Retail: Page 136

Q&A With Paul Porter

Paul Porter runs Premier Pools Management Corporation, a company based in Rancho Cordova, Calif. He's been in the pool business for 23 years, recently shifting his focus ...

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Borates: Once Per Year

Haviland

Once per year, Haviland reminds you that borates help maintain ideal water quality – and only need to be tested and reapplied once per year.

Borates: Once Per Year

State of The Industry Survey: Pool And Spa Retailers Are Bouncing Back

A survey of 235 pool and spa retailers shows an industry posting modest but widespread revenue gains compared to 2009, and one with a brighter outlook than it had a year ago. Tempering the mood is some impatience, as retailers continue to wait for financial fundamentals to improve and for buyers to begin spending more, two crucial factors that will determine the industry's health going forward."We have increased our selection of parts and accessories and broadened our market to encompass online sales."The prevailing wisdom among better spa and pool retailers is that bashing the guy on the other side of town hurts the industry as a whole, and often the offender in particular. It's in vogue to treat competitors with class and grace and to quietly and secretly hope you can crush them based on being better.

Leslie's Poolmart Opens New Pool Stores

Water Testing Stations Boost Pool Store Sales

Offering free water testing for clients can spur chemical sales, but if your main intention is to make a few extra bucks, clients will see right through that, and your testing station won't be nearly as effective as it can be.With an overarching intention to help clients enjoy a crystal-clear pool, it's also wise to strategically situate your water-testing lab within your showroom and mindfully merchandise around the testing station. "It's just like milk and bread. You don't find that inside the front door of the grocery store," says Penny Johnson, co-owner of Johnson Pools & Spas in Huntsville, Ala. "There's no difference in our industry versus others when it comes to merchandising."

When clients come in to get their water tested, it’s important to ask them questions about their pool and water in addition to running the tests. (Courtesy Swimming Pool Services)

Q&A With Spa Dealer Norm Coburn

Norm Coburn is the owner of New England Spas in Natick, Mass. AQUA recently called him to ask about one of the secrets to his considerable success — his well-trained sales team.

Coming Back 'Round For The Surround

As consumer confidence gradually increases, and retail sales along with it, portable spa retailers will likely see an uptick in sales in 2011. Portable spa accessories, in particular, could prove to be a helpful profit center, as many customers who bought a hot tub some time in the last couple years come back to buy the surround they wanted but decided to hold off on initially.

Negotiating A Retail Lease In A Renter's Market

Looking to save money on your store lease? Now is a good time to negotiate a better deal, say real estate watchers.

The Theory of Evolution

Over the years, vinyl liner patterns have changed from blah to bold

E-Newsletters - Newsletters that bring shoppers to your store

Newsletters that bring shoppers to your store.

Houston pool and spa retailer reveals tips to selling toys and games

Houston store owner plays the retailing game to win

Madison, Wis.-Based Hot Tub Dealer Tries Hand at Mall Location

A retailer goes to the mall to get some exposure for his tubs

In The News: December 23, 2010

An End to Debit Card Fees?; BioGuard Expands Education Offering; It’s Showtime in Atlantic City

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