Hot Tub Forum

Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: wmccall on February 07, 2008, 10:43:53 am

Title: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: wmccall on February 07, 2008, 10:43:53 am
We are indeed fortunate to have many Industry Professionals that frequent this forum and contribute to its sucess in many ways.   Despite what some disturbed person in Colorado may say, this board is one of the most succesful of its kind because of its variety of owners, industry professionals, and shoppers.    I have created this thread as a vehicle for those industry professionals, who choose to, to give us a brief introduction of themselves, their experience, and their affiliations.

I'm asking that these professionals add a message to this thread and limit the message to the points above and any thing else you feel relevent.   Please confine your message to your own material, not referencing the post of others outside your organization.

Replies to any message, comments about other posts, or posts by those not in the Industry will be deleted.

PS - Usually we ask that dealers/companies not advertise their website or company in their posts or profiles.  However, here  in this thread, people are coming to specifically find out more about you and I think it wouldn't be a huge crime to include your website in this thread only.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Micah on February 07, 2008, 11:24:50 am
 My name is Micah.  I am a 20+ year veteran of the pool and spa industry.  I currently have 3 stores one in West Covina, another in Santa Clarita, Ca. and the third in Oxnard, Ca.  We are in an area where there are no other spa stores, so we have the ability to sell any brand we want. We sell  Marquis, Hotspring Spas, Dimension One and Artesian Spas.  I have an unusual insight to most spa companies as we are the warranty service station for many other spa companies. My specialty is water chemistry. 
 If anyone is confused about spas or would just like to ask a few questions please feel free to contact me. my email is micah@WhiteSwanSpas.com .  If you would like to come see me click the link below for directions.

www.WhiteSwanSpas.com (http://www.WhiteSwanSpas.com)


Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: The_real_Clown_Shoes on February 07, 2008, 11:44:41 am
My name's AJ Cassidy.  I've been a Hot Spring salesman in Iowa since January of 2005.  I've got a lot of family in the industry- my stepdad and his family started Hawkeye spas in the 80s out in California.  I've been to Top Gun.  That's about it, I guess.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: loosenupspas on February 07, 2008, 12:15:39 pm
I am Tom Smith, owner of Loosen-Up Spas and Hot Tubs, located in Sanford, Florida-a lovely area.  Our 5th year in operation.  We sell the full line up of Maax products, California Coperages, Coleman Performance Spas and Maaxims.  That is it.........
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Chas on February 07, 2008, 01:02:28 pm
Well friends, it's time to move on. We have been selling tubs since 1986, and we closed up shop just this week. That would be June 22, 2014.

It was a very successful, very loooong run! We met a lot of great people, and would like to think that we helped them enjoy life just that much more.

Working with Watkins was great. People, product, all top notch.

The stores are closed (no, my kids did NOT want to take over the business, go figure) but we still answer the phone. I'm still a warranty station for Watkins Wellness (new name) and we also take care of our out-of-warranty customers. We have a LOT of those!

To you - my web friends - all the best.

Chas
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Jacuzzi Jim on February 07, 2008, 01:04:49 pm
 Hey!  My name is Jim, or you can call me "Jacuzzi Jim" or JJ for short. We sell "Jacuzzi" brand spa's hence the nick name, I have been in the spa world for 6 years, I am not a store owner but about as close to one as you can get,  I did service for the first 3 years and sales the last 3 going on 4 now. Please feel free to PM me, or I can and do give out my phone number if you wish to call and discuss things in person.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: soak-king on February 07, 2008, 03:48:28 pm
My name is Jerry and I sell
for a company in SOUTH East Texas who have been fortunate enough to have a 20+ yr relationship with Watkins Mfg. and build in-ground pools and spas.

I'm relatively new to this industry but I'm having a blast.

I am also one of a few who can geographically call Terminator a Northerner!  ;D  ;)
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: stuart on February 07, 2008, 06:16:06 pm
My real last name is Stuart...Most people have called me Stu or Stuart for years as a first name so I'm used to it.

I've been in spa world for over 20 years, been a technician for most of that in addition to several years as a delivery guy, chemical maintenance person, factory rep, store owner, salesman, show team member, Dealer advisory board member and even consultant.

I've helped design spas, written sales tracks and chemical programs and even articles for trade magazines.

I currently own one of the largest stores in Colorado (although Bill PM'd me to let me know he wasn't referring to me with the disturbed comment, musta meant spaman) and write a tech column for Spa Retailer Magazine.

In all these years I've sold and serviced most major brands, toured most of their factories and been through many of their sales and service training classes.

We currently sell Marquis and D1...

I've made it a point to make it to almost every major trade show in the last 20 years (except this year because of cancer). In addition to this I've had the privilege of servicing and selling thousands of spas of varied brands and owned many, many different spas.

In my younger show selling days most of the industry knew me as “The Cowboy” because I always wore jeans, a black sport coat and trademark Cowboy hat (helped customers remember me from show to show).

I met spaman on the forum and hired him to run my company last year he’s done a great job through my illness and recovery!

Never hesitate to PM me, ask a question on the board or even question my opinion…I really like learning by struggling through issues!


Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Steve on February 08, 2008, 04:55:25 pm

Not as creative as Term and I can't rhyme...

My name is Steve and I use the alias "Steve" to hide my real identity so Jim won't get me fired from my current job! ;D

I'm no longer in the spa industry but was for 15+ years. Most of that was with Beachcomber spas in Edmonton. I have been a sales rep for a couple other manufacturers for the remainder and started my own business consulting company teaching sales & marketing strategies to both spa and non-spa related businesses.

