Representing two industries and preceded by a pre-conference program sponsored by several industry partners, the International Pool Spa Patio co-located with Deck Expo descended on Dallas last month.
According to Dallas-based show organizer Informa, more than 9,000 professionals registered for the show, which took place Nov. 12-14. More than 450 manufacturers and suppliers exhibited, the organization said.
The educational slate included a robust selection of sessions held on the show floor, covering both pool/spa and deck issues. Away from the show floor, hours of the conference were expanded to allow time for more sessions.
Keynote speakers were scheduled to kick off the first two days. One of them, featuring a panel addressing economic conditions impacting business, was among the most well-attended, said Marcos Suarez, spokesperson for Informa.
Much of the program qualified for continuing education units. “As the industry evolves and market dynamics shift, it is crucial to emphasize the vested benefit of ongoing education and certifications offered by industry leaders, ensuring continued advancements in safety, efficiency and quality,” said Show Director Kris Osterbusch.
Floor highlights included the annual Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge. For this contest, entrants design a backyard, driveway area, pools and water elements for a hypothetical client and site. This year, the grand prize went to Moses Campos, a design consultant with Claffey Pools, of Southlake Texas, who won a $10,000 prize. The second-prize-winning duo of Kyle Polaski and Hali Mauldin received $3,000; at third, Jason Calderia received $1,250; fourth-place winner Jill Devendorf earned $750; and fifth-place winner Ned Druart won $500.
This year’s show also saw the debut of a pre-show conference by industry podcaster and educational provider Pool Nation. “It worked really well for Pool Nation, because a lot of times it’s hard for service techs to get away during the week. So with it starting on the weekend, they had a really good turnout,” said Conference Manager Krissy Adams.
Next year’s International Pool | Spa | Patio/Deck Expo will take place earlier than usual, so it will not conflict with November’s Formula One event. Set in Las Vegas, it is scheduled for Oct. 22-24, 2025, with the pre-conference running Oct. 19 to 21. Again, it will be co-located with Deck Expo.
