International Hot Tub Association aligns under APSP

by MODE, ignore | November 28, 2013 3:22 pm

In an effort to strengthen the portable hot tub industry, the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) and the International Hot Tub Association (IHTA) have joined forces.

The board of directors of both organizations unanimously voted to work as a single entity to speak to the industry with one voice on all technical and governmental issues related to hot tubs. The agreement calls for combined financial resources to gain operating efficiencies and membership.

To facilitate the transition, the APSP Hot Tub Council will be dissolved and replaced with a new entity to be known as the IHTA under APSP. The existing boards of both associations will agree on a new strategic leadership team, comprising seven to nine members will be formed to govern the affairs of the hot water segment, inclusing advocacy, research, and promotion.

“The agreement between APSP and IHTA means the full force of legislative, regulatory, and promotion activities are unified, targeted, and efficient giving manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and others involved in the hot tub business the opportunity to be more profitable while preserving the appeal of hot tubs as a viable and attractive product,” said APSP CEO and president, Rich Gottwald. “We welcome IHTA members with open arms and look forward to jointly advocating and promoting hot tubs.”

Bob Lauter, IHTA president, explained IHTA members will now become APSP members and will be entitled to the same benefits.

“IHTA members will receive information in the next few months about renewing under the new arrangement,” he added. “Both organizations realize there is strength in numbers and we are ready to speak with one voice on important issues that impact hot tubs.”

Source URL: https://www.poolspamarketing.com/trade/international-hot-tub-association-aligns-under-apsp/