By Jason Cramp
Unlike other swimming pool and hot tub trade shows held in 2009, the Canadian Pool & Spa Conference & Expo showed appreciable gains, indicating a positive direction in 2010.
According to trade show manager, Richard Hubbard, the Canadian show managed to increase its number of exhibitors by nine per cent over last year, during a time when other industry shows experienced significant losses.
“Pre-registration was up and walk-in registration was equal to last year, despite the uncertainty of the weather on both days of the show,” says Hubbard. Registration was also up by 13 per cent, with 2,162 people attending up compared to 1,913 the year prior. A bulk of the registrations came from 417 individual builder/dealer/retailers and service/landscape companies.
The number of exhibitors was also up, increasing to 143 companies, compared to 129 in 2008.
According to first-time exhibitor David Martin of Dundalk Enterprises, a manufacturer of cedar-barrel saunas in Dundalk, Ont., the show was a hit.
“It looks like (the show) was a great success for us and well worth the money. We will certainly be back next year.”
Severeal popular features remained, including the customary pipe band performance during the show opening and the complimentary buffet lunch held in the middle of the exhibit hall. This allowed attendees and exhibitors to stay on the show floor close to the action. Other features included a special area displaying residential and commercial new products, as well as a new ‘Green Products Area,’ where eco-friendly pool and hot tub products were showcased.
