In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Megan Kendrick interviews Fred Bachmann, owner of Bachmann’s Pools, Spas and Saunas in Wisconsin. They discuss Fred’s journey from a building contractor to a prominent figure in the hot tub industry. Fred delves into his early challenges, including renovating his showrooms during COVID and acquiring a failing business, which eventual turned out to be beneficial. Fred also shares insights into how aggressive marketing, top-notch service, and rigorous staff training have driven the store’s continued growth. Winning the Locksin Thompson Award affirmed their success. Additionally, Fred highlights his interest in cold plunge products and ambitious plans for his business’s future.
Show Notes with Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:13 Showroom Success and Awards
01:44 Store Renovations During COVID
02:22 Fred’s Background and Entry into the Hot Tub Industry
03:37 Early Business Challenges and Growth
09:46 Marketing Strategies and Turning Points
12:51 Expansion and Real Estate Investments
15:25 Navigating the 2008 Recession
16:23 COVID-19 Impact and Adaptations
23:48 Post-COVID Growth and Future Outlook
27:50 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges
28:27 The Impact of Tariffs on Pricing
30:02 Consumer Demand for Hot Tubs
30:18 Marketing Strategies and Industry Trends
32:06 The Rise of Cold Plunges
37:48 Training and Development
40:05 Future Business Plans
41:30 Winning the Locksin and Thompson Award
43:18 Personal Reflections and Insights
50:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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