SPN (Swimming Pool News) February 2024 by Aqua Publishing Ltd

FEBRUARY 2024

POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICALS ACCESSORIES & MORE

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

2024 HOT TUBS What’s available for the season ahead?

POOL & SPA PUMPS Products to keep the water flowing in pools and spas

WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS For a safe environment and peace of mind

COVENTRY’S CALLING

We Preview This Year’s SPATEX Exhibition Taking Place 6 To 8 February

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FAIRLOCKS DPS FEB24.qxp_Layout 1 26/01/2024 03:14 Page 1

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS

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SEE OUR POOL PRODUCT RANGE ON STANDS B50 & B55 AT

At Fairlocks Pool Products, our mission is simple; to offer the best service possible and to back this up, we have selected some top quality products to distribute exclusively to the UK pool trade. 3 Landscape Close, Weston on the Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX25 3SX, UK T: 01869 934333 | E: info@fairlocks.co.uk | W: www.fairlocks.co.uk

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor’s POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICA

LS ACCESSORIES & MORE

FEBRUARY 2024

SPN incorporating Pool & Spa Industry is the ofﬁcial trade magazine for the UK wet leisure markets and is the only trade publication that invests in the industry it serves.

Throughout the magazine, we take a closer look at various key subjects that span a number of sectors across the industry. For example, we showcase the latest new models and brands available in the hot tub sector, plus we examine various options available for the sanitisation of pool and spa water, options which use a variety of ingenious technologies to achieve quality results and a safe environment for users. UV is just one of them and once again, that gets its own stand-alone feature this issue.

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne Co Publisher and Sales Director: Tony Weston Accounts: Sam Bartholomew Design: Colin Halliday For editorial enquiries contact Jon on: T: +44 (0)20 8306 8150 E: jon@aqua-publishing.co.uk For advertising enquiries contact Tony on: T: +44 (0)1474 813433 E: tony@aqua-publishing.co.uk For accounts enquiries please email accounts@aqua-publishing.co.uk For production enquiries please email production@aqua-publishing.co.uk For general enquiries please email info@aqua-publishing.co.uk

To subscribe or amend / cancel an existing subscription, please visit our website. Annual subscription rates (6 issues): UK £30, Europe £50 and ROW £60 SPN is published by W: www.aqua-publishing.co.uk Printed in the UK by The Manson Group Ltd Aqua Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in Swimming Pool News. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and UBL I Sgive H I no NG reputable, Swimming PoolPNews can assurance they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. The views expressed in the articles in Swimming Pool News are the contributors’ own. All rights reserved. Copyright for all materials published in SPN remains with the publishers. Material contained in this publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior permission of Aqua Publishing Ltd.

2024 HOT TUBS What’s available for the season ahead?

POOL & SPA PUMP S Products to keep the water flowing in pools and spas

WATE R TREAT MENT S & SYSTE MS For a safe environment and peace of mind

COVE NT RY’S CA LLI NG n We Preview This Year’s SPATEX Exhibitio Taking Place 6 To 8 February

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letter

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It’s the start of a brand new year and what a start it’s been… to say it’s been a sluggish period is somewhat of an understatement. Every other person I know seems to be catching a dreaded lurgy of one type or another, and this, combined with some pretty awful weather, hasn’t helped matters either. But as I type this introduction piece, at least the worst of the weather seems to have passed – for the time being at least – although I’m not so sure the lurgy has!

And I say start, it will be rolling into February soon, and with January almost behind us, that means that the annual SPATEX exhibition is on the horizon. For the UK wet leisure industry, the three-day SPATEX show is the first major event of any year and it returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena from 6 to 8 February for the tenth time. For anyone who has a need for new products, services, or perhaps some inspiration or to improve their knowledge and understanding of selling, installing, owning or operating wet leisure products, SPATEX is the place to be. This year it’s a bigger than usual affair, in fact the organisers advise it’s their biggest show ever with well over a hundred high quality exhibitors present at the show, many of which are exhibiting for the first time. For those unfamiliar with SPATEX, the event helps to keep the trade up to speed with the latest trends and technologies – and that’s even more essential than ever given the uncertainty that many are predicting for the industry and wider economy, at least in the short term. In this latest issue, we feature a full preview of the annual trade show and take a closer look at what visitors can expect to find when they arrive at this year’s Midlands-based event.

We also take a closer look at some of the products that are keeping the water flowing in pools and spas. By this, I am of course talking about pumps and we look at what’s currently available from numerous leading brands. We also highlight ten products, most of which are robotic, that will take the effort out of cleaning swimming pools throughout the season. Elsewhere, Golden Coast’s Adam Clark gives his thoughts on why wet leisure products are a great investment for families, providing benefits that are sometimes overlooked. The STA’s Luke Griffiths talks to swim school owner Russell Sparks who set about the decarbonisation of his newly built pool due to crippling energy costs. Plus linking to this subject, we’ve also a piece looking at UK-based manufacturer Heatstar who design and produce highly energy efficient environmental control systems. There’s also our regular and useful updates from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA, including a look at the many people that provide input into the associations plus a piece on the benefits membership offers to businesses. Finally, we’ve also got our round up of all the latest industry, people, product and eco news from both here in the UK and further afield. So with this first issue of the year broken down, all that leaves me to say is I hope you enjoy reading it, I hope to see you at SPATEX and of course, I hope you all have a fantastic 2024!

Jon Wadeson - Editor PS – If you are involved within the industry and have some relevant news that you would like to appear within SPN, please do get in touch.

You can now follow SPN on:

Aqua Publishing also publishes: What Pool & Hot Tub magazine – our sister publication – is the only consumer magazine in the UK that provides the complete and crucial information that potential buyers are looking for! For more information visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website at www.whatpoolandhottubmag.co.uk

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CONTENTS

Inside This

73 65

84 COVER

COVENTRY’S CALLING

2024 HOT TUBS

UV SYSTEMS

A preview of this year’s SPATEX exhibition taking place in Coventry

We look at the latest brands, models and innovations for the 2024 season UV’s ultra effectiveness means it’s still a firm favourite for water sanitisation

WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS

POOL & SPA PUMPS

Keeping the water flowing in pools and spas – we highlight what’s available

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

STA POOL PLANT

COMPANY VISIT

POOL CLEANERS

OPINION

The industry’s associations dedicated pages

A Q&A piece looks at how one swim school owner decarbonised their pool facility

We visit Heatstar – a leading manufacturer with a people first approach Ten labour saving cleaners that are keeping pools and spas clean in 2024

Clean and safe water – treatments that provide peace of mind for owners

4 February 2024 SPN

FEATURES

Golden Coast’s Adam Clark on the benefits to families of water leisure products

NEWS

INDUSTRY

PEOPLE

PRODUCT / ECO

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

WORLD

The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip

New appointments, personnel updates and training Innovations and new products on the market

Dedicated news for this important sector All the latest news from around the world

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CONTENTS

Issue Of SPN 38

24 READER SERVICES DIGITAL EDITION Read this and previous editions online at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

BUYERS GUIDE For suppliers of products and services in the pool, spa and sauna market turn to page 80

SUBSCRIPTIONS Ensure you receive a regular copy of SPN (Swimming Pool News). Subscribe online today at www.aqua-publishing.co.uk

FORWARD FEATURES For our forward features, please visit our website at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

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61 Next Issue

• SPATA and BISHTA Award winners • Swim spas – mid and high-end models • Automatic pool covers (domestic sector) • One-piece and fibreglass pools • Pool liners and systems

Plus much, much more!

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NEWS

All the Latest News, Info, Products and Gossip From the UK Pool and Spa Industry and Beyond

Buckingham Pools And Certikin – A Class Act Tasked with constructing a new 20m by 8.5m swimming pool for the Astley Cooper School in Hertfordshire, Buckingham Pools turned to its trusty supplier, Certikin, to supply the filtration equipment and more. Completed last May, pupils and staff have been putting this impressive pool through its paces and have already awarded it top marks for the performance. “Equipment was selected on performance and longevity. Our design team conduct a comprehensive product investigation to ensure commercial standards are met whilst verifying the suitability for the scale and complexity of each pool build,” said Rynoux Du Preez, the Sales Manager at Buckingham Pools. Regardless of the aesthetic requirements of a pool, it is nothing without sparkling, clear water and that all comes down to the quality of the filtration. Buckingham Pools chose Certikin’s SLX Bobbin Wound GRP Filtration. The SLX range of filters are the workhorse of a commercial pool and with a wide range, covering sizes from 1.05m through to 3.00m, and options for laterals and nozzles with various pressure ranges and accessories, any pool can be catered for. The standard SLX lateral version comes at 2.5 bar rating with commercial laser cut 50mm laterals making them robust for the commercial environment and all backed up with a ten year warranty. Certikin supplied a Euroswim Booster Pump − highly reliable for water circulation and filtering, it is also extremely silent. The

Euroswim series is available in three versions. Buckingham Pools also turned to Certikin for its chemical dosing in the shape of a complete FLOC or PAC dosing solution. Buckingham Pools 01926 852351 www.buckinghampools.com Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

Broomhill Lido Restoration Secured Fusion Lifestyle will lead the long planned £10m restoration of Grade II listed Broomhill Lido and ongoing service delivery, supported by a £6.8m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund alongside further funding from Ipswich Borough Council. Broomhill Lido joins Fusion Lifestyle’s family of heritage leisure sites, which includes Brockwell Lido, Cleveland Pools, Park Road Lido, Shepton Mallett Lido, Hinksey Outdoor Pool, Wycombe Rye Lido and Newcastle City Baths. The grants will help cover the almost £10m required to complete the project, with the restoration seeing the open-air pool in the centre of Ipswich returned to its former glory; providing

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swimming, fitness and community facilities to the local area. The new facility will undergo some modernisation but will maintain its characteristic feel and will be enhanced with a new gym and studio offering, as well as the reinstatement of the lido and nursery pool. This would not have been possible without

the 20 years of efforts from campaigners and user groups in support of the proposals, and the funding from key partners. Mark Rogers, Communities and Partnerships Director, at Fusion-Lifestyle said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to deliver this exciting project and reinstate the Broomhill Lido at the heart of the local community. It’s been a long-planned project that we’re sure will delight the community. We want to take the opportunity to thank The National Heritage Lottery Fund and Ipswich Borough Council for all their support in making this happen.”

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 25/01/2024 21:00

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NEWS

Major New Plans Aim To Deliver A Healthy Future In Leeds A popular but ageing leisure centre site could be transformed into a state-of-the-art sports and wellbeing hub under exciting plans announced by Leeds City Council recently. The council has had long-standing ambitions for Fearnville Leisure Centre in Gipton to be replaced with a facility that is fit for the 21st century. This could soon become a reality, with good progress being made towards identifying funding for a scheme that would deliver a significant boost to communities facing sizeable social and economic challenges. The council’s plans would see a new wellbeing centre being built on part of the King George V Playing Fields, a 28-acre green space that is home to the current Fearnville facility. Indoors, the hub would include a wide range of amenities including a large main swimming pool and learner pool. Major

improvements would also be made to Fearnville’s outdoor offer. The new-look centre would encourage more take-up of physical activity among residents in Gipton & Harehills and Killingbeck & Seacroft – densely-populated wards which suffer from low life expectancy and high obesity rates – as well as benefiting wider east Leeds. Fearnville also offers essential learn-toswim provision for more than 30 primary schools – part of the largest programme of its kind in the city. An application for planning permission for the wellbeing scheme has been submitted by the council and, if approved, it is hoped that work could get under way in the middle of 2024. The bulk of the funding for the scheme is proposed to be sourced from a mix of external grant support, the council’s capital programme and developer contributions.

NIVEKO And HTP Group – High-quality Pools For Every Requirement More than 30 years of experience allows NIVEKO to channel its know-how into highquality products. First-class swimming pools are manufactured using the latest technology and with respect for the environment. Each pool is exceptional and adapted to the personality of each customer. NIVEKO custom pools combine two main advantages – a wide range of configurable elements and exceptional designs. The company’s wide portfolio guarantees that everyone can find the pool of their choice. Whether families with children, design enthusiasts with an eye for aesthetics or sports-oriented customers, there is something for everyone. Of course, NIVEKO offers any size of pool, a varied colour palette for all its parts and careful fine-tuning of the whole to the smallest detail – all to maximise the customer’s vision and satisfaction with the product. The high-tech polymer material used in the production of NIVEKO pools is a key element ensuring the quality of their pools. This special material, modified for swimming pool purposes, provides several major advantages. Thanks to the unique manufacturing and

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processing process, it is guaranteed to be highly resistant to UV radiation and the negative effects of chlorine, both on the colour and on the material itself. NIVEKO pools are distributed through partners who are based in the country where the pool is installed. This guarantees maximum support for customers. In the UK, NIVEKO offers its pools through its reliable profi partner HTP Group whose Managing Director, Lewis Salvidge, is an experienced professional with technical knowledge that he passes on to every distributor within the company. This knowledge is a key element for HTP’s excellent work, as demonstrated by countless satisfied customers. HTP Group 01174 037839 www.htpgroup.co.uk

Mapei System Repairs And Transforms Outdoor Pool, From The Ground Up Mapei has provided a repair and installation solution for a 15m concrete pool in the heart of Norfolk. Their products were used to completely renovate the outdoor pool from the base up, and install Cupira Marengo porcelain tiles from Ceramica Mayor. All Mapei products were supplied by Construction Site Supplies and the project was completed by D C Building Services. Originally constructed during the pandemic, the three-year old pool showed extensive signs of failure; the breeze block shell was misshapen, there was substantial gapping around pipe outlets and the base was severely cracked. In the first phase of works, the pool base was repaired with Mapei Planitop Fast 300 quick-setting, fibre-reinforced cementitious levelling mortar and then waterproofed with Mapelastic Foundation flexible cementitious mortar, incorporating Mapenet 150 alkali-resistant glass fibre mesh and Mapeband 120mm alkali-resistant rubber and felt tape for dealing with movement. D C Building Services then repaired the concrete around the inlet/outlet pipes with a single layer of rapid-set Mapei Planitop Smooth and Repair R4 – a shrinkage compensated, thixotropic, fibre-reinforced cementitious mortar. The whole of the drainage channel was then waterproofed using Mapei Planiseal 88 osmotic cementitious mortar and Mapeproof Swell was applied – a moisture expanding, rubber-based hydrophilic sealant – to make joints around pipework and lights waterproof. During the final phase of works, tiles were installed with Keraquick S1 – a very low VOC quick-setting, deformable cementitious adhesive, mixed with elasticising latex, Mapei Latex Plus. The installation was completed with carbon neutral Ultracolor Plus – an antiefflorescence, quick-setting and drying polymer-modified grout, featuring waterrepellent DropEffect® and mould-resistant BioBlock®; ultra-fast setting and drying hydraulic binder – Lamposilex – and mould resistant silicone sealant, Mapesil AC. Mapei UK 0121 508 6970 www.mapei.co.uk

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NEWS

IN BRIEF BRIGHTON CLOSES IN ON NEW FLAGSHIP FACILITY Plans to build a new flagship leisure centre in the west of the city of Brighton to replace the ageing King Alfred are moving forward, as the final site options have been revealed. Following a detailed analysis of over 20 privately and publicly owned sites, two have now been identified as possible locations for a new leisure centre. The sites have been chosen for their location, size, accessibility and potential to deliver first-class facilities. Each of the sites offers potential for a state-of-the art leisure centre, complete with 25 metre competition swimming pool, separate learner pool and splash pad, plus numerous other facilities.

COUNCIL AGREES £5.5M INVESTMENT FOR NEW SOUTHWELL SWIMMING FACILITY At a recent Cabinet meeting, Newark and Sherwood District Council have agreed to allocate £5.5m to develop a new swimming facility at Southwell Leisure Centre in Nottinghamshire. The main pool at the centre was closed on 30 October 2023 to investigate the cause of leaking water. During the first two weeks of closure, the pool lost 114,500 litres of water. Pool experts undertook a range of investigations into the cause and extent of the water leakage and a number of options were drawn up. The estimated cost of repairs, which would have involved relining the pool and providing new pipework infrastructure, was £645,000 and would take approximately one year. The Cabinet decided that rather than spending that amount on a repair, which would leave the pool located within a 60-year-old building and at risk of requiring further renovation, it would be better value for money to develop a new facility.

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Stay In Your Lane With SPS & Certikin! This stunning pool in Essex went through many design iterations before the customer settled on a lane pool complete with custom made fountains. Calling on the services of the Holland-on-Sea family run, SPS Swimming Pools & Spas, the owner is delighted that their execution of the brief has surpassed his expectations. “We were originally approached by the owner’s landscape designer with a request to build a water feature with a separate pond at one end,” said Ashley Spencer of SPS Pools & Spas. “Following further discussions, the plan then progressed to the construction of a 25m x1.8m lane pool with three eyecatching water fountains, designed and custom made in-house using clear pipe, to be hidden from sight. “Whilst the customer was initially unsure of what he wanted the pool to achieve, and thus look like, he and the designer were adamant they wanted it to be in-keeping with its surroundings. White fittings were ruled out for being too stark and the pool needed to have a dark finish to blend into the landscape.” Certikin’s site-applied lining option was an obvious choice, given its speed of installation and its long-lasting tailor-made finish and durability. The chosen liner was Elegance from the Renolit Touch Range. “The choice of pool fittings can make or break the overall impression and Certikin’s Optimus range was perfect for ticking the request for the pool to blend in,” said Ashley. Suitable for both liner and concrete pools, the Optimus range

complements darker pool finishes as it comes in an attractive metallic grey or black plastic. Products include skimmer extension throats, wall inlets and vacuum point. Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk SPS Swimming Pools & Spas 01255 818381 www.spspoolandspa.com

Family Elevates Outdoor Living With A Pool Enclosure From Alukov UK The Johnsons are a suburban family that yearned for a garden haven. Keen on the idea of enjoying their own private swimming pool, they were less keen on the challenges of erratic weather, bothersome debris and maintenance, plus had concerns regarding the safety of their little ones and pets that always come with pool ownership. They confronted these head-on and decided to enhance the planned building of their pool with an enclosure from Alukov UK – a leading provider of innovative retractable pool enclosures. The family got an initial offer for a Terra pool enclosure from their pool professional who is a business partner of Alukov UK. The selected enclosure model featured four retractable segments, all within a robust aluminum frame,

designed to withstand diverse weather conditions. With an advised build time of up to five hours, this pool enclosure model facilitated a swift installation process, making it easy to implement. Alukov UK’s design team also worked closely with the Johnsons to ensure the enclosure seamlessly integrated with the garden’s aesthetic, while meeting specific functional requirements. The installation of the Terra pool enclosure in the garden resulted in a transformative impact on the Johnsons’ experience and joy of having a pool. Safe and lockable any-time pool access, reduced maintenance efforts and an enhanced safety ticked all the boxes. A family‘s investment in an Alukov pool enclosure also means an increase in the time that can be spent swimming – from 3-4 months without a pool enclosure, to a greatly improved 6-7 months with one! Alukov UK 0118 940 6789 www.alukov.co.uk

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PEOPLE NEWS

Sector Pays Respect To Industry Pioneer

Debbie Squire

Natalie Tuckfield

Christine Evans

Bringing Industry Expertise To Your Door! With demand for wet leisure products higher than ever, Golden Coast is increasing its presence on the road, aiming to be available to customers up and down the country. Adam Clark, General Manager at Golden Coast said: “We are very committed to helping our customers however we can and fostering great relationships with each of them. Perhaps one of the best ways we do this is with our external sales team, who are on the road and ready to answer the call from any of our customers as swiftly as possible. They can provide quotes, talk through products, or just be that consistent point of contact when customers need it most.” As a leading wet leisure distributor, Golden Coast is

well known in the industry, having forged long-standing partnerships with its customers. Providing a wide range of products from heat pumps to saunas, Golden Coast has always sought to do what it can to provide the best solutions possible. “We’ve got a fantastic team working across the country,” Adam explained. “In the southeast is Ian Picken, and Debbie Squire in the southwest. In the northeast is Natalie Tuckfield and we have Christine Evans in the northwest. We really want to focus on visiting our clients more and more in the future. Our travelling experts can provide insight and tips in person that you can’t get over the phone,

Ian Picken

and in combination with our sales team in the office, we’re able to provide fully comprehensive support. “We always want to be on hand to help, however big or small the query. Since Golden Coast began our priority has been looking after our customers, and now with the external sales team, we’re better equipped than ever.” Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

The SPATA office was saddened to hear that John S Fowler died last year. Born in 1933, John joined the Fowler Bros (Cowfold) Ltd in 1954 (the business having been set up by John’s great grandfather in 1853), and the company was involved in house building (but not developing), grain carting in the farming world, joinery and carpentry, and funeral directing. In 1958, the company added swimming pool construction and maintenance to its other activities. John began to contact other pool companies in the southeast, leading to the formation of The Association of Swimming Pool Contractors (ASPC) in 1961. With pool equipment suppliers wanting to join the ASPC, the result was that SPATA was formed in 1971, and John was fully involved in these discussions. He was on the National Council from the beginning and served as a Technical Advisor until he retired in 2000. He was President of SPATA from 1976 to 1977 and was, some years later, honoured with a Lifetime Achievement award. John was also a founding member of The Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE), which he helped set up in 1978. John was a prominent and friendly personality who was principled but not unhappy to continue a discussion. This made him a particularly good mediator for SPATA. He was a kind person. He put his all into everything he did and was a proud family man who has left his mark and will be missed.

ISPE 2023 Award Winners Announced During ISPE’s 129th One-Day Seminar which took place last year, the winners were announced for the organisation’s annual Awards. ISPE President Jimmy Lamb, FISPE, started the presentations by announcing that two long-serving ISPE members had been made Fellows of the ISPE and he congratulated ISPE Vice-President Bob Judd, FISPE, and ISPE-Endorsed PPO Training Provider and Council member, Colin Jenkinson, FISPE. Jimmy then handed ISPE Technician certificates to those who passed their ISPE Exams back in March. The Gartside Cup, for the Student of the Year, is presented to the student who achieved the highest overall marks in the examinations and the winner was Kieran Cormell, TnISPE(Cert.), from Rockingham Pools. The Peter Horne Cup is awarded either for a Technical Paper, or Seminar presentation

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on the subject of Chemicals or Water Treatment, or to the student that submits the best Chemicals exam paper. This year it was awarded to Harvey Hume, from Clearwater Marine Group, for an excellent Chemicals examination paper. Last but by no means least, the Jim Johnson Filtration Shield is awarded either for a Technical Paper, or Seminar presentation on the subject of Filtration, and Jimmy was delighted to present the Shield to Kieran Cormell, his second success of the day! Congratulations to all the Award winners from the day. These Awards will be represented during the Industry Gala Dinner evening, held on the Tuesday night at SPATEX in Coventry. ISPE 01603 499959 www.ispe.co.uk

LEFT TO RIGHT: Harvey Hume, Jimmy Lamb and Kieran Cormell with their Awards

Jimmy Lamb (centre) with new Fellows of the ISPE, Colin Jenkinson (left) and Bob Judd (right)

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Discover The Future Of Pool Sales With VirtualPools

A Ceramic Microfiltration Solution From Barr + Wray Barr + Wray has partnered with LiqTech to distribute their ceramic microfiltration solution in the UK, Ireland and Middle East. Ian Montgomerie, CEO of Barr + Wray Group, said: “We see huge potential in the collaboration with LiqTech in the years to come. LiqTech’s pool filtration system is strategically a perfect match with Barr + Wray cutting edge work in the design and build of the most prestigious state-of-the-art leisure centres and spas.” Fei Chen, CEO of LiqTech, commented: “We are very pleased to enter this important distribution agreement with a well-established player in the commercial swimming pool business. Our proprietary and differentiated swimming pool water filtration systems are gaining strong market traction.” Compared to traditional media filtration systems that are widely used in commercial swimming pools, LiqTech’s pool system solution has demonstrated a convincing value proposition according to their customers.