Known for being honest (handsome & funny) and to the point and I really enjoy teaching potential customers the key aspects of buying a spa and eliminating the BS factor. Always feel free to PM me...

If it's not appropriate that I be in this section Bill due to the fact that I'm no longer in the spa biz, I'm OK with you removing this...



Title: Look No Further!
Post by: East_TX_Spa on February 09, 2008, 11:36:26 am
I'm Chris, but I go by my Top Gun call sign which is Terminator.  Most folks just call me Term.  I manage East Texas Spas in Longview, TX.  We also have a store in Tyler as well as HotSpring Spas of Shreveport in Louisiana.

All three of our stores sell HotSpring, Tiger River, HotSpot and Solana Spas exclusively and have been doing so for 23 years.  We employ 3 full-time, factory trained service personnel to take care of our customers.  We do not work on other brands of spas, but we will dispose of your spa for free should you wish to trade it in on a new HotSpring.

Our company has been chosen "Territory Dealer of the Year" on numerous occasions due to our outstanding record and dedication to customer service.  In 2007, we were honored to receive the Locksin-Thompson Dealer of the Year Award from Watkins, one of the highest forms of recognition in the industry.  We eat, drink, sleep and breathe HotSpring Spas and customer satisfaction.

I come to this forum to learn, to help, but mainly to try and spread good cheer.  I look at spas as an enhancement to the quality of life, and it gives me great personal enjoyment to play my small part.  There are many, many knowledgeable folks on this forum and that's what makes it the best of its kind.

If you are ever in East Texas, you always have an open invitation to stop by and have a Shiner Bock Beer, a cigar, and pleasant company! :)

Terminator
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: hottub.pool_boy on February 11, 2008, 12:25:04 am
My name is David Scarritt, along with my lovely wife, we own Scarritt Spas and Pools in Connecticut.

We have two locations- Bristol, CT. and Torrington, CT.

Visit us there or http://www.scarritt.com.

You may contact me personally- scarritt at sbcglobal dot net

2008 marks our 25th year servicing and selling HotSpring spas. In addition, we sell Tiger River, Solana, Hot Spot spas and another line yet to be unveiled by Watkins Manufacturing.

My contributions to forums generally involve water chemistry help and hot tub troubleshooting. We have a lot of fun in this business. We bring families together and soothe aches and pains, We also eat, drink, sleep and breathe Hot Spring spas and customer satisfaction. Thank you to the moderators for creating this area.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: hottubber on February 13, 2008, 08:40:09 pm
I'm Back...Hottubber here. I've been away from this forum for quite some time,

My name is David. I've been selling Sundance Spas since 1983. I have 4 retail

locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.  (I feel like I'm at an AA

meeting)        

I own National Pools & Spas, founded in 1955 and still family owned and

operated.

I absolutely love to see some of the questions posed on this forum. Any

assistance I can be to help resolve chemical issues or quandries as to what

actually is the best "value for your dollar" is what I'm

here for. I truly enjoy sales and will do my best to be forthright in offering my

unbiased opinions.

I've met alot of people on this forum and look to reunite with them again.  ;)

Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Water Boy on February 14, 2008, 10:40:15 am
Hello my name is Ed, and work for an Arctic Spa dealer in Kansas. We have been an Arctic Spas dealer since 1997. We just recently won Arctic Spas Dealer of the Year, Outstanding Service 2007. I have been in the business for 6 1/2 years now. We sell Arctic Spas, Coyote Spas, Above Ground Pools, and all the chemicals and accessories that go along with both. We also have 2 full time service crews that service spas, and above ground and in ground swimming pools. We offer a maintenance plan for our pool and spa customers where we will come out once a week to clean and maintain the pool or spa. It comes with small fee, and we can go out more than once if the customer’s pool or spa gets heavy use.

I joined the forum to help answer questions about Arctic Spas, and spas in general. I also have lots of experience in water chemistry and water maintenance, so I am here to help in any way that I can.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: BauerN on February 15, 2008, 01:13:05 pm
My name is Michael.  I manage the service, warranty, and install department for a Bullfrog dealer in Western Montana.

In addition to technical work, I spend a great deal of time in the sales department - #2 in my store, behind the GM.

We are one of the top Bullfrog Spa dealers in the Northwest.  

As I do perform work on all makes and models (and have a very technical background prior to joining the spa industry) - I hope I can be of help from time to time on service type problems.

I notice we don't have a lot of Bullfrog people on the forum - so I also hope I can help with any questions on this very unique technology.

Please feel free to PM if more in-depth information is ever needed.

http://bullfrogspas.com



Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Tom on February 20, 2008, 06:37:37 pm
Good thread, nice to meet you all.  

I'm a writer, basically.  As the Communications guy for Arctic Spas, I write media releases, ad copy (when Marketing needs help), corporate documents, award applications, and the like.  Also responsible for some internal and external memos, and our three newsletters (for dealers, customers, and staff).  Customer issues that arrive electronically (via forums or email) are also mine to handle.

About three years ago, I was assigned to frequent the forums in order to:
1. Identify and counter "brand bashing" (that's settled down a lot!)
2. Provide accurate and factual information about our product and company
3. Act as a corporate spokesman and represent the brand in a manner that is professional, neutral, and impartial
4. Respond as quickly as possible to posted customer issues and work to resolve them.

As a result of this, in December 2006 I was invited to become a moderator at another spa forum.  

I've owned one (entry-level Beachcomber) hot tub before working at Arctic.

