Bob Lauter, CEO of Master Spas, recently was inducted into the Greater Fort Wayne Business Hall of Fame at the Junior Achievement Business Education Leadership Awards. Established in 1984, the Business Hall of Fame recognizes the giants of business and industry for their outstanding contribution to their industry, business and community.
“I’m honored to be recognized by such an inspiring organization and to be included alongside some of the very best business leaders in our community,” said Lauter. “I believe the work that Junior Achievement does to foster the next generation of entrepreneurs is incredibly impactful, so to be honored by them is really special.”
In 1996, Lauter led the group that acquired the spa division of Fort Wayne Pools and launched Master Spas. The company became known for incorporating waterline fiber-optic lighting in its spas, designing its Spa Theater System, and introducing the Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas,
In addition to his work in the hot tub industry, Lauter was lauded for his company's commitment to the community and charitable efforts. In Fort Wayne, Master Spas supports local youth through numerous programs with The Crossing, a business school focused on helping at-risk youth, and an internship program for local high school graduates and college students. In 2010, Master Spas started the NAZ Project to fund an elementary school building in Jamaica for the NAZ Children’s Centre. The company now is funding the development of a high school on the same campus.
“Bob Lauter exemplifies the attributes of a true entrepreneur. He was willing to take a risk, and through innovation, perseverance and hard work, built an amazingly successful business," said Lena Yarian, president of Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana. "... At the same time, he has made it a priority to give back to youth by working with his dealers to help build a new elementary school in Jamaica.”
