anniversary show in 2021 and it is set to be even more momentous as, for one year only, it goes virtual. Whether exhibiting or visiting, here’s 25 reasons to be a part of the action: Safety first: With no travel, no risk and no cost, participants can enjoy all the benefits of SPATEX from an office or home via a laptop, desktop or tablet.

The SPATEX experience online: The chosen state-of-the-art virtual event provider, vFairs (who have been in the business for over ten years), is currently creating a platform that replicates the SPATEX experience so it feels like you are literally walking through the show.

All the SPATEX benefits: View a virtual showguide; move between exhibitor stands; use the keyword search facility to find new products and companies; gather and place information, brochures and PDFs from exhibitors in a show bag which you can then email to yourself or others; set up live online meetings, direct messages with exhibitors and engage in live chat rooms; watch exhibitor videos and attend a programme of seminars and workshops.

Simple to access: Participants don’t need to download or install any information to be able to attend nor use a webcam or Zoom.

All that’s needed is internet access.

Safe and secure: Data is stored securely and visitors will only be contacted if they have given permission.

Easy to navigate: The site is instinctive but there is also a step-by-step navigation guide.

Full technical support: The SPATEX team and vFairs will be on hand throughout the three days of the show to respond to any queries by return.

A show with gravitas: SPATEX Virtual counts the Industry’s many esteemed associations amongst its supporting partners, they include BISHTA, SPATA, ISPE, PWTAG and STA.

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First European show of 2021: It’s the first opportunity for the international water leisure industry to meet in 2021 and showcase the latest products and innovations.

Free education: SPATEX Virtual will continue the tradition of hosting the best free education and skills offering in the UK with a comprehensive seminar programme featuring a diverse range of topics. Push notifications will remind visitors of each session which you can watch live or for at least 30 days after the event.

See the latest award winning pools and hot tubs: The BSPF will be holding the British Pool and Hot Tubs Awards hosted by SPATA and BISHTA as a social event for 2021.

Global showcase: It’s international!

The organisers look forward to hosting a broad cross section of water leisure companies drawn from around the world.

Multiple visits: Visitors can dip in and out as much as they like throughout the three days of the show (Tuesday 2nd to Thursday 4th February) and the site will remain up and running for at least 30 days after the show closes.

All-inclusive: Every sector of the water leisure industry is represented in both the commercial and domestic markets – swimming pools, spas, saunas, steam rooms, enclosures, hot tubs and water features are all covered. From small projects to Olympic sized pools – pick up tips from the brightest and best in the industry.

Water leisure in action: Don’t read it in a manual, watch it online to see how it is done.

Network: Use the chat rooms or direct message exhibitors and visitors. It’s never been easier to make new contacts.

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Going Virtual for 2021 means that the UK doesn’t lose its ability to bring vital water leisure businesses together on an annual basis to boost trade” 34 October 2020 SPN 36_SPN_October_20_SPATEX_25_Reasons.indd 34

Gauge the industry’s temperature: Find out the latest industry news, the trends, services and solutions and be inspired!

Feel connected throughout the three days and longer: Don’t worry if contact wasn’t made during the live event – message exhibitors for at least 30 days after.

Exposure to new markets: Visitors are drawn from a wide variety of professions and disciplines e.g. builders, architects, school bursars, holiday park owners, specifiers, leisure managers, etc.

The promise of a lot of fun: Celebrate SPATEX’s 25th anniversary with a host of online competitions and prizes across the three days.

Be in it, to win it: Take advantage of exclusive online offers.

Free to attend: Pre-register now at www.spatex.co.uk SPATEX is ‘by the industry, for the industry’: Going Virtual for 2021 means that the UK doesn’t lose its ability to bring vital water leisure businesses together on an annual basis to boost trade.

Furthermore, support of SPATEX is vital for the money it ploughs back into the industry – to date over £1.8m. This provides vital funding for the SPATEX Foundation and the lobbying of important changes affecting the industry.

Ride the wave of optimism: SPATEX Virtual pledges to grow the momentum that many businesses in 2020 have witnessed, particularly in the domestic market, as a result of the reduction in foreign travel.

A special edition: Celebrating SPATEX’s 25th anniversary, as well as SPATA’s 60th and BISHTA’s 20th, join colleagues in this very 21st century virtual journey which, more than ever before, makes the industry immediate and hugely accessible.

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Additionally, and to celebrate SPATEX’s 25th anniversary, the prices for the stand packages have been reduced by 50% for the special 2021 virtual event – find out more on the SPATEX website.

SPATEX 01264 358558 www.spatex.co.uk

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SPN OCT 2020.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2020 07:15 Page 36

STA POOL PLANT – SWIM SCHOOL POOLS

Could You Build, Own And Run Your Own Swim School Pool?

In this issue, Luke Griffiths, Qualification Development Manager for Pool Plant at Safety Training Awards discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic could encourage swim school owners currently hiring pools to take the plunge and build, own and run their own swimming pool

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he COVID-19 pandemic has put such a strain on the leisure industry. It has been widely reported that 30% of public pools could remain closed until 2021, with fears 10% of swimming pools could permanently close. (But no more doom and gloom and I promise not to mention the ‘C’ word again for the remainder of this feature!)

Therefore, could the current situation open up opportunities for swim schools to own and run their own swimming pool?

I am a firm believer that swimming is one of the most important life skills and one which one day could be a lifesaver. It is enjoyable and has fantastic physical and mental health benefits.

It can also be a profitable business, despite the associated costs of operating your own pool. The last few years have seen a slow decline in the number of local authority pools, meaning pool space is at a premium.

This has already resulted in a drive for many swim school owners who were previously hiring facilities at high costs, to build or own their own pool.

There are many options in terms of locations and buildings that may be suitable to build a commercial swim school pool.

We have seen pools being built in deserted community pubs, retail and industrial units, and even abandoned car parks. It is vital when retrofitting these facilities as with any new build that commercial pool technical requirements are followed. The potential financial and life changing costs of not having suitable pool plant far outweigh the

initial savings from cutting corners on the specification of the pool.

With small to large scale swim schools and franchises continuing to grow, STA, over the last few months, has seen a marked upsurge in requests from swim schools wanting additional information on building their own pool. In the current climate, swim school owners who are currently hiring pools, are finding it difficult to open fully due to pool owners being reluctant to hire out their pools at this time. There have also been requests from those swim schools hiring pools who have been able to open, but would like more control to ensure that the water quality is safe for themselves and their customers.

HIRE Vs OWN Swim school owners interested in owning their own pool must be aware of the key differences when hiring a pool and owning a pool.

When hiring a pool, generally the pool owner has responsibility for ensuring a safe hygienic facility and water quality; as well as the day-to-day running costs such as utilities and rates etc. Once you take the plunge and own your own pool it is your responsibility for all aspects of health & safety, pool plant, management and finances of the facility, not just the swim school.

Building your own pool gives you the opportunity to own a facility that works for your swim school business. It can be designed to suit your needs from car parking, reception areas, changing areas, pool and plant, to secondary spend options. It also gives you

With small to large scale swim schools and franchises continuing to grow, STA, over the last few months, has seen a marked upsurge in requests from swim schools wanting additional information on building their own pool” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 37_SPN_October_20_STA.indd 37

the peace of mind that you are providing safe, clean and hygienic pool water at the temperature that is most suitable for your swim school customers. It gives you priority in terms of programming your swim school sessions. As well as the flexibility to hire out pool space to provide another income.

So, could owning your own pool be a viable option?

STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk

Industry’s First ‘Build Your Own Pool’ Virtual Conference Robbie Phillips, Martyn Hardy and Chris Hayes have all presented on the build your own pool topic across several STA Conferences and at last year’s STA Pool Plant Convention. With seminars ranging from planning and building, to operating your own swim school pool. This year’s STA conference has been postponed until next year, but due to the increased interest in owning or building your own pool, STA will be hosting a virtual ‘build your own pool’ conference in November. These sessions will explore in more detail some of the considerations that swim school owners need to make before deciding whether to take the plunge and build their own swimming pool.

To find out more about the industry’s first virtual ‘build your own pool’ conference on 20 November, which will be tailored for independent swim schools and teachers who are looking to develop their own facility with COVID-19 considerations, please keep an eye on STA’s Facebook page @ STAHealthLeisureLife, email marketing@ sta.co.uk or see www.sta.co.uk/events/stasvirtual-build-a-pool-conference

SPN October 2020 37 01/11/2020 20:35

Pool Surrounds for the trade, by the trade!

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SANDSTONE – THE NATURAL CHOICE

Using Sandstone To Enhance A Home’s Leisure Landscape As a timeless, eco-friendly material, Sandstone is a great choice to use around a swimming pool and for luxury pool specialists Chiswell Pools and Cranbourne Stone, it was the perfect and natural choice to bring the plans to life of this stunning domestic project

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he owners of this private residence wanted to enjoy their outdoor space fully by transforming their garden into the perfect area for leisure activities – for them, their family and their friends to relax and enjoy. Their extensive outdoor leisure space included building a new swimming pool, hot tub, indoor gym, sauna, infant area, alfresco cooking and dining areas plus more!

To bring their plan to life, Chiswell Pools and Cranbourne Stone worked together to create a classic and timeless design that met their dream criteria. The project plan combined clean lines with natural materials to complement the surroundings and make full use of the area to create a beautiful outdoor space.

MAKING THE SWIMMING POOL A TALKING POINT The design of the swimming pool was instrumental to the overall scheme of the garden and needed to be multifunctional.

Using a classic rectangular shape, the swimming pool’s main feature were the steps entering the pool.

“The design included a large upper area which would act as a paddling pool for the whole family to enjoy. The lower area was fitted with four powerful massaging jets to create a wonderful ‘lounge area’ within the water,” said Tar Puangsri from Chiswell Pools.

To reflect the existing luxurious style

of the house and its grounds, the design incorporated natural stone in the swimming pool surrounds and terraced areas.

“When looking for stone to complement the design of the project, sandstone was the natural choice,” explained Jo Standfield, Cranbourne Stone’s Sales Director.

“It was important that the swimming pool area worked cohesively within the grounds of the property and looked like it was an extension of the house,” added Jo.

SANDSTONE – THE NATURAL CHOICE Georgian Antiqued Sandstone has an aged appearance giving it a rustic feel. The light grey colour and gentle tumbled edges make the stone perfect for more traditional outdoor paving projects and swimming pool surrounds.