The LiqTech pool system ensures excellent and safe water quality and contributes to a significant reduction in carbon footprint with up to an 80% reduction in water spending, 60% lower energy consumption and 30% lower chlorine dosing. At the same time, the system size occupies only one-third of the area when compared to that of a conventional media filtration system and is therefore perfect for retrofitting without extensive changes being necessary. As designers and engineers, Barr + Wray provide fully coordinated and integrated swimming pool and spa design solutions and fit-out. With offices in the UK and UAE, Barr + Wray can work globally having completed projects in all continents working on school and leisure pools, waterparks, independent hotel sites and major hotel groups. Barr + Wray 0141 882 9991 www.barrandwray.com

When it comes to shopping for a new kitchen, the standard practice today is that nearly every company offers a personalised visualisation of the new kitchen layout. Similarly, customers have comparable expectations when purchasing a pool, however, this ever-growing belief has left pool builders searching for a swift and easy solution. With no more tedious hours in complex drawing software or losing potential customers due to this issue – VirtualPools is here to transform the game. Their application is a ground-breaking solution that revolutionises the way pool builders are able to bring dreams to life. With VirtualPools, users can seamlessly place a (virtual) swimming pool at the customer’s site in a matter of seconds. Determining the location, size, colour and any other option can be effortlessly achieved. Clients will witness their dream pool materialise in their own garden, making the purchasing decision easier, faster and more fun. But that’s not all – VirtualPools boasts a variety of cutting-edge functionality. From adapting to the slope of the garden to aligning with the sun’s position, the technology ensures a precise and realistic representation. And the best part – the company thrives on feedback. Continuous development is their mantra, and they’re committed to enhancing VirtualPools based on the valuable input they receive. Currently VirtualPools are expanding their catalogue to include as many products as possible from manufacturers in the pool industry. Pool builders will be able to curate their own package of preferred brands and products. While the official launch for pool builders is at the beginning of April, SPATEX will offer a unique opportunity for the trade to experience VirtualPools first hand. VirtualPools +32 484 69 6342 www.virtualpools.io

The InAir™ IA60 Thru The Wall Heat Recovery Ventilation Heat Recovery units provide targeted humidity and condensation solutions to reduce damp. This will provide a healthier and safer living environment as well as reducing damage to the building fabric. Available from Salisbury-based Catalina Spas, the IA60 is a compact, Thru the Wall Heat Recovery Ventilator (TWHRV) unit that is easy to install and fully remote controlled, and features an automated reverse air cycling moving up to 60m/hr of air. The InAir™ IA60 TWHRV unit can also operate as an extractor fan, positive input ventilation unit or in a continually operating

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‘cycled’ heat recovery mode. When in this mode, up to 90% of the room heat is recovered and put back into the incoming fresh air – heat that would normally be wasted when using an extractor fan. This reduces heating costs, its good the environment, and is good for an owners health and wallet! It is ideal for numerous applications where moisture removal and freshly filtered air is required, these include, but are not limited to: • Pool and spa rooms • Wet display areas

• Wet rooms • Showers • Changing rooms The units can be installed in pairs and set for synchronised air cycles, creating a draft free, fresh environment. The IA60 comes with a two year warranty, is a low-cost solution and is available with generous trade terms. Catalina Spas 01980 611555 www.catalinaspas.co.uk

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 25/01/2024 21:13

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Experience The Ultimate Swim Like A Pro In Flexibility With A With EVAstream From Golden Coast Tieleman Moving Floor Supplied in the UK by Certikin, the Tieleman moving floor is suitable for both domestic and commercial use and is the ultimate in water leisure flexibility. The floor can be adjusted to different water levels, turning a swimming pool into a paddling pool for children, a dance floor or extra living space. Offering multifunctional space, and the ultimate in safety, the floor is powered by water hydraulics, using a floating principle with buoyancy providing the stability in the closed position with no access to the pool below. The moveable floor can be finished to match any scheme. The possibilities include stone, ceramic, mosaic, wood and stainless steel. In a raised position, the moveable floor ensures lower heating costs and use of chemicals and, as no dirt can enter the water, there’s reduced maintenance. Suitable for skimmer and overflow pools and the shape made bespoke to your pool, the options are endless. It is possible to incorporate additional

features such as a tilt mechanism that allows one end of the pool to be deeper than the other and it is even possible to have two moveable floors move separately from each other in one pool. Certikin offers a full service, from design through to installation. Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

A good quality counter-current unit can transform a pool. But to train like an athlete, you need a product like EVAstream. The EVAstream counter-current unit from Golden Coast delivers a powerful jet of water to swim against, helping to build strength and conditioning. “You don’t need a huge pool to get the best swimming experience,” said Luke Honnoraty, Sales Manager at Golden Coast. “Simply add a countercurrent unit and you can swim for hours on end in an environment that is as challenging as you make it.” EVAstream provides exceptional output with a flow rate of up to 450m3/h, which can be adjusted between 10% and 100%. It is available in three variations: EVAstream Fit, Pro and Max, with each unit catering to varied levels of swimming experience and requirements. “EVAstream enhances any pool experience, whether you’re using it to improve your fitness or just to relax,” added Luke. “It is available as a recessed model for new pool builds, or as a compact and lightweight surface-mounted model for retrofitting onto existing pools. Importantly, it operates on a single-phase supply. This is different to many other products on the market which use a three-phase supply making them very expensive to install.” EVAstream fits to a standard 16A 230V connection, with a consumption of just 2.2kW. It has been extensively tested to ensure it meets the most stringent safety standards, including DIN EN16582-1/2/3, EN16713-2 and EN13451-1/3. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

Reliable Flow Measurement With FlowVis® From AstralPool UK Available from AstralPool UK, FlowVis® is the most advanced, affordable and reliable flow meter, designed specifically for pools, spas, fountains and water features. Ingenious in concept and flawless in operation, FlowVis® is a revolution in reliable flow measurement and allows owners and users to set a pump’s speeds correctly; to optimise filtration performance, backwash water consumption and guarantee maximal energy savings. With an easy to read scale in m3/h, other features include: • Easy installation – can be installed horizontally, vertically or even upsidedown! • NSF certified – FlowVis® is the only NSF 50 level 1 certified flow meter in the world. • 2 in 1 – more than just a flow meter, it is

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also a fully functioning non return valve (models DN40 and DN50). • Reliable measurement – verified average accuracy of ≥ 97.9% across the entire range! • Built to last – highly corrosion resistant Viton® flapper seal. Manufactured in the USA and offering a 15-year design life, three year warranty, there are eight models available, with pipe diameter sizes ranging from 32mm to 200mm and flow ranges between 1,2 - 5,4m3/h and 113,0 − 420,0m3/h. Also available is the FlowVis®

Digital, the first >98% accurate digital flow meter developed specifically with the demands of a pool equipment room in mind. The wall-mountable FlowVis® Digital can be retrofitted to most new or existing FlowVis® installations to provide easy access to an accurate flow reading. This flow meter also offers a vast array of features and functionality including flow rate alarms, turnover rate functionality and the ability to interface with other equipment. AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com

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AN INNOVATION IN SWIMMING POOL FILTRATION

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Introducing Rosa Gres Porcelain Stoneware From Certikin

Certikin are delighted to announce a new partnership with Rosa Gres porcelain stoneware meaning they are now able to offer a complete design and manufacture solution for both indoor and outdoor pool tiling projects. This bespoke service means Certikin can take details of a project and, working with the team at Rosa Gres, produce full design visuals as well as a detailed breakdown of the stoneware required. This not only helps clients see how their completed pool will look, but also gives an accurate cost of the materials needed. At Rosa Gres, they love to create evocative, inspiring and beautiful colours. At the same time, they focus on designing innovative solutions for the most technically demanding projects. They have over 40 years’ experience in the creation of complete and functional systems where each finished piece plays an essential role. The special pieces that are created are what set them apart from competitors. Rosa Gres porcelain tiles

are created from natural raw materials and are fired at over 1,200°C which results in a tile with almost zero porosity and high durability to make it the product of choice for a wide range of projects including pools. The base pieces are manufactured using the pressing method to ensure the perfect size and calibre is obtained. This means, that these pieces can be installed with a narrower joint. Extrusion is used to manufacture all special pieces, steps, edges, channels, gratings and half rounds. With this method, more robust, resistant and longer lasting pieces can be obtained. The unique combination of pressing and extrusion means Rosa Gres can produce both base tiles and special pieces in the same colour, creating maximum visual harmony. With more than 30 colours and textures, and a range of design options, Rosa Gres has a solution for all tastes. Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

Mr Perfect – Available Exclusively Through Paramount Pools Paramount Pools has announced that they have partnered with Aquark as their official, and sole UK distributor for the ‘Mr Perfect’ heat pump which incorporates the revolutionary, patented InverPad® Turbofan. Conventional pool heat pumps feature hollow front panels to provide proper airflow channels, as the devices require the rotation of axial fans to draw in lots of air for efficient heat exchange. However, this traditional airflow design presents various issues for users, such as easily causing air turbulence and generating noise as a result of wind blowing, fan blade vibration and friction between the fan and wind. Mr Perfect revolutionises the traditional heat pump design and incorporates a unique fan structure – Turbofan. The air pressure difference generated by the ‘blade-free’ turbofan can divert the airflow at a stable speed to the outlet at a natural 90° angle, directly eliminating air turbulence and greatly contributing to zero mechanical noise performance. The sound level at a distance of 1 metre is only 38.4 dB(A) – as quiet as a refrigerator. To maintain an elegant and sleek design, Mr Perfect also incorporates an embedded high-definition glass touch panel, replacing the industrial buttons of the past. It also supports connection to a mobile app, enabling more user-friendly control and information access. Furthermore, the InverPad® Turbofan was developed to run in the harshest conditions. Thanks to Turbofan’s new airflow system, it increases the heat exchange area and maximises heat output to guarantee excellent performance under cold weather conditions. The result – owners can enjoy swimming all year long throughout the four seasons! Paramount Pools 01256 748380 www.paramountpools.co.uk

AFM® Activated Filter Media Now Available Through AstralPool UK AstralPool UK are the latest distributor to announce the availability of Dryden Aqua’s popular Activated Filter Media (AFM®) product. The result of 35 years of Reseach & Development, AFM® is a direct replacement for sand that can be installed in all types of sand filters without modifications. Producing crystal clear water, AFM® is the best performing filter media on the market with a certified 1-micron filtration rate which will remove about 50% more organic substances from the water than sand and other glass filter media. Whilst manufactured from recycled glass, manufactured from green and brown glass, AFM® is exposed to a unique activation process to become self-sterilising and

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acquire superior mechanical and electrostatic filtration performance. According to Dryden Aqua, the product’s unique benefits include: • The safest water: Prevents the transmission of pathogens (E.g. Crypto) • The clearest water: Offers a stable 1 micron filtration rate. • The healthiest air: Prevents the formation of DBPs and chlorine smells.

• The lowest operating costs: Saves backwash water and chemicals. • The most sustainable filtration: Outlasts all other filter media. Online, Dryden Aqua proudly claim: “Our production is likely the most sophisticated and sustainable glass processing factory in the world. We ensure that our product has no sharp edges that can injure the operator or damage the filter. The material filters 20 times smaller particles than sand or any competitive product, as proven by the independent laboratory IFTS in France.” AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Enjoy Undercover Spas With EZ Electric Cover Pergolas

Coast Spas UK – A ‘Freshe’ Approach To Wellbeing In The UK Coast Spas UK, a trading name of Catalina Spas™, stands out as a beacon of excellence, providing unique hot tub and swim spa models that are built with cuttingedge technology and supreme quality. The brand’s latest model includes what they say is the largest cold plunge available on the market, which measures in at 196cm in length, 74cm in height and 80cm in width. The Coast Freshe is designed to provide a comfortable experience for people of all heights and sizes, and is a champion product within Coast’s health and wellness product line. By putting an electric chiller inside the tub rather than a standalone outside, this offers a space saving option with other benefits that include more efficient cooling, a consistent temperature, ease of use and a product that is more cost-effective to own and run.

Coast Freshe has been designed to be aesthetically pleasing for both inside and outside settings. By using state-of-the-art insulation materials, the Coast Freshe also features modern wrap around lighting on the outside and has two underwater lights to illuminate the design. The integration of Coast Spas into the UK market through Catalina Spas™ not only brings forth a range of hydrotherapy options but also emphasises a commitment to enhancing the overall wellbeing of individuals. As the allure of at-home spa experiences continues to grow, the brand stands at the forefront, offering a blend of luxury, technology, and relaxation for discerning customers across the country. Coast Spas UK 01980 611555 www.coastspas.co.uk

In addition to an impressive line up of hot tub and swim spa models, Catalina Spas™, in tandem with Coast Spas UK, has extended its offerings to include the new innovative EZ Electric Cover Pergolas. These pergolas are meticulously designed to complement both hot tubs and swim spas, providing a stylish and functional solution to enhance outdoor living spaces. Crafted with quality materials and options that include automated roller blinds and glass sliding doors, the EZ Cover pergolas provide the perfect opportunity to extend the outdoor season whilst combining aesthetic appeal with practical utility. Features include: • Fully automated roof louvres (with easy-to-use remote control.) • Integral LED roof lighting. • Powder coat finish in grey (additional colours available.) • Integral rain water

drainage system. • Strong 150 x 150 x 2mm box section posts. Made entirely from aluminium, the EZ Cover Pergola is 100% waterproof and weather resistant, making it ideal for longterm use. Featuring wind resistance up to 60m/s (hurricane force!), the design is also UV protected and therefore resistant to fading and other damage typically caused by heat with protection from harmful UV rays. These weatherproof aspects mean that virtually no maintenance is required, and the pergola can be left alone as a stunning addition to any patio or terrace space. CE, UKCA approved, sizes of the EZ Electric Cover Pergola range from 3 x 3 to 5 x 6 metres. Catalina Spas 01980 611555 www.catalinaspas.co.uk

Heat And Cool Spa Water With Balboa’s Clim8zone™ II Helios Technologies, Inc., a global leader in highly engineered motion control and electronic controls technology, announced its operating company Balboa Water Group has introduced the all new Clim8zone™ II technology. Master Spas has partnered with Balboa exclusively to utilise the Clim8zone™ II for its Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs. “Clim8zone™ II is about half the size of its first-generation counterpart and remains the most energy efficient and cost-effective way to heat or cool the water of your spa,” said Josef Matosevic,

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President and Chief Executive Officer of Helios. “We are proud to partner with and support Master Spas with their products including their new line of Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs. This includes a unique contrast therapy tub that is using the new Clim8zone™ II technology. It features two bodies of water and two sets of temperature controls, giving users the flexibility to switch between cold water immersion and warm water relaxation.”

The Clim8zone™ II’s revolutionary design answers the health and wellness industry’s need to reduce the cost of running a spa. Its auto smart mode uses artificial intelligence and sensors to automatically adjust the compressor speed up or down while offering world-class quiet accelerated heating or cooling of the spa water. The result is a drastic reduction of the cost of maintaining the hot tub’s desired water temperature while using significantly less energy. Balboa Water Group +45 7522 4688 www.balboawater.com

SPN February 2024 21 25/01/2024 23:29

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

Master Spas Expands Wellness Offering With New Line Of Saunas

Spa Parts Vortex Announce Strategic Split From Spafix As of 5 January 2024 Spafix – the original member of the Vortex distribution family – is going it alone. In a strategic move that will be to the lasting benefit of both Spafix and Spa Parts Vortex, the companies are now under separate ownership and operating from separate premises. Spa Parts Vortex, a leading supplier of hot tubs, heat pumps and spare parts to the spa and hot tub industry, made the decision to streamline its operations and further enhance its commitment to the trade sector. While Spa Parts Vortex transitioned to a trade-only model in 2013, it has maintained ownership of Spafix, who offer a range of breakdown and maintenance services as well as hot tubs to retail clientele. As part of this separation, the employees of Spafix have taken a significant step by acquiring the company from its parent company. The entity has been run almost

entirely by its internal management team since 2020, this has enabled the staff to learn and master all aspects of the business. The management buyout has enabled the long serving staff members an opportunity to grow the business and take it independently in a new direction. Spafix will continue to supply some technical and warranty services to Spa Parts Vortex on a sub-contract basis. This strategic shift aligns with Spa Parts Vortex core values – a dedication to meeting the unique needs of trade professionals in the industry, supply goods in a speedy manner and not to compete with its valued customers. Spa Parts Vortex 023 9245 4455 www.spapartsvortex.eu Spafix 023 9354 1154 www.spafix.co.uk

Hot tub, cold tub and swim spa manufacturer Master Spas have announced the launch of Michael Phelps Sweaty GOAT Saunas – a premium line of infrared saunas designed to take relaxation and wellness to the next level. Building on its partnership with the legendary swimmer and the Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tub brand, Sweaty GOAT Saunas aligns with a shift in the health and wellness market as people prioritise their mental and physical health. “We are thrilled to introduce Sweaty GOAT Saunas, which reflects our mission of helping people live life better,” said Kevin Richards, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “With advanced features, premium materials and a focus on wellness, our saunas provide a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation in the comfort of your own home.” The partnership between Master Spas and Phelps began in 2010, with the launch of the industry-leading Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas. With input from Phelps, Master Spas was able to build upon its swim spa line and create a swimming pool alternative that would benefit Phelps and his training. The partnership grew with the development of Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs by Master Spas, which launched in the summer 2023. “Incorporating a sauna into my routine has been significant for me,” Phelps said. “I’m excited to be working with Master Spas to launch Sweaty GOAT Saunas, giving people more opportunities to see the benefits of saunas at home.” Sweaty GOAT Saunas by Master Spas offer full-spectrum infrared therapy, with a 360-degree heating experience. The Sweaty GOAT Sauna collection includes a two-person model, threeperson sauna and a corner unit. Features include chromotherapy lighting, wireless technology and a full touch-screen control panel. Master Spas +1 260 436 9100 www.chillygoattubs.com

Superior Wellness Appoints New Operations Director On 12 January, Superior Wellness announced the appointment of Mathew Day as the new Operations Director. With over 15 years’ experience across a broad range of sectors, he brings a wealth of experience to the role. With an impressive career, Mathew brings exceptional operational expertise and strategic leadership to his new position. Before joining Superior Wellness, he was Head of Operations for Kingfisher Lighting for four and a half years. Mathew started his journey in the 3PL world working for blue chip companies such as Clipper

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Logistics, Kuehne + Nagel and Europa Worldwide in which he has held numerous management positions. As the Operations Director, he will play a pivotal role on the operational side of the business driving processes and efficiencies with the Senior Management Team to support the company’s expansion plans and long-term vision. Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Mat Day to the Superior Wellness team. His extensive experience and proven track record as an operational leader make him an excellent

addition to the team. “We are confident that Mat will contribute significantly to our continued success as we continue to grow globally. Mat’s experience will continue to strengthen our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with him.” Speaking abut the appointment, Mathew said: “I am very excited to join the team here at Superior Wellness. The business is extremely well placed for further significant growth, building upon the strong foundations in place due to the quality of its partner relationships, product offerings and its people.” Superior Wellness 01246 559071 www.superiorwellness.co.uk

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WORLD NEWS

Water Starts To Flow In Liseberg’s Water World Oceana Waterpark At an event in mid January in the Swedish amusement park called Liseberg, the taps were turned on and water started to fill the pools in the new Liseberg Oceana Water World, which set to become one of Europe’s most spectacular waterparks. The groundbreaking for the new water world took place in November 2020 and it took four days to fill the 1,200,000 litres of water needed. “It’s a technically advanced and unique project that we’ve been working on for a long time, so it’s an amazing feeling to finally see the water flowing in Oceana,” said Andreas Andersen, CEO of Liseberg. Oceana will offer a total of 14 water attractions, including four larger 2 and 6 person tube slides. The park will also feature

a large water playground, a wave pool, a year-round open outdoor family river and an adventure pool for children. “With the pools now filling up in Oceana it feels even more real that in a few months we’ll have guests swimming, playing and riding the attractions, and the entire Liseberg destination will be complete,” said Thomas Sjöstrand, CEO of the Liseberg Anniversary Project. Together with Liseberg Grand Curiosa Hotel, Liseberg Oceana Water World completes the large scale expansion project marking Liseberg’s centennial. The hotel was completed in the spring of 2023, and at the beginning of summer 2024, Liseberg Oceana Water World will open its doors and welcome guests for the first time.

Therme Group South Korean Site Announced

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pools are combined with water-based activities, fitness programming, attractions, wellbeing therapies, art and culture, botanics, food and nutrition. As much as a fun and relaxing experience, Therme aims to boost mental and physical health and make a positive economic and social impact. Commenting on the project, Stelian Iacob said “Golden Harbor is truly spectacular, and it is fitting to bring our first Asia Pacific Therme to this iconic global gateway location. South Korea has rich and varied wellbeing traditions, and we look forward to working with local partners to reflect this history and culture.”

Image courtesy of IFEZ

Global wellbeing organisation Therme Group has announced the location of its first Asia Pacific project. The wellbeing resort will be in South Korea’s Incheon City as part of its Golden Harbor development. A memorandum of agreement was signed in late December by Therme Group’s Senior Vice President Stelian Iacob and Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) commissioner Kim Jinyong. The identification of the Golden Harbor site follows an initial letter of cooperation in November 2022 which saw Therme and the city working together to identify the best location for the project. The agreement will see project plans progressing throughout 2024 and an expected lease signing in 2025. Subject to finalised plans and permissions, construction is expected to take two to three years. Incheon is the global gateway city to neighbouring Seoul. Its Golden Harbor development is adjacent to an international ferry terminal, 15 minutes from Incheon International Airport and one hour from Seoul city centre by public transport. Therme’s large wellbeing resorts integrate ancient wellness traditions with modern sustainable technology. Expansive thermal

The Therme Group and IFEZ teams at the agreement signing

Fluidra Becomes Official Pool Equipment Supplier To USA Swimming USA Swimming, the national governing body for the sport of swimming in the United States, recently announced a two-year partnership with Fluidra North America as its Official Pool Equipment Supplier. As part of this landmark partnership, Fluidra’s umbrella of brands to include Jandy®, Polaris®, S.R.Smith® and Taylor Water Technologies, receive the rights to association with USA Swimming. “We are thrilled to announce this alliance with Fluidra and its trusted brands,” USA Swimming CEO and President Tim Hinchey said. “Together we have big plans for providing access to water for more communities and athletes as we aim to make swimming the sport of choice for all.” One of the goals of growth for USA Swimming includes providing more opportunities for young Americans to experience the joy of swim lessons and competitive swimming. Thus comes the need for greater access to pools, and the emerging requirement for communities to build more facilities and improve existing pools. USA Swimming aims to use this partnership with Fluidra to provide clearer pathways for member clubs and municipalities to create and innovate aquatics facilities. “This is an exciting partnership for us as it represents a combined commitment to championing greatness, pushing boundaries, and creating a legacy that will redefine the swimming pool experience,” Lennie Rhoades, Fluidra North America President said. “We look forward to working together to bring the joy of swimming to people of all ages and shaping the future of swimming through cutting-edge solutions and a passion for aquatic excellence.” The new alignment between USA Swimming and Fluidra represents a two-year partnership from 2024 through 2025.

