News Release: 16th May 2003
INCREASINGDEMAND FOR SPAS AND HOT TUBS PROMPTS FORMATION OF WATCHDOG
Around three million of us already have aspa or hot tub, and the number is increasing rapidly, as its a perfect way tounwind after a hard days work. Becauseof this, the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF) is striving to educate andprotect the public against hazards that may arise from poorly maintaineddemonstration spas and hot tubs, through its recently formed association knownas BISHTA (British & Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association).
Allen Brobyn, Managing Director of BISHTA,comments: BISHTA has two clear objectives, as the demand for spas and hot tubsis increasing:
To ensure that all outlets served by themhave staff members properly trained by BISHTA-approved personnel in basic waterhygiene and treatment, and adopt procedures for regular testing and recordingof water quality on their sites.Product displays will carry the BISHTA logo to show staff have beentrained to BISHTA showroom standards.
All our members operate under strict standards forthe operation and maintenance of self-contained spas and hot tubs.
Until relatively recently, the domestic spa wasthought of as essentially a bathroom product, and of course the entire unit canbe permanently fixed and plumbed in the bathroom. In fact, there is a wide selection of spas designed specificallyfor this purpose. However, there is now a much wider perception of the hot tubas an outdoor product and again, there is a huge choice of products for thepatio or garden.
The beneficial effects of spa bathing have been known about forcenturies. Medical evidence suggeststhat it can reduce blood pressure and improve circulation, it eases jointinflammation, and there is even evidence that the massaging waters can helpreduce cellulite.
With prices starting at around 2,500 (excluding VAT)for a small domestic hot tub, there are products to suit most pockets, and thehot tub, though luxurious, is no longer perceived as luxury expenditure.
Spas and hot tubs have a major appeal to the family market, being seen asa great social plus for all the family the perfect way to wind down at theend of the day. So its no surprisethat there are high sales of family-sized products at the value end of themarket and the added attraction is that they are very economical to run.
There are many options and many price levels,dependent on the degree of luxury required and there are constantdevelopments, with additional features being added all the time.
Some cowboy companies have been springing up overnight, selling cheapspas direct from the forecourt and then disappearing, leaving the customer highand dry if something goes wrong. Suchcompanies do not necessarily give the right attention to care of the spa andhot tub water. Looking after a spa andhot tub is easy but customers need proper advice at the outset.
Phone BISHTAs advice line on 01264 356210, for details of manufacturersand distributors of spas and hot tubs and of local retailers/installers.
-ENDS-
For further press information please contact Kirsty Murray at
TTA Public Relations on Tel: 0208 770 9720 or email:
The BritishSwimming Pool Federation (BSPF), has been set up to bringtogether, in one organisation, the UK bodies representing contractors,manufacturers, distributors and retailers of swimming pools, spas, saunas,steam rooms and associated equipment.
Experienced pool builders havedeveloped these authoritative standards over the past 40 years.