“Georgian Antiqued Sandstone was chosen for its beautiful subtle grey tones and soft tumbled edges. The client was looking for a stone that was not a one-dimensional flat colour, or with a finish that was completely smooth. Sandstone met these criteria and also had the classic feel that worked perfectly next to the house,” highlighted Jo. It was a key feature of the design that the swimming pool surround sits perfectly within the existing patio area, which was not uniform in style. Sandstone works well when laid in an irregular pattern and brings out the natural beauty of the stone.

Thanks to its slip-resistant properties,

sandstone stands up to all safety criteria required for swimming pools surrounds and can be used for a variety of applications, on everything from internal and external flooring, pool surrounds, copings as well as wall cladding to give the design a seamless and elegant finish.

Because natural stone varies in both colour and texture, the appearance of the sandstone changes when wet, enhancing the tones and characteristics within the stone and adding to its beauty.

“The light grey natural stone matched perfectly with the ocean blue colour of the water created by the pool tiles and also contrasted well with the royal blue pool cover,” commented Tar Puangsri, Chiswell Pools.

“The rounded bull-nosed stone copings made the separation between the pool and the patio area ‘feet friendly’, giving it a smooth unobtrusive finish when people sit on the edge with their feet in the pool. Another benefit of the sandstone used was that it was not 100% porous. Therefore, it would not absorb water, and so would help any rain water fall away from the pool,” emphasised Tar. “Sandstone is a great choice to use around a swimming pool. An eco-friendly material, it is recognised for its natural strength, durability and slip-resistant nature. By using the Georgian Antiqued Sandstone in the surround, copings and terracing, the material palette was consistent throughout the outdoor area. Using this stone selection in the project has resulted in a stylish and classic pool and garden design,” concluded Jo Standfield.

The end result of the project was impressive. Hard work, determination, commitment and collaboration, from start to finish, produced a stunning outdoor design.

Through the use of the very best landscaping and pool stone materials, along with state-ofthe-art components including an economical pool pump heater and electrics controlled with a touch of a button from an iPad or iPhone, the design was not only technologicallyadvanced but also unique, sustainable and timeless.

Chiswell Pools 01923 599187 www.chiswellpools.com Cranbourne Stone 01264 810813 www.cranbournestone.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 39_SPN_Aug_20_Cranbourne.indd 39

SPN October 2020 39 01/11/2020 20:41

MANUFACTURED IN THE UK

Plastica – Thriving Through Lockdown With a surge in interest for domestic products during the COVID-19 lockdown, in this issue, we take look at how Plastica, the UK manufacturer and distributor of pool and spa products, has adjusted how it operates increase output in a safety first environment

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eing in business these days means being adaptable to times of change, but no-one could have predicted how different sectors would be affected during a worldwide pandemic.

The majority of businesses that are home and health related, and more importantly able to trade online, have seen a boom during this time. Those initial three months of lockdown back in the spring proved to have been a unique time of growth for Plastica, the East Sussex-based manufacturer and distributor.

The combination of great weather and families at home created the perfect storm for many parts of the swimming pool industry, especially on the domestic side, and the company has seen a huge increase in demand within various sectors of their business.

Plastica’s own liners department witnessed an unseasonal increase in production compared to last year’s orders. Lead times have been constantly monitored and extended to allow for social distancing during manufacture and to maintain the quality of product they are so proud of. Taking a steady and slow approach has kept the increased production ticking over, while safe-guarding the health of staff and ultimately customers too.

One area in particular of Plastica’s business that has experienced huge growth is their wooden pools range, where turnover has doubled compared to the same time last year. Commenting on the impressive surge, Plastica’s Timber Products Manager said: “Producing our wooden pool kits relies on many processes outside of our control. For example, the pressure treating of the wood takes time and is completed off-site, so we were dependent on how our business partners were coping through lockdown too. Everything

With sunshine-filled days at home to fill, demand for Plastica’s wooden pool range took off this year

has had a knock-on effect. I’m really pleased with how the team have rallied, have adhered to the social distancing rules and kept production going, during such unique and stressful times!”

Discussions are underway to expand this ever-growing sector of the business. The Timber Products division already caters for the end-user, manufacturing wooden ponds, planters and even sandpits. Online ordering increased too as people finally had time to start those outdoor projects and looked forward to sunshine-filled days at home to liven up their outdoor environments. Utilising their knowledge from the pool trade, Plastica have created a top-quality product for Koi and also garden enthusiasts too.

With an increase in water-based leisure activities, it’s not surprising that Plastica has seen growth in their water treatment business as well. So much so that the company have made the decision to take on new premises to expand their water treatment facility. Plastica

Plastica’s own liners department witnessed an unseasonal increase in production compared to last year’s orders

Turnover has doubled for Plastica’s wooden pools range when compared to the same time last year

40 October 2020 SPN 38_SPN_Oct_20_Plastica.indd 40

have managed to keep production flowing throughout lockdown. This was despite capacity for storage and social distancing becoming a challenge as orders were escalating. However the decision was made to expand into a nearby premises, which enables more storage space, room for an automated filling and capping machine and allows staff to work safely. As of September, their new 5,000 square foot warehouse has been run by a team of experienced water treatment staff. The extra space has increased Plastica’s manufacturing capacities while maintaining social distancing protocols.

Edward Campbell-Salmon, Plastica’s Managing Director said: “We’ve been in a privileged position of working within a sector which is in demand, and that we have been able to safely keep trading during this crisis, providing for our loyal customers and gaining new ones as a result. This wouldn’t have been possible without the tremendous efforts of our staff during such difficult times.” So, despite so much uncertainty and bad news, Plastica are not only surviving, but thriving!

For more information or for enquiries into the company’s above-ground wooden pools, Relax water treatment range for pools and hot tubs or any other products produced by Plastica, please visit the company website.

Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 01/11/2020 20:40

PREMIUM Wooden Pool Kits

A top quality product handmade in the UK Plastica’s reputation for high quality and reliability is founded on their knowledge and expertise in the industry, built up over 48+ years of manufacturing in our UK premises.

Their Wooden Pools are one of the most affordable range of Wooden Swimming Pool kits on the market. Made of natural high-grade wood, that carries a 10-year warranty on the 44mm wood structure, even if built in the ground.

For more information, please contact Plastica via the details below.

The UK’s Leading Independent Swimming Pool Manufacturer and Distributor 01424 857802

orders@plasticapools.net

www.plasticapools.net

SPN OCT 2020.qxp_Layout 1 03/11/2020 07:48 Page 42

HOT TUBS IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR

Hot Tub Solutions For Commercial Settings Enjoying success in a wide variety of environments, hot tubs in a commercial setting have become ‘must-have’ pieces of kit for many who choose to spend their leisure time in the UK and manufacturers have been quick to produce a number of sector specific solutions to make ownership easier. With holiday parks, lodges and cottages seeing an increased demand, the inclusion of a hot tub can be the difference between competing destinations and we take a closer look at some the commercial options By Jon Wadeson

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ot so long ago, the sight of a hot tub in a commercial location was a fairly rare event or it was at least restricted to select and exclusive locations. These days, they can be regularly seen in sports clubs and leisure facilities and of course many holiday destinations across the country have them to add a touch of the exotic to a UK-based holiday. Before the pandemic, they were increasingly popping up at music festivals and similar events too!

UK based lodges, cottages and holiday parks in particular have embraced hot tubs over recent years and according to research, hot tubs are one of the most requested items from customers researching holidays of this type online.

Research also suggests that with the introduction of a hot tub, impressive premiums can be added to the overall price of a holiday – sometimes up a whopping 40%! And in addition to this premium, occupancy rates greatly improve too. So with statistics like these, it is no surprise that hot tubs have performed well in the sector.

A number of considerations have to be taken into account when it comes to maintaining models in commercial settings though. Their operation should be in accordance with the latest Health & Safety Guidance – HSG282: The control of legionella and other infectious agents in spa-pool systems – something which there is more information on within this feature.

Operating methods, costs and durability also have to be considered too but thankfully, manufacturers have been quick to acknowledge the sector’s needs and produce a number of models plus develop technologies specifically for it.

With numerous solutions on offer, in this issue, we take a closer look at just some that are being used within the commercial sector.

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Available from Hot Tub Suppliers, this Mardi Gras 282 hot tub will be joined in 2021 by a range of new HSG282 complaint models

HOT TUB SUPPLIERS’ 282 COLLECTIONS SET TO EXPAND IN 2021 Available from Hot Tub Suppliers, the 282 range of hot tubs is designed and equipped with all the features required for a safe and successful hot tub experience for both guests and management.

For 2021, Hot Tub Suppliers are launching a specially designed 282 range.

The range will include both square or round models with the new Logic model the new standout model Logic.

Logic is a 6 seater, 2m x 2m square design which is both attractive and practical for owner and user.

A commercial hot tub has to feature all the specification of a luxury hot tub with added features to ensure owners and operators remain totally in control of the hot tub and any HSG 282 requirements.

Hot tubs in the 282 collections are reliably sanitised via an inline chemical feeder which has been designed with a patented

performance valve that operates on cue, responding accurately to each adjustment with its wide range of settings.

Chemical dosing is vital to keep the hot tub sanitised and free of bacteria for safe use by the guests.

The top control panel also has minimal functions to restrict the user to basic operations (jets and lights). A second, complete management control panel is hidden within the cabinet of the hot tub with a lockable cabinet to ensure safety.

From experience, Hot Tub Suppliers know a restricted top panel will eliminate user errors and keep the hot tub in peak condition.

A Wi-Fi receiver is connected to the hot tub to enable each to be BWA (Balboa Water App) enabled. This enables remote control of the hot tub and gives management maximum control.

Wi-Fi, management control panel and automatic are concealed behind the hot tub cabinet with a lockable door again to eliminate outside disturbance.