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 25/01/2024 21:27

VISIT US AT SPATEX! BOOTH D29

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WORLD NEWS

IN BRIEF BWT ACQUIRES AUSTRAL DISTRIBUTORS NZL Austral Distributors NZL has become part of the Best Water Technology Group (BWT) following its 100% acquisition in December. The company is a leading distributor of pool and spa products in New Zealand, and the company will continue to trade as Austral Pool & Spa Products. The purchase follows the recent acquisition of two other leading Australasian companies. At the end of 2022, the BWT Group acquired Austral Pool Solutions Pty Ltd, a leading Western Australian pool equipment distributor along with Seaford Transformers, who manufacturer the brands Aussie Chlorinators, Xtreme and Pro-Lite.

HERITAGE POOL SUPPLY GROUP ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP PHTA Heritage Pool Supply Group have announced a Strategic Partnership with The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub and spa industry in the US. The PHTA Strategic Partnership Program creates special opportunities for companies that promote the association’s initiatives, including education, advocacy and market outreach. “PHTA is excited to welcome Heritage Pool Supply Group as our newest Strategic Partner,” said Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President and CEO of PHTA. “Heritage Pool Supply Group encompasses an amazing network of brands that each have strong relationships in their local communities. Heritage is also an ongoing supporter of Step Into Swim, PHTA’s drowning prevention initiative.” As part of the Strategic Partnership Program, PHTA will recognize Heritage Pool Supply Group’s commitment to the pool and hot tub industry by helping them maximise brand visibility, connect with thousands of engaged industry professionals, and unlock valuable opportunities.

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German Pool Project Offers A Haven Of Peace And Wellbeing The garden is a place of rest, peace and family wellbeing and this mantra was particularly true for one of NIVEKO’s German clients. Mr Lauxen decided to upgrade his home to create a zone in which he could forget all life’s worries and stress and fully devote himself to physical and mental relaxation. Having one’s own pool is perfect for this – to swim, sunbathe, read a favourite book and enjoy the summer to the full. Mr Lauxen was looking for a perfectly custom build pool. He found this at NIVEKO, to which he was recommended by a friend, who had excellent experience with the brand. Crafted by hand according to the customer’s configuration, the pool had a very specific design. Opting for the Skimmer Invisible model, measuring 15 x 2.42 x 1.35m, it was exactly in line with the new owner’s vision and became the dominant feature of the garden. The very clean and modern look coupled with

perfect functionality, enabling the Skimmer Invisible to cleverly save water during intensive use while at the same time keeping the water level high, are two crucial factors that assured Mr Lauxen’s satisfaction. The combination of a white pool and ‘Modern’ stairs option is a timeless choice that matches the house and adds a further touch of elegance to the entire project. The unique appeal of the concept is complemented by an original Buddhist-style sculpture that enhances the relaxing atmosphere. Just as he was recommended to go for a NIVEKO pool by his friend, Mr Lauxen himself has now recommended the brand to several of his acquaintances, who are now satisfied owners too. NIVEKO s.r.o. +420 572 693 246 www.niveko-pools.com

Caesar Ceramic Products Feature At Impressive Alpine Hotel The Schneeberg Family Spa Resort in Sterzing, Italy is an architectural gem built in full respect of Nature’s magnificence, with its wood and stone structure and large glass windows extending towards the valley. Thanks to its ample space, the 4-star family hotel is able to cater for young and adults with a remarkable range of services. Starting with a wellness and swimming pool area of more than 8,000 m² where Ceramiche Caesar also contributed to the creation of an elegant and relaxing atmosphere, with a supply of porcelain stoneware floor tiles for about 2,500 m². The Shapes of Italy collection, in the Lavis shade, is applied on the floors of the swimming pool area and in the pools themselves, the entrance and the entire wellness area, as well as those of the toilets. A sublime interpretation of porphyry in a ceramic key, a reference to a stone strongly rooted in Italian tradition that goes well with the stone walls of the swimming pool and the wooden furnishings of the spa. With Shapes of Italy, Caesar combines contemporary design with the classic elegance of the finest Italian stones, developing a range with

numerous colours and an equal number of sizes and finishes. Its use in environments with plenty of water, such as walkways on pool sides, is particularly interesting. The inherent characteristics of porcelain stoneware, with its different anti-slip coefficients (R10 B Matt and R11 C textured and grip for areas where water is present), make this collection ideal also for these areas. Caesar Ceramiche 020 7836 4662 www.caesar.it

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Hitting The Ground Running In 2024 In this first issue of 2024 following a much-needed festive break, BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes highlights a number of subjects including the SPATEX exhibition, awards and networking events in Coventry, plus EDI initiatives and more

opefully, it is not too late to say ‘Happy New Year’, depending on when you read this article!?! With SPATA and BISHTA agreeing to adopt their version of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policy, the interest in this vital subject continues to grow. Not only are there legal requirements to be followed, but it makes perfect business sense to harness the entire team’s talents and draw from as broad a cross-section of the community as possible when filling vacancies. A series of case studies are being developed to show what has been happening in the industry. If this is a topic you believe passionately in, please get in touch with the team in the Andover office on 01264 356210 (or 211). Talking of the team in Andover and the wider group that supports the work of the industry, please see the article on the following pages to find out more about the people involved and the services on offer. Partnerships bring many additional services and other benefits too and the article on pages 32 and 33 explores these in more detail. Having just mentioned the wider team, I would like to celebrate the achievements of two former SPATA Presidents who have died, one in December and one earlier last year, that have recently been brought to our attention. John Fowler was president from 1976 to 1977, and Alan Stokes’ term of office was from 2001 to 2002. Both men helped SPATA and ISPE in various ways, and

our condolences go to their families. Moving on to next month, it will be great to see everyone in Coventry to celebrate the tenth live show at the West Midlands venue (there was of course one year when we provided a virtual offering). Exhibitors have again excelled themselves with their offering; it is so important that visitors can invest enough time in viewing all of the products and services. It makes excellent sense for visitors who plan to stay at least one night to give themselves enough time to see everything. Regarding the education programme, a huge ‘thank you’, as always, to Ross Alcock and his team at the ISPE for putting the workshops together in Arena 1. Thank you also to the other industry bodies, such as the STA, PWTAG, IoS and RLSS UK, for their respective contributions to the SPATEX seminars in Arena 2. SPATA and BISHTA will also be giving their latest updates in this Arena. Particular thanks go to Coventry University colleagues, who will share their insights into the warm water immersion research they have been conducting using hot tubs. The lessons learned will help to shape BISHTA’s guidance. It is hoped that some suitable research proposals for Coventry University to undertake in the future on behalf of the industry will be found. It is always a helpful reminder that the Industry Gala Evening which takes place during SPATEX is open to everyone to attend, and there is a chance to see the SPATA and BISHTA award winners revealed as part of the 2024 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards ceremony. It will also be an opportunity to re-present the 2023 ISPE Awards. All

... it will be great to see everyone in Coventry to celebrate the tenth live show at the West Midlands venue...”

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winners are announced on the first evening of SPATEX which is a Tuesday. A huge thank you to all the sponsors this year for supporting the event, and their logos appear below. The 2024 British Pool and Hot Tub Award winners will have an opportunity to be shortlisted for the 2024 EUSA Awards, with the winners to be announced at Global Piscine Europe in Lyon this coming November. The exact date of the awards ceremony is to be confirmed at the forthcoming EUSA meeting. The gala evening is not the only entertainment on offer. Don’t forget the SPATEX Party on Wednesday 7 February, and then straight after the SPATEX Party finishes, there is an excellent opportunity for beer and curry lovers to visit Dhillon’s Brewery for a tour, sampling and a meal. Please note there is a cost of £20pp + VAT for being on the tour and having the food (places are limited, so please book as early as possible). Lastly, and in other news, please note that the industry is promoting a ‘selling chemicals responsibly’ code to remind companies of their legal requirements and to develop good practices to ensure that companies involved in the supply chain are aware of their duties. I am grateful to both BISHTA and SPATA Technical Committees for their feedback, colleagues at the Home Office and Mark Ramsden, Dave Ramsden and John Key at CPC for their respective feedback. Enjoy SPATEX and your time in Coventry!

DIARY DATES 2024 6 - 8 Feb SPATEX, Coventry 20 Feb SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx 27 Feb BISHTA Committee, WebEx 27 Feb BISHTA Technical Committee, WebEx 29 Feb SPATA National Council 29 Feb BSPF Board, WebEx

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Meet The Team In this first issue of the year, BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes invites you to meet the large team of Industry professionals who are here to support your wet leisure business by providing input to the wet leisure sector’s associations

here is a great deal of work that goes into the roles of the BSPF and the trade associations, and this is exceptionally well supported by the BSPF President, the Committee Chairs, the committee members (including the technical committees), and more – all of whom have a vital role to play to support the wet leisure industry.

THE BSPF PRESIDENT AND COMMITTEE CHAIRS At this year’s annual Industry Gala Evening, we will celebrate the two-year term in office of the current BSPF President, Pete Grinnall (Complete Spas), and thank him for his commitment. Pete remains Vice-Chair of the BISHTA Committee and a BISHTA representative on the BSPF Board. We will also welcome Dyfed ThompsonSmith (AstralPool UK) as the new BSPF President at the Industry Gala Evening, where he will be presented with his chain of office by Pete Grinnall. Dyfed has stepped down as the PIP (Pool Industry Promotions) committee chair as he takes on his new role as president, but he remains on the PIP Committee. I am delighted that Mark Ramsden (CPC) will be taking over the position of PIP Chair. Ben Studdy (Fairlocks Pool Products) has recently stepped down as the SPATA National Council Chair, and thanks are due to Jon Herbert (Rockingham Swimming Pools) for taking on this role. Dorian Davies (Darlly Europe) remains the BISHTA Chair.

THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS BSPF Board: Pete Grinnall (President), Dyfed Thompson-Smith, Jamie Smith (London Swimming Pool Co), Patrick Thorpe, Dorian Davies, Ben Studdy, Richard Carrington (Fairlocks Pool Products), Will Dando (Plastica), Tony Welsby (The Hot Tub Outlet) and Howard Gosling (Pool & Spa Advice).

BISHTA Committee: Dorian Davies (Chair), Pete Grinnall, Tony Welsby, Shaun Pickles (Barnsley Hot Tubs), David Ramsden (CPC), Gareth Jones (UK Leisure Living), Dan Johnson (Agent for Marquis Hot Tubs), Max Batchelor (1 Stop Spas), Richard Gowland (SpaFlo) and Howard Gosling. BISHTA Technical Committee: Howard Gosling (Chair), Stephen Crabb (Aqua Design & Leisure), Pete Grinnall, Karl Rowntree (RotoSpa), Chris Brady (1 Stop Spas), Matt Middleton (Hot Tub Assist), Martin Rigby (Aqua Warehouse Group), Julian Mills (Ultimate Generation), Iain Jardine (Solway Water Management) and Ryan Birchnall (Forest Holidays). SPATA National Council: Jon Herbert (Chair), Patrick Thorpe, Dash Ganeson (SCP UK), Richard Carrington, Jamie Smith, David Bland (Sprayed Concrete Solutions), Steve Hallam (David Hallam), Phil Gordon (Jim Gordon Associates), Amanda Goddard (AstralPool UK) and Peter Lang. SPATA Technical Committee: Peter Lang (Chair), Richard Carrington, Bob Judd (Aquatrol), Will Dando, Howard Gosling, Patrick Thorpe, Ian Betts (Pool Consult), Steve Conway (Merlin Swimming Pools and Spas), Alan Jackson (Alzach), Nigel Fallow (A19 Pools & Spas), John Scott (Aqualia), Neil Stephenson (Certikin International), Michael Coyle (Certikin International) and Jimmy Lamb (Dryden Aqua). SPATEX Board: Howard Gosling, Tony Welsby, Ben Studdy, Alex Kemsley (Waterstream), Will Dando and Jamie Smith. PIP Committee: Mark Ramsden, Dyfed Thompson-Smith, Brad Armstrong (Aquaflex), Phil Gordon, Arun Sarna (Hot Tub Suppliers), Jon Herbert and Dorian Davies. We are, as ever, enormously grateful for

There is a great deal of work that goes into the roles of the BSPF and the trade associations, and this is exceptionally well supported by the BSPF President, the Committee Chairs, the committee members (including the technical committees), and more” 30 February 2024 SPN 30-31_SPN_Feb_24_Meet_The_Team.indd 30

the support of the people mentioned above who help shape the work of the industry organisations to support our members with renowned expertise.

THE ANDOVER OFFICE TEAM Chris Hayes – Managing Director: I joined the BSPF in 2008, and my role encompasses work for SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association), BISHTA (British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association), SPATEX (the Wet Leisure Industry Exhibition), and PIP (Pool Industry Promotions). During my career, I gained extensive experience working in leisure and management across several sectors, including education, the charity sector and local government. During the past 15 years of my career in the wet leisure industry, my goal has been to strengthen the role of the industry trade associations and the SPATEX exhibition to provide businesses with world-renowned expertise and knowledge to spotlight and showcase the UK Industry. I have also worked with colleagues at the European Union of Swimming Pool and Spa Associations (EUSA) and at the World Alliance of Pool and Spa Associations (WAPSA). Jan Hardy – Office and Member Services Manager: Since joining the BSPF in 2008, Jan has seen her role evolve in ‘leaps and bounds’ during the last 15 years. She continues to strive in the management and maintenance of good relationships with members and other individuals and organisations who seek to access the services, activities and opportunities provided by the companies that form part of the BSPF family. Jan also manages the key responsibilities for the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards and the Industry Gala Evening, working with her colleagues, members, sponsors, outside companies and event organisers to grow these events and continually develop them. Jan utilises her extensive experience in organisation, administration, project management and event planning with with passion and drive, plus the vision to contribute to and deliver the company’s ethos.

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY Sallie Leslie-Golding – PR & Marketing Manager: With over 23 years of experience in consumer and commercial PR and marketing, joining the BSPF in 2013, Sallie works with members to help promote their successes, as well as working with other industry sectors, including a place on the National Water Safety Forum (dealing with drowning prevention). She works closely with the PIP Committee to strategically plan marketing initiatives for the trade associations and the wet leisure industry and manages them to fruition, with many elements to her role, which encompass all front-end and back-end marketing. Having previously had a career in retail management, and then in Business Support and PR & Marketing within the head office of a franchise group, Sallie prides herself on being an excellent all-rounder in her field, with a good understanding of what marketing works for business. Claire Maguire – Business Development Manager: Joining the BSPF in 2021 following a leadership career spanning 25 years within the Banking and Financial Services industry, Claire enjoys utilising her skills and experience in her current position as Business Development Manager. Within her role, Claire liaises with existing, new and prospective members to develop and grow the trade associations, adding value to membership. Additionally, Claire contributes to a wide variety of areas, including training, accounting, the annual BSPF Industry Gala Evening, the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards and providing support to the SPATEX team. Jenna Patterson – Office Administrator: Jenna, who recently joined the BSPF (BISHTA and SPATA), has arrived at a crucial moment to assist in preparing for the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, the Industry Gala Evening and SPATEX. In her role at the forefront of administration, she handles phone calls and manages the mailboxes for the above organisations. Jenna is a highly adaptable person who supports her colleagues in

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various aspects of the business, which includes liaising with existing, new and prospective members of the associations. Additionally, she collaborates with Chris Hayes in drafting and finalising member factsheets, updating the websites with relevant changes and overseeing the industry diary dates calendar. Debbie Thornton – Company Bookkeeper: Having spent 13 years in IT, primarily installing, upgrading and supporting large installations of Financial, HR and Payroll applications, 17 years ago, Debbie ‘switched sides’ and re-trained to become an accountant, qualifying through AAT. Debbie became a bookkeeper for the BSPF in 2019 and is responsible for all financial aspects (including payroll) for the various entities affiliated with the BSPF, including BISHTA, SPATA, SPATEX and PIP. Debbie enjoys the diversity of the role that comes with working across the spectrum of companies under the BSPF’s umbrella. Michele Bridle – SPATEX Exhibition Organiser: Celebrating nearly 25 years with SPATEX, Michele could never have envisaged her temporary position of just six months would last so long! Michele brings her considerable experience and wholehearted commitment to the Organiser’s responsibility of overseeing SPATEX’s operation. She is in daily contact with exhibitors, visitors, contractors and the venue in a multi-faceted role. Her job is to oversee and ensure that the exhibition, the seminar and workshop programmes, and networking events all run smoothly. She constantly seeks fresh ideas and initiatives for the annual show to keep it relevant and moving forward. Michele works closely with the Board of Directors in crucial decision-making and with Penny, SPATEX’s PR Consultant, in devising and implementing a marketing strategy and PR campaign to attract visitors. Helen Mulingani – SPATEX Exhibition Co-ordinator: As the event’s Co-Ordinator since 2011, Helen’s role is principally to support Michele in all things SPATEX, but her

remit extends well beyond as she handles much of the day-to-day administration that accompanies an annual show that attracts well over a hundred exhibitors from both home and abroad. Helen’s responsibilities include the management and maintenance of the SPATEX website, as well as organising online communications with exhibitors. She has become a technical whizz in the site’s ‘back office’ and is invariably the first point of contact for those getting in touch with the SPATEX team. Not just office-based, Helen attends the industry’s major European exhibitions with Michele to promote the SPATEX brand and, at the same time, reinforces relationships with exhibitors and visitors. Penny Farmer – SPATEX Exhibition PR: With a longstanding consumer and newspaper journalism background, Penny was appointed SPATEX Public Relations Consultant 11 years ago. As a freelance journalist, she works closely with Michele and Helen in the SPATEX office. As part of the SPATEX team, Penny’s job entails developing an editorial and advertising marketing strategy to promote SPATEX and its exhibitors’ presence. Aside from writing regular exhibitor and visitor news lines, Penny identifies the relevant publications to promote SPATEX, places adverts and submits editorials. Penny is the published author of the best-selling true crime book ‘Dead in the Water’, about which a threepart documentary will be streamed on Amazon Prime next year. This valued team of professionals are a strategic resource that empowers members and exhibitors, fosters collaboration and elevates the industry. Come along and meet the team in person during SPATEX on stand A1, or in the Organisers’ office. We look forward to celebrating with this year’s guests at the annual Industry Gala Evening hosted by the BSPF on Tuesday 6 February during SPATEX at the Coventry Building Society Arena in Coventry. BISHTA 01264 356211 www.bishta.co.uk SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Enjoy The Benefits Of Association Membership With businesses looking to get a competitive edge and maximise returns on expenditure, in this issue, we discover how SPATA and BISHTA collaborate with carefully selected partners to enhance benefits for their members

ne of the many advantages of belonging to a trade association is the opportunity to tap into the benefits that partnership services can offer members. These partnerships can enhance the overall value proposition of being part of a trade association and provide members with discounts and resources due to the strength in numbers that can be brought to the negotiations. Members not only benefit from discounts and resources, but there are collaborations with partners and industry professionals, paving the way for valuable relationships to grow, and knowledge exchange to be facilitated. Through these partnerships, members gain entry to a broader spectrum of resources, encompassing industry reports, research findings and educational materials. This access helps members stay abreast of industry trends and advancements, gain essential resources and advice, plus access the advantages of these cherry-picked tools for the most beneficial, profitable items and opportunities the trade associations have sourced to share with members.

WORKING WITH OTHER INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS As part of the luxury goods sector, reputable pool and hot tub businesses are dedicated to offering the best possible quality and service to uphold their standards and reputation. Working with other professionally accredited and licenced organisations ensures these standards are upheld throughout every project. An example of a partnership that BISHTA and SPATA have developed includes the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) and the Association of Lorry

Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) to develop guidance on lifting hot tubs and pools.

TRADING STANDARDS Additionally, BISHTA and SPATA have a Primary Authority Partnership arrangement with Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards to provide information and advice to help members better understand their responsibilities when trading with the public. This partnership agreement assists members in ensuring that they receive reliable, consistent, and legally recognised advice on compliance with a wide range of consumer legislation that impacts businesses. Not only can members rely on the advice, but they can also be assured that all Local Authorities (LA) that enforce at your premises will consider the advice offered by Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards.

THE TRADE ASSOCIATION FOR TRADE ASSOCIATIONS BISHTA and SPATA members are also members of the BSPF, who in turn are members of the Trade Association Forum (TAF). TAF is the UK’s leading representative body for associations, helping members engage, improve and lead their sectors. TAF work closely with the UK Government and a vast range of partners and sponsors to help deliver value for their members. This ultimately provides BISHTA and SPATA with benchmarking data and best practices and offers support across various operational specialisms required to run a trade association.

LEGAL ADVICE Legal advice is essential for any business, but it is crucial for contractor companies due to the complexities and specific regulations governing construction and environmental standards. The solicitors for BISHTA and SPATA are Wright Hassall LLP, who provide advice and guidance for members, such as helping to get contracts in place with the required terms and reducing the risk of problems arising later. Members can view the guidance for contracting with confidence from information provided by Wright Hassall, including some member factsheets.

BUSINESS INSURANCE BISHTA and SPATA have partnered with Adtrak to provide members with market-leading web design and digital marketing services

Members not only benefit from discounts and resources, but there are collaborations with partners and industry professionals, paving the way for valuable relationships to grow, and knowledge exchange to be facilitated” 32 February 2024 SPN 32-33_SPN_Feb_24_Member_Benefits.indd 32

Trade association members can benefit from business insurance as it provides financial protection and risk management for their operations. Business insurance can protect trade association members from legal and financial consequences in case of third-party claims. This can include coverage for bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury that may occur during business operations. It can cover physical assets such as buildings, equipment and inventory against perils like fire, theft, or natural disasters. This ensures that members can recover financially from property-related losses. If a covered loss forces a temporary shutdown or disruption to business operations, business interruption insurance can provide financial support by covering lost income, ongoing expenses, and relocation costs. These examples are just some ways business insurance benefits trade association members working as a vital risk management tool that offers protection, financial security and peace of mind in a dynamic business environment. It allows businesses to navigate challenges, recover from losses and confidently continue operations. Nsure has arranged insurance coverage for BISHTA and SPATA

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY POOLSURE

re Industrry t Leisure The insurance for the We • Who are Nsure? specialist experience of providing Allied Nsure have over 20 years Pool, Hot Tub, Spa and ded insurance for the Swimming Poolsure Scheme is recommen Trades Industry and our by SPATA and BISHTA.

