The Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada’s (PHTCC’s) Toronto Chapter ratified its 2016 board of directors during its annual general meeting (AGM) where it was also announced the chapter will continue several of its programs that were introduced last year.
Held at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto on Nov. 23, attending members unanimously approved the appointment of its new executive board, which comprises Darren Hill (Pentair Aquatic Systems), president; Dave Warren (Total Tech Pools & Leisure), past-president; Nicole Vander Geest (Northeastern Swimming Pool Distributors), vice-president; and David Simek (Lawrason’s Inc.), treasurer. The directors include: Jason Mitchell (Pool Craft); Nicole Robinson (Zodiac Pool Systems Canada Inc.); Michael Di Nardo (Oracle RMS) and the newly elected directors Randy Nemez (Rheem Canada Ltd.) and Rob Kamstra (Backyard Brands).
Mette Yellowlees, Toronto chapter manager, said the chapter had a great year with money heavily invested in the PHTCC’s certification training program—covering basic and advanced courses—which were held at Humber College. Industry promotion was also at the forefront with an expanded media campaign, which included four billboard advertisements across the GTA (from April 20 to July 20), along with a radio commercial on 680 News, which comprised 30 weekly broadcasts between April 27 and May 17.
One billboard campaign promoted, “Traffic vs. Tranquility” and its accompanying website (www.nocottagecommute.ca), designed to promote the backyard oasis, and linked visitors to the PHTCC’s national membership search, while another billboard campaign, in conjunction with the radio commercial, endorsed the message “Why Hire a Member,” which highlighted the importance of dealing with a PHTCC member.
The Toronto chapter is again investing $20,000 into marketing and promotion in 2016. This includes continuing the billboard campaign next spring/summer as well as the radio broadcasts targeting the Toronto market. Education will continue to be a focal point next year with plans for basic and advanced training sessions to take place in March. These programs will support the PHTCC’s recently introduced certification program.
During the meeting, the board of directors also debated venues for the annual golf tournament, the chapter’s top money-making social event, as well as the third ‘Family Winter Fun Day’ held at Horseshoe Resort in Barrie, Ont. Other social events similar to last year’s 5K ‘Fun Run’ is also being considered for 2016.
The Toronto chapter encourages more participation from its members, and welcomes feedback and suggestions on new and current initiatives.
