First of all, talking about things that are eye-catching, let me welcome you to our new-look newsletter. I hope that you like it.

It reflects the branding of our website but it’s designed to make it easier for you to spot which things we are sharing that are of interest to you. It might be an ‘Andy’s Answers’ style video either on a new product or one you might already be familiar with. It might be a link to new product information or news about an improvement or an upgrade to an existing product line.

We’ll share the stories of installations and builds that we are particularly proud to have been involved in and we’ll share some of the stories about what goes on behind the scenes at #TeamGC. And, of course, you’ll get some thoughts and opinions and ideas from me.

So what did catch my eye and indeed, what was I looking at?

Because we are a distributor, because we build relationships with both suppliers and dealers, I usually have a good feel for how our industry has performed over the year just gone. Has it been good or challenging? What are the hot trends?

But it’s nice to have that picture coloured in with some quotes and comments and I like to have it backed up with statistics so, when my copy arrives, I make a cup of tea and settle down to read the Wet Leisure Survey Report from cover to cover.

There were a few things that I thought stood out.

It comes as no surprise that saving energy – and therefore saving money – is up at the top of the list for most of the industry’s customers. Whether it is specifying a new installation or refurbishing an existing pool, technology that is energy efficient is the technology that’s in demand.

Its a trend we’ve seen at Golden Coast. The highly efficient Speck pumps are very popular and particularly now that the BADU EasyFit is compatible with just about any existing pipework.

One of the most important areas to look at when trying to reduce energy consumption is in heating and Dura heat pumps made by Propulsion Systems are available in a wide range of options. There is so much choice in fact that we’d recommend you speak to our #TeamGC heat pump expert, Simon, and get his advice on exactly the right model for your particular project.

Obviously one of the things the Survey pointed up was that everyone is still unsure about what impact Brexit will have on our industry but people didn’t seem overly stressed about it.

Perhaps they are following another industry trend and relaxing in the sauna?

Sauna and steam continue to be growth areas and, from our perspective, that’s certainly helped by the Harmony sauna range from TylöHelo that allows you to design a bespoke sauna from a range of standard panels and parts.

In fact, on Feb 26th we are running a CPD accredited Sauna and Steam course. Designed to give you a sound introduction into the technical aspects of carrying out professional sauna and steam room installations, the course will also help you plan your projects to maximise profits whilst ensuring satisfied customers.

For more details about the course – worth 5 CPD points – and how to book, call SPATA on 01264 356 210 or follow this link here

I wish you well and if there is any way we can help you and your business, please just ask.