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Who are Nsure? Nsure have over 20 years experience of providing specialist insurance for the Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, Spa and Trades Industry and our Allied Spasure Scheme is recommen by SPATA and BISHTA. ded Key Industry Covers Our Spasure Scheme policy

Legionella £2m limit Sub-aqua pool work including heat work Public Liability £5m limit rty in the open 5 metre depth limit b & spa displays & prope for in-ground pool, hot tu Theft and damage cover checking clause £1m Bona Fide subcontractor

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includsuch as Professional Indemnity other services to support your business happy to discuss We also provide other insurance Directors and Officers and Motor Fleet. We are ing collateral warranty checking, further advice and quotations. provide insurances with you and for more

to the industry including:

Legionella £2m limit Wet Testing Public Liability £5m limit including heat work Hot Tub hire - ancillary to main business. Theft and damage cover for in-ground pool, hot tu b & spa displays & prope Bona Fide subcontractor rty in the open checking clause £1m What we offer We provide a dedicated team to manage your account administration. and handle any day to day enquiries,

arrangements.

o.uk .co.uk or visit www.nsureinsurance.c Need to know more? email stewart.murray@nsure we offer. Please call 01903 520200, Scheme, Nsure and the products information about our Poolsure

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We will undertake an annual review of your insurance arrangements. We also provide other insurance services to support your business ing collateral warranty checking, such as Professional Indemnity Directors and Officers and includMotor Fleet. We are happy insurances with you and provide further advice and to discuss other quotations. Need to know more? Please call 01903 520200, email stewart.murray@nsure .co.uk or visit www.nsureinsurance.c information about our Spasure o.uk for more Scheme, Nsure and the products we offer.

lso provide other insurance

services to support your business such as Professional Indemnity warranty checking, Directors pool and hot tub industry including collateral and Officers and Motor Fleet. and their support of the swimming e We are happy to discuss other of both SPATA and BISHTA, able to offer some tailor-mad insurances with you Nsure are a valued member “Nsure industry, they have been “NSURE… A name to trust their understanding of the and know that there is always especially as they offer disis greatly appreciated. Through help and advice at the end all at a competitive premium, of the telephone” ensure they are suitably covered, packages for members to Claire Asher, Asher Swimpool members” Centre Ltd “Having been with Nsure counts to SPATA and BISHTA Pool Federation Ltd. Swimming for British many years, I have first-hand experienc Chris Hayes, Managing Director, provided by Keith and his e of the quality of service team and would highly recomme and customer care that is nd the company for all their insurance needs” Jamie Smith, Director, London Swimming Pool Company Ltd

Nsure offers Poolsure and Spasure as dedicated insurance products for the wet leisure industry

for over 20 years. Members will want to ensure they have the proper insurance to protect their business, staff, equipment, customers and the general public from unforeseen incidents or accidents. Insurance should not be considered ‘a necessary evil’ but an essential part of running a business. Nsure offers Poolsure and Spasure as dedicated insurance products for the wet leisure industry. Nsure has produced a range of member factsheets on matters relating to insurance. (Visit Nsure on stand A3 at SPATEX)

WEBSITES AND DIGITAL MARKETING A great website is vital for businesses in the modern digital landscape; unlike physical stores with set operating hours, a website is accessible 24/7, allowing potential customers to learn about products or services and make purchases anytime, increasing the business’s reach and potential for sales. Businesses can extend their reach beyond local markets to a global audience with a website. This is especially important for companies aiming to attract customers from different geographical locations. A website serves as the online face of a business, providing a centralised platform for customers and potential clients to learn more about the company, view product images online, and read a complete specification of every product to help with their purchasing decision. A well-designed and functional website enhances the credibility and professionalism of a business and instils trust in customers and partners, as they see the company as established and legitimate. A great website is not just a digital placeholder but a dynamic and integral part of a business strategy, contributing to its success and competitiveness in the digital age. BISHTA and SPATA have partnered with Adtrak to provide members with market-leading web design and digital marketing services to deliver lead generation and profitable results. All members are eligible for a free consultation with Adtrak to discuss their marketing and get expert advice to help improve performance online. (Visit Adtrak on stand B3 at SPATEX)

and combining them with practical, compliant, business-friendly advice, Quest has made managing Human Resources and Health & Safety a significantly less stressful experience. SPATA and BISHTA members now have unlimited access to the following: 4 Services (Human Resources, Health & Safety, Tax and Legal), 5 Advice Lines, 3 Document Libraries, 100s of Downloadable Template Documents and Free One2One Meetings.

BRITISH STANDARDS ONLINE The benefits of using BSi Standards are most beneficial to fine-tuning performance and managing the risks businesses face while operating more efficiently and sustainably; they allow businesses to demonstrate the quality of what they do for their customers and help them see how to embed best practices. Due to the strength and size of SPATA (thanks to its membership), SPATA has arranged with BSI to provide British and European standards online. BISHTA strongly supports the need for members to stay abreast of developments in our industry and supports SPATA, which has chosen to become a Distributor for British Standards (BSi). Through this relationship, there is a discounted ‘SPATA Members’ price of just £95 + VAT per year; this gives subscribing SPATA Members access to 25 BSi standards available to view online. The collection would typically cost at least £100 for each, individual standard (for non-members/non-subscribers) to buy in paper or PDF format. This is a fantastic offer for SPATA Members to stay updated with the specific British and European standards and requirements that directly impact our industry. BISHTA (and SPATA) Members can benefit from a 20% discount + postage when ordering paper versions of British Standards through the BISHTA office. These are just some of the key partnerships members of BISHTA, and SPATA has access to. The team at Andover is always seeking new opportunities to benefit members, with potential partners being sourced, sounded out and tested to ensure that the offerings promoted to members offer the best quality benefits on the market. Membership provides extensive advantages in a fast-paced, competitive world. If you want to learn more about the range of benefits available from joining BISHTA and SPATA, please visit the individual association’s website and click on the Trade button. The team are also available on stand A1 at SPATEX to answer your questions. BISHTA 01264 356211 www.bishta.co.uk SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk

HUMAN RESOURCES AND HEALTH & SAFETY Quest Services has provided Human Resources and Health & Safety solutions for individual businesses and membership organisations throughout the UK for over two decades. Quest makes it their responsibility to understand client needs before personalising solutions fully. Unlike some providers, Quest has developed a complete solution to clients’ Human Resources and Health & Safety needs. With all the elements of support, security and protection being provided by Quest ‘under one roof’. Quest Office is a revolutionary software platform available to members to help support their businesses. It makes HR and H&S simple with innovative tools enabling businesses to focus on other things and never be stressed about Human Resources and Health & Safety again. By integrating an Employee Management System, document libraries and AdminLite

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SPATA has arranged with BSi to provide British and European standards online at a cost of just £95 + VAT per year

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STA POOL PLANT – DECARBONISATION

Net Zero Decarbonisation – One Step At A Time With net zero decarbonisation set to be one of the hottest topics of conversation at this year’s SPATEX, Luke Griffiths, STA’s Technical Qualifications and Business Development Manager spoke to swim school owner Russell Sparks who in 2022, just 12 months after building and opening the Swim Centre in Wales, faced crippling energy costs. Here Russell shares his story of why this became the catalyst for the start of his swim school’s decarbonisation journey

eveloped by Likeafish Swim School – a family business based in the community for the last ten years – the Swim Centre was built in order to provide a world-class aquatic environment to facilitate swimming teaching to all ages and abilities. The organisation’s new facility in Carmarthen, which took around 12 months to build, features a 16 x 6 metre above-ground swimming pool that is 1.2 metres deep, kept at 32°C and is used exclusively for swim school activities; teaching around 1,000 swimmers aged 4-14 years every week, in addition to parent and baby classes, adult classes and fitness sessions.

Q. Two years on from opening the Swim Centre, what were your initial decarbonisation

34 February 2024 SPN 34-35_SPN_February_2024_STA.indd 34

ideals during the build and the realities today? A. I first signed up to the ideals of decarbonisation back in 2019 when I signed the Green Growth Pledge, which is designed to help Welsh businesses reduce their carbon footprint. However, when I opened the Swim Centre in May 2021, the global pandemic, strains on the construction market due to the early stages of Brexit and the general pressure of building my first facility meant that I didn’t do as much as I would have liked to have done, or had planned due to costs, straight away. The real turning point in my journey realistically came in 2022 when the energy crisis hit and costs tripled. I’d like to think I would have started decarbonising the business if the Russia / Ukraine conflict hadn’t erupted, but the reality is, one year after opening, it was

the driving force behind us having to review our energy usage and find ways to minimise costs.

Q. How did the energy crisis hit you and what did you do?

A. My costs escalated overnight from around £1,000 to £3,000 per month. I had a massive problem and although I knew solar panels and batteries would help, I had lots to do to reduce our actual usage. Reviewing and assessing all of our usage isn’t as glamorous as the solar panels but it is crucial to anyone wanting to take their first steps on the decarbonisation journey.

Q. Can you provide specific examples of the steps you took? A. I worked with my air handling unit

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STA POOL PLANT – DECARBONISATION

maintenance team who fitted a night switch for me, and this reduced the demand on the system substantially. The Swim Centre’s daily rate fell from 250 kWh to around 200 kWh which was a great start. I also noted a reduction in the gas usage. The next big change was when I realised that due to the hours of our operation, I could safely reduce the flow of the pumps overnight when the pool is closed. By working with Cresta Leisure to make sure I didn’t impact the water quality when I set up the variable speed drivers for the pumps, this brought the daily average down to around 120 per day. It is really exciting that the same business that had used 86,364 kWh in 2022 had reduced the usage in 2023 to just 55,435kWH, all by simply reviewing the systems. This very real saving of 30,929 kWh on the previous year is a saving of around £11,500 in cash terms. Q. Are there any other practical solutions you have implemented? A. We’ve added insulation to the cavity wall of the pool to reduce heat loss, and increased the use of the pool cover in the daytime when it’s not in use for longer than an hour. The doors and windows have also been checked for heat loss and drafts; this however is an ongoing challenge.

The lights are another consideration, and these are all on motion sensors and they have the building zoned. All of this was done initially during the build, but we still review it regularly to check it is fit for purpose and safe.

Q. Can we also talk about your new solar PV system?

A. Yes, in 2023 I partnered with a local energy enterprise called Ynni Sir Gar (www.ynnisirgar.org), who are committed to decarbonising local businesses, and they helped us design a solar PV and battery system that will enable us to be net zero in the next 12 months. I am trailblazing their new product because although the capital outlay was significant to purchase the system – the total costs were around £70,000 on an ultra–low interest loan – it will pay for itself within five years based on the reduced electricity bills expected in 2024 and beyond.

34-35_SPN_February_2024_STA.indd 35

Q. Any final reflections on the project overall? A. I look back on the usage in 2022 with a mixture of horror and amazement – as a brand-new facility could I have done more? I am sure I could have done, but there were so many external factors at play during the build. It was a business necessity to address this issue in 2023 to safeguard the future, so for us decarbonisation has been a journey not a destination – and although this is a tired and overused expression it really works when thinking about the road to net zero. I now look back with a sense of achievement that I have done it and look forward to sharing our knowledge and expertise to help others take one step at a time.

Q. What’s next and what will 2024 bring for the Swim Centre?

A. We have more to do and the solar PV system makes us keen to maximise the benefits. It seems to count more as waste when I am producing it myself! The sun will provide a lot of the electricity used at the

I look back on the usage in 2022 with a mixture of horror and amazement – as a brand-new facility could I have done more? I am sure I could have done, but there were so many external factors at play during the build”

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pool, and over the year, it will even feed into the grid and help make up for the early years of operation by moving toward net zero. In terms of our usage this year, we don’t know yet, but we do know it will be substantially less than 2023.

Russell will be sharing his swim school story, and the lessons learned on the road to net zero decarbonisation at SPATEX during STA’s pool plant seminar. This will take place in Arena 2 on Tuesday 6 February, and Russell will be available after the seminar for questions on STA’s stand A17. STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk Swim Centre 01267 229278 www.swimcentre.wales

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COMPANY VISIT

A Manufacturer With A ‘People First’ Approach With environmental control systems a key piece of equipment for high-end indoor pool projects and commercial settings, UK manufacturer Heatstar has established itself as one of the market leaders in the sector, designing and producing highly energy efficient systems for the British market and beyond. Late last year, SPN hopped on a ferry and paid a visit to the Isle of Wight-based business to discover more about the company and its ethos By Jon Wadeson

or many people, a mention of the Isle of Wight instantly conjures images of a holiday destination or outdoor festival site. And whilst one of its claims to fame does indeed include it being a location for summer fun, for those involved in the swimming pool industry, it is also the home of environmental control system manufacturer Heatstar. With the winter months being a slightly quieter period for the industry, late last year, SPN paid a visit to Heatstar to get a better understanding of how they operate and the manufacturing process behind their successful environmental solutions. Operating from three locations in the town of Newport – a sales office, manufacturing facility and warehouse, which are all a short walk from each other – over the last forty plus years, Heatstar has quietly established itself as one of the market leaders in their field. Having personally liaised with the company and numerous staff over a number of years, I know they produce quality products and they’re great people to deal with too. And having now been hosted by Mark Osman, Heatstar’s Marketing & Media Manager, and then touring the facilities with both Mark and Director Joe Venables, one thing becomes very apparent – this isn’t just a manufacturing company, it’s very much a people company too – and from the conversations had, that ‘people first’ and ‘hands-on’ approach clearly extends from the manufacturing processes to how the company looks after clients, from start to finish, plus also its staff too. To expand on this, during the visit, it became clear Heatstar treats each client and more specifically each project individually, gathering information and providing advice to arrive at the perfect bespoke solution for the

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vast majority of projects. As you would expect, build quality and meticulous attention to detail is the priority for every system that the company manufactures. This is ensured by units being built on site with only the very best components used, and by hand by specialists who have years of experience in what they do. These people are nothing short of artisans and their manufacturing skill provides precision engineering and peace of mind for both clients and Heatstar too. However, should an issue ever arise, there’s support from the company’s knowledgeable staff and products are then backed up by a network of engineers located around the country. It is by ticking all these boxes that the company has deservedly earned itself a reputation for both quality products and service. All members of the Heatstar team understand the importance of their own role within the company and perform it to the highest possible level.

This approach and dedication has lead to confidence across the business and its operation along with content staff. In fact, many of the team at Heatstar have been with the company for many years – multiple decades in some cases – which tells you something about the company’s successful ethos. And this translates to success both here in the UK and abroad – something which is reflected during our tour of the facilities, with the busy production line in the process of building several systems and with many more completed units being held in the warehouse. These are regularly delivered to loyal customers located around country via AstralPool UK, their long-term distribution partner, or sent further afield. As a proud UK manufacturer, Heatstar currently exports its products throughout Europe, the US, and to a host of other countries. After all, quality is recognised and appreciated the world over. Back in the UK, as mentioned, the company work closely with AstralPool UK who have handled sales and distribution for Heatstar’s products for over 20 years. This arrangement allows the manufacturer to focus on what it does best – product development, innovation, quality manufacturing and of course, looking after its clients with a handson and people first approach. Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com

...Heatstar treats each client and more specifically each project individually, gathering information and providing advice to arrive at the perfect bespoke solution...” SPN February 2024 37 25/01/2024 21:53

POOL CLEANERS

Keeping It Clean In 2024 The task of keeping swimming pools of all shapes and sizes clean is one that thankfully has become significantly easier over the years. Numerous product advances have all played a part in this, but a lot of it is down to the increasingly clever and efficient designs of pool cleaners. Innovative manual and in particular robotic models have greatly reduced what was once a laborious, but always essential task and in this issue, we look at 10 of the best pool cleaners available this year By Jon Wadeson THE ‘BIG YELLOW ONE’ FROM FAIRLOCKS The ‘big yellow one’ from Fairlocks has been a top seller in Europe for over 30 years and is ideal for both

domestic and commercial pools. The streamlined shape enables faster sweeping and the centrally mounted 19” brush even enables solid debris to enter the suction stream. Due to its rigid tough polycarbonate construction, it is ideal for pools with 1/2 hp pumps or more and is available with both 1.5 inch and 2 inch hose fittings. A new multi-fit handle enables a rapid change from one implement to another and a metal yoke is available that mounts two Fairlocks side by side. The Double Fairlocks is over 3 feet wide and on a flow rate of over 40 gallons per minute can clean one square yard per second. Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk

DOLPHIN LIBERTY 400 FROM CERTIKIN The Liberty 400 is a new cordless cleaner for mid-size residential, in-ground and above-ground pools. It has magnetic connect for super easy snap-in-place and walkaway charging. The Eco Mode will keep a pool clean all week with short and efficient cleaning cycles, whilst the Cycle Selector lets users choose between flooronly or floor and walls cleaning. Using the Click-Up rattle sensor, the Dolphin will climb up to the user for easy removal from

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the pool. Weighing 8.1kg, the Liberty 400 includes the MyDolphin Plus app for easy control. It has a powerful active scrubbing action and interchangeable filter options to tackle every level of dirt and comes with a 36-month warranty. Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

COSMY THE BOT 250 FROM LIGHTHOUSE As part of a new range of BWT cleaners supplied by Lighthouse, COSMY The Bot 250 provides complete cleaning for pools of all shapes and thanks to its integrated technology, it becomes an important asset for the maintenance of any swimming pool. Its 18m long floating cable allows it to reach the bottom of swimming pools up to 12m long. With its featherweight

INVER X CORDLESS POOL CLEANER FROM OCEA UK AND NOW GOLDEN COAST TOO The next generation Inver X-Warrior cordless pool cleaner, has no cable, no caddy and is rechargeable. Using i-Mapping Technology to clean pools of any shape efficiently, it is suitable for all pool finishes and can climb vertical surfaces. The robot boasts an 8-hour automatic run time on a single

of only 5.75 kg, its excellent motricity, as well as great filtration power, it will leave any pool crystal clear! It offers an additional year of warranty compared to other COSMY models, for three years in total. It also benefits from a transport cart, which comes in handy for storage. Blue, green, pink and more... let yourself be tempted by its choice of colours! Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

charge and users can preprogramme the unit to clean at various intervals. With no cable, it’s safe to leave in the pool while swimming, providing maximum convenience to the user. With inbuilt patented 3D S path, this cleaner uses its precise gyroscope motion sensor and six probes to gather spatial data to plot the path for each clean. It can detect objects to avoid, and its self-developed algorithm is continuously analysing the pool to ensure efficient cleaning in the shortest time possible. Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceauk.com

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POOL CLEANERS POLARIS W LINE W675 FROM SCP UK As top of the range of four new Polaris® electric robots that SCP UK introduced in 2022, the W Line W675 is designed for all shapes of rigid walled in-ground and above-ground pools with sizes of 12 x 6m. Polaris® is part of the Zodiac® family of products and this cleaner is equipped with iAqualink™ control technology – a feature allows the control of all Zodiac® products via a smartphone application. Featuring long-lasting cyclone power, and with an extra large 5l filter, 4 wheel drive system and on-board sensors

PIRANHAX FROM GOLDEN COAST The PiranhaX range of pool cleaning robots are some of the best-in-class choices, combining low maintenance and high performance into a neat, attractive package. There are three models in the range: the compact PiranhaX Go, the everpopular PiranhaX Plus, and the full-featured PiranhaX Max. PiranhaX’s strong cogwheel mechanism eliminates the need for belts, making the range incredibly reliable, and it easily handles

DOLPHIN WAVE 90I FROM CERTIKIN The Wave 90i is the first Wi-Fi ‘Always Connected’ commercial pool cleaner, specially designed for hotel, holiday cottage and campsite swimming pools. This ingenious robotic cleaner delivers maximum pool cleaning performance for midsize commercial pools (up to 20m) of every shape and type, including floors and walls. It has multi pattern scanning with Maze cleaning process. Always connected via the MyDolphin Plus app, the Wave 90i allows users to control pool cleaning from anywhere, at any time. Dual direction active brushes rotate

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(gyroscope and accelerometer), the W675 offers four cleaning modes (Quick in floor only, Smart or Deep mode in floor/ walls/waterline and Waterline only) to ensure optimal cleaning. SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

powerful torque while keeping motion stable. All models have very sharp slope durability, so they can easily cope with inclines and contours of the pool bottom. A special cable with 360° rotational mechanism helps to stop cable tangling during operation while the ClearView panel makes filter inspection a breeze. The range features two individual 4D Hyperfine 430cm² microfibre filters, resulting in 860cm² (3.7l) maximum water filtration. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

1.5 faster than the robot and side brushes. The cleaner offers a cleaning cycle time of two, three and four hours and there are two filtration systems to choose from – a filter bag for particles of dirt and dust or a large capacity cartridge filter. Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

ZODIAC® FREERIDER™ RF 5600IQ FROM ASTRALPOOL UK Zodiac® has unveiled its latest innovation: the cordless FREERIDER™ RF 5600iQ robotic cleaner, equipped with a high-efficiency lithium-ion battery with a long battery life. Powerful and manoeuverable, it is compatible with all pool types and adjusts to all pool shapes up to 12 x 6m. Thanks to its cyclonic suction power (a patented technology), its rotating brushes and

HAYWARD AQUAVAC® 6 SERIES FROM SCP UK The AquaVac® 6 Series pool cleaners from Hayward are reinventing the robotic cleaner market with first-of-their-kind capabilities. While other cleaners can lose suction, AquaVac 6 Series cleaners feature patented SpinTech™ filterless technology with 18 hydrocyclones, maintaining the maximum constant and powerful suction power. In addition, the six variable-speed-driven rollers with HexaDrive™ adaptive traction expertly navigates, climbs and scrubs all pool surfaces, offering wall-to-wall cleaning on any pool surface. After cleaning, with the press of a simple quick release

two-layer progressive filtration system (150 μ / 60 μ) enable it to collect even the smallest debris more effectively. Boasting high levels of agility, it provides excellent cleaning coverage of all corners and all types of linings too. The FREERIDER™ RF 5600iQ stands out for its ergonomics, with its charging base doubling as storage and its user comfort thanks to a new remote control and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com

button, the unique TouchFree™ debris canister – designed for effortless clean up – empties and rinses itself. AquaVac 6 Series cleaners are the perfect solution for pool owners who want the latest in innovation and smart technology. SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

VORTRAX™ TRX 7700 IQ FROM ASTRALPOOL UK Designed for commercial pools up to 25 metres, this new robotic cleaner is equipped with a Sensor NavSystem™ which identifies the walls and obstacles using ultrasound to optimise movements and allotted cleaning time. It features long-lasting, powerful cyclonic suction and dualstage filtration via two removable filters to collect debris from 60 to 150 microns. A pressure sensor provides better management when climbing walls and cleaning the water line according pool depth. Its large ‘Z-shaped’ suction brushes actively scrub the bottom and walls of all pools, regardless of their surface finish. Powerful tracks grant better traction and make movements more reliable, while ensuring optimum efficiency throughout the robot’s lifespan. AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com

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SEE US ON STAND E30

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

SHOW PREVIEW

Coventry’s Calling As SPATEX Returns

The industry’s annual show returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena in February and the organising team have pulled out all the stops to make it an event to remember. More than just an exhibition, SPATEX is also the UK’s largest networking opportunity for the pool and spa trade. Here, we cover all the news from both the organisers and exhibitors, highlight various products that can be seen, plus take a look at the educational opportunities By Jon Wadeson

unning for its tenth year in the West Midlands, SPATEX returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena between 6 to 8 February and will play host to more exhibitors than ever before in the show’s 28-year history. As you would therefore expect, this year’s event will also be the biggest showcase ever! With this being the first opportunity in 2024 to see a bumper crop of new products, visitors should expect a healthy amount of innovation to be on show this year across the various sectors that the show covers. To qualify this further, well over 100 participating companies will be present, including 30 of which that have never participated before. The show’s organisers have worked out that well over 50% of the exhibits are either new or have never been seen before at SPATEX. This year’s event once again features a truly international line up with exhibitors drawn from 11 countries. As sponsors of the New Products’ Zones within the halls, we certainly hope to see as many new products around the exhibition as possible. With energy costs rising and with concerns surrounding the environment, there’s bound to be a big focus on new, greener products that are sustainable too. There will also be an impressive array of working pools, swim spas, hot tubs and ice baths on display around the show hall. Since moving to the Midlands, the three-

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day event has firmly cemented its place on the exhibition calendar and as far as wet leisure is concerned in the UK, it is now the only event that truly covers the full spectrum of products. I say full spectrum as anyone who has been to a SPATEX over recent years will know that it is far from being just a swimming pool show and the organising team has worked incredibly hard to create as broad an offering as possible, with many spa, hot tub and wellness companies now viewing the show as a crucial, must-attend event. In fact the SPATEX team have advised 38 spa related companies will be there. Event Organiser Michele Bridle said: “We are thrilled that this 28th edition has set a new record in featuring more exhibitors than ever before. A last-minute flurry of demand from companies, looking to use SPATEX as a launch pad for introducing new products to market, gave us the very welcome task of re-configuring the floorplan to squeeze in more stands. There is so much happening in the industry that we felt compelled to go back to the drawing board to showcase it. To do otherwise, would have been to do the visitor a disservice. “It really is no exaggeration to say that this is the biggest and best show we have ever staged… a shop window brimming with a kaleidoscope of the latest in water leisure. I am proud of the dynamism of SPATEX 2024, the wealth of knowledge, the innovations, the spectrum of sectors we represent, and the incredible support we receive from the industry.