Off the job, I do some free-lance writing, read a lot, enjoy dancing (ballroom, social, and square dance), walk a lot,  and tinker at a workbench building electronic and robotic projects.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: spaman-- on March 02, 2008, 02:16:51 pm
I am SpaMan- I have been in the industry for quite some time, I don't like to say how many years as when someone says they have been in the industry for 15 yrs or more it makes them seem so old.  ;D

On a serious note I enjoy researching the general workmanship and performance of all spas good and bad. I do get very critical of how some spas are made, it seems many spas are on the verge of greatness then they go and do something really stupid like cut out a notch in a 2x4 to make room for the plumbing.

I sell with pride, integrity and take a "no bull" approach to things. I enjoy getting right to business when it comes to selling spas. (None of this life story telling) I just like to get to where ya been? What have ya seen? and good ol' fashion can I show you mine? Cutting to the chase seems like a good approach to me. If a salesman from my competition is lying I say "he is lying to you" then I prove it. Spa sales is a very simple process to me, keep the product very simple and explain it so even the children can understand it and then theres no question as to what they are buying, how much they are paying, and they are always prepared to pay in full for the product.
     Understand that when a customer is fully ready to buy your product there is a trust that has been built and the sale will never  cancel or refund!

I enjoy helping and giving my 98 cents where I feel its needed. ;
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Merlin on March 31, 2008, 08:28:56 pm
My name is Branden, and like Terminator I also go by my TopGun call sign - Merlin  :)
I have been selling spas for 6 years. Before that I was a delivery guy for 2 years.

My family owns The Spa Shop in Lancaster, CA. We have been in business for 25 years. We carry Watkins Mfg. products including: Hotsprings, Caldera, Tiger River, Limelight,  Hot Spot, and Solana. As well as Freeflow Spas. I am the sales manager at my store and  I consider myself to be very knowledgeable about spas. I am younger than most of the people on here. I am 22 and have been around spas since I was 5.

I joined the forum to help educate anyone that may need help in regards to spas in Southern California and as well as anyone else who needs some help. Prior to selling Hotsprings, our store carried many different brands of spas over the years including Catalina, CalSpa, Beachport, Diamante, Artesian, Sundance, and Strong Spas.
We also carry Olhausen pool tables, Splash Superpools, Finnleo Saunas, Gazebos, Chemicals and accessories.

So like it says I'm just here to help in any way that I can.

If you happen to live in the Antelope Valley and surrounding areas and have any questions in regards to anything please let me know.


-Merlin  8-)
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: webboy on April 02, 2008, 02:12:19 pm
My name is Clay.

I am the Website Designer and part of the Marketing Department at Bullfrog Spas. I have been at Bullfrog for about 2 years now and tripped onto this site by checking my website stats. I frequently visit this site to: first and foremost, learn about hot tubs. This is great place to see new product, find out what the consumers are saying about the industry, and to get a good laugh. I appreciate the Bullfrog owners that constantly defend our product when under attack, which is few and far between, and the dealers that help out the community and provide value.

Also, now that I am a hot tub owner I come to listen to the chatter of spa issues that everyone is having and learn about the ever interesting and exciting subject of chemicals!

Thanks

http://www.bullfrogspas.com

Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Hillbilly Hot Tub on April 25, 2008, 03:29:57 pm
Hi! My name is Becky and at times my husband Laurel will be on. We own a Hot Tub Sales and Service Company here in New Hampshire. We started our own place in 2004, and for 4 years before that had worked at a local spa manufacturer. We started as a service company and grew into spa sales. Working for a spa maker opened our eyes to help us decided. what line of spas we wanted to carry. We had seen pros and cons of spas by mistakes that were made over the years. We decided to carry Clearwater Spas as our main line and Leisure Bay as our entry level tubs.

We have taken several spa tech classes and water chemistry classes and are certified in several things. We work on any make or model, so we have seen many pros and cons to different tubs.

When I have time we like to help people on the forum, as we like to help them in person. Customer service is the most important aspect of our family run business and service has been the bread and butter of our company, plus we learn from others on the forums.

If anyone needs any help or has questions feel free to contact us and we will do our best to help anyone (many dealers call us for questions) :)

www.hillbillyhottubs.net
info@hillbillyhottubs.net
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Familybiz on June 13, 2008, 04:38:13 pm
Hi, My name is Kathy, my husband Brad and I own and operate B.K. Spa Service in Kingston Ontario, Canada. We sell, install and service Beachcomber Hot Tubs, we will service other tub brands if neccessary with the understanding that they come after our own Beachcomber Customers.
 Being fairly new to business ownership I'm not sure how I feel from a business point of view, regarding service of other manufactures tubs. We want to help everyone ( and make a dollar ) but are we hurting ourselves in the long run? Why would someone spend extra money at a dealership for service if they can call Brad anyway and have him run right over?
We came from the water treatment industry before becoming involved in Hot Tubs. I am more of an administrator than I am sales  but I really like people and the product we carry, so it all seems to work out in the end.
I have been reading the forum for about 3 years now and have gathered alot of good information over that time period. I dont see myself as a regular poster and will probably remain a newbie forever but occassionally I have the very real urge to respond to a specific topic, so here I am, just in case.
If anyone has any questions specifically about Beachcomber or our business I would be happy to help to the best of my ability.
Our website is www.beachcomberkingston.com
I look forward to being a member and seeking the knowledge and assisatnce of other members.


Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Tampaspa on December 20, 2008, 12:48:22 pm
Hey all my name is London and I own a pool and spa business in Zephyrhills Florida just North of Tampa. I've been doing this for 20 years and love it .I am a authorized factory warranty center for Jacuzzi, Sundance, Premium Leisure, Hydro Spa, Dynasty and other brands.  I have a web site that I'm all ways adding product too everyday that's seems to be more work than working on a hot tub but with the way it is now you got to have one. www.itsallaboutspas.com     8-)
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: In_Too_Long on December 30, 2008, 12:20:47 pm
After 20 years in the industry, I left a year ago, but I still lurk around the website to see what is going on. Keeping in touch with my friends in the industry it sounds like things are tough out there. I hope things turn around for you all.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: SpaWorldOnline on February 27, 2009, 08:52:26 am
Hi All,

I'm Ed and from England, UK.  

My background experience comes from buidling Concrete, Liner, above-ground and Fibreglass one-piece pools in Australia. This includes, but is not limited to: Solar Heating, Control Systems, In-Floor Cleaning Systems, Plumbing, Pools, Spas, Swim Spas, Manufacturing, Service, Repairs, Installations, Decking.

Since then I have worked for UK independent retailers in both Sales and Service capacities, so I know the differences between "Sales Pitch" and "Factual Informantion".

I now run my second Hot Tub and Spa business in the UK, and from what others in the trade say about me, I'm honest and helpful.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Eco_Spas on February 27, 2009, 02:37:27 pm
Hi, Im Ryan, I was a Engineer/Designer for a spa manufacturer.
 I have decided to go into buisness myself and focus on my designs. I currently run a testing facility and am testing spas and working to make them a less energy consuming product, and work closely with energy departments to... Well... you know.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Hottubs4life on February 28, 2009, 11:16:38 am
Hello all, my name is Chris and I am one of the sales managers at Sunrise Spas.
I am here just to give Sunrise and our products a fare shake. I have been in this business now for over 15 years, manufacturing and in the retail end of it as well.

We have been manufacturing hot tubs in Canada since 1987. We manufacture our Sunrise line, Paragon Spas, and White Water Spas. We also distribute DreamMaker Spas here in Canada. As well 30% of our business is done in Europe, with our warehouse located in the Netherlands.

During my retail years, I have sold Sunrise of course, Jacuzzi, Arctic, Beachcomber, Pacific, L.A. Spas, DreamMaker, and Softub.

Not here to bash any products, but here to educate consumers in purchasing the right hot tub that is for them, by doing this, it promotes Hot Tubbing in general.

Also here to mingle with my peers and see whats going on.

Cheers
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Spalady on March 24, 2009, 03:13:19 pm
Wow, I was wondering about the women in the industry.. glad to see a couple here. I am Lynda and have been in the industry since 1979.. yeah old timer now. We have sold and serviced many brands over the years, starting out as hot tub coopers and  installing in-ground spas and pools. We left all of that in 1989 and concentrated on portables.

We have been a Hot Spring dealer since 1980, one of their first and have two stores, one in Santa Cruz and one in San Jose. Like many of you we have won numerous awards over the years, including Aqua 100 and are proud to be recognized for our efforts. Putting customers needs first has helped us create a loyal following.
I  have contributed to a number of articles for our trade magazines over the years  mainly about customer service, creating professionalism in our industry and sharing marketing ideas.
I hope I can learn and assist in these discussions. I am amazed with the caliber of professionals on this forum. Great work.  [smiley=bath.gif]
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: SpaConnection on May 21, 2009, 05:41:16 pm
Good Afternoon!  I have been in the Spa industry since 1985.  I started out as a tech, then in sales, and now own my own company that mostly sells refurbished tubs.  When I worked with a company here in Colorado Springs, I noticed around 2006 that people just stopped buying tubs.  I took a few classes at the college and finished my degree and decided that in this economy, refurbished was the way to go.  People all over are cutting back on expenses and if I can help them out while still making a living, it benefits both of us.  I am not in this business to become rich.  I love what I do, and helping people and informing them about the different makes, models, and features of hot tubs/spas makes my day brighter.  We are located in Colorado and serve all of Colorado and neighboring states.  If you have a question, feel free to drop me a line.  Feel free to check out our website as well since we have many FAQ's from the past 25 years on there.

Happy Tubbing!!!!
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Peteyboy on October 07, 2009, 02:21:19 pm
Hello All.
My name is Pete. Peteyboy is my nickname from my step-daughter. I have been a HotSpring Tech since 1987. Wow, I think I'm old now. I'll service any brand but know the most about Watkins products, Jacuzzi & Sundance.
Our store has been selling & servicing HotSpring since 1993 in Melbourne, Florida.

This forum is great. Many great techs helping people. I learn a lot also.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: Leisureworks on January 21, 2010, 11:53:35 pm
My name is Kreg.  I started in the business as a lab technition at one of the country's largest Hot Spring dealers.  I still see those little bags of water in my nightmares!  I worked my way from the very-bottom to eventually being in management at this Hot Spring dealer.  Top Gun trained by Watkins.  That was fifteen years ago!  Wow!

I opened my store, Leisure Works, in 2001.  We have sold primarily Master Spas' family of products, as well as Tropitone casual furniture, pools, gazebos, saunas, and all the goodies that go with them.  I have a passion for the industry as a whole, and I will always lend a helping hand to those who are searching for knowledge.  Heck, I'm still learning too.

