Pool & Spa News articles from November 2001

Pool & Spa News archives from November 2001

Florida builder study shows war's impact.
November 21, 2001... Builder members of National Spa & Pool Institute-Florida say the effects of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and subsequent war have had a significant impact on their business, according to the results of a survey conducted by the trade group....

Phoenix Expo sees boost in exhibitors.
November 21, 2001... A late surge in exhibitor sign-ups for next weeks 2001 International Pool & Spa Expo in Phoenix has pushed the total number of exhibitors to 543, up from 465 in early September, according to show officials. The recent boost is credited to...

Making a connection. (reflections).
November 21, 2001... It's all in how you connect with people. I learned that while buying a new car last year. Unfortunately, the first car salesperson who approached me didn't already know that. He sat me down and, to his credit, tried to make me comfortable...

Record turnout for NSPI-Florida's aquatic event.
November 21, 2001... The 24th Annual NSPI-Florida Swimming & Diving Meet, held Oct. 12-13 at the YMCA Aquatic Center in Orlando, Fla., drew a record 65 high schools and 1,784 participants, according to Wendy Parker, communications manager at the National Spa & Pool...

Swimming in the big states.
November 21, 2001... California is the "sportiest" state, but swimming is most popular in smaller states, according to "Sports Participation in 2000--State by State," a report by the National Sporting Goods Association in mid-October. The report noted that...

Pool size limits worry builders. (news).
November 21, 2001... A Proposed ordinance in Port St. Lucie, Fla., that would restrict the size of backyard swimming pools has the city's pool and spa builders concerned. The ordinance would limit backyard pools and accompanying decks, patios, and screen...

SCP acquires two distributors. (news).
November 21, 2001... SCP Pool Corp. has extended its reach across the border--and the Atlantic Ocean--acquiring distribution outlets in Canada and Portugal, according to company officials. In an Oct. 30 press release, the Covington, La.-based pool and spa...

Warehouses galore.
November 21, 2001... Saratoga Spas has added six new stock warehouses for its new line of spas. The new warehouses are located in Gaithersburg, Md.; Chicago; Reno, Nev.; Orlando, Fla.; Columbia, S.C.; and Buffalo, NY. "By adding so many stocking facilities, any...

Two firms plan layoffs.
November 21, 2001... In response to the economic downturn, Chicago-based 3M and Emerson Electric Co. in St. Louis announced in October that they plan job cuts. 3M, which produces tile cleaners and glue for pool liners, has trimmed 4,200 jobs from its 75,000-person...

`Lifeguard lung' bulletin finished. (news).
November 21, 2001... The National Spa & Pool Institute's Chemical Treatment and Processing Committee has completed an information bulletin on hypersensitivity pneumonitis--also known as "lifeguard lung"--and should have the information available to the public...

War alters symposium topics. (news).
November 21, 2001... Two speakers at the International Pool & Spa Expo's Public Health and New Technology Symposium will be altering their topics in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and subsequent anthrax scare. The symposium, sponsored by the...

Fountain maker's new headquarters.
November 21, 2001... Roman Fountains Corp. announced the opening of its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Albuquerque, N.M. The fabrication area includes an "indoor-outdoor" test facility to promote product research, development and testing. Roman...

For the record.
November 21, 2001... An article in the June 20 issue of Pool & Spa News on AquaChek's online Dealer Training Course did not list the program's Web site, AquaChek.com/training. The Internet program allows qualified dealers, service companies and distributors to...

Despite shaky economy, trade shows fare well. (business currents).
November 21, 2001... This year, as professionals attend trade shows, they may not shake as many hands, or have as many companies to check out, but there's a good chance that just as many deals will be cut as in past, economically stronger years. That's the...

Smart, strong growth in Bowie, Md. (Regional economic roundup: a closer look at selected cities in key areas around the country).
November 21, 2001... [check] Smart, strong growth in Bowie, Md. This town of 50,000 is going to get larger, but very carefully, according to James Cronk, director of Bowie Planning and Development. Upscale home builders have helped turn the town and surrounding...

Utah residential construction at all-time high. (Regional economic roundup: a closer look at selected cities in key areas around the country).
November 21, 2001... [check] Utah residential construction at all-time high. The value of residential construction activity in Utah through the first half of 2001 hit an all-time high, according to a report from the Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the...

Consumer mood worst since '94: U.S. Consumer Confidence Index. (business currents).
November 21, 2001... The nation's consumer confidence level took a nose dive again in October, falling to its lowest level in seven years. The Consumer Confidence Index dropped to 85.5, from 97 in September, according to the Conference Board. The index, which...