It promises to be a very exciting show.” Reducing energy consumption also features as a major topic of discussion in SPATEX’s free-to-attend, double seminar programme, along with up-to-the-minute health and safety guidance plus much, much more. SPATEX will again play host to two seminar arenas, with free to attend workshops taking place in each across all three days. All workshops hosted by the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE) in Arena 1 – 18 of which are new – award Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points plus a Certificate of Attendance – a valuable record of the courses that have been attended. Meanwhile, in Arena 2, visitors can find a variety of experts who will be imparting their knowledge across a wide range of wet leisure topics. With plenty of products and people to see, once again, the SPN team will be walking the show rather than taking a stand. With this issue going to press in advance of the show, there’s always the chance of last minute changes and stand sales happening – a full and up-to-date list of all the exhibitors can be found on the SPATEX website (www. spatex.co.uk) along with lots of other useful information regarding the show which is sure to help attendees plan their visit more effectively. In short, as ever, there’s a lot to do and see at SPATEX, so read on and we’ll hopefully whet your appetite for what is sure to be a great event in Coventry this year.

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SHOW PREVIEW

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK about pool projects, find out about the company’s wide range of products and systems and how the UK operation is able to tap into the resources of the ARDEX Group – a global leader of high-performance building products − to provide solutions to a range of situations. See them on stand D1

SEE NEW PRODUCTS AND MAJOR NEW BRAND FOR ASTRALPOOL

A13 AQUA TECHNICS POOLS MAKE THEIR DEBUT AT SPATEX Kent-based Aqua Technics Pools UK are excited to announce the launch of Aqua Technics Pools one-piece composite swimming pools to the UK pool trade at SPATEX 2024. Manufactured by Aquatic Leisure Technologies of Perth, Australia, these pools are renowned for their unparalleled quality, high-tech construction materials, unique selling features and exceptional design. Aqua Technics one-piece pools are engineered using the latest technology and the highest quality materials, ensuring that they are some of the best one-piece pools in the world. The manufacturer has been at the forefront of the market for more than 47 years, with the same family at the helm today as when it was founded. Proudly manufactured in Australia, these multi-award winning pools are exported all over the globe. Plentiful stocks of the most popular models in on-trend colours are held in stock at their distribution centre, meaning very rapid delivery and installation times for UK dealers can be achieved. Their commitment to customer satisfaction doesn’t stop at stocking these exceptional

pools in the UK. Pools are fitted-out in Ashford with whatever choice of options the consumer has, with the dealer’s guidance, chosen to order; and tested before being shipped out. Similarly, prefabricated plant rooms are manufactured and comprehensively tested and shipped out on the same purposebuilt, crane-equipped truck as the pool. See them on stand A13

TAKE IN TOP TILING SYSTEMS AS ARDEX RETURN TO COVENTRY ARDEX UK are once again exhibiting at SPATEX and will showcase their world-class tiling solutions for pool and wet leisure installations – providing an extensive range of products, designed to work as systems – not only for fast-track installation times, but that also produce long-lasting, durable finishes. Join the ARDEX team of technicians and specification experts to find out why ARDEX are the experts in swimming pool and wet leisure installations – with systems specified on many prestigious projects including the London Aquatics Centre for the 2012 Olympic Games, the Toll Cross International Swimming Centre for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and many, many more! Visit their stand and talk to professionals

AstralPool UK is looking forward to returning to SPATEX and can be found in their usual location within the hall. Adding value through customer collaboration, excellence and innovation, AstralPool staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors to their stand to discuss business and requirements for 2024 and also view first-hand some of the exciting new products and supply agreements available for the year ahead. Stand highlights include: • The ‘Hampshire Monopool’ – a new range of one-piece pools • AFM Activated Filter Media and Flo VIS Flow Meter – now available through a new distribution agreement • BIO-UV commercial and domestic UV units along with some exciting new models.

WHAT’S ON: TUESDAY 6 FEBRUARY IN ARENAS 1 & 2 ARENA 1: ISPE WORKSHOPS 10:15-10:35: HEALTH AND SAFETY UPDATE Colin Jenkinson FISPE – Leisure Safety Training 11:00-11:30: LET’S HAVE ANOTHER LOOK AT TURBIDITY Colin Day - FISPE – Lovibond Tintometer 12:00-12:30: IS YOUR FILTER MEDIA FIT FOR PURPOSE? Jimmy Lamb - FISPE – Dryden Aqua 13:15-13:45: SPECIFYING TILING IN SWIMMING POOLS AND LEISURE CENTRES Shaun Howarth – Ardex UK 14:00-14:30: THE IMPORTANCE OF MICROBIOLOGICAL TESTING David Ramsden – Complete Pool Controls Ltd 14:45-15:15: CONTRACTOR HEAT PUMP OPTIONS FOR THE INDOOR POOL ENVIRONMENT John Harvey – Recotherm 15:30-16:15: A PRACTICAL DEMOMSTRATION OF A PUMP STRIPDOWN AND RE-BUILD Chris Carr - FISPE – & Will Dando FISPE 16:30-16:50: CHEMICAL DOSING − HAVE YOU TRIED TURNING IT ON AND OFF AGAIN? Bob Judd - FISPE – Aquatrol Ltd

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ARENA 2: SPATEX SEMINARS 10:15-10:35: CPD AND ONGOING SITE-SPECIFIC PRACTICAL TRAINING FOR POOL PLANT OPERATORS Colin Davis – Pool Training Services 11:00-11:30: CHEMICAL DOSING PUMPS – CHOOSING THE CORRECT TYPE AND SIZE FOR THE TASK Andrew Gaffey – Andrew Gaffey Ltd 12:00-12:30: GETTING THE MOST OUT OF VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES (VSD) Sean Brydges - MPWTAG MCIMSPA M.ISPE Tech.IOSH – STA 13:15-13:45: SWIM SCHOOL JOURNEY: LESSONS LEARNED ON THE ROAD TO NET ZERO DECARBONISATION Russell Sparks – STA 14:00-14:30: THE EFFECT OF ALKALINITY ON COAGULATION (PAC) Ian Nicks – Institute Of Swimming 14:45-15:15: OPERATING POP-UP POOLS Richard Lamburn – Swim England & Jo Talbot – Royal Life Saving Society 15:30-16:15: CONTROL OF EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS AND POISONS REGULATIONS 2023 Jo Cooper & Steve O’Donovan – Home Office 16:30-16:50: CHLORINE: AN UNNECESSARY EVIL? Jack Lee – Origin Aqua

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SHOW PREVIEW

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK treatment for swimming pool water where chlorine is not effective. See them on stand B65

In addition, a second stand (B6) in a prime location will also be present this year which is dedicated to the Zodiac brand which AstralPool are now responsible for within the UK. Exciting news awaits visitors to this dedicated stand regarding various incentives in place to support sales of Zodiac products. AstralPool UK are keeping their cards close to their chest regarding which products will be on show, but with an extensive Zodiac catalogue to choose from, expect to see a number of innovative solutions for the new season, including the FREERIDER cordless robotic cleaner. See them on stands B6 & E66

HYGIENIC AND EFFICIENT STEAM SOLUTIONS FROM CAREL

USSPA POOLS AND SPAS OFFER A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR RETAILERS Aqua Warehouse Group (AWG) are pleased to announce that it will be presenting an exciting range of products from USSPA at SPATEX 2024. AWG are the exclusive UK distributor of USSPA pools and spas. Under the leadership of Managing Director, Richard Hart, AWG has grown from a single brand in 2003 to multiple brands all within the hot tub and outdoor living sectors. Richard said: “SPATEX is a great opportunity for us to present an impressive new range of products from USSPA. Last year we displayed the incredible ACS cover system fitted to a swim spa which was greatly admired. This time we will be showcasing the Vibes and Privat range of hot tubs. I’m confident that this unique range of products will attract new partners, especially those who are looking to offer their customers a real alternative in the luxury spa market.” Czech Republic based USSPA is one of the most recognised spa manufacturers in Europe. Established in 1995 the familyowned company has earned its respect across the global spa industry thanks to the high-quality standards, exceptional design and unique technical innovations that come from its own design and development department. See them on stand E2

B65 WATER TREATMENT AND DISINFECTION PRODUCTS FROM BIO-UV Specialists in water treatment and water disinfection through the use of ultraviolet, ozone and salt electrolysis technologies, BIOUV Group will be present in Coventry. Their presence will also allow them to support AstralPool UK who supply the company’s ultraviolet products to the UK market following an agreement signed at the end of 2022. The group is a major player in the residential and commercial swimming pool market and is perhaps best known for its Scottish brand triogen® and over the last two years, has been introducing its other product ranges dedicated to the market – O’Clear and AKERON. During SPATEX, the group will be presenting its new AKERON Rx Connect connected chlorinator, which not only controls chlorine production but also filtration, temperature and pool lighting via Wi-Fi. For private pools, the XS triogen ozone generator will be on show. Compact and safe, this system offers crystal-clear bathing water. For the commercial pool market, BIO-UV Group will be presenting its CF triogen® dechloramination reactor, which received NSF Cryptosporidium certification in 2023. This guarantees water disinfection and Cryptosporidium inactivation by ultraviolet

CAREL UK, a subsidiary of the CAREL Group, a leader in humidity control and energy efficiency solutions, is pleased to announce its participation at SPATEX. The company’s portfolio includes a complete range of humidification solutions specifically designed for the spa and wellness market. HygroMatik, member of CAREL Group, provides sustainable and efficient solutions for steam generation in spa and wellness areas. The steam bath, which combines a mix of temperature conditions and steam with relative humidity up to 100%, is the ideal healthy environment to ensure guests relaxation, comfort and wellbeing. Steam generators produce hygienically pure and soothing steam in spa and wellness areas. DigitalHum is an additional option available in CAREL’s product range and is a state-of-theart digital service, together with humiSteam X-Plus, the suitable model to enable remote control monitoring. This platform enables efficient management of humidification devices, improving accessibility and optimising operational efficiency. DigitalHUM makes it easier to plan activities through remote control for humidifiers, reducing field call-out and possible faults. Energy efficiency is the core of CAREL’s philosophy, and the exhibition will be the perfect showcase and opportunity to present the latest solutions. The units are designed to provide advanced technologies that reduce environmental impact optimising consumption but without compromising on performance. See them on stand H19

EXPECT A STAR TURN FROM CERTIKIN IN COVENTRY! As in previous years, Certikin is playing its cards close to its chest but what it does report is that there will be many exciting new products across a broad selection of sectors, plus a few surprises!

E2 H19

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SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK Once again, the UK industry’s leading supplier and manufacturer will take centre stage in the exhibition hall, with products across four eye-catching stands. The main stand (D14) will be brimming with more products than ever before, representing a broad spectrum of sectors. In addition, there will be three satellite stands, the first featuring automatic pool covers (Roldeck and Coverstar) plus liners and covers. A second stand will be called ‘Outdoor Living’ and will showcase the beautiful new Valete Spa range launched last year, and lastly, the Certikin/Dantherm stand (C14). The latter will be manned by Certikin’s H&V specialists, ready to advise on how the carbon conscious Calorex units can greatly reduce pool running costs and demonstrate the technicalities of the brand’s best-selling equipment. Marketing Manager, Chris Green said: “Certikin is a great believer in face-to-face business; no telephone call or online order replaces the opportunity to touch and feel a new product and discuss its merits with a member of our technical team. This criterion is uppermost in our minds when we design our stands. “We regard SPATEX as the most important date in the calendar. It’s a great opportunity to fly the flag, both for us and the industry, and meet our customers, old and new. We look forward to welcoming you.” See them on stands C14, C16, D14 & D30

DARLLY’S FILTERGUARD – CHANGING HOW FILTERS ARE CLEANED Leading European pool and spa filter manufacturer Darlly will launch a new filter cleaning system called ‘FilterGuard’ at SPATEX. Their R&D team worked for over a year on a new approach to maintaining pool and spa filters to ensure maximum lifespan at the lowest cost and minimum effort. Dominic Moseley, the project leader, said: “Since hot tubs arrived in Europe, cleaning

SHOW PREVIEW H17

B50 B55 filters has always been a chore, and our new product aims to change that.” The new FilterGuard system has four steps that work together, uses fewer chemicals but more recyclable materials, and are affordable. The modified ‘Cyclone’ cleaning brush now includes a mixing reservoir that automatically dispenses a cleaning liquid. Additionally, there is a purpose-built, spacesaving filter cleaning bucket suitable for 90% of all known filters that can hang on the wall. Furthermore, we have developed a revolutionary pack of fast-dissolving cleaning sheets in Sweden that incorporate active enzymes for deep cleaning. These sheets are eco-friendly, do not contain any plastics or chemicals, and can be delivered through a letterbox, keeping delivery costs minimal. Dominic is excited to introduce this product and said: “Darlly likes to be the first out of the blocks with a product. FilterGuard is no exception; this is a real first within our industry, and we are very excited to release it!” See them on stand H17

EXPECT EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND QUALITY PRODUCTS FROM FAIRLOCKS Boasting an envious range of exciting and

unique products, most of which are exclusive to the company, there really is something for everyone this year on the stands taken by Fairlocks Pool Products. The superb quality, one-piece vinylester swimming pools from Belgium manufacturer LPW Pools will be hard to miss, but other exclusive to Fairlocks highlights include: • Abridéal telescopic enclosures – manufactured in France and setting the mood since 1979. • CovDeck – mobile safety decks made in France. • Covrex Pool Protection® – the only insulating foam filled slat on the market. • SWIMEO – counter-current turbines produced in France and featuring stunning performance for new and existing pools. • PURIQ – simple and smart UV-C water purifiers. Stainless steel products take centre stage too with Flolux© push fit stainless-steel pool and spa fittings, UK-made Water-Tec stainlesssteel LED lights plus HIDE’s impressive stainless-steel frame covers for skimmers and deck boxes. Other products on the Fairlocks stand include pump solutions from both Hayward®

WHAT’S ON: WEDNESDAY 7 FEBRUARY IN ARENAS 1 & 2 ARENA 1: ISPE WORKSHOPS 10:15-10:45: WATER TREATMENT OF DISPLAY SPAS AND HOT TUBS Colin Jenkinson - FISPE – Leisure Safety Training 11:00-11:45: WATERPROOFING SWIMMING POOL STEPS WITH A PVC LINER Will Dando - FISPE – Plastica Ltd 12:00-12:30: A COMPARISON OF ENERGY RECOVERY TECHNOLOGIES Ian Furmidge – Dantherm Ltd & Rob Renton – Certikin Ltd 12:45-13:15: HI RATE SAND FILTER SIZING Chris Carr - FISPE – CC Filtration Services 13:30-14:15: DO IT RIGHT, DO IT ONCE! John Cheek - FISPE – Hydrospec Swimming Pool Engineers 14:30-15:00: POOLS STANDARDS ARE JUST AS IMPORTANT AS FOOD STANDARDS Julian Mills - MISPE – Ultimate Generation 15:15 - 15:45: A GOOD WATER TESTING REGIME - COULD IT SAVE YOU MONEY? Colin Day - FISPE – Lovibond Tintometer 16:00-16:30: FOUR SIMPLE, COST-EFFECTIVE STEPS TO REDUCING YOUR POOL’S CARBON FOOTPRINT Jon Maskell TnISPE – Waterco Europe

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ARENA 2: SPATEX SEMINARS 10:15 -10:45: SPATA UPDATE ON WORKFORCE QUALIFICATIONS & COURSES Chris Hayes – BSPF 11:00 - 11:45: BISHTA UPDATE ON EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS & UK INDUSTRY GUIDANCE Chris Hayes – BSPF 12:00-12:30: HOT TUBS FOR HEALTH AND HUMAN PERFORMANCE Tom Cullen, Charles Steward & Campbell Menzies 12:45- 13:15: TECHNOLOGY IN SWIMMING POOLS – AN EXTRA LAYER OF SAFETY Jo Talbot – Royal Life Saving Society 13:30-14:15: LESSONS FROM INCIDENTS IN SWIMMING POOLS Jo Talbot – Royal Life Saving Society 14:30-15:00: WATER MANAGEMENT AND THE POO POLICE Rachel Chalmers– Public Health Wales 15:15-15:45: LOCAL DIGITAL MARKETING TIPS TO OUTPERFORM YOUR COMPETITORS Xavier Hodgetts & Paul O’Donoghue – Adtrak

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SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

SHOW PREVIEW Heatstar extends a warm invitation to new and returning customers alike to join them on their stand where members of the company’s knowledgeable team will be on hand to answer any technical questions visitors may have on any aspect of the Heatstar product range. See them on stand E58

and Kripsol®, Waterco’s Hydrochlor mineral chlorinator for crystal clear pools all year round and Nemo’s unique range of cordless underwater tools – the only ones in the world! A warm welcome is always assured by Ben Studdy, Ken Morris and Paul Webb who look forward to seeing visitors there. See them on stand B50 & B55

EXPLORE A RANGE OF TESTING OPTIONS FROM LAMOTTE EUROPE

SPEND TIME LOOKING AT THE UNIQUE TILED SPA OPTIONS AVAILABLE FROM GMT As a regular participant of SPATEX, GMT Spas are once again looking forward to returning to Coventry and can be found in their usual location within the Hall. The event gives them the opportunity to show off their amazing spas and is a fantastic way to meet and catch up with existing customers and meet potential new ones too! GMT’s unique business model of supplying to the trade only and not installing, enables them to concentrate on, and remain true to their ethos of manufacturing superb highend products. It also gives assurance to customers that they will never compete for their contracts. Over the past few years GMT Spas has established itself as a leading manufacturer of mosaic tiled spas, gaining many new exclusive contracts such as with AstralPool UK and Certikin, as well as maintaining excellent relations with over 50 long-term loyal customers including a growing oversees clientele through representatives in Europe. GMT’s ethos is quality first, from design to delivery. Design is of paramount importance but the finish is what’s seen – aesthetics are everything. With this in mind and after careful and precise manufacture of the shell, the company’s superb tilers go to work paying meticulous attention to detail. GMT work closely with designers, architects and pool installers merging their extensive knowledge and flair to produce bespoke luxurious spas,

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E58 swim spas and hydrotherapy pools to fulfil the needs of the most exacting clients. See them on stand D33

HEATSTAR TO SHOWCASE THE LATEST IN SWIMMING POOL ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL A regular at SPATEX, Heatstar will be returning to Coventry in February and will use the event to showcase some of the stars of their energy efficient swimming pool climate control product range. The company’s systems represent the optimum and uncompromised environmental control solution for the highest specification indoor swimming pools, whether it be a residential or non-residential application, and attendees can stop by and check out the Heatstar’s true hybrid technology. On show will be both the Phoenix EC and Andromeda EC systems, two systems that utilise the very latest energy saving technologies to offer the most state-of-theart and energy efficient swimming pool environmental control solution. The Phoenix EC is a hybrid heat recovery ventilation system that incorporates three different, highly effective technologies working together to create what can be reasonably claimed to be the optimum environmental control solution for high specification pools.

As one of the market leaders, LaMotte Europe are excited to be exhibiting at SPATEX once again with their quality range of water testing equipment. On the stand will be InstaTest strips, a range of test strips for pools and spas that achieve instant, accurate results. Stable and distinct colour development mean that there is no cross contamination between pads and the results are easy to read. InstaTest is a comprehensive range of multi-parameter and speciality strips (including salt and phosphate); perfect for use by the pool professional and a brand your customers can trust when doing their own testing at home. The company will also be demonstrating their range of water testing photometers; the ColorQ2x − a handheld device perfect for pool-side water analysis; and the WaterLink SpinTouch. Designed for service technicians, pool operators and retail professionals, the WaterLink SpinTouch is the go-to analysis system for pool professionals looking to complete a full suite of water tests, with one water sample, in 60 seconds. LaMotte Europe offer excellent customer service, competitive pricing, short lead times, long expiry dates and a private labelling service for bulk orders – not to mention great offers for both new and existing customers! See them on stand H23

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SPATEX PLAYS HOST TO THE INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST NETWORKING EVENT The Arena has offered SPATEX and its attendees the chance to enjoy some great and memorable networking opportunities since the show’s move to the Midlands-based venue and this year is no different. On Tuesday 6 February, SPATEX will again be hosting the industry’s most prestigious awards evening – the Industry Gala Evening, with dinner, dancing and entertainment and the 2024 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, hosted by SPATA and BISHTA. In addition, all visitors and exhibitors are invited to join the exhibition team at the nowfamous SPATEX Networking Party – the UK industry’s largest engagement opportunity. Held from 5pm on Wednesday, both visitors and exhibitors are assured of a warm welcome, free drinks, canapés, a lot of fun and more!

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SHOW PREVIEW

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

E30

E16 EXPLORE EXCITING PRODUCTS FROM BRANDS BOTH OLD AND NEW FROM LIGHTHOUSE Lighthouse will once again be exhibiting at Coventry and have a number of exciting new products from a variety of brands to show visitors to their stand. The Devon-based company will be particularly focusing on three areas this year though. Firstly, and building on the successful launch of the HeatForm brand and its pool and counter-current products, there’s the new HeatForm covers. Designed and built in the UK, the HeatForm Tidal pool covers are a high-end, slatted cover system engineered to the most exacting standard and designed with the highest quality components. Next up it’s Polytropic – a brand which has been designing and manufacturing swimming pool heat pumps in Europe for over 17 years,

SUPPORT THE STA’S SWIM TO THE BEAT CAMPAIGN Everyone has a heart… so, let’s show it by supporting the STA (Swimming Teachers’ Association) when they launch their Swim to the Beat campaign. Sunbeach Spas’ stand (B32) will be hosting the team of synchronised swimmers for Swim to the Beat – the Swimming Teachers’ Association (STA) and British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) fund-raising campaign.