There is a good group of knowledgable folks on this board, and even though we may not always agree with each other, I am sure all of our goals are similiar.  Keep your customers happy by treating them with the respect, appreciation, and service they deserve.

www.PoolandSpaSale.com
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: AquaFinesse Canada on June 28, 2010, 11:43:28 am
AquaFinesse Canada

Hello my name is Shaun Casey and i am the Canadian national sales manager for AquaFinesse. I have been in the pool and spa business for over 15 years including senior management positions with Beachcomber, D1 and Hydropool. In my tenure I have also owned my own retail store.

I am lucky enough to be part of AquaFinesse in charge of sales in Canada.

Our product is distributed nationally by Capo Industries. If there are any questions or support i can offer retailer or consumer relative to our products i would be happy to answer them. Please PM me and i will email or call you directly with support.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Jacuzzi Calgary on October 10, 2010, 02:57:00 am
Hi All,

My name is Darren Jordison and although I don't visit this site very often, I think that sites like these can help the serious hot tub shopper and the hot tub enthusiast benefit from the experience and opinions of people who work and breathe and live the hot tub industry everyday.

I have been in the hot tub industry for over 10 years in Calgary, AB, I have been a top performer for Beachcomber Hot Tubs, HotSpring hot Tubs and now- Jacuzzi Hot Tubs (International Distributor of the Year 2009).

My goal is to raise the bar in the hot tub industry and to do the right thing for consumers.

I'm Here To Help!
Darren Jordison G.M.
Jacuzzi Premium Spas of Calgary
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Steve on November 16, 2010, 12:05:32 am
Ahhh my buddy Darren above!  ;D

I thought I'd re-type my intro since there has been many changes in my life. I joined this forum way back when as a salesperson for Beachcomber Hot Tubs in Edmonton. I worked there for over a decade and became one of Beachcombers top salepeople worldwide. I left after hitting the ceiling in 2004 and stayed within the industry for a number of years as a rep for Hydropool and another line out of western Canada. I started a business consulting company (which I still own) but have recently taken on the position of Manager for Beachcomber Edmonton after being away for over 6 years. It's good to be "home"!  Both here and Beachcomber! ;)

I'm not sure I'll be back spending as much time as I once did, but I'll do my best! Good to see many of my old friends still around here. I look forward to catching up with many of you very soon.

Steve
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: RobertB on January 05, 2011, 09:02:13 pm
Hi I am RobertB. I have been selling and servicing spas since 1994.
 
I used to post on her quite a bit in the late 90's.
 
Just started posting again and I have noticed that none of my old posts are here anymore. :'(

I guess it is ok since all of the topics are pretty much the same. ;)

I am not here to advertise my services. I am just here to help where I can.
Title: Feedback please – www.hottubs2u.co.uk
Post by: hottubs2u on January 20, 2011, 04:41:01 am
Hi there,

My name is Aymen – a sales manager in a company called Hot Tubs 2U , in which we offer various types of hot tubs and wooden fired hot tubs.

Your feedback is greatly appreciated and thank you in advance :).
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: TwinCitiesHotSpring on February 13, 2011, 03:23:53 pm
Hi There

My name is Eric and I work sales for Hot Spring Spas of the Twin Cities (MN), we sell Hot Spring, Limelight and Hot Spot Hot Tubs.  I have been in the pool & spa industry for approx. 11 years now and signed up for this forum so that I can use my knowledge to be of assistance to anyone with questions up in this neck of the woods.

Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: HotTubWorkscom on July 01, 2011, 04:36:59 pm
My Name is Jerry and I am part of the hottubworks.com  team which is a leading online hot tub supply company.  We do not sell hot tubs we only keep them happy and healthy.

We staff 7 full time techs for client support, we provide parts and supplies for end users, service companies, and retailers.

Personally I have been in the industry for over 15 years split between working for Sundance and HotTubWorks.com  

Our goal is simply to make hot tub ownership easy as affordable as possible.
Title: Re: Hot Tub industry professionals
Post by: pjohnston on July 23, 2011, 05:05:17 am
Hi Micah!

Hope you are doing well!

My name is Peter Johnston. I have been in the spa industry for well over a decade and knowledgeable about these products. If you are planning to buy a new hot tub or swim spa do not hesitate to contact me. I can be reach at pjohnston1970@gmail.com.

Respectfully,
Peter
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Spa_Tech on August 24, 2011, 01:50:10 am
After nearly six years of silence, I have returned.

Hello, my name is Craig and I still work in the spa industry.
We were first asked who the ^%#@! we were back on this post dated 2005. (http://www.whatsthebest-hottub.com/forum/index.php/topic,5884.msg68167.html#msg68167)

I conducted my independent spa repair business well after the housing market burst- but late in 2007 ended my run as an independent, unable to make ends meet. In April 2008, I relucantly took up housekeeping with Phoenix Spas as their service manager until their closing in January this year.

Yes- for those of you who are familiar with my previous postings about the company, I did work for them in the earnest hope that I could have some effect on both their product and reputation in the industry. Unfortunately, what I was able to accomplish was not sufficient enough to ensure the companies survival in an increasingly competitive market.

Today, I am rebuilding... in the same manner as the myth of the self-immolating bird, I will be resurrecting an vocation dead nearly three years.

I am happy to help with any questions regarding any product and pleased to render service for Phoenix Spas or any other product in my service territory in northern California. I do not retail any product and have no ties to any manufacturer.


Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Darnovi on August 26, 2011, 09:54:56 am
Hi,
My name is Darnell and I am a Factory Rep for Hawkeye and Barefoot Spas. I have been in the Spa industry for about 6 years and have traveled the country meeting quite a few dealers and service professionals.
This industry is a lot of fun and because of the constant challenge to create a better product it is never boring.The last 30 months has found me doing a lot of learning on the manufacturing end of the industry. So if you have questions I welcome them and will do my best to provide an answer.
There are quite a few well made spa on the market and a lot of the time it just comes down to being comfortable with who you are buying it from. You will never hear me knock another manufacturers product to make mine look better.
I look forward to perhaps getting to know a lot of you and learning from all! I can be reached at djones@hawkeyemfg.com
Also if you get the time visit barefootfitnessspas.com barefootspas.com hawkeyespas.com
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: MileHighSpaTech on October 13, 2011, 01:03:39 pm
My name is Ed Konarske, I own Everything Hot Tubz in Englewood Colorado and have been in the industry 11 years.  We are a hot tub service company who also sells refurbished hot tubs.

I had a customer doing research and told me this site was helpful so I figured I would join and maybe learn something or beable to help someone with problems or in making a decision.

Not selling new spas (anymore) but having sold almost all brands I hope I can bring a nonbiased view.  Feel free to email me at Ed@EverythingHotTubz.com or checkout our site at everythinghottubz.com. 
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Spacepuppy on October 18, 2011, 07:24:54 pm
Hello my name is James and I managed /sold Hot Spring, Tiger River, Hot Spot,Dynasty and Caldera spas for about 6 years about 6 years ago. I am no longer in the business but I do own a 97 Hotspring Jetsetter. I have also owned a Nordic spa which was a round hot tub with few ammenities but I loved it anyway. I have no axe to grind and my expierence is limited to my time in the pool and spa  business some 6 years ago.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Pools Plus Inc MI on February 10, 2012, 03:26:23 pm
Hello,

We are Pools Plus in Grand Rapids, MI. We have been in business since the early 70's. We sell Hot Spring and Sundance spas. We also sell In Ground vinyl and above ground pools. We have an e-commerce site for everyone to enjoy as well. We offer parts for all the brands of spas we carry as well as supplies for both pools & spas. WE are excited to be on the forum and hopefully we can help some consumers with their issues.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Sunplay on July 09, 2012, 03:40:39 pm
We are Sunplay Pools & Spas, been in the pool and spa industry since 1967, so we have been around for a while to say the least. We are retail and service provider in Utah and we also have an awesome online retail site sunplay.com.

We carry Caldera Spas and the newly acquired Freeflow Spas.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: The Cover Guy on August 01, 2012, 07:17:39 am
Hi I am Jay from thecoverguy.com I grew up in a pool and spa shop that my brother ran starting in 1979. We went all hot tubs in 1984 and since then I have sold, serviced, and moved countless hot tubs.

My start into specifically hot tub covers was In 1986 at a home show a customer walked up and I asked him if he had an interest in buying a hot tub and he said no he already had one, and at that time there were not many people that actually had a hot tub in our area, he then asked if I could get him a hot tub cover replacement for his hot tub because his 2" flat hot tub cover had been broken by someone sitting on it. I said Ok and I have been making and supplying hot tub covers ever since.

Title: Oklahoma City Selection of Hot Tubs
Post by: ssparay on August 16, 2012, 03:11:46 pm
Country Leisure is dedicated to manufacturing the highest quality spas and above ground pools. Oklahoma City pool shoppers will find a beautiful showroom and experts on hand to help you choose the perfect hot tub or above ground pool. We also offer fast, friendly and knowledgeable service on all Oklahoma hot tubs or pools—regardless of manufacturer. We proudly install our quality pools and hot tubs across Oklahoma.With our hot tubs, Oklahoma City shoppers have the ability to buy one of our expertly crafted ready made hot tubs or custom design one to your liking. We manufacture all of our spas and hot tubs onsite to provide you with the highest quality and best value. 

Adam works with Country Leisure— a manufacturer of above ground pools and hot tubs Oklahoma City depends on.  He writes about home improvement and home recreation trends.  More info can be found at countryleisuremfg.com
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Whirlpool Wes on September 06, 2012, 09:48:54 pm
Hello, my name is Wes. I am a store manager in Jacksonville, FL for Jacuzzi. I'll be the first to tell you that I'm not an expert on all the other brands, but I am a Jacuzzi expert. I believe in honesty and integrity with the right dealer being half the battle. I work off the premise that people like to buy and hate to be sold to. My team and I do not disparage the competitor in order to build up our own; I feel we don't have to. We do not sell the name "Jacuzzi"; we sell the history and innovation that the Jacuzzi name carries. This is a claim that no other brand can make. I am a water chemistry expert and thoroughly enjoy what I do knowing I can sleep at night because we helped someone relieve pain and stress without drugs. We follow up with our customers after the sale and I am proud to say that we make friends for life. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: PrecisionPoolMA on December 20, 2012, 08:51:13 pm
Hi guys,

New guy here to this forum and so far love what I see!

My name is Jay Broyer and I have been in the industry for the last 12 years. I started sweeping floors and opening pools for the largest Dimension 1 spa dealer in the north east when I was 16 years old and been doing it ever since.

I have a passion for the industry and have done everything from pool construction, service, and sales. I like to study advanced water chemistry in order to better serve my customers and feel I can assist on this forum in that sense.

My service background on multiple manufacturers should also lend to help in spa troubleshooting.

My brother and his business partner went on their own back in 2006 and I followed to help open our first store.

