As we close out one year and begin the next, it’s a good time to reflect on where our industry has been and where it’s headed. This issue of SpaRetailer does just that — celebrating the pioneers who built the hot tub category, spotlighting the retailers carrying it forward and, of course, the innovations shaping what’s to come.
One of my favorite parts of this issue is revisiting the Jacuzzi family story as part of our ongoing series highlighting the 2025 Hot Tub Hall of Fame inductees. As you may know, I love learning about the history of our industry (look no further than part two of our series on the history of swim spas), so researching this famous family was a fun endeavor.
We also get to celebrate today’s leaders in our annual Retail Stars feature. Every year, I’m inspired by the passion and resilience these retailers bring to their businesses. From family-run shops with decades of history to entrepreneurs pushing into new markets, they prove putting people first is what keeps this industry thriving.
Take some time to learn about the PHTA’s new Center of Excellence, too. It is an exciting step in giving our industry the tools we need to stay competitive and prepare the next generation of hot tub pros. And while you’re at it, I also encourage you to become a PHTA/IHTA member. The Center of Excellence is just one part of what the organization is doing for and on behalf of our industry and deserves your support.
As always, thank you for being part of this community and sharing your stories with us. I can’t wait to see what the new year brings for all of us.
Best,
Megan
megan@kendrickcontent.com