PARK LEISURE SOLUTIONS LAUNCH NEW ECO FRIENDLY HOT TUB Earlier this year, national water leisure manufacturer and supplier Park Leisure Solutions announced another industry first

Whether for relaxation, therapy or just good fun the new Eco-PKS circular hot tub from Park Leisure Solutions is outstanding value-for-money

SPN October 2020 43 02/11/2020 22:15

HOT TUBS IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR

UK based lodges, cottages and holiday parks in particular have embraced hot tubs over recent years and according to research, hot tubs are one of the most requested items from customers researching holidays of this type online” with the launch of their new Eco-PKS, 4-5 person hot tub model. Whether for relaxation, therapy or just good fun the new Eco-PKS circular hot tub is outstanding value-formoney and offers the lowest carbon footprint on the market. UK designed and built, the Eco-PKS is fully HSG282 compliant and has all the features operators and owners would expect including: quick drain for handover days, park safe controls, thermo insulation, tough one-piece shell and cabinet structure with unique lifetime warranty, plus Climacube Water Heating System compatibility for even greater savings.

The new Eco-PKS offers full depth seating for 4-5 people and a generous footwell for the most natural resting position. In addition, the entry step provides easy access and doubles as a child seat. Affordable with high level specification, offering the ultimate massage experience come sun, rain or snow – 365 days of the year.

As the model name implies the EcoPKS has some impressive environmental credentials. 100% recyclable and made in Britain, it is the most recyclable spa available in the UK today and the advanced thermo insulated shell design will significantly reduce heat loss and energy consumption, lowering carbon footprints still further. The new model also been purposely designed to be portable, meaning no expensive crane or installation costs for delivery. Powered from a standard household electrical supply will negate the need for expensive electrical work, the Eco-PKS is literally plug in and play!

Should owners decide to relocate the EcoPKS, the tub can be simply unplugged and moved to the desired location.

AQUASPARKLE BROMINE POD – CONTINUOUS IN-LINE HOT TUB SANITATION Last year, chemical specialist Complete Pool Controls launched the AquaSPArkle Bromine Pod, and it has significantly grown throughout the UK market ever since.

The AquaSPArkle Bromine Pod is a unique and easy to use prefilled adjustable bromine dosing product for domestic hot tubs and spas in business settings to help owners get in line with the latest recommendations set out by the HSG282 guidelines.

The product is designed to be used

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in conjunction with the HSG282 guidelines and the Darlly’s SaniStream™ filter range or in proprietary in-built dosing units by way of the adaptor clip included with each pack of three Pods.

Customers who have changed from their regular dosing routine to the Bromine Pods have found that it is easy to install, eliminates chemical handling and provides consistent sanitisation to their hot tub making it a very cost effective choice.

In other words, Bromine Pods offer numerous key benefits over using a floating dispenser or hand dosing chemicals. They include: • Constant inline dosing – no possibility of handling dosing device/chemicals • Fully adjustable – available to use for all levels of hot tub use • Cost effective dosing – up to 6 weeks sanitation • Improved safety – no chemical handling.

When it comes to a simple and effective chemical dosing product, look no further than the AquaSPArkle Bromine Pod in partnership with Darlly filters – simple, safe, and costeffective sanitisation for your hot tub!

The AquaSPArkle Bromine Pod is a revolutionary pre-filled adjustable bromine dosing product from Complete Pool Controls

The UK designed Climacube Water Heat System helped to revolutionise the commercial hot tub and spa industry

CLIMACUBE WATER HEAT SYSTEM REDUCES ENERGY COSTS The UK designed Climacube Water Heat System helped to revolutionise the commercial hot tub and spa industry, with major UK holiday park operators ordering the new energy efficient design through Spa Parts Vortex.

Backed by a worldwide patent, the stand alone Climacube Water Heat System works off a standard 13 amp power supply and can either be supplied from new or retrofitted to any contemporary hot tub or spa. In test results against current conventional heating systems the Climacube saved on average just under 60% less time to heat up a hot tub and a massive 85.7% reduction in energy cost – great news for both customers and the environment. At the time of the product’s release, Managing Director, Stuart Mulchay said: “Our design offers the very latest energy saving heat technology, dramatically reducing running costs, reducing the carbon footprint and enables customers to use their hot tubs and spas all year round, at the desired temperature without the concern of cost.”

Climacube has been developed using the latest energy saving technology and is designed to create hot water at a fraction of the cost associated with conventional methods.

By absorbing ambient heat from the air, the highly advanced specialised refrigerant gas, propelled by a silent compressor (similar to a refrigerator but in reverse), enables a quick heat up time with no need to add expensive additional heating elements or hot fill from a boiler. The Climacube only requires 800 watts (less than 3.5 amps) to operate. In tests at an ambient temperature of 5°C the Climacube produced a rise in temperature of 6 degrees per hour in a 1,200 litre hot tub.

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 02/11/2020 22:15

HOT TUBS IN THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR Superior Spas currently offer their Holiday Let 4 and this, the Holiday Let 6 model – both of which are manufactured in the US

A SUPERIOR CHOICE FOR ANY COMMERCIAL SETTING When it comes to the commercial sector, Superior Spas have had plenty of success and currently offer their Holiday Let 4 and 6 models which are produced for Superior Spas by well-known US manufacturer Dynasty Spas. Able to accommodate four and six people respectively, as their names suggest, these hot tubs have been designed purely for the holiday let market and offer a basic layout with no breakable or removable components and each is simple to use. The four person model features 15 jets and the six 31, and both models feature a built-in chemical sanitisation system combined with UV/Ozone and a circulation pump to maintain ongoing water quality.

The simple one touch operation topside controls mean these spas are very easy for the customer to use and there is a further controller hidden within the spa which cannot be tampered with.

To help improve longevity each spa is fitted with a flexible yet robust cabinet to cope with the harsh environment that these spas may be installed in.

Inside the cabinet is a Superior Heatshield Insulation System, a heat insulation process which revolves around heat recovery where the wasted heat that componentry generates is recycled and reflected back into the spa itself, thus meaning the heater is used less within a 24 hr period.

The perimeter of the spa is insulated with Rmax Thermasheath-3, the popular choice in energy-efficient wall insulation across the world. The rigid 40mm insulation board is composed of environmentally sound closed cell foam with reinforced aluminium faces on either side.

The whole process is not only a superior insulator, but due to the nature of the build, all working components are on the inside of the insulation leading to great noise reduction benefits, meaning these spas will also be quieter than many on the market.

DARLLY EUROPE’S REVOLUTIONARY SANISTREAM DOSING SOLUTION The publication of the HSE’s ‘The control of legionella and other infectious agents in spapool systems’, more commonly known as ‘HSG282’, in January 2017 set out specific and detailed guidelines for hot tubs installed in holiday let The team at Darlly Europe invented a competitive and effective solution for HSG282 compliance with new SaniStream Direct Line Filtration System

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 43-45_SPN_Oct_20_Hot_Tubs.indd 45

situations, and placed risk responsibility on the shoulders of holiday let owners and operators to ensure their installations are HSG282 compliant.

Section 76 of HSG282 deals with the specification of hot tubs installed in all holiday let settings and prescribes that hot tubs must be ‘disinfected using bromine or chlorine through the use of an inline disinfectant feeder’. This poses a significant problem for the majority of domestic hot tub suppliers, as well as holiday let owners and operators looking to install hot tubs in their units, as most hot tubs sold on the UK market and already in the field do not have inline chlorine or bromine feeders installed.

Inspired by the need to address the challenges of HSG282 and with the encouragement of BISTHA; Darlly Europe invented a competitive and effective solution with the launch of their revolutionary SaniStream™ Direct Line Filtration product.

SaniStream™ allows for the continuous dosing of small chlorine or bromine tablets.

Darlly’s Phil Mosely said: “The SaniStream system with its revolutionary SpaPod is fully adjustable, does not require the modification to the hot tub, and can be refilled with regular suitably sized chlorine or bromine tablets.”

Phil added: “SaniStream™ Direct line Filtration ensures that dosing is inline and continuous whenever the spa is in a filter cycle or in actual use − satisfying the key demands of HSG282 compliance. Crucially, SaniStream™ can be retrofitted to the majority of hot tubs, so that units already out in the field which are not HSG282 compliant can be brought into line.”

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Complete Pool Controls 01242 662700 www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk Darlly Europe 01952 580500 www.darllyeurope.com Hot Tub Suppliers 0116 251 3378 www.hottubsuppliers.com Park Leisure Solutions Ltd 01202 691166 www.parkleisuresolutions.co.uk Spa Parts Vortex 023 9245 4455 www.spapartsvortex.eu Superior Spas 01246 559071 www.superiorspas.co.uk

SPN October 2020 45 02/11/2020 22:16

COMMERCIAL COVER SYSTEMS

Covering Up In The Commercial Sector

After a tough year for pools and spas found within a commercial setting, there’s never been a more important time to be running facilities as cost-effectively as possible. By greatly reducing evaporation and minimising heating and chemical bills, commercial cover systems play a key role in the day-to-day running of swimming pools and more. When deployed indoors, they also cut humidity and condensation levels too. In short, they are a must-have option for owners and operators and in this edition we take a look at what’s availableBy Jon Wadeson

P

lacing a cover of some form on a swimming pool or spa is one of, if not the most effective ways of saving energy. That’s true for both domestic and commercial settings and for the latter, it’s something which is incredibly important as many facilities look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. But the need to for an operator to reduce emissions and do its bit for climate change is just one of the many benefits on offer – costs are always key to any successful operator and they are more important now than ever as pools and spas, in the commercial sector are facing unprecedented times and for some, potentially challenges to their long term viability.

The installation of a cover of any type reduces the spend on energy, but also reduces costs associated with chemicals.

In indoor settings, it also improves the atmosphere for both users and staff and will ultimately reduce maintenance costs too as humidity and condensation levels drop.

Whether it’s in a public pool, private spa or a school, it’s clear that covers, no matter their location, are an essential product for the Plastica’s reel systems are made with stainless steel to maximise strength, longevity and ease of maintenance.

successful running of wet leisure facilities and in this issue, we look at some of the systems that are helping to make facilities within the commercial sector run more smoothly and more energy efficiently for many years to come.

ENERGY SAVING COMMERCIAL COVERS FROM PLASTICA It is now widely accepted that installing a heat retention cover is the single most effective means of reducing swimming pool energy consumption. Fit the right cover on a pool and a reduction in energy bills of up to £20,500 per annum can be seen (figures based on a 2011 study of a 25m x 12m pool at 2019 prices). Depending on the type of reel system that is chosen, a payback period as short as 12 months can be expected.

