January 16, 2008
Hot Tub Industry Growth Initiative Gains Momentum
Leading hot tub manufacturers and suppliers have contributed $440,000 towards the start-up funding goal of $600,000 for a North American hot tub campaign. The next industry meeting will be held in Alexandria, VA on Wednesday, March 26, 2008. Here, the results of market research to define the campaign will be revealed. Also, one of three advertising agencies there presenting will be selected as the partner moving forward. Only fund contributors are entitled to a copy of the research and a vote in the agency election. To get information about the campaign, contact Lauren Stack, or come to the January 30 Hot Tub Council meeting, 8 a.m to 11:00 a.m. in the Atlantic City Convention Center, Rm. CC202.
APSP Gathering Info, Prioritizing Outreach Efforts for New Pool Law
APSP, with the technical assistance of its members, is examining and analyzing the details of the provisions in the new pool and spa safety act (the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act) in order to prioritize communications and outreach efforts. The entrapment guidelines in the new law are consistent with the new ANSI/APSP-7 American National Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance. MORE.
Georgia May Ban Pools This Summer!
Public action is needed to reverse decision!
Just in case you’ve missed the news stories, the state of Georgia has indefinitely banned pools; and the ban may continue through the summer of 2008. Fortunately, the decision is not written in stone, and a reverse decision is still possible. The decision about pools will ultimately fall to Environmental Protection Director Carol Couch. APSP’s Georgia Chapter tells you how you can contact Ms. Couch and what to say when you do. MORE
Las Vegas Review-Journal, January 3, 2008:
“Professionalism Builds Confidence”
A recent inquiry in Joe Vassallo's bi-monthly column in the Las Vegas Review-Journal addressed the value of being a CBP Certified Building Professional®. Joe Vassallo of Paragon Pools, a member of the APSP, discussed the importance of becoming a CBP, both to gain consumer confidence, and to become involved in industry activities on a national level. Including quotes from Ken Suzuki, the association’s director of education, and Al Rizzo, the association’s 2007 CBP of the Year, this article not only gave very positive recognition towards the CBP program, but to the APSP as a reputable trade organization as a whole.
To view the entire article, click here.
Course Presentations Invited for 08 Mega Expo
APSP members have a chance to share their knowledge and expertise at this year's International Pool/Spa/Patio (PSP) Expo – the new combined mega show. Hanley Wood is inviting industry members to submit proposals and is encouraging proposals for intermediate and advanced level courses. To be considered as a presenter, a Call for Presentations Form must be submitted by February 15.The primary audience for educational programs includes pool/spa builders/installers, retailers, service technicians, landscape architects, cust om home builders, and home design center professionals. MORE.
Advanced Pool Builder Training at SW Pool & Spa Show
Do you ever wonder how great leaders make the companies that they lead more successful than their competitors? Are they better tradesmen? Do they have more experienced sales people? Are they more committed to performance and results? To get answers to these questions and the challenges that keep you awake at night, make plans to attend the Advanced Pool Builder program on March 5-6 at the Southwest Pool and Spa Show in Houston, Texas. MORE.
New APSP Council Officers
Industry Segment Councils represent different segments of the pool, spa, and hot tub industry. APSP is pleased to announce the segment council officers who will serve in 2008. Please click here for complete Council listings and information or the link below for a compleate listing of the APSP Council Officers. More.
Regional Shows Bring in the New Year
2008 Mid America Pool & Spa Show
January 21-24, 2008, Pheasant Run Resort & Mega Expo Center, St. Charles IL
25 free seminars will be offered January 23-24, as well as a full-week APSP Tech School, offering TECH I and TECH II training, Monday through Friday, January 21-25, and a two-day NSPF CPO course Monday and Tuesday, January 21-22. MORE.
Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show
January 29-31, 2008, Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City NJ
Over 45 technical seminars and 20 business seminars offered, including safety issues, alarms, suction entrapment prevention and diving board certification. A separate Commercial Product Exhibition Area and Seminar Track will be featured. Enhance your knowledge with NESPA’s Advanced Pool Builders program, Mastering The Craft, Act II (Act I not required). MORE.
Savvy Marketers Look Forward to 2008 Despite Market Conditions
Plummeting housing prices, soaring fuel prices, the falling dollar, and job cuts were just a few of the negative market conditions causing angst across the nation throughout 2007. Fortunately, as we enter into a new year, there are many underlying economic causes for optimism. A recent newsletter by APSP’s public relations agency discusses the importance of communication during tough times, to gain exposure of messages in a time where other competitors are cutting back.
Studies have shown that companies that invest in cost-effective marketing programs in a down economy are perceived as having more commitment to their products and services. The article gives tips on enhancing your marketing plan and giving your company that competitive advantage in 2008. To view the complete article, click here.
You can contribute to IC. Click here to find out how, or send an email to ic@APSP.org. You may also fax 703.549.0493.