In The News: August 2007

Hanley Wood continues to prepare for the 2007 AQUA Show and says it is dedicated to maintaining its position as the premier Western spa and pool event.

"The industry has always valued the AQUA Show, and we have innovative initiatives in place to make it stronger and better than ever," said Rick McConnell, vice president, Hanley Wood Exhibitions.

During an extensive lineup of 47 seminars — 38 of which are brand new educational offerings — experts will address challenges facing the industry, while new presenters will provide a fresh perspective on business and marketing, say show organizers. In addition, a town hall "Come and Be Heard" forum will bring everyone together to examine the latest industry obstacles and concerns. Brian Dyches will host the pre-conference "Power Workshop — A Day of Retail Renewal," designed for the spa/pool/backyard retail community.

A New Product Pavilion has also been added to the AQUA Show so exhibitors can showcase the newest products in the pool and spa marketplace. In its continued partnership with the AQUA Show, Genesis 3 will lead and host its educational program, including a drawing seminar and seven 20-hour Design School courses.

The 2007 AQUA Show Conference Program will be held Nov. 12-16 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, and AQUA Show exhibits will be open Nov. 14-16. For information about the show, visit aquashow.com or call 800/766-7807.

SmartPool Makes Changes

SmartPool, Lakewood, N.J., recently announced executive changes and expanded product and manufacturing plans for 2008.

With the appointment of Randy Kizitaff as president and COO for its North American business operations, SmartPool will concentrate on the expansion of its manufactured line of robotic cleaners, as well as increased production of existing water treatment chemical lines.

"Our focus will remain squarely on satisfying our customers and making sure that we continue to provide products that lead the swimming pool industry," said Kizitaff.

According to SmartPool, new robotic cleaning models will be introduced later this year and will contain new technology. Also, in an effort to increase production of its SPAroma, AquaPill and SolarPill brands, SmartPool has acquired additional manufacturing space adjacent to its current headquarters.

Previous president Richard Holstein will pursue new product and business opportunities for SmartPool. Holstein will remain a shareholder and continue to serve on the board of directors.

Pentair Launches Traveling Training Labs

Pentair Water Pool and Spa has launched a fleet of six traveling training labs. The 20-foot trailers contain fully functional pool systems for use in training pool professionals and will be used at industry events and Pentair Water Pool and Spa training workshops.

Each trailer contains an operational filter, heater, automation system and three pumps — the IntelliFlo VS (variable speed) and VF (variable flow) models and a single-speed pump. Colored lighting systems featuring LEDs, SAm, SAL and fiber-optic lights are also showcased, along with Pentair controls: SunTouch, a basic control; EasyTouch, the company's mid-range automation product; and the IntelliTouch system, Pentair's high-end system. ScreenLogic interfaces are also included.

The labs are also equipped to show pre-recorded training materials. Each lab will be regionalized to carry the most popular pumps and filters in various parts of the country.

The Pentair Traveling Training Labs will be at the Pool Industry Expo in Monterey, Calif., Sept. 27-29; the AQUA Show in Las Vegas, Nov. 1216; and the International Pool and Spa Expo in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 27-30. The labs will also be at other events throughout the year.

For more information about the schedule of the training labs, call 800/843-5628.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

• VIKING POOLS OF SACRAMENTO recently opened a new 21,000-square-foot outdoor display area with 14 pool-and-spa combos along with palapas, outdoor kitchens, landscape layouts and more.

• Vinyl-liner manufacturer CANADIAN GENERAL TOWER is hosting the GCT Design Showcase to unveil the latest pattern designs for 2008. The Showcase was launched in June with an event that displayed the patterns "art gallery" style, according to CGT.

• SUN FIBERGLASS PRODUCTS has teamed up with other industry leaders to provide a pool package for Jessie's Place, a home in Inverness, Fla., for neglected and abused children.