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where they have become the biggest seller of these products and enjoy a reputation for quality, performance and reliability. Lastly, but by no means least, there’s BAYROL. A true expert in the field of water treatment for swimming pools and spas for over 65 years, BAYROL offers everything needed for the care of pool and spa water: from simple basics to the most comprehensive products to the ideal solutions for quickly solving specific problems. Why not drop by to the stand where the Lighthouse team will be happy to bring visitors up to speed with everything that’s new! See them on stand E30

provider of water analysis solutions, with over 130 years of expertise and innovation. Visitors to SPETX are urged not to miss the opportunity to see these new products and learn more about the company’s water testing products. See them on stand E16

BUILD FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE WITH MAPEI CARBON-NEUTRAL ZERO LINE PRODUCTS Mapei will be returning once again to SPATEX and will be focusing on system solutions for all types of pool facilities – from leisure centres, lido and spas, to domestic installations. As well as showcasing a wide variety of systems – and the expertise of

DISCOVER NEW PRODUCTS ON THE LOVIBOND WATER TESTING STAND Lovibond Water Testing will be showcasing two new products at this year’s SPATEX exhibition – their New Scuba3s and SD series pocket testers. The Scuba3s electronic pool tester combines speed, versatility and ease of use. It allows you to transfer your pool data wirelessly to your smartphone via NFC, and access it anytime, anywhere on the PoolAssistant app. The app also turns your results into easy-to-understand diagrams and lets you share them with up to three users for multiple pools. The Scuba3s can perform 11 tests, including chlorine, bromine, pH and more, giving you precise control over your pool’s health. The New Lovibond® SD pocket testers use electrochemistry to provide quick and accurate measurements of various parameters, such as pH, redox, conductivity, salt and TDS. These handheld testers are ideal for environmental monitoring, industrial plant checks, or pool water quality maintenance. They are designed to be efficient and effective, delivering rapid and reliable results. Lovibond Water Testing is a leading

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VISIT US AT SPATEX! BOOTH D29

✆ SCP UK : 01293 546126 • 01268 273040 Info.uk@scppool.com • www.scpeurope.com PUB Spatex UK 2024-210x297 Fairland/Iflow.indd 1

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SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

SHOW PREVIEW

C2 its specification, technical and site support teams – Mapei will also present its latest carbon-neutral Zero Line products. Mapei systems include sheet and liquid waterproofing membranes, renders, tile waterproofing and concrete repair, as well as polyurea spray applied waterproofing membranes and coatings. New Zero Line products – with CO2 fully offset in the entire life cycle – will include Mapelastic Zero flexible cementitious mortar, Ultracolor Plus anti-efflorescence, quick-setting and drying polymer-modified grout and UltraCare surface maintenance products, with a series of product demonstrations. Design-led product showcases will include Kerapoxy Easy Design decorative, acidresistant epoxy grout, Mapesil AC solventfree mould-resistant silicone sealant – and new Mapesil AC ECO, manufactured using renewable energy and packed in recycled cartridges. See them on stand C37

LEARN ABOUT NEW PRODUCTS AND MUCH MORE ON THE NEWLY DESIGNED OCEA UK STAND Ocea UK have a lot of reasons to be excited about SPATEX this year as they are now part of the giant CF Group and have expanded their product range to offer an even wider

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choice of quality products for the UK pool trade and pool owners alike. The show will see Ocea UK officially launch their partnership with DEL covers, display a vast array of product from the CF Group and showcase the latest additions to their Ocea-X range. Visitors can find out about joining their exclusive Dealer Network and how they can represent the product on the UK market with the support of the Ocea UK team. There will be exclusive show discounts to take advantage of and product displayed not yet seen by the UK market – each product has been handpicked by Ocea UK for its quality, technological advances and unique selling points. It will also be a chance to find out about their new for 2024 Trade and Learning Centre which is situated in a brand new facility in Oxfordshire. They look forward to welcoming visitors to their newly designed stand where attendees can register their interest to find out more about training opportunities plus tours of their fully stocked Trade Counter Warehouse. See them on stand C2

PLASTICA PLAYS TO ITS MANUFACTURING STRENGTHS ONCE AGAIN! At SPATEX, Plastica will continue to shine a spotlight on its in-house manufactured

products, showcasing a wide range of products including Slidelock reel systems, Argonaut and AG pumps, domestic bag and EXTREME liners, Geobubble™ solar covers and more. Particular highlights include: • Relax Pro – A new Commercial Water Treatment range for 2024: Plastica has diligently ensured that its product complies fully with UK BPR legislation and is listed on the UK HSE website under GB Article 95. • Relax Pool & Relax Spa Water Treatment: Comprehensive solutions for maintaining healthy and clean pools and spas. Both ranges come with display stands, starter kits and maintenance guides. The new addition for 2024 is Relax Pool Shield, a liquid pool cover. • Above-ground wooden pool kits: An affordable range of quality wooden swimming pools catering to every budget. • Bespoke stainless steel ladders and grab rails: Providing customers with a vast array of options suitable for both domestic and commercial installations. • Relax Filter Cartridges: Plastica’s Pod System is compatible with 20g tablets and usable with popular cartridges featuring either a removable lid or built-in shelf to hold the dosing Pod. Discover their expanding range for 2024. Plastica is not only the leading independent manufacturer in the UK, it’s the home-hub of successful workers who have made the company what it is today. See them on stand D36

RECOTHERM BRING THE CLIMATE CONTROL TO COVENTRY Exciting news awaits at SPATEX 2024 as Recotherm, a leading supplier in controlled fresh air dehumidification air handling units for indoor swimming pools, is set to showcase their innovative solutions. With a proven track record in delivering reliable systems, Recotherm has earned a reputation for providing cutting-edge technology that ensures optimal conditions in indoor pool halls. A significant addition to the team is the appointment of Matt Roberts as the new Pool Contractor Sales Manager. With a wealth of experience in the industry, Matt

WHAT’S ON: THURSDAY 8 FEBRUARY IN ARENAS 1 & 2 ARENA 1: ISPE WORKSHOPS 10:15-10:45: LEGIONELLA RISK IN SPA POOLS Matt Morse – Legionella Control Association 11:00-11:45: POOL WATER AND ENERGY CONSERVATION Will Dando - FISPE – Plastica Ltd 12:00 -12:30: LANGELIER SATURATION INDEX Jimmy Lamb - FISPE – Dryden Aqua 13:00-13:30: HAVE YOU HAD ALL THE TRAINING FOR THE JOB YOU ARE DOING AND CAN YOU PROVE IT? Howard Gosling - FISPE – Pool & Spa Advice

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ARENA 2: SPATEX SEMINARS 10:15-10:45: RENOVACTION, MAKING POOLS SUSTAINABLE FOR THE FUTURE Kate McKnight – Myrtha Pools & Wellness 11:00-11:45: WATER MANAGEMENT AND THE POO POLICE Rachel Chalmers – Public Health Wales & Rob Johnston – PWTAG 12:00-12:30: LET’S HAVE ANOTHER LOOK AT TURBIDITY Colin Day - FISPE – Lovibond Tintometer 13:00-13:30: A GUIDE TO SWIMMING POOL CONSTRUCTION Tim Boarer – Mapei UK Ltd 13:45- 14:15: HOW TO INSTALL A ONE-PIECE POOL Alex Kemsley – Waterstream

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SHOW PREVIEW

SPATEX, COVENTRY, UK

PICK UP CPD POINTS IN ARENA 1 PLUS ESSENTIAL SEMINAR INFORMATION

ISPE Workshops return on all three days of the Show in Arena 1 and attendees at any of them will be awarded with a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) point on a Certificate of Attendance – a valuable record of the courses that have been attended. In addition, and repeating the success of previous years, SPATEX is hosting a second seminar programme in Arena 2. This will feature speakers from a wide range of industry organisations. Whilst we’ve provided details of all the workshops and seminars within this feature, it is worth pointing out that full descriptions for each seminar along with a brief bio for each of the speakers are available for all three days on the SPATEX website (www.spatex.co.uk). At the show, daily flyers are given out advising what seminar is scheduled for the day ahead and this information is also posted outside each seminar arena. Information for all three days plus much more is also included within the free SPATEX Show Guide.

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is set to enhance Recotherm’s outreach to pool contractors, solidifying the company’s commitment to exceptional customer service and tailored solutions. Recotherm continues to make advances in the market with robust sales of their unique Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) fed ‘boiler & buffer tank-free’, Aerum ventilation unit. The innovative design not only contributes to energy efficiency but also addresses environmental concerns, positioning the Aerum as a leader in sustainable solutions for indoor climate control. Attendees to the show can look forward to first-hand insights into Recotherm’s advancements in controlled fresh air dehumidification technology and the opportunity to connect with Matt to explore tailored solutions for their specific needs. With Recotherm, reliability and trust converge, ensuring optimal indoor pool environments for both operators and users alike. See them on stand D51

FIND OLD FAVOURITES AND DISCOVER NEW INNOVATIONS ON WATERCO’S STAND Once again Waterco Europe are pleased to be supporting the UK pool industry by participating in the SPATEX 2024 exhibition. “The exhibition has long established itself as the perfect opportunity to showcase new developments, technologies and innovations within the industry and this year looks to be no exception to this,” commented Tony Fisher, CEO of Waterco Europe.

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On Waterco’s stand, the company will be displaying a diverse range of products, including domestic filters, media products, high-end cleaning accessories and maintenance equipment. Waterco’s expert staff will be on hand throughout the exhibition to assist visitors with any queries they may have about their products, or indeed any of the impressive and varied product ranges that will be present. Waterco is especially thrilled to showcase its newest acquisition, Davey Water Products, and Sandra Belle, General Manager of Davey Europe will be joining the Waterco team in Coventry for the duration of the event. See them on stand E20

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A JOINT OFFERING TO POOL AND SPA FACILITY OPERATORS WCS Group assist swimming pool and spa facilities in making operational cost savings, reducing water and energy usage, and improving safety and compliance, enabling the provision of an elite customer experience whilst operating efficiently and costeffectively. They are the largest pool and spa water specialists in the UK, and currently manage water quality for over 1,900 pools across the country, providing specialist water management, control, testing, safety and compliance solutions. At SPATEX 2024, they’ll be joined by Sterling, swimming pool filtration and water treatment specialists, who are part of the WCS Group. Bringing over three decades worth of experience to the pool, they design, supply, install and service filtration plus water treatment equipment throughout the UK. Sterling offer a comprehensive range of technologies and equipment to create a cleaner, safer and healthier pool environment. Whether for spare parts, maintenance, or a complete turnkey project – Sterling can provide a quality solution that operators can depend upon with confidence. Together, they offer expert services for: • Pool and spa water chemistry • Chemical dosing and supply • Water filtration, water purification and water re-use (including wastewater) • Microbiology and Legionella control • Plant and maintenance support. See them on stand C23

SPATEX returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena between 6 to 8 February and will play host to more exhibitors than ever before in the show’s 28-year history” www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 25/01/2024 23:05

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HOT TUBS

2024 Hot Tubs – The New Season

With the hot tub and spa sector having a challenging time, manufacturers and distributors are keen to ensure the New Year brings new opportunities – and energy efficiency, technology and value for money will be key selling points over the next year and beyond. With that in mind, we look at hot tub models for the 2024 season from both established and new brands, all of which are bringing something to the table this season By Jon Wadeson

t’s no secret that for a variety or reasons, the hot tub sector had a challenging 2023. And that’s a statement which was particularly true for the consumer side of the sector. With demand for the year ahead somewhat uncertain, meaning there’s even more pressure on achieving sales targets, both brands and retailers need to keep their offerings fresh – and that often means the introduction of new ranges, further enhancing existing models or implementing the latest technological innovations, all to keep one step ahead of the competition. So what’s on offer for the season ahead? We round up just some of the latest models and brands looking to make their mark in this constantly evolving sector.

INTRODUCING ORIGINS – THE NEW RANGE OF SPAS FROM ASTRALPOOL The new Origins range of hot tubs by AstralPool UK is a great solution for people looking for the best possible value for money in a spa. Simplicity, quality and comfort are the key features of this new range that provides an

outstanding relaxation experience. Origins and AstralPool want to make the option of having a spa at home available to everyone. There are three models in the range – common features include: • Ash cabinet: the entire Origins range comes with the new, modern Ash cabinet design featuring horizontal lines and grayish tones that fit nicely into any space and home. • Green Layer thermal insulation as standard: offering optimal thermal insulation for warm zones and energy savings up to 20%. It consists of a thin 10 mm layer of insulating material made up of five layers. The Baia spa is the perfect choice for those looking for a larger spa. Its two loungers and three seats with infinite massage jets make it possible to enjoy a relaxing spa experience with friends. With its 62 massage jets, the Baia spa offers a unique massage experience with five different positions to work on every part of the body. The Malea spa is a new concept of a lighter and more portable spa, an affordable family option for everyone. This spa has two loungers,

The Alexandria spa is one of three models in the new Origins range of hot tubs from AstralPool UK

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three seats and a height of 74 cm, making it easy to get into and convenient to use. Its 44 massage points include a 12-nozzle air circuit for an ideal spa experience. The Alexandria spa is the perfect solution for any home. Its two equipped loungers and one seat, with the option of installing it inside or outside the home, make it an ideal spa for couples. The height of this model makes it easy to enter and move around inside. The Alexandria spa has 26 jets for an ideal massage session.

A ‘GREEN’ APPROACH AND MODERN LOOKS... THE WELLIS LIFE RANGE 2023 saw new designs, new solutions and a new insulation system as just some of the groundbreaking and game changing features of Wellis’ updated hot tubs. With 61 patents and lots of unique innovations at launch, these models offer exceptional energy efficiency. Thanks to the extremely favourable energy usage, daily consumption has been reduced greatly to 2.9 kW (from a daily consumption of around 5 kW) in the case of a five-person model. These are CEC (California Energy Commission) Standard measurements.

With 61 patents and lots of unique innovations at launch, Wellis’ ‘Life’ models offer exceptional energy efficiency

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HOT TUBS The Infinity Collection from Coast Spas breaks multiple barriers, starting with the one blocking a user’s view

Showing their commitment to being more energy efficient, the Platinum Spas Deluxe Range is CEC tested and certified

For the three years prior to their launch, designers were working to create the greenest Wellis spa collection possible. Wellis have paid special attention to energy-efficient solutions, and during production, they prioritised sustainability and environmentally conscious production technologies. Accordingly, Wellis’ revised hot tubs were given the name ‘Life’ and this was carried forward by both of the brand’s product lines – PeakLife and CityLife. In addition to the innovative technological solutions, a lot of emphasis on the smallest details of the various design elements was applied too. Since their launch last year, Wellis Life product lines have brought a unique massage experience to the homes of customers worldwide as flagships of innovation and energy efficiency. As a result of the company’s further unique innovative developments, and by using half as many hydromassage motors, Wellis say they achieved a much stronger performance and the massage experience is even more relaxing. These major changes were another huge step for the Wellis brand to become one of the top three hot tub manufacturers in the world.

DISCOVER THE ‘WORLD’S BEST BUILT SPAS’ WITH COAST SPAS UK Coast Spas are built with cutting-edge technology and the tagline they use of being the ‘World’s Best Built Spas’ has arguably been earned. Their commitment to industry leading durability and reliability is hard to match, using only the highest quality and environmentally friendly materials from North America to withstand harsh weather conditions, chemical treatments and UV rays, ensuring longevity and peace of mind for years to come. The brand is proud to offer products with such unique features that they definitely stand out from the crowd. Coast Spas’ Traditional Collection refines

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the ever-popular and timeless flat-top design with soft, flowing lines that accentuate the comfort derived from their ergonomic seating and pulsing jet patterns. Plush headrests, easy-touch controls, beverage holders and other features are smoothly integrated by recessing them into the fibreglass reinforced shell. This results in a sleek, modern elegance tough enough to withstand the most demanding environments. The brand takes hot tub design to a higher level in the Curve Collection which features a raised rear wall with 24” Fusion Waterfall and a gentle slope that belies its many strengths. Owners are able to lay back in one of its gracefully elevated corners, wrapped in warmth, as they enjoy long, luxurious soaks sheltered from the wind and the eyes of the outside world. The Infinity Collection breaks multiple barriers, starting with the one blocking a users’ view. The spa’s rejuvenating water glides over Coast Spas’ exclusive infinity (or vanishing) edge, taking any cares and worries with them while we leave nothing to prevent the user from seeing the world with a fresh perspective. The infinity edge design incorporates a ‘zero water displacement’ feature with an ample reserve tank and integrated measuring gauge so the water surface always remains at the same level.

PLATINUM SPAS DELUXE RANGE… WITH CEC CERTIFICATION Superior Wellness announced last year that their Platinum Spas Deluxe Range was successfully CEC tested which showed a

commitment to being more energy efficient. The CEC (California Energy Commission) is the only third-party accreditation organisation recognised by the spa and hot tub industry. Speaking at the time of the certification, Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director said: “We are delighted that the new range is CEC certified. The Deluxe range now includes the award-winning energy efficient insulation Platinum Premium Shield. This is designed by the Superior Heatlock Insulation Process which provides a considerable difference in the heat retained in the hot tub as well as a reduction in energy costs.” There’s five models in the range, all boasting premium features and upgrades – the Tahiti, Refresh, Happy, Palma and the all-seater Seville. With a new look and feel, the Deluxe range was changed to a more aesthetically pleasing design with the curvature of the acrylic. Designed with comfort in mind, the seats are more sculpted and shaped. For a cleaner look, the control panel was relocated to one side without the distraction of other components and features. Featuring more modern and premium looking side panels complete with an LED Platinum Spas logo, these models are certainly more stylish. The range includes a number of technology improvements too. The jets and diverters were upgraded promoting a better hydrotherapy massage. The audio system was also improved with brand new speakers which are located on top of the acrylic rather than on side panels and the circulation pump was also upgraded to a much quieter and more energy efficient version.

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HOT TUBS The hot tub cover is fabric instead of vinyl with the overall thickness increasing to provide greater insulation and create energy savings, which again shows the company’s commitment to improving the overall efficiency for their customers.

With seating for seven adults, the Warwick is the largest hot tub in Certikin’s new Valete spa range

NEW FOR 2024 – THE VALETE SPA RANGE FROM CERTIKIN Manufactured by Wellis, and distributed by Certikin, the UK’s leading water leisure supplier, the stunning new Valete spa range could not have a better team behind it. The Avon Collection is inspired by the River Avon and each of the five models in the range, reflect its tranquillity and the timeless beauty of nature. The Alveston is a six-person hot tub and, despite having five seats and full-size reclining lounger, it is the entry model and offers incredible value for money. The Evesham also comfortably accommodates six people and offers a single full-size lounger alongside seating for five people. With 46 jets it offers a great massage experience so owners can sit back and enjoy their favourite playlist via the Bluetooth. The Pershore also features the same sound system and has two full size adult loungers and three seats. Whilst it is the smaller model in the Avon Collection, the Pershore is very spacious, comfortably accommodating five people. The Stratford, featuring an amazing 82 jets, has five adult seats and a lounger to enjoy the all over hydrotherapy experience. The Warwick is the largest hot tub in the range and, with seating for seven adults and built-in sound system, is ideal for entertaining friends and family. Featuring 58 jets and three pumps, the Warwick is a powerhouse of a hot tub.

THE JACUZZI® J-LX® COLLECTION FEATURING INFRARED AND RED LIGHT THERAPY After using the infrared therapy in sauna applications for some time and seeing the benefits customers were achieving, the Jacuzzi® team decided to do additional research to develop infrared light therapy into a hot tub application. The Jacuzzi® team worked with a PhD at the Cleveland Clinic to develop a research white paper on this specific technology and its benefits. The team then began working with an experienced development partner to identify the exact wavelength output requirements for the near IR (NIR) and the Red Light therapy in the underwater application. The J-LX® Collection was developed to give users the most rejuvenating and regenerating hydrotherapy experience available. That feeling is designed to last long after the hot The J-LX® Collection from Jacuzzi® is the first to feature IR and Red Light therapy in an underwater application

tub session has finished. Both hot tub models in the J-LX® Collection feature the FX-IR Seat, which performs the Jacuzzi® brand’s most advanced hydrotherapy. The FX-IR Seat combines full-back and neck hydromassage with near Infrared and deep Red Light therapy to target deep tissue within the lumbar region of the lower back. The J-LX® hot tub offers an open seating configuration for six or more bathers while the J-LXL can accommodate five to six bathers and also features a lounge seat. The J-LX® Collection is the first to feature IR and Red Light therapy in an underwater application. However, retailers and end-users can look forward to seeing these features in the J-400® Collection and in Jacuzzi® Swim products in 2024 too. SPN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Coast Spas UK 01980 611555 www.coastspas.co.uk Jacuzzi UK 0113 272 7430 www.jacuzzi.com Platinum Spas 01246 559071 www.platinum-spas.com Wellis +36 29 564 380 www.wellis.eu

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UV SYSTEMS

Ultraviolet And Ultra Effective

When it comes to the effective treatment of water in pools and other wet leisure environments, UV Systems are now an established choice, particularly for commercial settings. Their success is no real surprise when you consider UV’s many benefits, but their big selling point is a large reduction in the use of chlorine as a sanitiser. As more installations specify or make the switch to UV, there’s plenty of product options to consider and we take a look at a selection of them By Jon Wadeson

ltraviolet light, or UV light as it’s most commonly shortened to, is an extremely effective disinfectant. UV’s power lies in its ability to eradicate microorganisms which includes bacteria, viruses, moulds and other pathogens that can exist in various wet leisure settings, including Legionella, Cryptosporidium and Giardia variants which are able to survive in water despite the presence of a variety of sanitisers (and that includes our reliable friend chlorine). It achieves this by penetrating the core of the DNA and disrupting the cellular metabolism until the cells are inactivated. In addition to its biocide action, UV has a powerful oxidising effect which successfully removes organic pollution from pool and spa water, so when UV is used in conjunction with chlorine, the chloramines that cause eye and skin irritation are turned into easily removed by-products that are non-toxic to humans and nature. Although highly effective in sanitising the water in pools and spas, UV is still a secondary disinfection process that is used alongside other treatments as the principal disinfectant. The reason for this is that UV only treats water as it passes through the lamp, therefore a sanitser such as chlorine is needed to provide a constant defence throughout the rest of the water system. Through the use of UV, it is possible to drastically reduce sanitiser levels by as much as 80% and down to as little as 0.5ppm. In addition to requiring less chemicals, water treated with a UV system will also require less backwashing and heating costs will be improved too – an extremely important factor with energy costs at the level they are at! So in summary, the water within a UV treated pool or spa uses less chemicals, requires less backwashing and both water and heating costs are reduced. It creates a better environment for both users and operators too. However chlorine use, whilst minimised, still

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plays an essential role in providing the safest possible water. With numerous benefits, it’s no wonder that UV has become an established and popular choice for both commercial, and increasingly residential sectors and in this issue, we shine a light on just some of the ultra effective UV options that are available.

INTRODUCING THE ULTRABLUE™ UV SYSTEM FROM ULTRAAQUA ULTRAAQUA is an international manufacturer of advanced UV water disinfection systems for a wide range of water treatment applications and the company’s ULTRABLUE™ UV system is the result of extensive scientific research and R&D activities, aimed at optimising disinfection, reducing chloramines and ensuring crypto / giardia safety in swimming pools. The system effectively lowers combined chlorine levels, improves air quality and provides healthier water for swimmers. Over the past decade, research has revealed that most measured combined chlorine levels in swimming pools are made The ULTRABLUE™ UV system is the result of extensive scientific research and R&D activities

up of organic chloramine compounds. With its pool-optimised medium-pressure lamp technology, the ULTRABLUE™ ensures a low level of organic combined chlorine through continuous photolysis. To minimise operating costs, the ULTRABLUE™ features reactor geometries and electronic control systems that have been designed with large, flanged connections and body geometry resulting in minimal head loss even at high flow rates. Its intelligent PLC control enables automatic operational efficiency through lamp dimming based on combined chlorine sensing, time of day / week timers, flow, or via the UV sensor. This allows the system to be dimmed and operated based on a number of different intelligent, user-selectable set points in real-time to save energy. Additionally, during opening hours, it can be set to maintain a minimum UV dose to provide a barrier for crypto and giardia. The ULTRABLUE™ has been NSF50 tested and approved for secondary disinfection in swimming pools. Its mediumpressure lamp technology ensures effective disinfection and protection against harmful pathogens.