Plastica’s Managing Director, Edward Campbell-Salmon said: “We have manufactured and installed thousands of commercial cover and reel systems from Olympic sized competition pools to freeform fun pools over the last 40 plus years. Our customers benefit from our products having

unique specification advantages as standard.

For example, on our commercial pool covers we provide hemmed edges, double welded seams down the length of pool covers (not the width), reinforced leading edges and stainless-steel reels. All resulting in less stress on the covers to prevent fraying, delamination and tearing, as well as a reduction in general wear and tear and ease of maintenance.”

The company’s unique and durable covers almost eliminate evaporation, reduce humidity and condensation, plus the simplicity of operating the system for pool staff is essential too. Plastica’s reel systems are made with stainless steel to maximise strength, longevity and ease of maintenance.

The company offers choices to accommodate any commercial pool requirement – manual for smaller lighter pool covers and motorised systems to reduce manual handling for poolside staff.

Plastica has earned an enviable reputation for installing cover and reel systems to an agreed schedule, which is essential for commercial centres that need to forewarn customers about any short-term pool closures.

POOL COVER SOLUTIONS CRAFTED OVER THIRTY YEARS Glatz Pioneer have been providing pool covers for the past 30 years and together with their customers, they have developed some leading designs to cover swimming pools effortlessly.

The company’s unique hands free covers are a joy to use, especially on those late evenings when staff want to get home.

Glatz Pioneer’s production facilities are throughout Europe with manufacturing here in the UK, Switzerland, Germany and France. All these skills are brought together and honed to provide the perfect pool cover system to suit the needs of their clients.

The company offer a wide range of cover solutions, and those aimed specifically at the commercial sector include:

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COMMERCIAL COVER SYSTEMS

As the name suggests, Glatz Pioneer’s Budget Range is aimed at clients with a smaller budget but who still want a quality product

• Commercial / Public Pool Covers ‘Hands Free’ (Glatz’s own unique design) • Floor Mounted Systems for Commercial / Public Pools • Wall Mounted Covers (limited by pool width).

A best seller in the range is the Thermo-Roll.

An exclusive to Galtz, this foam cover has a lay flat quality that allows the cover to be welded extremely smoothly to give a very strong and attractive finish. It complements any pool hall without any nasty creases or calcium deposits. Its wipe clean surface is easy to maintain and very weldable should any on site repairs become necessary. It comes with a five year warranty and is available in light blue, light grey and white to blend with any internal decor.

One of the more recent additions to the company’s line up is their Budget Range and as the name suggests, it’s aimed at clients with a smaller budget but who still want a quality product. These systems are available with all of the refinements of the Glatz motorised unit but with a budget cover.

SOME REEL-Y GOOD SYSTEMS FROM CERTIKIN AND SCP! Looking for a premium style roller but without the cost? Look no further than Certikin’s Eco-Reel Roller, which combines high quality stainless steel with a robust telescopic aluminium tube system and all for incredible value for money. Commercial units are now available for bubble covers 6-8m wide, with the maximum cover size being 130m2 and length 16m.

Suitable for domestic use as well, the roller is available in three styles – mobile, fixedfloor and fixed-wall – each offering three size ranges from 2.6m to 5.7m wide and is suitable for bubble covers up to 12m in length. The Eco-Reel’s features include easy turn crank handle and adjustable cover to roller kit for all models.

SCP UK also have some great reel systems for commercial pools with their Monaco range.

Produced by Intopool and available in four styles – mobile, fixed, piggy back and bench – each features a 6” diameter aluminium tube and 316 grade stainless steel stands.

All are offered with Manual Commercial SmartGear (3 to 1 reduction gearbox) – meaning the crank handle can be disengaged so when pulling the cover onto the pool, for safety reasons, it won’t rotate. The popular bench system is also available with a 24 volt motor with comprehensive control panel.

Operated by key, this makes using the reel system an even easier task.

WORKING 24 HOURS A DAY – HEATSAVR ADJUSTS TO POOL ACTIVITY LEVELS For over 50 years, scientists have known that a monolayer (one molecule thick) spread across the surface of a liquid can dramatically reduce evaporation and energy loss. Many companies attempted to develop a technology, but

Produced by Intopool, the Monaco bench real system is one of four commercial options available through SCP UK

Certikin’s Eco-Reel Roller combines high quality stainless steel with a robust telescopic aluminium tube system

CASE STUDY HEATSAVR IS INVISIBLE FRIEND AT NOTTINGHAMSHIRE SPA Eden Hall is a luxury day spa in Nottinghamshire, providing pampering treatments and aquatic facilities within a beautiful grade II listed building. Visitors can enjoy soaking in one of the two, tenperson outdoor hot tubs or in the indoor salt water vitality pool. The Spa was facing the challenge of controlling energy costs and reducing maintenance issues within the facility and attracted by the energy saving potential of Heatsavr and before installing the system, purchased two electrical meters so that before and after energy readings could be made on the hot tubs. The site’s technical manager confirmed a reduction of 35% on electricity costs to power the

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hot tubs by installing Heatsavr, particularly as the hot tubs maintain a large amount of heat during the night when not in use. An attempt to install traditional covers in the past had unfortunately been unsuccessful.

In addition to the energy savings, there was also no need to replace the hot tub heaters on an annual basis. The temperature in the tubs is maintained at 38°C but by using Heatsavr, the strain they used to be under has been reduced.

Within the pool hall, where the steel ceiling beams above the salt water pool used to require refurbishment every three months, the reduction in humidity has meant that annual treatment is sufficient. The windows within the spa are now free of moisture too and the environment is much more comfortable for users and staff.

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COMMERCIAL COVER SYSTEMS

Before Heatsavr

until Flexible Solutions developed their patented Heatsavr, no other company had been able to make a monolayer spread reliably and inexpensively or to regroup effectively after the water had been disturbed.

In non-technical terms the product is a mixture of carefully chosen ingredients which are lighter than water and which automatically float to the surface. The particles of the liquid are attracted to each other so that they always try to form a perfect, very thin layer over the whole pool surface. They are individually so small that they are 500 times smaller than the spaces in a super high quality filter.

Unlike a conventional pool cover which has to be removed from the pool for swimming, Heatsavr breaks apart whenever the water is sufficiently disturbed but the monolayer reforms whenever the water becomes calm again. Consequently Heatsavr adjusts perfectly to changing activity levels in the pool throughout the day.

Available through Brenntag UK, Heatsavr has to be added to the pool water on a daily basis to maintain its effectiveness. This is because Heatsavr biodegrades – it has what is called a two day half life – which means that in two days 50% of it has biodegraded.

Easy and inexpensive to install the Heatsavr automatic dosing system provides a reliable and accurate method of ensuring that the pool benefits from the maximum energy savings

Whether it’s in a public pool, private spa or a school, it’s clear that covers, no matter their location, are an essential product for the successful running of wet leisure facilities” possible. Fully programmable to suit pool size and hours of operation, it only requires a weekly reservoir check with top up when necessary. It ensures that the correct dose is added to the pool regularly and at the same time.

A POLYMER-BASED LIQUID COVER FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR POOLS COVERfree from Natural Chemistry is a revolutionary liquid swimming pool cover that creates an invisible barrier on the surface of the water that works even when swimmers are in the pool.

Distributed in the UK and Europe by Pool Cover Liquid – a trading name of HeatPumps4Pools Ltd – the product can significantly reduce the heat loss from a swimming pool and also reduces water evaporation.

COVERFree is a unique polymer formula which unlike some other similar products, does not contain any alcohol and therefore it remains in the pool for longer. Unlike some other liquid pool cover products that require more regular dosing, the amount of COVERfree needed results in a 65% reduction in the amount of liquid pool cover required.

This reduces the running cost of using the product considerably compared with other liquid pool cover products.

COVERfree is biodegradable, non-hazardous and has been independently safety tested.

It can be used on all types of commercial swimming pool including indoor pools, outdoor pools, natural swimming pools and infinity pools, and is available in the following sizes: Perfect for commercial pool operators, the Pro Series of COVERfree creates and invisible barrier on the surface of the water

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After Heatsavr

• 32oz (0.9 litre) − COVERFree • 1 US Gallon (3.9 litres) − Pro Series • 5 US Gallon (19.5 litres) − Pro Series COVERFree liquid pool cover can be dosed either manually or automatically to the pool and an automatic dosing pump is available to add the correct amount of liquid to the pool.

Fully programmable, the dosing pump can also be used for other automatic dosing applications and to dose other chemicals.

These dosing pumps are mains (240V) powered and a battery-powered version is also available.

For best results when using the automatic dosing pump, add COVERFree on a daily basis.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Glatz Pioneer UK Ltd 01442 843991 www.glatzpioneer.co.uk Heatsavr/Brenntag UK 0113 387 9200 www.heatsavr.co.uk Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net Pool Cover Liquid 01268 206560 www.poolcoverliquid.com SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

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PROJECT SHOWCASE

An Expansive Multi-sensory Experience Of Wellbeing The Spa at Carden, Carden Park in Cheshire

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ituated in the picturesque Cheshire countryside, sits a luxurious new £10m destination spa. With its exclusive features, The Spa at Carden aims to offer a world-class spa experience like no other.

The much-anticipated 4,500 sqm standalone spa officially opened its doors at the start of the year. Set within the 1,000-acre

Indoor and outdoor spa facilities are amongst the most impressive in the UK and include two large vitality pools, an extensive thermal suite, a glamourous beauty lounge and a variety of soothing relaxation spaces” 50 October 2020 SPN 50-51_SPN_October_2020_Project_Showcase.indd 50

grounds of the privately owned, award-winning Carden Park Hotel, it offers superior service, world class facilities and a seamless spa experience.

The indoor and outdoor spa facilities are amongst the most impressive in the UK and include two large vitality pools, an extensive thermal suite, a glamourous beauty lounge and a variety of soothing relaxation spaces.

HB Architects headed up the extensive project and worked alongside building contractors Pave Aways Ltd, Barr + Wray and Nicki Kurran Spa Consultancy to deliver it.

In addition to its many indoor facilities, The Spa at Carden also has one of the UK’s largest spa gardens offering an expansive multisensory experience of wellbeing with numerous thermal experiences and an all-weather Bollinger champagne bar. Rigo Spa worked alongside the architects and planners to bring the ultimate wellbeing garden spa to life. Three stainless steel spas designed and installed by the company are situated across the garden, offering both wellness and stunning views to the user. Other garden facilities include and an outdoor pool, heated pods, fire pits, individually themed garden pods and more than 60 outdoor loungers, with Barr + Wray supplying the project’s sauna, thermal cabins and vitality pools.

