In another example of companies expanding production to meet the demand surge that began with the pandemic, MAAX Spas is opening a factory in Iowa to start building more spas and swim spas.
“MAAX Spas, a leading hot tub and swim spa manufacturer based in Chandler Arizona will begin swim spa operations by year-end in Ottumwa, Iowa,” announced John Johnson, president and general manager of MAAX Spas. The Vita Spa STR and American Whirlpool PowerPool swim spa lines will be produced and distributed to a market of over 26 countries worldwide from this facility.
Currently the building is being prepared for the arrival and installation of new equipment. Initial hiring and training have begun and will continue through the fall. “We do expect to have Swim Spas rolling off the line before 2022,” says Mel Messer, Ottumwa plant manager for MAAX Spas. Hiring projections will add 50 or more jobs to the Ottumwa labor force.
Steve O’Shea, vice president of sales and marketing, says, “2020 and 2021 have seen record-setting sales due to the COVID pandemic and people making their homes more comfortable for the restricted lifestyle change. MAAX Spas projects a definite uptick in growth over the next six-plus years.”
MAAX Spas swim spa lines offer 20 models ranging from 12 feet to 18 feet long and holding up to 2,500 gallons of water.
