IPSPE Honored in Fastest 50 Awards
The 2012 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo recently was recognized with two Fastest 50 Awards by Trade Show Executive magazine. TSE selected the top 50 performers in net square feet of exhibit space, number of exhibiting companies and attendance. Events were judged on the percentage of growth in each of the three metrics.
With 155,500 square feet and 549 companies, IPSPE was honored for net square feet of exhibit space and number of exhibiting companies. The Expo also was mentioned, according to TSE, as a well-known brand that is big enough to be a fixture on the TSE Gold 100 roster of largest U.S. trade shows.
“We are honored to be selected from more than 4,000 trade shows held in the United States during 2012,” said Lindsay Roberts, group director at Hanley Wood Exhibitions. “It is truly a thrill to receive such prestigious recognition, which we share with our exhibiting manufacturers, professional attendees, APSP, Pool & Spa News and Genesis 3, all of which make the show a success.”
Excitement is already building for the 2013 Expo, which returns to Las Vegas on Nov. 12-14, 2013, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. The educational conference will be held Nov. 9-14. For more information, go to www.poolspapatio.com. Hanley Wood, LLC, is the parent company of IPSPE, Hanley Wood Exhibitions and this magazine.
RB Control Systems Recognized for Growth
The Pittsburgh Business Times has named software company RB Control Systems among the top 100 fastest-growing companies in Pittsburgh for 2012. Ranking was based on revenue growth between 2009–2011.
“Our customers are the No. 1 reason for our business’ continued success and we would like to thank them,” said Rachael Pritz, executive director of RB Control Systems. The company specializes in business management and point-of-sale software designed specifically for the pool and spa industry.
Aquamatic Sponsors Student
Aquamatic Cover Systems recently provided a grant enabling Jonathan MacClanathan of Palos Verdes Estates, Calif., to attend seminars held by Artistic Resources & Training.
“We’ve always been committed to education,” said Tom Dankel, vice president of Aquamatic. “It’s really the only way to elevate the level of skill and professionalism within our industry and ensure a prosperous future.” Gilroy, Calif.-based Aquamatic is a manufacturer of swimming pool covers.
Merlin Launches Liner Program
Merlin Industries has announced the launch of its 2013 Hurricane Sandy Relief Liner Program. Three of the eight new vinyl-liner patterns Merlin added for 2013 have been designated “Hurricane Sandy Relief Patterns,” and named after communities hit by the storm — Atlantic City, Breezy Point and Seaside. For each “Sandy” liner sold through June 30, 2013, Merlin will donate $10 to the American Red Cross: Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund.
In addition, Merlin’s primary vinyl suppliers — O’Sullivan Films, i2M and Canadian General-Tower Ltd. — will match Merlin’s donation of $10, for a total donation of $20 per “Sandy” liner sold. Merlin expects strong participation from distributors and dealers as well.
“Being from New Jersey, we at Merlin experienced the storm firsthand and have seen the tremendous effect it has had on our customers, our employees and our friends,” said Andrew Maggion, company president. “We want to show our continued support, and provide an opportunity for those connected with us to do the same during the long and difficult aftermath of this disaster.”
Merlin Industries is a manufacturer of pool safety covers, vinyl liners, spa covers, aqua staircases and safety fencing. Currently, the firm operates out of three facilities in Hamilton, N.J.; Deer Park, N.Y.; and Atlanta.