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PROJECT SHOWCASE

PROJECT COMPANIES ARCHITECT HB Architects 01788 576137 www.hb-architects.co.uk

SAUNA & THERMAL CABINS Barr + Wray 0141 882 9991 www.barrandwray.com

DESIGN & CONSULTANCY Nicki Kurran Spa Consultancy 07957 262145 www.spaconsultant.co.uk

STAINLESS STEEL SPAS Rigo Spa 0151 236 4259 www.rigospa.com

DESIGN & MAIN CONTRACTOR Pave Aways Ltd 01691 682111 www.paveaways.co.uk

VITALITY POOLS Barr + Wray 0141 882 9991 www.barrandwray.com

Developed to provide guests with a ‘nature reset’ whatever the weather, the extensive garden’s state-of-the-art features facilitate a journey to improved physical and mental wellbeing.

The Spa continues this flow of nature from the outside in, with its spacious interiors comprising warm earthly tones, feature living walls and contemporary statement furnishings that give a sophisticated but relaxing ambiance. The mood lit relaxation room complete with floor to ceiling windows offers unrivalled sweeping views over the Cheshire landscape, as does the elegant first floor restaurant.

Speaking at the time of the opening, the General Manager of Carden Park, Hamish Ferguson said: “The arrival of the Spa at Carden is our biggest development yet and will firmly establish us as a world leading destination spa resort, fully complementing our other extensive leisure services. I am proud of the fantastic work all our staff and suppliers have undertaken to make the Spa at Carden truly magnificent.”

The Spa at Carden Park 01829 731000 www.cardenpark.co.uk

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TILED SPAS & SWIM SPAS

Unique And Durable – Tiled Spas For Workouts, Relaxation And More!

For commercial facilities that require a compact luxury water experience with durability built in, it’s hard to beat tiled spas and swim spas. With unique finishes combined with installation, flexibility and resilience, it’s no wonder these products are enjoying such success. Their bespoke nature has made them a hit for high-end domestic installations and designers love them too thanks to a variety of options on offer. This issue, we highlight what’s on the market By Andrea Hartshorne

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hether the ultimate goal is to have a fabulous looking project with the wow factor or a functional and economical addition for a leisure complex or home, with the developments and improvements in tiled spa and swim spa systems, there’s no longer a need to choose between form and function.

Tiling and mosaics offer a perfect way to create beautiful, bespoke spas and whether for an everyday, special place to relax or for a top luxury hotel, tiling provides the perfect, flexible solution and can provide something extra special that will also last.

With so many options available for style and design, there’s no need to compromise as the results which can be obtained from these varied and flexible products means that anyone can be the proud owner of a truly unique spa. Everyone likes to think that something they own is just that little bit different and with the huge range of tiled spa and swim spa options, this can now be comfortably achieved.

SPA DE LA MARE CELEBRATES 40 YEARS AND ADDS MEGA YACHTS TO THEIR REPERTOIRE Guernsey-based Spa De La Mare can confidently claim to be one of the world’s oldest manufacturers of fully tiled spas and swim spas, having now spent 40 years as one of the leaders within the sector.

Whilst already having a vast stable of products available to the industry covering domestic, commercial and bespoke spas alongside their domestic swim spas range, their previous experience in providing wellness solutions to the cruise ship industry has opened the doors to the Super and Mega Yacht sector.

Having recently completed two spas for the US$145m Illusion Plus Mega Yacht – the largest Mega Yacht to be commissioned to date in South East Asia – the months before the COVID-19 outbreak also saw Spa De La Mare undertaking a further two Super Yacht

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projects in Monaco.

2020 has been a difficult time for all and you would think that celebrating your 40th Anniversary during such a dark period would be disheartening. However, Spa De La Mare took the time during lockdown to re-evaluate their product range and are currently in the process of expanding their swim spa range to accommodate the commercial sector, with the first fully commercial hand built swim spas expected to be available for shipping in early December.

Spa De La Mare’s continued success can be attributed to their non-comprise attitude to quality and the dedicated team of technicians who see all projects through from start to finish. They have worked with everyone from A-list celebrities and royalty to the man on the street – clients that have in common an appreciation of the value and sheer quality of the Spa De La Mare range of products.

BESPOKE MODELS ARE NO PROBLEM FOR THE MOSAIC SPA COMPANY The Mosaic Spa Company specialise in design and construction of GRP mosaic tiled spas and they can manufacture bespoke models or customers can choose from their standard range of sizes and shapes.

Whilst most customers have a pretty good idea of what they want when it comes to purchasing their desired spa, this might not always be the case. So The Mosaic Spa Company offer a full design service and can work with clients to provide truly individual and imaginative designs which can all be tailored using computer generated images. The company use Solidworks 3D design and Autocad software, meaning both installers and their clients can see exactly how the finished spa will look before it goes into manufacture. All their Spa De La Mare provide solutions in many sectors and their quality solutions has opened doors to high-end installations within the Super and Mega Yacht sectors

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TILED SPAS & SWIM SPAS spas are constructed using the latest GRP construction methods from their factory based in York and the company offers fast turnaround from design to delivery.

They can offer both one-piece shells and split shells for sites which have restricted or difficult access. They can also offer clients a large range of tile choices to make their spa truly original.

All their spas feature Waterways jets and filtration equipment, and whilst spas are normally provided with an optimised layout of water and air jets, these can also be positioned to any preferred practical layout with suitable lighting as required or specified to match a client’s individual requirements.

The Mosaic Spa Company are also able to produce swim spas and hydrotherapy pools, and again these can be designed to individual specification and can feature items such as automatic pool covers and walk in steps etc.

WITH GMT, A TILED SPA CAN BE WHATEVER YOU WANT IT TO BE GMT Spas International is uniquely placed within the spa industry as they are the only UK manufacturer not to install, thus giving their customers the guarantee that they will not compete for their contract. This decision has left them free to focus on what they do

The Mosaic Spa Company offer a full design service and can work with clients to provide truly individual and imaginative designs

best – manufacturing what they believe are the highest quality products on the market today.

With a quality management system overseen by Managing Director Darren Tillyer, plus a quality graduate design team led by Iain Green who has been with GMT for eight years, the company is an ISO 9001 registered company and are also members of SPATA. The company’s focused approach and dedication to quality has meant that after

GMT Spas International is uniquely placed within the spa industry and focus on manufacturing what they believe are the highest quality products on the market today

considerable consultation, GMT signed contracts to become the sole supplier of tiled spas, pools and hydrotherapy pools to both Certikin International and AstralPool UK, an arrangement which the company says is going very well. So well in fact that they have taken on additional employees to keep up with increased demand. GMT’s overseas sales have also increased owing to agents based in Europe – all of which has taken place despite the pandemic causing issues across the industry.

During a busy year, GMT have found that the lines between spa and pool have become increasingly blurred with free standing sectional swimming pools in all shapes and sizes becoming popular. They have incorporated spa features into the pools such as tiled or steel loungers, spa jet stations, water cannons and volcano`s.

They have also seen a greater demand for infinity spas and these trends highlight the flexibility of what’s on offer and the possibilities of bespoke spa production.

GMT understand that every scheme is unique and firmly believe that excellent communication and customer service are the key to a successful project.

CASE STUDY TILED VITALITY SPA A REAL GEM AT £2M RESORT SPA REVAMP The Mosaic Spa Company recently headed up a huge project with the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort in Northern Ireland, as the luxury hotel underwent a major enhancement of its spa facilities and Thermal Village.

The deluxe hotel had closed its doors in line with government safety restrictions in March and saw it as an opportunity to invest and commence work on further enriching the experience of their guests.

The impressive £2m expansion saw a host of new additions and experiences for its visitors including a new salt room for halotherapy, two person spas, heated loungers and wooden hobbit style saunas

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all designed and supplied by York-based specialists The Mosaic Spa Company.

However the real gem of the project comes in the form of the mosaic tiled deck level vitality spa with water features that sits on the bank of the River Maine,

providing visitors with a tranquil escape full of opulence amongst the dense forest scenery – again designed, produced and manufactured by The Mosaic Spa Company.

Something that stood out even throughout the resort’s latest extraordinary features, was the speed at which The Mosaic Spa Company was able to design, produce and manufacture all the new installations for the facility. All production and manufacturing of the hotel’s new attractions was complete and ready in under six weeks, all without compromising their industry leading standards.

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TILED SPAS & SWIM SPAS CERTIKIN – THE HOME OF THE TILED SPA With unparalleled sales and technical support coupled with trust and reliability, Certikin – the UK’s leading supplier and manufacturer of wet leisure products – are a great option for when a quality tiled spa is on the shopping list.

Produced in the UK, the highly versatile Certikin tiled spa is available for domestic, light commercial and heavy-use overflow applications. It is the perfect solution for new build or refurbishment projects, and particularly where access is a problem, as it comes with the option of being delivered in two halves.

Fully tiled from the factory in eye-catching glass mosaics, the spa is re-joined on site and the joint hidden by tiling over with the matching tile strips provided. Alternatively, the customer can provide their own choice of tiles.

Available in any size, shape or design, skimmer or overflow, they vary from a twoperson spa to one capable of holding a football team. On site installation is quick as there are no stoppages for curing etc and the design allows access to all fittings after installation.

The Certikin tiled spa’s high specification can be tailored to the client’s requirements.

Its features can include water hydrotherapy jets, air jets, underwater lighting, a floating heat retention cover and full support leg kit.

Purchasing a tiled spa from Certikin does not stop at the spa shell either. Being the UK’s largest supplier to sector, the company are able to provide as part of the package the correct sized pumps, filters, air blowers, heaters, balance tanks and even the dosing for the complete one stop shop.

AWARD WINNING SOLUTIONS FROM RIGO SPAS Rigo Spa is the UK’s leading manufacturer of GRP tiled spas and pools. Their award-winning design and manufacture team are creating some of the UK’s most luxurious, unique pool and spa products that are robust, aesthetically stunning and huge programme savers for leisure builds, whether indoor or outdoor.