LET BIO-UV AND ASTRALPOOL MAKE LIGHT WORK OF WATER DISINFECTION AstralPool UK and BIO-UV have been working together for just over a year with the Hampshire-based distributor supplying French manufacturer’s UV Stainless Steel, UV FW and UV NEO systems for residential pools and UV MPL, UV FW and NSF certified triogen® UV CF systems for commercial installations. Customers are constantly looking for more environmentally friendly solutions to treat and disinfect their pool water automatically. For over 30 years, BIO-UV Group met these challenges by offering alternative technologies (UV-C, salt electrolysis and ozone) and complementary

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UV SYSTEMS 9,000 hours. The H.R.UV-C is available in three sizes: Mini (30m3), Single (55m3) and Double (110m3) and in three models − Standard, Classic and Pro.

solutions to treat water, guaranteeing flawless hygiene and bathing comfort. Some of the advantages of the BIO-UV range of UV-C products on offer include: • Mirror-polished 316L stainless steel, passivated 316L stainless steel or PVC reactors ranges • Dedicated electronic ballasts guaranteeing maximum UV lamp efficiency and integrated control • Lamp operating indicator light for each lamp • Insignificant pressure loss • Inlet / outlet connections using unions supplied along with fastening lugs. Easy to install and maintain, the range features models to suit different pool sizes, each designed for long service life with lamps lasting up to 13,000 hours. So, if a more natural disinfection system with low operating costs sounds appealing for either commercial or domestic pool clients, AstralPool UK are able to offer a range of UV water treatment solutions.

ELECRO SYSTEM PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE INTERNAL REFLECTION Available through leading distributors including Certikin, Lighthouse, Plastica and SCP, the H.R.UV-C one is of newest members to the Elecro family. Designed using the latest knowledge of highly reflective reactor casing materials, the H.R.UV-C features the highest UV reflective index on the market thus optimising the UV-C radiation and dramatically increasing its Available through leading distributors, the H.R.UV-C is one of the newest members to the Elecro family

PURIQ – A 100% ECO-FRIENDLY UV WATER PURIFIER

AstralPool UK comprehensive BIO-UV range includes the UV Stainless Steel and UV NEO systems for residential pools

performance. This is achieved thanks to the E-PTFE reach chamber which is extremely repellent, maintaining UV reflectivity. Up to 95% reflection amplifies the exposure of microorganisms to UV. It’s win, win as no harmful gases or by-products are produced in the process and the powerful sterilisation eliminates the smell of chlorine. It is highly effective in neutralising bacteria, viruses, algae and fungi that traditional chemicals cannot. The inside surface casing is extremely repellent and therefore self-cleaning. Intelligent electronics indicate when the lamps are not producing sufficient UV-C and need to be changed, ensuring the unit is always performing optimally. The H.R.UV-C is compatible with, and complements, all traditional treatment methods including; chlorine, bromine, active oxygen / hydrogen peroxide and salt electrolysis. A narrow and extended chamber ensures maximum exposure to the powerful UV-C. It is easy to use and install, can be retrofitted to any existing pool system – a self-cleaning system, reducing the need for maintenance. The intelligent lamp life indicator signals when the lamps are no longer producing sufficient UV-C and need to be changed, ensuring the unit is always performing optimally and has a long lamp life, up to

Available through Fairlocks Pool Products, the PURIQ UV-C Bright Series water purifier offers optimal technology for crystalclear water without the need for multiple chemicals and is kinder for water users too. Featuring the latest technology, the lamp placed in the pool water emits a very powerful UV-C light with a wavelength of exactly 253.7nm that kills practically all bacteria, viruses, algae and moulds. Using a UV light provides non-chemical disinfection, enabling effective primary control over waterborne bacteria, which can benefit both public and private pools. This results in optimal purification, reducing the need by 80% of chlorine and other chemical usage. The PURIQ UV-C system, with its 100% eco-friendly operation, provides more natural, healthier water. The extra wide SAE 316 stainless steel housing extends the time the water is exposed to the strong UV-C radiation while also minimising the pressure drop as the water passes through. Not only is the system better for the pool and pool user, but the environment benefits too. There is a significantly reduced number of toxic by-products produced by the UV purifier ensuring that the end response is a cleaner, safer environment for all. The PURIQ_UV-C water purifier from Fairlocks offers optimum technology and crystal clear water

...when UV is used in conjunction with chlorine, the chloramines that cause eye and skin irritation are turned into easily removed by-products that are non-toxic to humans and nature” 62 February 2024 SPN 61-63_SPN_Feb_24_UV_Systems.indd 62

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UV SYSTEMS

Evoqua ATG’s compact Wafer® UV generator is about one third of the size of comparative units

Thanks to the polished interior, there is virtually no adhesion of contaminants to the walls, which boosts the effectiveness of the UV-C radiation by a further 35%. The PURIQ UV-C water purifier contains intelligent electronics that signals an alert when it is time to replace the lamp, which ensures that the unit is always operating at peak efficiency and the water is clear. This way, the customer always has a perfectly working device they can rely on.

EVOQUA ATG UV RANGE – IMPROVING WATER QUALITY ACROSS THE INDUSTRY From the smallest hydrotherapy pools to leisure centres, spas and water parks, Evoqua ATG has a UV system to meet the needs of the aquatics industry with flow capability from 5 up to 5,000m3/h. One of the more recent additions to the Evoqua ATG product range is the compact Wafer® UV generator. It’s about one third of the size of comparative units making it easy to install and retrofit in the most restricted of plant rooms. The eight models in the range use the latest in medium pressure UV lamp technology, in single and twin lamp configurations to handle flows from 5 to 600m3/hr. As with Evoqua ATG’s WF range includes UV intensity monitoring, overtemperature control and automatic cleaning. Lamp life is 9,000 hours, and the enhanced safety quick release Twistlok™ UV lamps can be changed without removing the wiper motor, so maintenance requirements

are significantly reduced by comparison with other systems. The SPECTRA control system includes features such as data stream monitoring, process interlocks and programmable set points, and it interfaces with most BMS protocols. A key feature is variable power stepping from 100% down to 30%, allowing operators to optimise the operational power of their system to match bather loads and pool opening times. Specific models within the range are also validated to the US EPA UVDGM validation protocol making them the units ideal for validated applications.

ENJOY A CLEAR SOLUTION WITH UV SYSTEMS FROM CERTIKIN Certikin UV systems have been specifically designed to help prevent green water in swimming pools and swimming ponds. They work by emitting 254nm UV light inside a sealed tube, damaging

and destroying single celled algae which cause green water. Lower pressure UV-C breaks down monochloramines, reducing the associated symptoms and the amount of chemicals required, allowing the pool to be operated at a lower free chlorine level. The UV systems are fully serviceable which means both the lamp and control box can be replaced should there be a problem. The control box uses less plastic to produce and the serviceability means less plastic waste. Additionally, the control box is fitted to a bracket which allows the unit to be wall mounted. There are seven models available in the range for pools between 15,000 (15m3) and 150,000 (150m3) litres. In addition to their own UV products, Certikin also offer the Blue Lagoon Xpose UV-C system. The first stand-up pool UV system designed specifically for domestic above-ground and small in-ground pools, the Xpose UV-C features a plug and play concept that’s powerful, affordable and easy to install. It’s a system which means that owners of all types of domestic pools can enjoy the fantastic benefits of UV-C technology. Its 42W lamp offers a staggering 9,000 hours. Constructed from a high-quality copolymer, its high technical specification means it can operate within 1°C to 40°C; has a maximum flow of 15m3/h – 250 L/min and a maximum pressure of 1 bar – 14.5psi.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.com Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Evoqua 0300 124 0500 www.evoqua.com Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Lighthouse 01752 25325 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Plastica 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com

With solutions for a wide range of pools, Certikin offer their own UV products, plus the Blue Lagoon Xpose UV-C system

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ULTRAAQUA +45 7023 1020 www.ultraaqua.com

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS

Water Treatments That Provide Peace Of Mind Providing a clean and safe water experience is a must for any pool or spa owner or operator, and whilst traditional methods of water treatment are still routinely used, newer technologies have gained in popularity. UV aside, there are numerous other products and systems available which tick all the necessary boxes to ensure water of the highest quality. With choices suitable for a variety of settings, we highlight just some of the options By Jon Wadeson

or many, life has never been busier. There’s always something to do or see, in fact there’s a constant flow of ‘things’ that we all have to plan for and manage, or more often than not react to, meaning opportunities to just switch off appear to be increasingly scarce. When it comes to pools and spas, their enjoyment should be maximised and any stress and worry minimised, and that’s true for both commercial and residential settings. So what can pool and spa owners and operators do to lessen the burden of ensuring the water is in the best possible condition and of the highest quality? Well a good place to start is by implementing the right products for safe and effective water treatment systems to provide day-to-day peace of mind. Commercial facilities are pretty well set when it comes to procedures and utilising automatic water treatment options and with domestic consumers becoming increasingly more savvy, now is a good time to show them how to relax and enjoy their wet leisure investment whilst smelling the coffee and not the chloramines! Left: Elecro’s Quantum solution will give peace of mind to owners as dangerous organisms are destroyed by the photocatalytic process

Right: Utilising electrochlorination technology, Gaffey’s Hyprolyser® systems are manufactured in the UK to exacting standards

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QUANTUM HARNESSES TECHNOLOGY FOR CLEAR AND SPARKLING WATER A prime focus of scientific advances today is ceramic nano crystal technology, and it is this which is used in the Quantum to create one of the most powerful forms of sterilisation – photocatalytic oxidation. Manufactured by Elecro Engineering and available from Certikin, Lighthouse, Plastica and SCP UK, Quantum eliminates contaminants leaving water fresh and clean. Easy to install, Quantum gives peace of mind as dangerous organisms such as cryptosporidium and adenoviruses are destroyed by the photocatalytic process ensuring pool users are kept safe. Several natural processes occur as the pool water passes through the unit with only pure water returning to the pool. As a result of the processes occurring inside the Quantum, including the production of hydroxyl radicals, the treated water is free of all oil-based substances such as sun creams and all organics including urea are totally removed resulting in sparkling water.

Quantum also reduces the need for chemicals in the pool and helps eliminate the smell of chlorine. Once installed, this cost-effective solution requires no maintenance; it is equipped with an intelligent lamp life indicator so when the UV lamp which initiates the photocatalytic reaction needs to be replaced this is displayed. Quantum is compatible with both salt and sea water and is available in three sizes. Choose from Mini (35m3), Single (65m3) or Double (130m3) to meet the specific needs of the pool’s capacity.

GAFFEY OFFER A COMPELLING CASE FOR ELECTROCHLORINATION On site electrochlorination has been utilised for the disinfection of commercial swimming pools for decades, providing a sustainable and effective solution for safe, clean water for leisure applications worldwide. Electrochlorination is the on-site production of sodium hypochlorite by electrolysis of brine. The resulting generated hypochlorite solution contains <1% chlorine, which is below the hazardous threshold, providing sufficient health and safety and COSHH management benefits. Although corners of the disinfection industry remain heavily involved with conventional commercial sodium hypochlorite and drygranular / tablet calcium hypochlorite as a chlorine donor, the electrolysis of brine provides an unparalleled option for professionals seeking safe chlorine plant operations and hygienic swimming pools for bathers. With no hazardous chemicals to transport, store or handle on site, electrochlorination is the safest, most sustainable clean water generation process available. Generated liquid is clear, sediment-free and non-scale forming, so chemical injection points require infrequent cleaning and maintenance; adding to the long list of safety and sustainability benefits that electrochlorination offers. Not only is the process of electrochlorination fully compliant under GB BPR, it’s also the most effective and efficient solution for pool chlorination, offering a host of benefits

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS When it comes to managing a pool, Golden Coast say there is no method greater than by using DAISY+ and SPACE

ranging from sustainability to cost efficiency and total scalability – all only using salt, water and electricity. Utilising electrochlorination technology, and manufactured in the UK to exacting standards, Gaffey’s Hyprolyser® systems use ‘Plug & Play’ technology and are readily scalable for larger applications, making them ideal for any pool size, from small spa pools to the high-capacity requirements of leisure centres and theme parks with multiple pools and water features. They are quick and easy to install and are proven to be significantly cheaper to run without the need to purchase costly chemicals.

POOL MANAGEMENT MADE SIMPLE WITH DAISY+ AND SPACE Technology in the wet leisure industry has advanced a long way in a short time, and when it comes to managing a pool there is no method greater than by using DAISY+ and SPACE – offered by Golden Coast. The DAISY+ (Dryden Aqua Integrated System) is the healthiest option for ecofriendly and sustainable water treatment. It is broken down into three key steps: exceptional filtration with AFM, coagulation and flocculation with APF and ZPM and finally ACO protecting chlorine from UV light. AFM is a crucial part of the DAISY+ integrated system, being 50% more efficient in removal of bacteria than sand media. “DAISY+ is truly the next step. It’s remarkably comprehensive, with ACO helping reduce chlorine consumption by an average of 50%, making it much more friendly on our skin. It also eliminates the need for pools to be drained so reduces water waste,” explained Dave Brawn, Dryden Specialist at Golden Coast. “When paired with the SPACE pool management system, owners have more direct control over their assets. SPACE allows users to manage their pool remotely in real time, controlling aspects such as chemical injections, pH readings and water leak detection. “With SPACE, everything is calculated by cutting-edge AI to create a fully autonomous pool, helping to lower costs, optimise performance and deliver the best experience possible.”

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THE EVOLUTION OF HTH’S CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE RANGE Calcium hypochlorite options from hth® are a popular choice for water treatment. These products can be used as a regular pool sanitiser and are especially recommended for pools that are open all year round. The brand have announced recent developments in their product range and as part of an ongoing commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction, it has outlined a number of changes that are being made for the coming season. Firstly, adaptation to the BPR (Biocidal Product Regulation) requirement – In anticipation of the new BPR regulations, which require more detailed labelling and instructions for use, as well as the integration of a non-contact dosing system, hth® have redesigned the packaging for hth® SHOCK 5kg, which is now 4kg, and hth® GRANULAR 5kg. These products will now be available To meet BPR requirements, hth® have redesigned the packaging for hth® SHOCK 5kg, which is now 4kg

in a bottle with a handle and a dosing cap, similar to the hth® SHOCK 2kg. Additionally, following a consumer survey, the brand found that the ease of use is the third most important reason for buying a product, after quality and efficacy. Therefore they have adapted their treatment solutions to meet the needs of their consumers. By offering bottles with handles and dosing caps, hth® has now simplified dosing and improved product handling, while enhancing safety and facilitating storage, with products taking up less space in any technical premises.

FLOWTAB CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE DOSING FROM JAK WATER SYSTEMS Calcium hypochlorite has many positive properties with regards to chlorine strength, ease of handing and shelf life. Due to its high available chlorine content, less product is required to obtain a residual. Pools with softer water are particularly suited as they benefit from the calcium minerals that the chemical offers. Pools that utilise calcium hypochlorite as their preferred chlorine donor, have a couple of choices in format of either granules or tablets. Naturally it follows that any dosing equipment required is manufactured to suit. For many years JAK has been the UK supplier for the Melclorite products. Recognised throughout Europe for its quality and availability, even during the last two years of supply chain issues. The Melclorite range offers granules and tablets with descaling agent (20g, 200g). Suitable for use in all known chemical dosing systems, Melclorite is reliable and versatile in application. Partnered with the engineering expertise of JAK offering the very best technical solutions and support in chemical dosing. JAK is also the manufacturer of the most advanced Calcium Hypochlorite Automatic

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Elecro Engineering 01438 749474 www.elecro.co.uk Gaffey 01254 350180 www.gaffey.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com hth® / Innovative Water Care 01924 792909 www.hth-pro.com JAK Water Systems 01789 333313 www.jakwater.co.uk

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For more info please contact us on 01789 333313 or email sales@jakwater.co.uk

WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS In addition to BAYROL, Lighthouse has introduced products from French manufacturer Pool Technologie which include this Justsalt® model

JAK Water Systems supply Melclorite products and also manufacture the FlowTab Calcium Hypochlorite Automatic Treatment System

Treatment System, the FlowTab, which continues to play a vital role in chemical dosing. Selected for its ease of use, reliability, and safety features, it has been enormously successful over the years and has made and continues to make a significant contribution to the dosing of calcium hypochlorite tablets. Offering solutions with dose rates up to 500ltrs/hr, the FlowTab can be built to dose multiple pools from a single unit. This not only sets it apart from other systems in the market but allows for flexibility in design and delivery solution. Suitable for both leisure and potable applications, its advanced engineering allows for variable solution strength, batching control and automatic CIP.

LIGHTHOUSE INTRODUCE TREATMENT OPTIONS FROM BAYROL AND POOL TECHNOLOGIE New for the UK market, Lighthouse has introduced products from French manufacturer Pool Technologie and German brand BAYROL. Pool Technologie has distinguished itself by offering a complete range of automatic water treatment products and as an expert in salt-water swimming pools for over 30 years, it offers reliable and high-performance equipment that is at the cutting edge of technology plus is eco-friendly and sustainable too. Lighthouse can now offer the best device, suited to both installer and customer needs. With standard salt at 4g/l, low salt 2g/l and an ultra low salt system available down to 0.5/g/l, there is a system to suit everyone. There are three ranges of equipment, all driven from a control box – from the entrylevel ‘Mini’ system, to the ‘Just’ branded range and final the premium branded ‘Pool Squad’ options. For many across the industry, BAYROL needs no introduction. A true expert in the field of water treatment for swimming pools and spas for over 65 years, BAYROL offers everything needed for the care of pool and spa water: from simple basics to the most comprehensive products to the ideal solutions

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there are no guessing games. The simple touch screen which is only 75mm deep shows visual water quality, so users know when the swimming conditions are just right. It also features a Turbo Boost function to speed up the process so the water can be used right away, perfect for when excited children are waiting to jump in the pool! The system only produces chlorine when required, saving costs and energy in running a pool and keeping it sanitised. Supplied with PH and ORP Probes as standard, this will be stocked in the UK, ready for despatch or can be purchased off the shelf at Ocea UK’s new Trade Centre in Witney.

IS THIS THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF CHLORINE IN POOLS? for quickly solving specific problems. So whatever the need, Lighthouse are now able to offer a wide range of BAYROL chemicals for the treatment of water, along with dosing and control systems from the German manufacturer to automate their use.

OCEA-X RANGE NOW INCLUDES MR PURE INVERTER SALT CHLORINATOR Ocea UK’s new Ocea-X range includes the first ORP Salt Chlorinator with Inver Turbo technology which self-adapts to different situations and delivers 0-130% automated chlorine production. This latest water treatment innovation adopts an advanced PID algorithm for accurate control of chlorine production and pH regulation. It transforms a pool into an oasis with infant-suitable water that’s natural and healthy. No more worries about red eyes, dry hair, or rough skin – just refreshing water that’s perfect for anyone, especially those with sensitive skin. Mr Pure releases users from any concerns about swimming in saltwater and owners or operators from forgetting to add salt in time, thanks to its Inver Turbo technology. It is even able to operate at low salt levels of 1g/L, benefiting both swimmers and pool systems. Features include an on-screen display that lets operators know when the water is perfect for use, so

UK-based Origin Aqua has launched Mineral+Biome®, – a chemical free, biological filtration system scientifically proven to kill pathogens naturally, without using chlorine or other harmful disinfectants. The modular, automated natural pool filtration system, delivers outstanding mineral quality water, while typically using 50% less energy and wastewater vs. traditional filtration systems. This nature-based solution, designed and developed in the UK, can be fitted to virtually any new build or existing swimming pool, rendering use of chlorine or other disinfection chemicals obsolete. In addition to operating without chemicals (or aquatic plants), the Mineral+Biome® includes innovative features such as IoT touchscreen Beneficial bacteria in Origin Aqua’s Mineral+Biome® filter system sanitises water to safe levels without the need for disinfection chemicals

Ocea UK’s new Ocea-X range includes Mr Pure, the first ORP Salt Chlorinator with Inver Turbo technology

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WATER TREATMENTS & SYSTEMS automation, air assisted auto-backwash, flow / pressure sensing and a modular fully recyclable one-piece filter housing. Origin Aqua CEO, Andrew Cox, said: “Our scientifically proven, nature based technology gives customers the opportunity to experience luxury, mineralised water instead of a soup of chemicals. “The Mineral+Biome® system represents the future of pool filtration – delivering superior water quality, with the healthiest, most advanced and environmentally friendly system available on the market today.” Origin Aqua has spent five years developing the Mineral+Biome® and the company has over 100 systems running (including the largest indoor natural pool in Europe) and is now looking to build a distribution network across the UK and abroad.

Waterco’s energy efficient Hydrochlor MK3 Mineral Chlorinator chlorinates the pool making it healthy, crystal clear and ready to swim in year-round

PLASTICA’S RESILIENCE E NATURAL SALT CHLORINATOR – A NO IRRITATION SYSTEM Salt chlorinators convert salt in the water into an endless supply of ‘free chlorine’ that continuously oxidises or eliminates chloramines. With salt chlorination, pool users will not suffer irritation to eyes and skin, bleaching of hair and bathing suits, and there’s no sharp chlorine odours either. Swimmers will enjoy silky soft water and unmatched water quality that can actually be felt. The Resilience E features advanced digital electronics and simple installation in an ‘allin-one’ compact unit. It was designed to ease and optimise the pool owner and operator’s job. From the simple and quick installation (averages 15 minutes without wiring requirements) and easy maintenance. Resilience E is equipped with a straightforward display that indicates the various chlorine output levels. Maintenance and service alerts notify if salt levels in the pool are too low. Most importantly this unique device alerts when the cartridge requires cleaning or nears the end of its lifespan. The pull out cartridge method makes servicing or replacement an easy task to perform. Ideal for private pools and available in three sizes to fit pools up to 150m3, the Resilience E which has been designed to Plastica’s Resilience E salt chlorinator features advanced digital electronics and simple installation in an ‘all-in-one’ compact unit

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work with variable speed pumps, benefits from: • Bi-directional flow sensor • Double ‘low flow’ protection • Full range input voltage automatically accepts 110 or 220V • Built in salinity and water temperature sensors • Replaceable electrolysis cartridge. Manufactured using IP-66 rated materials that contribute to its weatherproof nature, the Resilience E is a durable and reliable salt chlorinator that can be installed both outdoors as well as inside. It is designed with reverse polarity that allows self-cleaning and plugs into a standard outlet.

