Canada’s pool industry grows for third straight year

The lone bright spot for British Columbia, which had an increase in pool installations in 2019, was Abbotsford-Mission. Last year, this CMA reported a 50 per cent year-over-year increase in permit registrations. It is also this region’s second consecutive year of growth.

In a year-over-year comparison, this region, as a whole, was down during the first six months of 2019 by 8.7 per cent; and again between July and December by 24.4 per cent. Overall, the province experienced an 8.5 per cent increase in pool installations in 2019, down 18 per cent over the year prior.

British Columbia represents 5.5 per cent of the total number of pool permits issued in the country’s CMAs, which is up by 0.5 per cent year-over-year.

Looking upwards

In 2019, growth in the industry, as measured by the permits for residential pools, was positive—not just in a year-over-year comparison, but also when looking back at the past 25 years. There will always be concern about discretionary spending by homeowners and whether the economy is ‘booming’ or ‘sagging.’ That said, those who have the money and have planned to install a pool will get one… it is the weather that will determine their decision as to when it will happen.

The outlook for 2020 is optimistic as many builders have reported positively about their ability to line up new customers for the coming spring.

Another positive sign is the country’s index of consumer confidence, which rose 12 points in January and another 6.5 points in February. The index is now at its highest level since July 2019.

Finally, amid the current travel issues—whether for business or pleasure—as a result of concerns over, coronavirus (COVID-19), many people may be more inclined to stay home and spend what discretionary income they have on a backyard renovation project that includes a pool, hot tub, and landscaping to create their own ‘staycation.’ That said, an early spring will give the industry a good head start, while a great summer will increase the chances for the industry to have a fourth consecutive year of pool permit growth.

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