Retail success in the pool and spa industry isn’t just about selling products — it’s about creating experiences, building trust, and elevating backyard dreams. That’s what the AQUA 100 is all about. Now in its seventh year, this prestigious program recognizes the best of the best: Retailers who set the standard for innovation, service, and leadership in an ever-evolving market.
Each year, we welcome 10 exceptional companies into this elite group, bringing our total to 70 and counting. These honorees don’t just run businesses; they shape the future of the industry through creative marketing, outstanding customer care, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
From family-run storefronts to multi-location operations, this year’s AQUA 100 inductees prove that success comes in many forms — but passion, perseverance, and dedication remain the common thread.
Join us in celebrating the 2025 AQUA 100 and the retailers who continue to redefine what it means to thrive in the pool and spa industry…
ABC Pool & Spa Center
Aloha Pools & Spas
Budget Pools & Spas
Fun Outdoor Living
Horizon Pool & Patio
Poolwerx Keller
Rosebrook Pools
Townley Pool and Spa
Water By Design
Watermanía Group
About the Judges
The AQUA 100 was judged by an independent panel:
Ted Lawrence is the vice president of Pro Sales at KIK/ Biolab and has served the swimming pool industry for over 35 years. Ted has owned and operated his own retail stores, ecommerce sites, managed large scale retail operations and held several leadership positions in the pool distribution space where he oversaw four global chemical brands and retail product strategies. Ted is a PHTA board member, serves on multiple committees and volunteers his time as a mentor to many in the industry. Ted holds bachelor’s degrees in both Economics & Finance from Penn State University where he was a nationally ranked student athlete.
Merry Wise has been involved in all phases of the pool industry for over 50 years, and is currently retired and living in Mexico. She was vice president of Wise Pool Company, an AQUA 100 Hall of Fame company and firm that won numerous regional and international design awards, including the prestigious APSP Chairman’s Award. She has authored a pool care book for the pool owner, “Cruising Through Pool Care the Wise Way,” and is a freelance writer contributing to AQUA Magazine. Merry is also an industry speaker and consultant specializing in customer service, marketing and retail issues for some of the industry’s most prestigious firms.