WATERCO’S HYDROCHLOR MINERAL CHLORINATOR ENHANCES CHLORINE PRODUCTION Waterco’s energy efficient Hydrochlor MK3 Mineral Chlorinator chlorinates the pool making it healthy, crystal clear and ready to swim in year-round. A saltwater chlorinated pool in fact requires considerably less attention than a standard chlorinated pool. Hydrochlor can work with a standard salt pool, but the company’s engineers didn’t stop there – they also designed it to work in synergy with Waterco’s Mineral Crystals to transform your pool into a therapeutic oasis. Hydrochlor uses the latest Switch Mode Power Technology to increase energy efficiency by over 50%, significantly reducing power consumption. Hydrochlor draws less current and this translates to high power conversion and less energy wastage, without compromising chlorine output. Its unique Intelligent Power Pack intuitively recognises the size of the connected chlorinator cell and automatically adjusts its power output to suit. This allows

When it comes to pools and spas, their enjoyment should be maximised and any stress and worry minimised, and that’s true for both commercial and residential settings” customers to stock one power pack, rather than a power pack per cell – while simultaneously reducing inventory. Also, the cell housings are identical, which means that the salt cell can be easily upgraded or downgraded. An alarm indicates when salt levels in the pool water are too high or too low; if the pool is running beyond the maximum recommended salt level, the chlorinator will limit its output to protect the chlorinator cell. Hydrochlor includes an in-built, easy to use timer equipped with battery back up, which will maintain settings for up to 150 hours and its self-cleaning chlorinator cell has the added ability to reverse its polarity and automatically clean calcium build-up from its electrodes. If no water flow is detected in the chlorinator cell, Hydrochlor automatically switches off the chlorine production to protect the chlorinator cell and activates the No Flow LED indicator. SPN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceauk.com Origin Aqua 0330 128 9885 www.origin-aqua.com Plastica 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

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POOL & SPA PUMPS

Products To Keep The Water Flowing Found at the heart of every plant room, pool and spa pumps keep the water moving and are an essential component in any efficient system. These powerful products are constantly being improved and the latest variable speed options have for many, become the pump of choice for a wide range of applications. With the choices now wider than ever, in this issue we highlight a number of the best models that are available for the coming season By Jon Wadeson

roviding powerful circulation for the water found in pools and spas of various sizes, pumps are quite obviously extremely important pieces of equipment that work their magic out of sight in the background of every domestic or commercial installation. Innovation and technological advances continue to be applied to these vital but unassuming products, with improvements made to their durability, performance, energyefficiency and running costs. With a number of choices available from both well-known plus new brands, this issue we take a look at some of the pump models and brands that are sure to keep the water flowing throughout 2024 and beyond.

AQUASPEED – A NEW GENERATION, BUT STILL AN INDUSTRY FAVOURITE As well as a modern look, the latest Aquaspeed model, an exclusive to Certikin, has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology to provide an efficient and powerful pump. Despite this upgrade, there are no changes to the dimensions meaning it will still fit in perfectly to the original pump’s footprint and pipework connections. This makes the pumps ideal for retrofit as well as new installations. Suitable for salt chlorinated pools, the pump has a solid clear lid for simple inspection of the basket and comes

complete with quick connect unions for ease of installation and a 316 high grade mechanical seal. The single piece fibreglass filled pump body ensures maximum strength and durability. It is available in a range of sizes from 0.5hp to 3hp and features a hydraulically efficient impeller and diffuser for maximum hydraulic output whilst minimising turbulence. The range also includes the Aquaspeed variable speed pumps. With all the features and benefits of the renowned Aquaspeed, these models bring variable speed economy to an industry favourite. Equipped with a state-of-the-art variable speed, permanent magnet brushless motor that results in the ability to vary the motor speed depending on the installation. This in turn varies the water flow resulting in a reduction of energy consumption. Ideal for new installations or retrofit as the connections are exactly the same as the single speed Aquaspeed. For existing single speed pumps, the Certikin iSAVER Inverter is a low-cost solution designed to reduce the running costs of pool circulation pumps and improve the efficiency of swimming pool filtration by as much as 60%. Pumps in swimming pools invariably run at higher flow rates than necessary, and the iSAVER Inverter enables owners to control both pump flow rates, and pump run times. Allowing the pump to run at a slower speed

The latest Aquaspeed model, an exclusive to Certikin, has an upgraded motor to provide an efficient and powerful pump

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reduces power consumption to reduce electricity running costs.

FAIRLOCKS INTRODUCE A NEW VARIABLE SPEED PUMP FROM KRIPSOL 2023 saw the launch of a new variable speed pump from Oxfordshire based distributor Fairlocks Pool Products. The Kripsol KS EVO VS pump offers energy savings and versatility with silent operation. With a wingnut closing system for rapid access to the pump basket (no tools required) and benefitting from simple installation, the KS EVO VS and a direct substitute for KSE pumps and features five programmes, with three preselected speeds. This pump is suitable for all residential pools up to 125m3 and comes with a threeyear warranty. In addition, Fairlocks continue to offer the popular range of KSE range of self-priming centrifugal pumps for domestic use, which are some of the highest quality pumps available. Engineered with German design, they feature a reinforced thermoplastic injection moulded casing which is reinforced with glass fibre to withstand all the elements. The hinged lid closing screws with stainless steel studs and O ring ensure the KSE’s fixings are durable and all pumps are suitable for all types of water, including saltwater. KSE pumps come in various motor sizes from

Available through Fairlocks Pool Products, the Kripsol KS EVO VS pump offers energy savings and versatility with silent operation

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POOL & SPA PUMPS Lighthouse’s new HeatForm Alphaflo pool pumps have been designed in conjunction with Waterco

The PPG Deluxe is exclusively available from Golden Coast and is setting a benchmark for quality and reliability

0.33hp to 32hp all IP54 class F rated to suit a wide range of settings required to enhance a pool’s efficiency and effectiveness.

GOLDEN COAST OFFER A BENCHMARK FOR PUMP RELIABILITY The PPG Deluxe is exclusively available from Golden Coast and is setting a benchmark for quality and reliability when it comes to pool pump technology. Their improved wet end is unique to the Pollet Pool Group. This latest offering was expertly developed in tandem with Speck and is designed to be the next generation of the Badu 90. It hosts an exceedingly quiet self-priming pump, and surpasses the current highest energy efficiency class IE3, ahead of IE4. Its new impeller and diffuser leads to a 5% greater efficiency, and a flow rate increase of 17%, when compared to previous iterations. With a strong focus on quality, the PPG Deluxe is a perfect pump purchase. Possessing the ability to be placed three metres above or below water level, it offers a wide range of flexibility. It also aims to be the most silent in operating sound, to increase the enjoyment of those around it. Luke Honnoraty, Sales Manager at Golden Coast said: “The PPG Deluxe is a huge achievement, and we’re super proud to be exclusively offering this. Having worked closely with Speck in its development, we’re guaranteeing a product that will deliver for you time and time again, whilst maximising efficiency. The exclusive wet end is particularly impressive, with Speck having mastered lowering the electrical consumption. “We always want to focus on what matters most to our customers, and what it is they need. That’s why the PPG Deluxe is so important to us, it will undoubtedly be the upgrade your pool pump deserves.” For those seeking to reduce noise levels or even to have a better energy efficiency rating in their pool setup, the PPG Deluxe is clearly a great solution.

HERBORNER’S NEO RANGE OFFERS GERMAN PUMP EFFICIENCY Herborner offer a wide range of pump solutions for the wet leisure sector and their herborner.

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neo range offers a combination of an energyefficient motor and fully smooth-coated pump hydraulics which guarantee maximum protection against wear, corrosion and deposits. An IE5 permanent magnet motor, specially adapted and built-in frequency inverter plus the maximum impeller diameter demonstrate the complete efficiency of the new generation of pumps, which use a speed controller to regulate the available power of the motor within a typical working range. For the operator, this series means lower life cycle costs thanks to the best possible energy efficiency and quality, resulting in cost savings at every operating point where the pumps can be used. As a result, this innovation creates a resource-saving product that reduces CO2 emissions in the long term. That makes the herborner.neo one of the most sustainable products in the pump industry. The herborner.neo pumps are tailored to the specific application in each case. The herborner.Fneo can be used flexibly as a block pump, which makes it ideal for the complex world of plant engineering, whilst the herborner.Xneo is ideal for use as a circulating pump, with its built-in hair and fibre filter. The portfolio is rounded out by the inline block pump, herborner.Dneo, which can be installed directly in pipelines. And of course the WATERblue-B is also available in the ‘maximised’ design, as WATERblue-Bneo. In addition to the herborner.neo range of pumps, the company also has pump selection software – PAHN AI. This web-based software allows simpler, intelligent pump selection.

NEW HEATFORM ALPHAFLO PUMPS – QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE HeatForm has been busy expanding its range of pool equipment solutions over recent months and are now offering a greatly extended offering which includes a complete range of pumps and filters. The new HeatForm Alphaflo pool pumps are some of the latest additions and have been designed in conjunction with the world’s number one pool pump manufacturer – Waterco. Exclusive to the HeatForm brand and Lighthouse, the Alphaflo range uses the latest in motor and pump design to bring to the UK market a range of pool pumps which the Devonbased distributor says are second to none. The HeatForm Alphaflo pump is available in the following models: • Single Speed – Single Phase – 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0hp • Single Speed – Three Phase – 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0hp • Variable Speed – Single Phase – 1.0 and 1.5hp. Suitable for use in all types of pools and a great choice for easy retrofitting, HeatForm Alphaflo pumps are designed with corrosionresistant materials. With a robust, strong

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01869 934333 www.fairlocks.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Herborner Pumpen +49 2772 9330 www.herborner-pumpen.de

The herborner.neo range offers a combination of an energy-efficient motor and fully smooth-coated pump hydraulics

Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk

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A NEW GENERATION of an industry favourite The new and improved Aquaspeed pump, which is available exclusively from Certikin

AQUASPEED

As well as a modern look, the new model has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology to provide an efficient and powerful pump. Despite this upgrade, there are no changes to the dimensions, so it remains fully interchangeable with previous Aquaspeed models without any changes to the pipework.

Available in a range of sizes from 0.5hp to 3hp including variable speed models The variable speed versions of the Aquaspeed pump have 3 pump settings. Each setting can be programmed to ensure that the performance is the most efficient and therefore cost effective.

 01993 777200  info@certikin.co.uk

www.certikin.co.uk

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Energy Savings, Versatility And Silent Operation – The New KS EVO VS

¢ Simple installation, direct substitute for

Single Speed models can be

easily replaced with a VS equivalent (No need to retrofit or modify hydraulic connections).

¢ Variable speed: high efficiency for each

application, optimised consumption ¢ 5 programs, 3 preselected speeds ¢ Super-silent operation ¢ Wing-nut closing system, rapid access (no tools required) ¢ Double drain, easy opening (no tools required)

KSE pumps ¢ Impeller and diffuser made of Noryl®, very hard-wearing and corrosionresistant ¢ Permanent magnet motor ¢ Automatic "Skimming" function: cleans the surface every 1, 2 or 3 hours ¢ Usage: for residential pools up to 126m3 ¢ Prefilter size: 3.5L

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, QUALITY PRODUCTS 3 Landscape Close, Weston on the Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX25 3SX, UK T: 01869 934333 | E: info@fairlocks.co.uk | W: www.fairlocks.co.uk

POOL & SPA PUMPS Plastica’s Argonaut® pump comes with a heavy-duty long life IP55 rated motor that is quiet running with a 60 dB rating

Ocea UK, now part of the CF Group, are proud to introduce their new Inver Hero Pump with Full-inverter technology

build, the body of the pump is made of very thick polypropylene, making them long-lasting and quiet when operating. With easy maintenance also built-in, all these energy-efficient pumps feature a highcapacity pre-filter, come with 2” and 63mm unions supplied, and for peace of mind, are offered with a full 3-year HeatForm warranty.

INTRODUCING THE NEW OCEA-X INVER HERO PUMP Ocea UK, now part of the CF Group, are proud to introduce their new Inver Hero Pump with Full-inverter technology. It’s a solution which forms part of their collection of handpicked products in their new Ocea-X range. The pump features a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM). What is PMSM? It is a cross between an induction motor and brushless DC motor. With permanent magnets, PMSMs can generate torque from a standstill and they are typically used for high performance efficiency drives. High performance motor control is characterised by smooth rotation over the entire speed range of the motor – there’s full torque control at zero speed and fast acceleration and deceleration – meaning a PMSM motor offers better efficiency than previous AC models. Upon set up the integrated smart technology establishes the maximum flow rate achievable according to water turnover and requirements in the pool’s circulation system. The smart system will adjust to affect and balance the circulation rate according to pressure changes in the pool system, with smooth, whisper quiet operation. Without the traditional 3-5 speed variable limitations, the pump offers 100% control over the flow rate and allows users to adjust it to their desired rate outside of set parameters. When the flow is turned right down, the power consumption also drops due to the inverter technology and the PMSM motor, so no energy is wasted. Features include backwash function, integral digital controller, skimmer mode and Auto-inverter mode which will adjust flow rate according to what it requires at a specific time.

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PLASTICA’S ARGONAUT® PUMPS ARE A RESOUNDING SUCCESS The Argonaut® and smaller counterpart the AG Pump have been a resounding success for Plastica and all wet end components are made in the UK, with all assembly work undertaken in their purpose-built pump workshop in their St. Leonards factory. The packaging has been greatly improved with all pumps encased in specially moulded foam to guarantee that every pump arrives at its final destination in perfect condition, no more broken fan casings! Both pumps are versatile in their application for either small to medium sized pools and also work well with a hot tub. The Argonaut® pump comes with a heavyduty long life IP55 rated motor that is quiet running with a 60 dB rating and the pump self-primes up to 3 metres. The mechanical seal made with AISI 316 stainless steel is suitable for a wide range of applications including chlorine, bromine and salt chlorinated pools, the glass filled polypropylene tank has an unparalleled high chemical resistance. All motors include a

Available from SCP UK, Davey’s SilensorPro Models incorporate a high performance water-cooled motor for ultraquiet, efficient use

high grade stainless steel shaft, input power ranging from 0.25hp/0.19 kW – 2hp/1.5 kW available in single phase and three phase. Their pump incorporates a large 1.75 litre strainer basket and clear lid for easy inspection, as a last effort to avoid leaf or hair contamination reaching the closetolerance impeller section of the pump. For ease of installation, the Argonaut comes with adjustable unions for both metric (63 mm) and imperial (2”) with inserts taking it down to metric 50 ml and imperial 1.5 inch. Backed by a three-year warranty, they are the perfect choice for exceptional performance and unrivalled value.

DAVEY’S SILENSORPRO MODELS OFFER SUPER QUIET OPERATION SCP UK offer a wide range of pumps from a variety of leading brands, so whether it’s for a commercial or domestic setting, they have a pump to suit any need. An exclusive to SCP, Australian manufacturers Davey, and their SilensorPro pump models – the VSD200 and VSD400 Premium – offer high efficiency and super quiet operation. The VSD400 Premium is Davey’s top of the range model. With an 8 star energy rating, and iOS and Android app control via Bluetooth® control, the robust and super quiet SilensorPro Premium has fully variable speed control and is suited to a wide range of pumping applications such as filtration, water features and pool and spa heating systems. The SilensorPro is efficient, with an ability to cap peak flow, priming and backwash speeds. It is ideal for retrofit installations with sand filters and it uses

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POOL & SPA PUMPS

Thanks to the highly efficient permanent magnet motor, the pool pumps found within BADU Green range can be set to different operating modes

backwash speed cycling technology for effective media cleaning and reducing waste water while backwashing. Other features shared by both models include: • Fully variable frequency drive with user friendly selectable speed dial • Large leaf basket with easy to remove, clear lid • Loss of prime protection to protect the pump when there is no water inside the pump • Quality ABS quick coupling barrel unions for simple installation • Drain plug enables quick draining of the casing for easy removal and maintenance. SilensorPro Models incorporate a high performance water-cooled motor for ultraquiet, efficient use all year round and each has had new mechanical seals incorporated for even better performance and durability.

SPECK OFFER VARIABLE SPEED CONTROLLED POOL PUMPS FROM BADU With variable speed controlled pool pumps from BADU Green – highly efficient and quiet as a whisper – swimming pool owners can enjoy their investment with a clear conscience because this range of pumps save energy and thus protect the environment. From private pools in the garden to large public facilities, this range of pumps can improve the energy efficiency of pools because they only use as much energy as necessary and work with as little energy as possible. Whether filtering, heating, partial load operation or backwashing: thanks to the highly efficient permanent magnet motor, the pool pumps found within BADU Green range

The Lacronite ECO-V is a variable speed that offers optimum filtration, quieter operation, higher reliability and maximum energy savings

can be set to different operating modes. This allows owners to adapt the pump performance perfectly to the respective operating conditions. Even a slight reduction in speed saves electricity and is easy on the wallet. With a speed controlled pool pump from BADU Green owners and operators can reduce annual energy consumption compared to conventional swimming pool pumps. Around 10% of the required energy is saved by using highly efficient permanent magnet motors. Further savings of up to 30% result from regulating the pump to the required operating points (filtering, heating, night operation, backwashing). Through the use of modern motor technologies, speed control and operation adjusted to the requirements, CO2 emissions can be drastically reduced with a frequency controlled swimming pool pump from BADU Green – it’s a significant contribution to environmental protection. In addition to reduced power consumption, the improved filtration performance also results in a lower demand for oxidising agents, i.e. water treatment agents, and consequently a more natural bathing experience.

LOWER THE FLOW WITH WATERCO’S LACRONITE ECO-V PUMP The Lacronite ECO-V is a variable speed pump from Waterco that offers optimum filtration, quieter operation, higher reliability and maximum energy savings. As an established manufacturer, Waterco is committed to the continuous improvement and re-development of all of their products to provide the very best quality and value to their customers, ensuring that the most costefficient and ecologically sound solutions

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can be provided for any installation. As a pool filtration cycle occupies 99% of the run time of a pool pump, Waterco offers several variable speed Eco pumps capable of moderating their motor speed, reducing water flow when required, and reducing energy consumption by up to 82% compared to a standard motor pump. Lowering a pump’s flow rate not only significantly decreases the pump’s energy requirements, but also reduces water flow resistance in pool equipment and plumbing. Even though the pump may need to be operated for longer, it is far more efficient pumping low water flow compared to high water flow. The ECO-V is ideal for domestic swimming pools with ancillary systems such as heating, in-floor cleaning, fountains and vacuum cleaning. Owners can operate the product on a low (ECO) speed setting for the majority of its running time. Available in single-phase 1.00hp and 1.50hp versions, the three-speed Lacronite ECO-V variable pump is equipped with the very latest permanent magnet brushless DC motor, reducing water flow when needed to lower energy consumption.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceauk.com Plastica 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com Speck Pumpen +49 912 394 9400 www.speck-pumps.com Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

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BUYERS GUIDE CONTROL PANELS

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

HEAT EXCHANGERS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FORJUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

COUNTER-CURRENT SYSTEMS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL BUILDERS

POOL COVERS

POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

POOL COVERS

POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £495! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1.50 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL ENGINEERS

POOL EQUIPMENT

SAUNA & STEAM

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FORJUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL EQUIPMENT

PRESSURE TESTING & LEAK DETECTION EQUIP

POOL LIFTS & SPA HOISTS

RECRUITMENT

SPRAYED CONCRETE

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £345! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST UNDER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE SPRAYED CONCRETE

UNDERWATER DIVING REPAIRS

WATER TREATMENT

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Alukov UK

Aquaflex

Artesian Spas

AstralPool UK

18 & 43

Catalina Spas

Certikin

59 & 60

Coast Spas

Darlly

Dripool

Fairlocks Pool Products IFC, 01 & 76 Gaffey Technical Services

GMT Spas

Golden Coast

TILED SPAS

WATER MONITORING & CONTROL

WATER TREATMENT

Heatstar Europe

Herborner Pumpen

hth

ISPE

JAK Water Systems

LaMotte Europe

Lighthouse 12, 26, 40, 71, 79 & OBC Lovibond

Lutz Jesco GB

Mikel Tube WDB

IBC

NIVEKO (HTP Group)

Ocea UK

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07 & 72

On-site Pool Linings

Plastica

Recotherm

SCP UK

25 & 52

Spaflo

STA

Suntrap Systems

T&A

Total Pool

UK Leisure Products

Ustigate Waterplay

Water-i.d.

Waterco

Waterco/Certikin

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OPINION

A Great Investment For Families With Kids “In our busy lives, finding quality time for family bonding can be a challenge. With everything from digital distractions to hectic work schedules eating into our lives, creating a haven of relaxation, health and togetherness is crucial for families,” says Adam Clark, General Manager at Golden Coast

etween my partner and myself we have four children, ranging from tots to teens. Finding things that they want to do, finding things that they ‘will’ do, can be tough. So, all things considered, I really do appreciate just how helpful our industry can be in providing physical, mental and emotional benefits for families with children.

SWIMMING LESSONS Taking your child to the local swimming pool for their first lessons is an iconic moment and one that sums up the benefits that we can offer families. The child grows in confidence. The child bonds with their parent in the shared experience of enjoying the water. Ultimately, he or she learns to swim and that will keep them safe around water and provide a pathway to health and wellbeing that will last them all their lives. For those reasons alone we should fight against the steady erosion of this country’s public swimming baths. The good they do far out ways the cost.

QUALITY TIME Sauna culture in Finland is an integral part of the lives of the majority of the population. Sauna is almost synonymous with family. For a family to enter a sauna together, it is as if they step into a cocoon where the rest of the world is excluded, mobile phones are left behind, conversations are face to face and strong relationships are built. All this while looking after the wellbeing of body and mind. I believe saunas are set to do well this year. The benefits that they offer seem particularly suited to how people are thinking and feeling. Wellness is a priority. Relaxation and stress busting are high on the agenda. Home improvements continue to be popular and a

sauna can be a very stylish addition to any residence. If we add their ability to provide a perfect environment for family time, the appeal may well prove irresistible.

BUBBLES Hot tubs and spas have always been recognised as social spaces and their popularity as a place for family gatherings is well established. A hot tub is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day at work, or at school. Spas boost mental health, physical health and help people sleep better at night. Those benefits aren’t only true for adults, they all apply to children as well. Spending just 20 minutes soaking together at the end of the day can help to bring a family closer together. None of the things that I have gone through will come as a surprise to you but, when you see all the benefits brought together, it is clear what a great investment a pool, spa or sauna can be for a family with children.

SELLING THE IDEA Build a better mousetrap, they used to say, and the world will beat a path to your door...

Good marketing is all about understanding your customer’s wants and needs and pitching them the right product or service when you see the world from their point of view. It’s about empathy” 84 February 2024 SPN 84_SPN_January_2024_Opinion.indd 84

however, that no longer appears to be true. No matter how good your product or service is. It is a fiercely competitive world out there and good marketing has never been more important. It’s hard to know what this year will bring but it seems likely that there will be increases in the cost of living and even more increases in energy prices. Those economic factors are going to reduce the amount of money that customers have to spend. They won’t have as much disposable income, but they will have some. Good marketing is all about understanding your customer’s wants and needs and pitching them the right product or service when you see the world from their point of view. It’s about empathy. For the past dozen years we have run the Wet Leisure Survey and one of the questions we always ask is, ‘What form of marketing do you think is the most effective’? ‘Word of mouth’, is one of the most popular responses. And that makes sense, because marketing is a conversation. A conversation between you and your customers and don’t conversations always go better when you understand the other person’s point of view?

SAY THE RIGHT THING. DO THE RIGHT THING We don’t always like to admit it, but good customer service costs money. It takes time and effort and can incur other costs as well. But if you are looking to cut costs, this is one area you should leave well alone. Good customer service – in whatever form it takes – makes customers feel valued and, if you value the profitability of your business, that is just how you want them to feel. 2024 may not be a new year anymore, but it’s only just been un-boxed. What the year has in store for us, we have yet to find out. I am sure it will be a challenge and I am also sure that as an industry, we will rise to it. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

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