The inaugural Southeast Pool & Spa Show comes to the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta Jan. 29 to Feb. 1.
The event will provide regional industry members with a much-needed opportunity for face-to-face meetings between buyers and manufacturers, as well as quality education and the chance to see new products, according to Guy Larsen, show president.
The organizers, who also own the Mid-America Pool & Spa Show, anticipate more than 125 booths in the 36,000-square-foot exhibit hall. Show Manager Jocelyn Young said exhibitor sign-ups have been brisk, and “we’ve been pleased at the support from manufacturers.” At least 1,200 show-goers are expected.
Kicking off the educational offerings is the Atlanta Retail Store Tour on Jan. 30, led by Penny Johnson of Johnson Pools & Spas, and April Neilsen of Arch Chemicals. The $65 fee covers the classroom session, followed by a visit to several local stores. The Manufacturer Training Day also is Monday.
The 16-seminar track on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings offers technical and business courses such as water chemistry, pool remodeling, VGB Act updates, effective use of social media and selling high-end vinyl pools. The seminar pass is $40.
Three APSP Tech classes are scheduled between Jan. 29 and Feb. 1: Certified Maintenance Specialist, Certified Hot Tub Technician and Certified Service Technician.
On Tuesday, three free events for attendees and exhibitors are slated at the Cobb Galleria, starting with keynote speaker Vance Gillette of Zodiac Pool Systems. His talk is titled, “All about The Consumer Experience: Changing Our Pool Industry’s Focus” at 5-5:45 p.m. Then there’s the welcome reception, 5:45-7 p.m., and party with music by Beatles tribute band, The Return, 7-9 p.m.
For information on fees and registration, visit www.southeastshow.com.