Pool and spa permits. (business currents).
November 21, 2001... Pool and Spa Permits Tabulations of permits issued for new pool and spa construction in selected U.S. cities and unincorporated parts of counties. Valuations are in millions. City/County Permits Issued ...

Pool and spa industry stock market transactions: quotations are for Nov. 1, 2001. (business currents).
November 21, 2001... Pool and Spa Industry Stock Market Transactions NYSE: New York Stock Exchange NASD: NASDAQ Exchange AMEX: American Stock Exchange TOR: Toronto Stock Exchange OTC: Over-the-Counter Trading NYSE ...

Danaher trades on Pacific Exchange. (Business Briefcase).
November 21, 2001... [check] Danaher trades on Pacific Exchange Danaher Corp. in Washington, D.C. (NYSE: DHR), parent of water-testing products manufacturer Hach Co. in Loveland, Colo., has begun trading on the Pacific Exchange. According to a press release...

Arch Chemical's 3Q sales dip. (Business Briefcase).
November 21, 2001... [check] Arch Chemical's 3Q sales dip Year-to-year sales for Arch Chemical's Inc.'s HTH Water Products Division dropped from $403 million in third quarter 2000 to $37.9 million in third quarter 2001. Meanwhile, the division's quarterly...

Ametek sales climb in third quarter. (Business Briefcase).
November 21, 2001... [check] Ametek sales climb in third quarter Ametek Inc., a spa-motor maker based in Paoli, Pa., posted third-quarter sales of $256.5 million, up from $255.1 million in third quarter 2000, the company (NYSE: AME) reported. Net income also...

Jobless rate jumps to five-year high. (business currents).
November 21, 2001... [GRAPHIC OMITTED] Pushed by the largest job cut in 21 years, the nation's unemployment rate rose to 5.4 percent in October, according to the Labor Department. The new jobless rate, up from 4.9 percent in September, is the highest...

Regional rates change little in September. (business currents).
November 21, 2001... [GRAPHIC OMITTED] The U.S. regional jobless rates changed little in September, reported the Labor Department. Job losses drove unemployment rates up minimally in the West, Northeast and South, while the Midwest held steady. The West...

Sundance Spas. (Progressions).
November 21, 2001... * Sundance Spas, based in Corona, Calif., has appointed Chris Brimley regional manager for the company's dealers in Colorado, northeastern Nevada, Utah and southern Wyoming. Brimley has been in the pool and spa industry more than 14 years....

H.C. Harrington. (Progressions).
November 21, 2001... * Pittsburgh distributor H.C. Harrington has promoted Mark Cristallini to vice president of sales and marketing. Previously, Cristallini served as the company's general manager for seven years. He joined the distributor in 1983.

Clayton & Lambert Manufacturing Co. (Progressions).
November 21, 2001... * Eric Churchill has joined Clayton & Lambert Manufacturing Co., based in Buckner, Ky., as sales manager. He will grow builder relationships and develop alliances with new dealers nationwide. Churchill has more than 12 years of experience in...

Swimline Corp. (Progressions).
November 21, 2001... * Swimline Corp., based in Edgewood, N.Y., has appointed Claude Lalumiere national sales manager. Lalumiere brings seven years of experience to the position. His duties will include helping increase sales and providing greater customer service....

Petaluma. (Progressions).
November 21, 2001... * Alan Leukhardt now is now president of engineering for Petaluma, Calif.-based Water Pik Technologies' Pool Products and Heating Systems segment (Laars and Jandy Products). Previously, Leukhardt was with high-end appliance manufacturers Dacor...

Question: what's the one thing the pool and spa industry needs to do better to help its members make it through an economic downturn? (viewpoints).
November 21, 2001... "We must put a lot more emphasis on advertising the benefits of putting a pool in your backyard. We need to tell people that the dollars spent on a pool saves them huge amounts of money over its lifetime. It even saves them on having to travel...

2001 International Pool & Spa Expo: November 38-30 Phoenix Civic Plaza and Bank One Ballpark. (trade shows).
November 21, 2001... Exhibit Hall hours Wednesday, Nov. 28 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Exhibitor list A A&A Manufacturing 3555 A&B...

It's all in their heads: the secret to improving pool and spa sales is getting inside the customer's mind. (What makes customers tick: pool and spa buying).
November 21, 2001... Imagine for a moment being able to read your customer's mind. You'd know what they want the moment they walk in the door. You'd know their hopes, fears, desires, even weaknesses. You'd know everything you'd need to make a sale every time. In...