They look and feel like concrete pools

Rigo Spa’s award-winning design and manufacture team are creating some of the the UK’s most luxurious, unique pool and spa products

With the developments and improvements in tiled spa and swim spa systems, there’s no longer a need to choose between form and function” and spas but, are available faster, to factory enforced quality control conditions and are huge money savers too, when compared to a concrete solution.

This means whatever the vision, their creative design team can help make it happen.

Their GRP tiled swim spas are a great way of combining relaxation, hydrotherapy massage and exercise. They can be designed and tailored to almost any size to suit any individual specific requirements and space availability.

This incredible three-fold swim spa product allows bathers to choose the intensity of the swim against a counter-current system to one end, whilst also offering the therapeutic relaxation of a hydrotherapy massage at the opposite end of the spa.

Produced in the UK, the highly versatile Certikin tiled spa is available for domestic, light commercial and as here, heavyuse overflow applications

From their 21,000 sq.ft manufacturing facility in Cheshire, Rigo Spa can create these luxury tiled swim spas in under eight weeks.

The swim spas can also be split into multisegments to fit through access restrictions and can be finished aesthetically in many different tile options to fit the client’s specification.

For a three-fold relaxation, hydrotherapy and exercise pool all in one product, this swim spas solution is a fantastic leisure addition to any property whether residential or commercial, indoor or outdoor, it suits all environments.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk GMT Spas International 01244 629252 www.gmtspas.com Rigo Spa 0151 236 4259 www.rigospa.com Spa De La Mare 01481 701333 www.spadelamare.com The Mosaic Spa Company 01759 321135 www.mosaicspa.co.uk

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RETRACTABLE SWIMMING POOL ENCLOSURES

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Extend your swimming season by 5 months Protect your kids and pets from falling into the pool Keep your pool clean with less chemicals No more leaves, dirt and insects in your pool Up to 15 years warrantee We always find a solution for your pool with our bespoke enclosures - over 25 models Call us for a free site visit

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ENCLOSURES

Attractive And Effective Enclosure Additions

There’s only one way to ensure uninterrupted outdoor pool use in the UK – and that’s to cover pools up! For commercial and domestic pools around the country, enclosures provide year round swimming and in addition, will improve safety whilst reducing both maintenance and running costs. There’s no doubt that having one is an investment, but an enclosure means owners can maximise the potential of their pool. From the big to the small and to suit any pool, we take a look at the available options By Karen Witney

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f ever there was a time to invest in a swimming pool enclosure this is it!

With the word ‘staycation’ now more of a rule than an option, pool owners in both residential and commercial sectors are opting for effective cover-ups that mean swim leisure time can continue way past the normal seasonal shut down. Instead of flying off to exotic locations, families are looking to relax closer to home and where better to do this than around their own pool or at their local leisure facility. There is a wide selection of fabulous enclosures that come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit the majority of site requirements and the most particular of customers too!

RELY ON THE EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE OF SWIMEX Swimex UK are one of the country’s leading swimming pool enclosure suppliers, with over 1,000 buildings installed throughout the country.

Swimex are an established industry renowned supplier and have been providing pool enclosures for over 20 years to homes,

hotels, leisure centres, holiday parks and schools. The team have extensive experience and whatever the shape, size and location of the pool, they have a pool building to suit all requirements. Installed pool enclosures are of the highest quality and built to withstand the British weather and come with a ten year product guarantee.

The company’s comprehensive hassle-free service goes from design, planning issues to installations and after care to provide a onestop service. They can supply both fixed and telescopic enclosures, with any width, length or height to suit requirements. Design wise they can offer curved/arched or angled and can help choose what design would be best for the pool site.

Swimex’s EasyGlide Telescopic Enclosures are designed to give each client exactly what is best for their needs, they don’t restrict clients to standard sizes. Their enclosures are manufactured to any length, width or height and they offer a full choice of 180 colours to suit every requirement. An EasyGlide pool building can raise the water temperature of a covered pool by up to 12°C.

Swimex installed this fixed Galaxy enclosure, finished in anthracite and measuring 26.2m x 10m at St Stephens School to the delight of the pupils!

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The Swimex Galaxy fixed pool enclosures are great value for money and can be designed to be attached to a house or building, either at the end or on the side of the enclosure, allowing owners and users to walk straight into an all-weather pool area.

They have been designed so that all the side walls can be lifted from the floor to a height of 2.1 metres allowing access to the pool from any point at both sides, giving the feeling of an outdoor pool but with a translucent roof above. Inside there is a minimum 2m walking height along the sides approx. 0.5m in from the sides.

FROM ASSEMBLY TO INSTALLATION – ALUKOV PROVIDES THE TOTAL SERVICE As UK weather is not always favourable, and in 2020 with the pandemic meaning many pool owners are reluctant to travel, the aim of any enclosure is to extend the swimming season plus keep heat loss and maintenance of the pool to minimum – and that is exactly what all Alukov enclosures do.

The company is very proud to present the widest range of enclosures from one manufacturer – from ultra-low, medium, high, free standing, lean-to and spa domes – all enclosures are fully bespoke and can satisfy any need.

An example of meeting needs was when a customer recently required a model that was ‘not too low, not too high’ and Alukov’s Tropea NEO™ fitted the bill perfectly.

The Tropea is a superb combination of the company’s spacious Laguna model and the low Elegant which provides an enclosure that fulfils all expectations. The design has higher vertical sides allowing owners to sit on the edge of the pool while still being under cover.

It can be fitted with clear polycarbonate with UV resistance.

Alukov provide a full service from manufacturing to transport and even installation. Their preference is that the enclosures are fully pre-assembled in the factory and then transported in complete

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ENCLOSURES For a model that was ‘not too low, not too high’ – this Tropea NEO™ from Alukov fitted the bill perfectly and was supplied in 4 segments ready for on-site installation

sections. This means that not only is the installation itself incredibly fast – half a day to one day, depending on size – it is also very clean.

Alukov UK is based in Surrey and covers the whole of the country. As an extension of the factory in the Czech Republic, customers are talking directly to enclosure experts.

Alukov are known as innovators within the sector and are constantly develop their products. Providing new shapes and models, using the best possible materials, employing fantastic craftsmen and providing a great, customer orientated approach are all part of the Alukov experience.

their new enclosures range, Norsup has cost effective options to maximise the pool design.

Norsup is synonymous with quality design and their pool enclosures range follows this ethos. Manufactured by a well-known company with 26 years’ experience in producing quality pool enclosures, they have four different options of pool enclosure that

can accommodate any size of pool, plus with different finish options, there is a design suitable for all.

The Supreme Line combines modern design with sophisticated functionality. The flat track on one side allows easy access to the pool. In three different colours, the roofs harmoniously fit in every garden.

The Premium Line is both subtle and classic in its design. The flat tracks on both sides are inconspicuous and guarantee easy opening and closing of the roof.

The Pro Line offers the most space with a height of up to 1.90m. Thanks to the universal structure of the roof and the optional revolving door, it is also ideal for pools with access in the middle.

Lastly the Basic Line is a classic and medium-high canopy, which is universally suited for every pool. It offers all the advantages of a pool roof at a competitive price.

The design of all Norsup enclosures has been made with easy installation in mind.

The sections of pool cover run on easy-to-fit tracks for seamless opening and closing. The manufacturer can also fit windows and doors for easy access plus safety locks too.

Unobtrusive, solid and available through Bosta UK, Norsup’s Supreme Line combines modern design with sophisticated functionality

NORSUP POOL ENCLOSURES FROM BOSTA UK The ultimate in swimming pool comfort is achieved with indoor swimming pools but budgets, space and planning are all traditional factors in deciding whether an indoor pool is an option. By choosing a Norsup pool enclosure, there is another option to gain ultimate indoor pool comfort at a fraction of the price. Whether it is a simple pool covering or a walk-in pool house, with

CASE STUDY: AQUACOMET’S THE SOLUTION FOR DEVON POOL OWNER For this Tiverton pool owner, who was looking to get the most out of the family’s new swimming pool, installing an Aquacomet enclosure from Certikin, with all its flexible options, was a no-brainer.

Somerset based pool builders, Purepools, were given the brief to create a good family-sized indoor pool at a farm overlooking the stunning Lowman valley. Located on the hillside, it affords breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside but the downside is its exposure to the elements. Installing an enclosure to maximise the pool’s use was a decision made at the outset.

Manager of Purepools, Stewart Skinner said: “The site is subject to strong winds so swimming without some sort of enclosure would, on most days, be unpleasant. I had no hesitation in recommending Certikin’s Aquacomet enclosures as I have fitted them in the past using their team of installers and it has been a very straightforward process. They look good, are robust and are highly versatile.

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“For this site, I chose a lean-to telescopic enclosure which opens from the middle. The garage was converted to make a changing room which the pool adjoins.”

Delighted with the result, the owner says: “My two teenage boys enjoy hours of fun in the pool and it is a good focus for family entertaining.

Thanks to the enclosure, the pool season is greatly extended and we could, if we want, swim all year. Sitting in the enclosure is as pleasant as swimming. If I close all the windows, the greenhouse effect takes the enclosure up to 40°C even in April on a sunny day.

“Furthermore, it is both child and pet safe. You can simply lock the sliding doors. There are no drafts and swimming is a pleasure. I recommend a pool enclosure as the perfect home swimming solution.”

Purepools 01278 732993 www.purepools.co.uk

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ENCLOSURES CERTIKIN ENCLOSURES – AN OPEN AND SHUT CASE A pool enclosure can be a highly worthwhile investment to extend the season; keeping it covered and warm well into the winter and keeping out leaves and snow.

Certikin have a huge range of enclosures, which are suitable for any pool size or shape and will fit into most environments due to the colour options and styles that are on offer.

Great for extending the home and creating an additional living space, many of the models come with secure locking systems, making it almost impossible for children to be in the pool unattended.

Certikin’s AQ Box DIY Pool Enclosures are entry-level structures which are supplied flatpacked and ready to build. These enclosures come in three different sizes with a choice of two glazing options. Everything is supplied in a box together with an assembly manual making them a fast and cost-effective way to fit a high-quality pool enclosure. With a uniquely low profile and solid design, the AQ Box enclosure is perfect for those looking for a simple yet durable solution.

The most popular model in Certikin’s range is the Endless Summer enclosure.

