From challenge to opportunity
Moving the traditional in-store water testing system to a mobile service might have gained traction from the pandemic, but it is also alleviating the typical bottleneck and stress common for pool and spa businesses. By embracing mobile technology, businesses like Underwater Pool Masters and All Seasons Pools and Spas are providing better customer service, distinguishing themselves from their competitors, and saving information in their databases for future sales and revenue opportunities.
“We already have our promotional materials complete and have started mailing postcards to customers who only came in to test water and are not using our pool service,” says Lenz. “We’re already adding new clients to our service department and couldn’t be more pleased.”
White was delighted to find his program was popular among new pool owners, to ensure they maintained proper chemical levels throughout their first year.
“With all the new pools installed this season, our customer base increased dramatically, but this program has already helped us gain customer loyalty among this new group of pool owners—a group we hope will continue to use the ‘Poolside Chemist’,” he says.
In their early adoption, mobile water testing programs have proven to be beneficial for pool and spa retailers and their customers amid the pandemic. These types of services are sure to remain popular moving forward, with or without social distancing guidelines.
Rachael Pritz is the vice-president of RB Retail & Service Solutions. She has been active in the pool industry for more than 20 years, which has provided her with an all-encompassing expertise in the trade. Pritz worked at a local pool store while pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh, Pa. With her technical skills and industry knowledge, she joined the launch of RB Retail & Service Solutions in Pittsburgh in 2003. She can be reached via email at rachael@rbcontrolsystems.com.