Emotional rescue: purchasing a backyard Aquascape is an emotional time for consumers. Here's how to generate excitement, calm fears and close the deal. (What makes customers tick: pool and spa buying).
November 21, 2001... When it comes to pools, spas and other water elements, emotions run high on both ends of the scale. Aquascapes hit many positive buttons: family, friends, fitness, fun, relaxation. Try to think of a backyard aquascape without fond memories or...

Putting spa shoppers at ease. (What makes customers tick: pool and spa buying).
November 21, 2001... There's a certain irony in the fact that to sell a hot tub--a product designed for calm and relaxation--dealers often must overcome a considerable amount of consumer anxiety. But given that spas are typically the third most expensive product...

The psychology of selling safety. (What makes customers tick: pool and spa buying).
November 21, 2001... Warren Holland considers himself fortunate. The manager of Life Saver, an Atlanta pool fencing retail store, doesn't have to seek out new customers: They come to him. But what's most surprising is what they come to him for--safety products. ...

They've got personality: gaining your clients' trust requires keying into the needs of their specific personalities. (What makes customers tick: customer personalities).
November 21, 2001... Thomas D. Phillips was having a difficult time courting a customer. The customer seemed perfectly happy to talk about his family and fishing boat. But when Phillips tried to talk business, the customer clammed up. Then Phillips realized he...

Speaking silently: reading and understanding body language is the key to success for any salesperson. (What makes customers tick: body language).
November 21, 2001... While it's possible to guard our tongues, hiding our body language is virtually impossible. That's why body language is so important in the world of sales. Many customers are reluctant to verbally communicate their intentions during a...

Building trust: getting the client on board sometimes requires overcoming our industry's own reputation. (What makes customers tick: backyard design).
November 21, 2001... Because I work as a consultant, people don't think of me as a pool person, per se. They think of me as a designer who charges for his opinion, and that seems to carry extra credibility--they're already convinced that I'm a good guy. That has...

Personality crisis: knowing how to cope with all types of personalities will bolster your sales and, thus, your income. (What makes customers tick: backyard design).
November 21, 2001... Why are some customers such a pleasure to deal with, while others seem to have been placed on Earth to torment you? There are as many answers to that question as there are personalities in the world. Over the years, recalcitrant customers...

Talking shop: how to make sure your store says all the right things--from it's layout to its colors--and makes customers feel comfortable. (What makes customers tick: shopper psychology).
November 21, 2001... You've seen them before--customers who walk through your door looking uncertain, anxious, maybe even a bit frightened. They hesitantly walk down an aisle, peer around a corner, only to leave a few minutes later before you even get a chance to...

Selling service: finding potential customers for your pool service company involves knowing who and where they are, recruiting them, and then proving that their search for the world's best technician is over. (What makes customers tick: service technician).
November 21, 2001... People usually base buying decisions on emotion, not logic. "[Consumers] would like to have you believe that they sit down and logically compare a product's features and make logical decisions [but they don't]," says Tom Egelhoff author of...

Generational profiles: bridging the gap. (What makes customers tick: generational profiles).
November 21, 2001... Understanding the basics of human psychology is just one part of knowing what makes customers tick. To truly understand customers, you also must take into account the events and ideas that shaped them and their respective generation. It's what...

The big boom: for baby boomers, buying a pool or spa is a case of image. (What makes customers tick: generational profiles).
November 21, 2001... As Baby Boomers--those people born between 1946 and 1964--take hold of the market and become the industry's bread-and-butter clientele, pool and spa professionals say they have begun to hear a familiar mantra: I want it, so I'm buying it. ...

X marks the spot: for Generation X, a pool or spa is a matter of lifestyle. (What makes customers tick: generational profiles).
November 21, 2001... Generation X--also known as the Baby Busters--is an crowd to sell to in some ways, says Ted Halstead, president of the New America Foundation, a political and public policy think-tank in Washington, D.C. As he notes, this generation will become...

Coming of age: like boomers, Millennials offer a return to value-oriented buying. (What makes customers tick: generational profiles).
November 21, 2001... The Millennial Generation may not have aged very much yet--the oldest is about 21--but this young group and its can-do attitude may well be the key to the industry's future, according to marketing experts. Millennials are so named because...

Phoenix Expo Exhibitor Marketplace. (Duster/Vinyl-Liner Brush-Insta Test 3 Strips).
November 21, 2001... Welcome to the Pool & Spa News Phoenix Expo Exhibitor Marketplace, the place to find exhibitor and product information for the pool and spa industry's biggest annual show. A lot has changed since the last expo, but the most important things...

Phoenix Expo Exhibitor Marketplace. (Spa Accessories-Pool and Spa Deck Finishes).
November 21, 2001... Spa Accessories By Leisure Concepts * Features: company offers full line of spa accessories to make spa use easier and more enjoyable * Offerings: four-color brochures; POP materials * Contact: Leisure Concepts, Spokane, Wash....