It is fixed along its length, which allows the windows and wall sections to slide up into the roof, leaving the sides open – a key advantage over traditional enclosure models. The rigid and durable structure offers elegant and graceful aesthetics while still retaining key safety and protective features. Each enclosure comes equipped with a double wall polycarbonate roof, while the side doors and wall endings of the pool enclosure are constructed from solid, transparent polycarbonate panels.

For those who desire the least intrusive pool enclosure possible, the Horizontal enclosure combines an ultra-low telescopic design with durable construction. It’s perfect for spaces where height may be an issue without compromising on strength and flexibility.

Certiikn’s Endless Summer Enclosure is fixed along its length allowing all windows and wall sections to slide up into its roof

With the word ‘staycation’ now more of a rule than an option, pool owners in both residential and commercial sectors are opting for effective coverups that mean swim leisure time can continue way past the normal seasonal shut down” TELESCOPIC POOL ENCLOSURES – AN ALL-EMBRACING RANGE Salisbury-based Telescopic Pool Enclosures have been marketing retractable enclosures in the UK since 1991 when they were first imported from Europe. Before then they had been constructing large span buildings such as conservatories, orangeries, glass extensions and swimming pool enclosures in timber, aluminium and Upvc so have gained a great deal of experience in construction in this market as well as planning and building regulations.

Therefore, they are able to offer a far greater range of product designs constructed on site by their own fitters rather than other companies.

The product range is extensive with exclusive products from ROLAL, AZENCO and others. The buildings can be fixed or retractable are made to measure and can be single or double glazed.

Telescopic Pool Enclosures have been marketing retractable enclosures in the UK since 1991 and their range includes enclosures from AZENCO

Commercially they offer far more insulated buildings whether fixed or retractable than others. This is particularly true of schools as some local authorities decline plastic swimming pool enclosures due to their cost to maintain a suitable environment all year as those products do not offer much heat insulation and costs may be excessive to heat in the colder periods if used all year.

There are other products available for spas and hot tubs, retractable garden rooms, retractable buildings for restaurant, hotel and other concerns who seek a quick economical extension to cover a patio area, outside eating area, reception area etc.

There is also the option not only to replace older pool buildings but also refurbish some as a more economical option. Whatever the customer is looking for, Telescopic Pool Enclosures can offer a solution.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Alukov UK 0118 909 9844 www.alukov.co.uk Bosta UK 01284 716580 www.bosta.co.uk Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Swimex UK 0800 804 8025 www.swimex.co.uk Telescopic Pool Enclosures 01722 444590 www.telescopicpoolenclosures.com

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COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS

Swimming Against The Current When it comes to increasing the functionality of a smaller pool space, countercurrent systems are perhaps one of the most effective add-ons for both new and existing installations. It’s a combination which has been a great success for swim spas and an increasing number of pools are now incorporating them. Affordable and easy to install, they deliver a more complete experience and in this issue, we take a look at the brands that are providing the power behind these systems By Jon Wadeson

T

here’s a number of reasons why a larger swimming pool isn’t always a possibility or even a necessity.

Perhaps space or even the budget are restricted. Maybe there are aesthetic reasons why a large pool just won’t work. Whatever the reason, sometimes a small pool is the only viable option but whilst fun, they often just seem to lack that certain something – and often, it’s the ability to enjoy a proper, uninterrupted swim. For many pools and their owners, the solution is a counter-current system – a product which enhances the usability of smaller pools, adds some much-needed wow factor and puts them more on a par with their bigger rivals. In many ways, you could even argue they surpass their larger rivals.

Once installed, a counter-current system makes it possible to have unlimited fun, swim for as long as a user likes plus their introduction can often provide hydrotherapy options too. With built-in and over-the-wall options available, there are no excuses for not exercising in smaller pools or maximising their potential, and we take a closer look at some of the counter-current options that are available.

excellence. Ultra-stylish, the Fluvo systems are built into the wall of the pool so only the attractive face plate is visible.

The latest Fluvo model, the award winning XANAS counter-current unit, is state-of-theart, both aesthetically and in terms of its high performance. It is designed with the regular swimmer in mind, who is looking to add another dimension to his pool and wants fun and rewarding exercise. Suitable for liner, STATE-OF-THE-ART SOLUTIONS concrete and one-piece pools, the XANAS FROM CERTIKIN features an extra-flat design with a brushed Looking to inject some extra excitement and stainless steel or ABS drop-shaped grill. It fun into a swimming pool? Look no further can be specified with rotary knobs in single or than Certikin’s Fluvo range of hydrotherapy three-phase, with the latter having the option equipment which stands out as a beacon of of pressure sensitive switches.

The Fluvo X-Jet takes the power of the counter-current to another level for the serious swimmer and athlete. The wide area output flow creates a uniform current along the full width of the body, just like a wave in the ocean, rather than being pointed at a single point, like the flow offered by some inferior counter-current units. Control is through touch sensitive buttons which operate the one or two pump units.

Certikin also supplies its Available from Certikin, own branded entry-level the award winning XANAS counter-current system – an counter-current unit, is state of the art, both aesthetically affordable option designed and in terms of its high for small private pools. It is performance equipped with a 3hp pump to

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For performance-oriented training and professionallevel workouts, choose the Speck BADU Jet Turbo Pro from Golden Coast

create a counter-stream of water and, being adjustable, it is suitable for swimmers of all abilities. The directional inlet allows a 15-degree inclination in any direction and also features an adjustable air/water mixer for a relaxing bubble massage effect.

ONE OF THE BIGGEST RANGES IN THE BUSINESS Wet leisure distributor Golden Coast provides one of the widest selections of counter-current units in the trade, with models to suit all kinds of pool installations and requirements.

For customers looking to build a countercurrent unit into their pool, a number of models are available.

The Speck BADU Jet Wave is a powerful system featuring swim, massage and wave functions. The elegant BADU Jet Vogue offers similar benefits and is housed within a sophisticated, award-winning, stainless steel design. Meanwhile, the powerful BADU Jet Primavera features twin jets – perfect for sports enthusiasts.

For performance-oriented training and professional-level workouts, choose the Speck BADU Jet Turbo Pro. It operates at a high output of up to 350m3/h and produces a soft current for a more natural swimming experience, whilst remaining efficient and quiet. The Turbo Pro is built to last and is extremely safe, as all electrical components are hermetically separated from the pool water.

For versatility and style, Golden Coast offers a range of Pahlén stainless steel countercurrent units. With a motor power of

SPN October 2020 65 01/11/2020 20:47

COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS

For existing pools, Ocea UK have the modern-looking EasyStar hanging system, the retrofit version of HydroStar’s countercurrent turbine

2.2kW and a pump capacity of 46m³/h, the Pahlén Jet Swim Motion helps owners focus on strength and conditioning. The unit is designed around a pair of oval nozzles, with the lower nozzle directed downwards for a more even distribution of streams within the water. Also available is the Pahlén Jet Swim 2000, which offers adjustable jet streams up to 71 m3/h – making it exceptionally easy for users to make fitness gains. Both Jet Swim Motion and Jet Swim 2000 are engineered from acid-proof stainless steel (AISI 316L) for optimum finish and a long lifespan.

When it comes to retrofit units, Golden Coast offers three Speck BADU Jet countercurrent models designed specifically for use in existing pools: Perla, Riva and Stella.

The overhang units provide adjustable flow rates, directional nozzles and power controls, allowing the customer to change the settings based on their preference. For extra stability on above-ground pools, a telescopic support leg can be added to the installation.

HYDROSTAR TURBINE SYSTEMS FROM OCEA Ocea UK exclusively supply the increasingly popular range of HydroStar counter-current turbine systems. Hydrostar offers a unique 24V turbine-driven fully submerged counter flow system which brings a natural swimming experience to any home pool.

The patented technology has already received numerous prestigious awards, including a Golden Wave Award, a German Brand Award and a Plus X Award.

As opposed to conventional counter flow systems, HydroStar generates a wide water flow which carries the body in the water similar to a natural river current, without splashing. Unlike pump-operated swim systems, there is no concentrated jet that causes unpleasant concentrated strain on the head or shoulders. The wide and regular overand undercurrent of the HydroStar engulfs the entire body.

Hydrostar has a range of turbines that

offer a flow capacity for all swimmers. Six standard performance levels are on offer with flow rates ranging from 160 to 550 m3/h plus for particularly ambitious swimmers, there are two special sizes with flow rates of 600 and 1,200 m3/h. Flow velocities are fully adjustable between 1 – 3.2 m/s.

As the units are turbine driven, a maintenance free, all-in-one flush fitting kit is offered which are available for all types of pool construction from concrete tiled, liner to panel or fibreglass construction. For existing pools, there’s the modern-looking EasyStar hanging system. Available in grey and white and, just like the permanently integrated version, the retrofit system is offered with the six standard performance levels and has all the benefits of a fully-fledged HydroStar system.

Perfect for all ranges of training whether it’s for health, fitness or elite swimmers…

Ocea partnered with HydroStar has quickly grown to be one of the most popular and high spec counter-current systems with a good mix of German engineering and UK based sales and service backup.

NO MATTER THE REQUIREMENT, UWE HAS A SOLUTION German manufacturer UWE invented the counter-current system in 1967 and the creation of the company’s JetStream countercurrent systems has revolutionised the traditional swimming pool. By regulating the current, even small pools can become really exciting – and that goes for trained athletes as well.

With a wide portfolio of counter-current systems, there’s a solution for a wide range of needs. Sitting at the top of the company’s range is the TriVA counter-current system.

It was designed with ambitious athletes in mind and thanks to its innovative FLAT technology, TriVA creates a flat, powerful flow just below the water’s surface – right at chest

CASE STUDY LIFE IN THE FASTLINE IS PERFECT FOR ENERGETIC MIDLANDS FAMILY When space is limited, the Fastlane from Certikin could be the answer. That was the answer provided by West Midlands Swimming Pools when an energetic family contacted them for a swimming solution,

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as Kay Cunningham from the Staffordshire based company explained: “We were approached by a family who were looking at installing a pool largely for exercise and sports purposes. They had previously tried out an Endless Pool and although they found the counter-current unit exactly what they wanted, they felt the off-the-shelf pool was too shallow for their purposes and didn’t have quite the finish they were looking for. The solution was to design a bespoke pool for them with the addition of a Fastlane counter-current unit.”