We started with Bullfrog Spas (love them)

we also have sold Great Lakes (ehh)

This past year we decided to take a chance on Coleman Spas made by Cal through poolcorp our main distributor. We are a smal dealer whose main biz is pool construction so buying from our main supplier had some benefits.

We were really not pleased with the distribution model and have recently struck a deal with Marquis Spas and I could not be happier.

The new spas show up next week and really looking forward to setting them up on the sales floor.

I also do some freelance web development on the side.

I hope to contribute to this forum as much as I can and I look forward to meeting other industry professionals and helping spa owners here.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Wizard on January 25, 2013, 03:46:50 pm
Hello everyone,

My name is Lance Fitzsimmons and I have been in this business since 1984. I have been involved in all phases of aquatics and specialize in water quality and efficiency. In the last 28 years I have worked on everything from a backyard spa to facilities over a million gallons.

In 1994 I became the original R&D for a new startup, Acu-Trol which was purchased by Pentair several years ago.

I have a lot of experience in chemical automation and have tested numerous ORP/pH systems which gives me a unique understanding about cause and effect when it comes to water chemistry.

After applying my commercial experience to hot tubs I was referred to as The Hot Tub Wizard as I took people's problem tubs and made them into easy to maintain, enjoyable spas.

Yes, I do things a little differently then most but the methods I employ are simple and have never let me down.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals
Post by: SpaExpress on September 14, 2013, 07:19:20 pm
Hello Community,

My name is Derek Baum, owner of Spa Express in Cotati, CA. I've been in the Hot Tub business for over 25 years doing full sales, service, and supplies for the Sonoma and Marin counties. I mainly focus on L.A. Spas, Nordic, Clearwater, and used Hot Tubs. We do service calls throughout the two counties. My business is small, I know my customers well, keep my prices low, and I'm glad to be the local hot tub guy for as long as I have!

 
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Hot Spring Official on November 15, 2013, 04:37:04 pm
Good afternoon, everyone!

As it relates to our products, Hot Spring is here and we are excited to contribute to the great conversations in this forum!  We will do our best to be a technical resource directly within your posts but may occasionally refer your questions/comments to a dealer or our Customer Service line for more in depth follow up.

Happy Hot Tubbing!

Thanks,
Steve
---Hot Spring Spas---
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Ryan VSO on January 03, 2014, 12:12:17 am
Hi everyone ,


My name is Ryan and I am the managing director for the North American division of Vortex Spas . We are the biggest spa retailer in Australia and New Zealand with over 60 dealers . We are famous for our double loungers and our swim spa. That being said , we started  our integration in the North American Market 5 years ago in Quebec city , Canada and  I am in charge of developping the product to meet the north american standard. Our mission is simple , we want to offer a product that compete the well-known and well-established brands at a much better price by dealing directly with the custumers . For that we have to combine service , shipping logistic and a good quality product that people like and enjoy and even if we are not perfect I think we have pulled it off so far .

If you need any informations regarding our product or you just want to talk about spas you can contact me at info@vortexspas.ca

If you are a custumer and doesnt have a vortex dealer in your area , it does mean that you are elligible for the online.

best regards ,


Ryan
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: LukeHSS on April 04, 2014, 03:20:30 pm
My name is Luke Bednar. I currently work for Hanson HotSpring Spas here in Colorado Springs. I started this job as a service technician learning the ropes. Then progressed into sales. For the past two years I have sold HotSprings, Tiger River, HotSpot, Limelight and Fantasy spas. I enjoy going to work everyday for my employer and could not ask for a more rewarding job.

Overall I have noticed that the general perception of "spas" is somewhat negative. I would like to take that and flip it 180 degrees so more people can enjoy the benefits of "hot water"! By taking the time to inform my customer how to properly care for their tubs and their water, we can all enjoy the fruits of our labor. So I would be happy to help any person on this forum regardless of what brand of tub they own. Let's work together to get people back in their spas!
Title: Re: Industry Professionals
Post by: CHTR on April 09, 2014, 06:54:07 pm
My name is Lorenz Plourde and I have been in the Hot Tub Industry since 2005. I have provided technical and warranty services to consumers, dealers & distributors. This included creating policies and procedures to manage warranty returns, creating technical publications and ongoing dealer training.

Activities also included demonstrations at trade shows, assisting with marketing activities and website management. From 2005 - 2009 I worked at Pacific Spas, and then went on to work with H20 Spas, Hydropool Hot Tubs, Crystal waters Spas, Aruba Spas and CanSpa.

I currently source manufacturers for retailers and retailers for customers to promote the Canadian Hot Tub Industry and Canadian hot tub retailers. I publish a quarterly newsletter which reaches 500 hundred Canadian Hot Tub Retailers covering "What's New", informative articles and B2B opportunities. I can be reached at info@canadianhottubretailer.com
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: will on November 07, 2014, 06:06:41 am
Yo guys - I'm not sure how many of you are in the portable/inflatable hot tub niche, but I recently got involved in the portable hot tub niche since I actually tried to buy one online myself and couldn't find a good site that sells them other than big box stores, which I hate - so I started my own online store.

Recently launched is PortableHotTubUniverse.com - selling inflatable hot tubs.

For the most part, our prices are the same as big box stores that sell the same brands, but we offer free accessory gifts and exclusive coupons.