Phoenix Expo Exhibition Market Place. (Aboveground Pools, Ladders, Liners, Decks, Lighting Products-Wireless A/V Camera Systems).
November 21, 2001... Aboveground Pools, Ladders, Liners, Decks, Lighting Products By Sharkline Pools * Features: company will showcase extensive pool product line, including aluminum, steel and resin frame pools, complete line of aluminum decks and...

2001 December.
November 21, 2001... 2001 DECEMBER POOL & SPA NEWS[R] MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 3 NSPI - 4 NSPI - 5 IPSSA - 6 IPSSA - 7 Southwest North Central Whittier, Diamond Bar, Missouri ...

Word search: trade show. (backflip).
November 21, 2001... You don't have to fly to Phoenix to solve this puzzle--and it won't give you sore feet, either! Just find the words related to the 2001 International Pool & Spa Expo. Words run horizontally, vertically and diagonally. [ILLUSTRATION...

There's no place like home. (New Products 2002).
November 21, 2001... That's what more and more Americans are realizing as they look to their backyards to provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of everyday life. A new trend is emerging: backyards that offer the total entertainment experience. These...

Action Products. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Action Products offers its TC Swinger for 2002. The combination swinging tray and cup holder accessory add convenience to any spa. For more information, call Action Products in Reading, Pa., at (610) 685-3616. Circle 51 on Postage Free...

Almar Manufacturing. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Almar Manufacturing offers its Model "G" SpaDolly. The new trailer incorpoates a number of important design changes that enable the system to do more. New models feature additional space to carry the spa cover box, brackets to carry the SpaKart...

Childlife Backyard Play System. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Childlife Backyard Play Systems presents its 2002 catalog, featuring colorful wooden play sets. For more information, call Childlife Backyard Play Systems in Holliston, Mass., at (800) 467-9464 Circle 56 on Postage Free Card ...

American Leak Detection. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... American Leak Detection introduces its LeakTell pool and spa testing device. Product uses ultra-sensitive microprocessors to detect microscopic changes in fluid levels. It provides fast, accurate electronic test results. For more information,...

Bugs Solutions. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Bug Solutions offers its new Bug Board for 2002. The flexible foam kickboard is die cut into the shape of a scumbug and works well as a training device. The company offers banners and 24-hour shipment to dealers. For more information, call Bug...

Cantar/Polyair Corp. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Cantar/Polyair Corp. offers its Molly Brown Float for 2002. The durable product is available in blue/mango and purple/banana color. combinations. The company offers a 100-year "no sink" warranty. For more information, call Cantar/Polyair Corp....

California Design Group. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... California Design Group offers its Side Bars maintenance-free spa accessories for 2002. The product combines functionality with easy-care durability and features supports that are manufactured from rotationally molded polyethylene and are...

Canterbury Enterprises. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Canterbury Enterprises introduces its Blue Flame Bar-B-Q Tank Toppers and Bar-B-Q Buckets. The Tank Toppers fit standard propane tanks and feature washable cotton material with eight festive themes. The Bar-B-Q Buckets feature space for spices,...

Chemigen USA. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Chemigen USA offers a new automatic chemical controller. The product measures chlorine and pH automatically throughout the day with large or small bather loads in heated, fresh water or saltwater pools. For more information, call Chemigen USA...

Confer Plastics. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Confer Plastics unveils its curved Handi-Step and Step-Enclosure System for 2002. The new Handi-Step fits round spas and hot tubs and is available in redwood or gray. The Step-Enclosure System features steps inside and outside the pool for easy...

InSPAration. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... InSPAration offers its new aromatherapy spa and bath fragrance line, Hydro-Therapies-Wellness. Other products available include SpaCandles; the After Spa line of hand and body lotions; Body Misthydrants formulated especially for after-spa use;...

Kidsaver. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Kidsaver introduces nutrient-rich sunblock and moisturizer. The SPF-20 sunblock has a combination of sunscreen agents, including titanium dioxide, and powerful anitoxidants such as vitamins A, D and E. The moisturizer features a blend of...

Leisure Time. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Leisure Time presents its new EsScents Fragrances for spas. The line includes 12 new scents grouped into three fragrance sets: The Aroma Therapy set is designed to reduce stress and includes Energy, Refresh, Relax and Warmth scents. The Floral...

Prosun Tanning. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Prosun Tanning presents two new residential tanning bed models for 2002. The line includes the Select 28 Plus with a wider, longer tanning surface and the Select 24 Natural for an all-natural tan. For more information, call Prosun Tanning in...