An existing building, which was being used

as a home office, lent itself perfectly to accommodate a 5m x 2.5m Fastlaneequipped pool with a constant depth of 1.6m and adequate deck space.

The Fastlane unit from Certikin is the Rolls Royce of counter-current units and is designed for athletes and serious swimmers as well as lesser mortals wishing to get the most out of their swimming pool.

Having the benefit of remote control, the speed can be altered, with an optional LED display allowing monitoring of swimmers progress and speeds. There is also the option of the Fit@Home app, available for both iOS and Android devices, which gives the ability to monitor, tailor and repeat training programmes.

Swimming Pools Midlands 01543 677476 www.westmids-pools.co.uk

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COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS and shoulder height, right where an athlete needs resistance. Depending on the version, the pressure-sensitive single-button PIEZO control offers three power settings: from 75 m3/h to 225 m3/h. To ensure an optimal flow channel, the WAVE safety filter inlet cover (included) should be installed directly opposite from TriVA. For customers wanting high performance for minimum outlay, popular choices are the EUROJET and DUNA compact systems.

Featuring PVC ball valves, PVC pipes, and the control panel – all the components are preassembled and it takes minimum effort to install, but gives maximum pleasure. In variants from 11 to 18 litres per second, all with a swivel nozzle, fully adjustable flow, plus an air bubble bath.

Even pool owners who do not have the option of retrofitting a counter-current system don’t have to be deprived of the pleasure thanks to the TREVI and TREVI LUX surfacemounted systems! Just fit them on the edge of the pool and plunge into fun.

With a range that is constantly being enhanced, a wide selection of UWE’s countercurrent products are available through both Jetstream UK and distributor SCP.

GO WITH THE FLOW WITH PLASTICA’S COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS The X-Stream Counter-current unit, made with a stainless-steel niche and grab rail, is Plastica’s new through-the-wall unit. It’s easy to install, gives a neater finish and is more powerful than over-the-wall alternatives.

There are two options for the X-Stream. The single kit comes with a Nardoself pump and produces 60m3/h output. Alternatively, the X-Stream duo, which comes with 2 of the Espa wiper pumps and gives an impressive 100m3/h output.

Each X-Stream kit option comes with a complete plumbing kit and counter-current controller. The duo unit has a sequential start system, so the pumps have a start delay between them.

The X-Stream is especially suited for the range of wooden pools manufactured by Plastica. It uses pneumatic on/off switches, accessible from the pool to keep any electrics away from the bather and also features directional nozzles for fine adjustment of the flow.

Perfect for a small size pool where space is limited, Plastica also sell the Countercurrent Jet with white LED Light Kit which is ideal for fitness training, underwater massage and endless no-lap swimming. The Jet can be used as a single or double jet system with one or two pumps. The counter-current face plate is fitted with a white LED Light, along with the On/Off light switch for ease of access while

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UWE’s impressive looking TriVA counter-current system is available through Jetstream UK and SCP

A counter-current system makes it possible to have unlimited fun, swim for as long as a user likes plus their introduction can often provide hydrotherapy options too” in the water.

If an over-the-wall unit is needed, the Badu Jet Perla or Riva units can be used as a simple retro-fit units in any swimming pool. Once primed, the Badu Jet Perla unit produces 40m3/h output with a continuously variable flow rate and a massage pressure of 0.9 bar. The Riva produces 54m3/h.

Both the above units also have air injection via a Venturi system which is adjustable and all the controls can be operated from the front face of the units.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Jetstream UK 01252 545006 www.jetstreamuk.com Ocea UK 01865 604882 www.hydrostar-binder.de Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net

The X-Stream Counter-current unit, made with a stainless-steel niche and grab rail, is Plastica’s new through-the-wall unit

SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

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BUYERS GUIDE CONTROL PANELS

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68 October 2020 SPN

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL BUILDERS

POOL COVERS

POOL ENGINEERS

POOL ENGINEERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

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POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

POOL EQUIPMENT

SPN October 2020 69

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL LIFTS & SPA HOISTS

PRESSURE TESTING & LEAK DETECTION EQUIP

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POOL EQUIPMENT

POOL FLOORS – SERVICING

POOL LIFTS & SPA HOISTS

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BUYERS GUIDE SPRAYED CONCRETE

TILED SPAS

TILED SPAS

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Alukov

58

Aquaflex

21

Artesian Spas

OBC

Bosta UK Certikin Int’l

63 14, 55, 61 & 64

Cranbourne Stone

38

Darlly Europe

42

Fairlocks Pool Products Gaffey

58

Golden Coast

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IFC

13 & 21

Heatstar Europe

06

Hot Tub Suppliers

42

IBD Water Treatment

49

ISPE

61

Jetstream UK

64

Lighthouse

08 & IBC

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

SWIM SPAS

TILED SPAS

WATER MONITORING & CONTROL

NIVEKO

08

Ocea UK

13 & 36

On-site Pool Linings Ltd Plastica Pools

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

41 & 49

Piscine Connect

22

PoolLock

24

Raywood Graphic Design

16

Rigo Spa

57

SCP UK

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345!

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14

11 & 26

Spa De La Mare

55

SpaFlo

21

SPATEX

33

STA

36

Stoneworld

24

Suntrap Systems

24

Superior Spas

19

Swimex UK

61

T&A

35

The Mosaic Spa Company

52

Thermic Leisure Supplies

14

Waterco/Certikin Int’l

05

SPN October 2020 71

OPINION

Social Media Has Taken Over The World! Or Is That Just Fake News?

“In 2011, our industry survey reported 46.9% of wet leisure businesses as active on social media. By 2019 that had jumped to…” In this issue, Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams looks at the rise and use of social media

T

he media is full of stories about social media. From politics to pandemics, every news article seems to have a social media aspect to it and, increasingly, it seems to have a negative spin. We blame social media for fake news and election hacking which are crimes rather more serious than distracting kids from their homework or getting me to waste five minutes of my working day engrossed in my friend’s Strava times.

Apparently social media promotes political extremism and body dysmorphia. It fuels racism and sexism. It is dissolving the glue that keeps society together.

And it also helps to sell saunas.

With Facebook alone sharing 300 million photos and showing 8 billion videos daily, it would be impossibly difficult to regulate the entire social media sphere. Social media is a global phenomenon and any legislation would likewise have to be globally accepted.

It is hard to regulate content and at the same time preserve freedoms of speech.

WHERE DOES THAT LEAVE US?

LIKES AND SHARES

users and customise the content that they see. Part of the furore over TikTok is that it prioritises this data harvesting over the user experience. TikTok is just more blatant about doing what all the others do.

And then it all comes down to numbers.

Facebook has 2.7 billion monthly active users and in there are over 9 million active advertisers buying little pieces of their attention. And it doesn’t cost that much. The Monster Raving Loony Party probably can’t afford a national TV campaign but they can afford to get their political message in front of millions on Facebook.

And it isn’t regulated. Advertisers and publishers are held accountable for what you see in the newspaper or on the TV or listen to on the radio. On social media – although this is starting to change a little – people can say what they want and there is something about seeing a thing on the internet that often makes people believe it to be true.

And that’s the nub of the problem. As someone said, ‘everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but not their own facts’.

All the social media sites try to fill our every waking moment with an attention grabbing update, a meme or a post that has gone viral.

Everything is designed to get your attention and hold your attention, from notifications to those three little dots that tell you someone is typing.

All the social media sites are extremely good at collecting data in order to model their

If we can’t agree on the facts of a matter it makes it hard to have a constructive discussion about it. When we are talking about politics, COVID or climate change that can have serious repercussions. Perhaps social media should be regulated?

59.8% According to last year’s Wet Leisure Survey, 59.8% of businesses in our industry are now on social media. They are on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and the rest in order to promote their businesses because they can pay Facebook etc, for a little piece of their chosen audiences’ attention and show them messages that will slightly alter their beliefs and behaviours. You know, sell them stuff.

And that’s what social media has been for the last decade, an advertising channel.

But it’s an advertising channel that lets you video-call your family over lockdown, one that lets you stay in touch with friends you haven’t ‘seen’ for years and one which can bring groups and communities together to do good.

So why all the bad press?

IS THAT TRUE?

The whole social media world has gone from fad to global phenomenon in a few short years and the technology has grown faster than our ability to interact with it” 72 October 2020 SPN 72_SPN_October_2020_Opinion.indd 72

Facebook is just 16 years old. Instagram is only 10. The whole social media world has gone from fad to global phenomenon in a few short years and the technology has grown faster than our ability to interact with it. But if social media becomes disliked and distrusted then that will be reflected in profits and share prices and that is surely a problem that all those clever people in Silicon Valley will want to address very quickly.

The conversation around stopping disinformation and hate speech on social media platforms is gaining ground. For instance, a number of celebrities have boycotted Instagram for 24 hours to raise awareness of the issues but when you realise that Kim Kardashian can be paid $500,000 for a single sponsored post on the site you quickly realise why their outrage hasn’t moved them to a lengthier, more costly protest.

FIND US ON… The reason social media marketing and advertising has become such big business is because it works.

You can ask Facebook to show your advertising message to people between the ages of 25 and 65, male and female, who own their own home and have shown an interest in health, fitness and wellbeing and live within 50 miles of your showroom, and it will. If you upload more than one advert to that audience then the Facebook algorithm will work out which one is the more effective and put more of your budget behind that one displaying it more often.

It’s a powerful system, one that can sell saunas or influence elections. I know which would get my vote.

Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 01/11/2020 20:48

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The Specialist Pool Distributor

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01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk 25/11/2019 14:50

by

W E L L N E S S

FO R

E V E RY BODY

SWIM, STRETCH, ROW AND RELAX with our award-winning Swim Spas.

Built to the same world-class standards in quality that Artesian Spas are famous for, the TidalFit Exercise Pools are in a class of their own. The craftsmanship and stunning design of the TidalFit Spas are not the only compelling aspects, they are robust, energy efficient and offer unique options to cater for each individual taste. With FOUR unique Swim Spas, there is a TidalFit to suit everyone.

ACTIVE PLUS EP-12

PREMIUM EP-14

CORE SWIM-14

PRO EP-15

For more information about becoming a TidalFit dealer contact us today! www.tidalfit.co.uk www.artesianspas.co.uk

01302 730 295

info@artesianspas.co.uk