The largest pool supply store chain in the United States has expanded into Pittsburgh by way of acquisition.
Phoenix-based Leslie’s Poolmart Inc. took over the assets of Valley Pool & Spa, which has five locations in greater Pittsburgh, with a sixth set to open March 2.
“Leslie’s is a leading retailer in the industry, and after we learned more about it, we realized their people and their business was a great fit,” said Corinne Kraft, who had owned Valley Pool since 1987.
She cited the chain’s substantial resources as a benefit to the operation. “Leslie’s offers a great future full of opportunities for everyone who works here, and they offer a lot more than I ever could provide on my own,” Kraft said.
Kraft will remain as vice president of western Pennsylvania and business development. As such, she will continue to operate the store and will focus on growing the company’ in that region.
She invites this new phase in her career. “The idea of the expansion and growth is very exciting,” she said. “Moving forward I think it’s going to be an all-around great experience.”
Valley Pool & Spa, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, will retain its brand, Kraft said, and Leslie’s expects to keep 100% of the staff.
While the company primarily grows organically, acquisitions do not deviate from the Leslie’s playbook. In 2013, the firm acquired Warehouse Pools, a South Texas retail chain that includes 24 retail stores. That same year, it also bought the e-commerce retailer Pool Supply World. In 2011 it purchased Phoenix-based Commercial Pool Supply Company.
Leslie’s has more than 900 stores in 35 states and nearly 4,500 associates during the swimming pool season.
