In The News: December 23, 2010

Boardwalk Bazaar

When the Atlantic City Pool and Spa Show debuted almost 30 years ago, 125 companies set up shop at the Atlantic City Convention Hall to do business with about 4,000 builders, retailers and service pros, mostly from the tri-state area of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Hands were shaken and deals undertaken as the industry began to mature and headed into a 25-year period of expansion that lasted until the housing bubble brought the U.S. economy to its knees.

Read more abut the Atlantic City Pool and Spa Show.

Can Retailers Look Forward To an End to Debit Card Transaction Fees?

The U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) recently went on record applauding the Federal Reserve Board of Governor's proposed decision to decrease swipe fees on debit card transactions. The Fed's proposal recognizes the additional costs negatively affect consumers and ultimately result in higher pricing.

"The proposed regulations will benefit consumers by lowering the billions of dollars annually in non-negotiable swipe fees paid by merchants to large banks and the dominant credit card networks," says Ed Mierzwinski, PIRG. "These changes will lower the prices of everyday goods for all consumers including cash customers."

The Fed is expected to make a final decision on April 21, 2011, after a 60-day comment period closes, with the rule going into effect on June 21.

BioGuard Expands Education Initiatives in 2011

BioGuard has given its educational programs an extensive overhaul, most notably changing the name to H2Know.

"Educational opportunities for our dealers and their employees are one of the most important business resources we can provide to our customers," says Alicia Stephens, BioLab education manager. "For 2011 we have made focused improvements to every facet of our education offerings, giving our dealers exclusive access to our technical team's expertise and packaging it in a user-friendly, convenient way."

H2Know, formally referred to as Chem College, now features one- and two-day chemical training formats offered through the United States and Canada. New in-depth instructional videos and demonstrations complement the curriculum.

BioGuard is also re-launching its One Source Connect online training and information repository Jan. 1. A complete schedule and more information can be found online at www.bioguardevents.com

Business Briefs

Del Ozone's Board of Directors appointed Joel Peterson president of the company, effective immediately. The Board selected Peterson for the position based on his expertise in the development, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of the company's advanced ozone sanitation solutions. Peterson previously held the position of vice president of finance since 1992.

Bullfrog International received the President's Award at the Independent Pool Group show and convention in Toronto. The award is voted on by members of the IPG and is given to the company that provides the most value and best customer service to the IPG membership at the show and throughout the year.