Since rebounding from a two-year decrease in hot tub production between 2008 and 2009, Canadian manufacturing numbers have remained stable, but relatively flat since 2010.
According to Chris Robinson, sheet business manager for Lucite International, an acrylic-sheet manufacturer in Cordova, Tenn., hot tub sales were off to a good start early in 2012 thanks to the mild short winter, although this also meant retail outlets that also design/build swimming pools were able to start their pool projects earlier.
“Weather always plays a factor,” said Robinson. “As a result of the mild weather the hot tub market stalled in the second quarter and the extremely hot summer didn’t do the industry any favours either.”
In terms of sales, retailers are still finding mid-range hot tubs to be the most popular, while they are also starting to see increased growth in high-end hot tub market.
In order to spark new life into the hot tub industry, manufacturers need to look for other viable ways to connect with the consumer rather than through untraditional outlets such as road shows, auction sales, and discount warehouses, which those in the industry say do more harm than good with respect to building strong consumer relationships.
Watch for the June issue of Pool & Spa Marketing for a complete report on the state of the hot tub industry.