Weather-Out. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Weather Out offers MouseAway and MosquitoAway, environmentally safe products that help discourage pests. MouseAway uses a special blend of essential oils to keep rodents away from pool heaters, mesh safety covers and portable spa units. The...

Condar Co. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Condar Co. introduces two new models in its EmberGuard Patio Fireplaces line. The Savannah model features rust-resistant, zinc-coated steel construction with pull-out ash pan. The Danskgli model has firebrick lining, pull-out ash pan and...

Cross Point Industries. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Cross Point Industries offers its Voice Alert 3100 Notification System for 2002. The wireless pool-safety system consists of a motion sensor and patented voice notification and provides remote, in-home alerts to a child's movement around...

Lumi-O. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Lumi-O introduces several new pool and spa accessories for 2002. The Podium Spa Step features spacious steps and a built-in box for storage. The Beachhead, The Executive and Aquad'O... Plus pool ladders are constructed of virgin polyethylene...

Fabrionics. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Fabrionics presents its Captiva Chaise Floating Lounger. The multiposition recliner adjusts by moving the backrest. A completely enclosed reclining mechanism means no knobs to turn or parts to break. For more information on the product or...

Murrey Billiard Table Mfg. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Murrey Billiard Table Mfg. presents its line of professional quality tables. Tables feature solar lights, a slate surface playing field and Sunbrella all-weather fabric. Special pricing and Textron flooring available to dealers. For more...

Napoleon Appliance Corp. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Napoleon Appliance Corp. offers its Napoleon Prestige I1. Product features include patented, stainless steel rod cooking grids; heavy-duty, 16-gauge stainless steel burners, sear plates and handle in a fully enclosed cart. For more information,...

Outdoor Lifestyle. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Outdoor Lifestyle presents its cast-aluminum leisure and outdoor furniture for 2002. The comfortable, unique designs feature a durable, powder-coated finish guaranteed not to rust. New Azteka line available with choice of finishes. For more...

Poolmaster. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Poolmaster introduces its Water Cooler Reversible Lounge. The unique inflatable is designed for comfort on land or in water. Reversible product is constructed of fast-drying, 420-denier nylon outdoor fabric and includes nylon mesh center seat...

Prime Time Toys. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Prime Time Toys introduces two new products. The first product, the Underwater Soccer Challenge, provides a new, fun way to play in the pool. The set consists of two weighted soccer goals and a special 5.5 diameter brightly colored ball. The...

Sevylor USA. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Sevylor USA presents its PT700 Water Roller. This water toy is designed for children 6 to 12 years old and features eight inside handles, five inflatable paddle fins and three separate air chambers. For more information, call Sevylor USA Inc....

Spectrum Aquatics. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Spectrum Aquatics introduces its Spectrum Water Slides. The portable slides have all stainless steel construction and are easy to retrofit; includes nonslip treads. Custom designs and applications are available. For more information, call...

S.R. Smith. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... S.R. Smith offers its new Flash Funslide. The low-profile slide is just 4-1/2 feet tall, available in a variety of designer colors. Product includes a built-in high-volume water system, handrails, ladders and leg supports made of heavy-duty...

Stromberg/Arc. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Stromberg/Arc offers market umbrella lighting systems for 2002. The systems are available in 220- or 110 volts and are virtually maintenance-free. Lights are encased in completely waterproof housing and the sturdy lighting system remains in...

Sunguard Shade Structures. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Sunguard Shade Structures introduces its Pool Side Cantilever Shade System. The new system can stand alone or be connected in a series and blocks up to 95 percent of UV rays. Lowers temperature by up to 20 degrees. For more information, call...

Sunstar Enterprises. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Sunstar Enterprises offers its EZ PAD prefabricated portable spa pad. Product is now reinforced with Rhino Linings' Tuff Stuff coating for increased weatherability and greater resistance to impact and abrasion. Product provides a convenient,...

Swimcords. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Swimcords presents its SwimCord Swimming Tether. Product now comes in three tension strengths and features a new anchor strap that can be used around a doorknob for dry-land exercising. Company also offers POP displays and early-buy specials...

Vermont Castings. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Vermont Castings presents its line of barbecue grills and outdoor patio fireplaces. Product features include dual stainless steel main burners at 45,000 Btu, cast-iron end caps, porcelain-coated steel hoods, side burners and rotisseries. For...

Telescope Casual. (Accessories).
November 21, 2001... Telescope Casual features powder-coated beach chairs for 2002. The durable chairs feature brilliant, powder-coated frames available in six colors. Available models include the Sun & Sand Chair, the Light `N' Easy Low Boy, the Light `N' Easy...