-Will
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Rotten1965 on December 24, 2014, 05:36:28 pm
Hello,

My name is Jim (Rotten is a nickname given to me by a bandmate for my love of Sex Pistols Frontman Johnny Rotten!) and I have been in the Pool and Spa industry for over a decade. I have worked in just about every area of the Hot Tub/Pool industry from Delivery/Warehouse Manager, Retail Sales, Lab/Water Tech and Store Management. I have the pleasure of working with the best selling brand of Spas in the industry which are made by Watkins Manufacturing. Hot Spring Highlife & Limelight series spas, Caldera spas, Hot Spot and Freeflow. My company is Lifestyles Hot Tubs and is based here in Southeastern Michigan and we have a 50,000 square foot Warehouse located in Fenton Michigan that is home to our delivery team/service techs and also houses our corprate offices. We have 8 retail locations that are in Ann Arbor, Burton, Flint, Lansing, Novi, Rochester, Saginaw and Utica. We have been in business for over 30 years and have carried Watkins made spas the entire time. I am part of the management team and enjoy talking with customers and fellow sales people about the spa industry. My goal is to give our customers the best experience and information to guide them through the buying process. I have a team of experts that enjoy providing our customers with everything they need to know so the buying/ownership part goes as smooth as possible! Please feel free to ask me about any part of buying/owning a hot tub and I will do my best to get you the correct information! I am looking forward to helping anyone who visits this site. I check in several times a day and try to respond to questions/messages asap! Happy Hot Tubbing!
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: SunbeltUK on September 23, 2015, 08:22:09 am
An announcement from Sunbelt Spas UK

To all existing customers and owners of Sunbelt Spas.

We are pleased to announce that Sunbelt Spas UK is now distributing the Sunbelt Spa series of leisure and swim spas right here in the UK. As a business we are committed to providing high quality spa products, which are supported by a genuine and conscientious after-sales support service, and over the next few months we will be developing our network of dealerships located throughout the UK to provide a convenient Sunbelt Spa professional in your area.

Furthermore, we are pleased to announce that our new hot tub and spa showroom will be opening very shortly at our UK headquarters in York, North Yorkshire. The showroom will offer an ideal opportunity to view and 'wet test' our spa ranges, as well as speak to staff members who will be able to answer any questions that you may have.

The official website for Sunbelt Spas UK is live and can be found at sunbeltspas.co.uk, where you can find details about our full range of products as well as being able to purchase our official Sunbelt Spa accessories directly from the manufacturer.

This announcement is to notify existing Sunbelt Spa customers that we have a new headquarters here in the UK and to keep our valued customers up to date with our exciting developments.

If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us via our website.

Kind Regards

Sunbelt Spas UK
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: karen8007 on July 26, 2016, 08:20:51 pm
Hi

My name is Karen and we actually hire hot tubs at besthottubhireliverpool
I've had a little look around the forum and I must say that it looks like a good, friendly resource with some great information.
I'm looking forward to pitching in whenever I can.  I'm in the know regarding most tubs used in the UK.  I'm also pretty good with marketing, so any questions or help I can give - just give me a shout.
Thanks :D
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: spalover on October 14, 2016, 12:40:15 pm
Hi folks

My name is Mike and for 6+ years I've been the owner of Hot Tub Cover Depot. We work directly with a factory in Florida to make replacement spa covers, and I do all the website maintenance, writing, and much of the customer service as well. We pride ourselves in good customer service, and offering a product that's made here in the USA, by hand, and shipped for free.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: JohnPools on August 29, 2017, 09:23:11 am
Hi
My Name is John
I have been engaged in the construction of swimming pools for more than 15 years!
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: htocanada on March 06, 2019, 11:39:55 am
Hey everyone! My name's Dan - I'm part of the team that recently launched the "Hot Tub Outfitters" website. Everyone on our team has several years experience in hot tub and swimspa sales and service and we wanted to provide an easy way for customers to order parts and chemicals to their home.

This forum is great and I've enjoyed perusing it - lots of great information!

Currently we are only shipping within Canada - we will expand to the US at some point in the future. Let me know if you have any feedback! Would love to hear what you think.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals
Post by: Paultubs on June 25, 2019, 05:23:00 am
Hi All,

My name is Paul. I own a Hot Tub Covers company in the UK. I just came across the forum which I know has a heavy US audience but wanted to make sure if anyone in the UK needs any help we can be of assistance if possible. (also willing to help anyone else if we can).

Thanks for your time

Paul
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: jmack on August 19, 2020, 03:55:23 pm
Hello, Im Jason. I run a Hot Spring dealership in NC for about 5 years now. Thats about it.
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: tornaratz76 on March 11, 2021, 07:52:48 am
I am Tornara, owner of Mazuzue and Hot Tubs, located in Sanford, Florida-a lovely area.  Our 5th year in operation.  We sell the full lineup of Maax products, California Cooperages, Coleman Performance Spas, and Maxims.  That is it.........
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: vippoolsandspas on March 18, 2021, 08:17:56 pm
In business for over 25 years in Ontario, CANADA.   
Title: Re: Industry Professionals (please read message 1 before posting (no replies)
Post by: Jentiferr on August 07, 2023, 10:24:56 pm
I'm Jentiferr, and it's a pleasure to connect with you all here. My store is located at 41 Logistics Blvd, Suite A-2, Walton, KY 41094. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, feel free to reach out to me via phone at 626-747-4567.

At our store, we specialize in providing high-quality products for pools, hot tubs, and spas, including a wide range of chlorine tablets and granules. Our prices are competitive, and for instance, you can get 80 lbs of chlorine tablets for just $263. We are committed to offering you various options that enhance your swimming pool and spa experience, ensuring clear and sanitary water quality. If you're interested in our products or have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me. Looking forward to providing you with excellent service and products!