Poolwerx News Archives

Poolwerx News Poolwerx Union Hills Awarded Franchisee of the Year by International Franchise Association Read More

Franchising with Poolwerx Poolwerx and Norwest Join Forces to Dominate the Pool Maintenance Industry Read More

Poolwerx News Poolwerx Partners with Norwest to Drive Growth Dallas, Texas, July 6, 2022 – Poolwerx, the world’s largest global franchise pool service brand, today announced it is partnering with Norwest, a leading global investment firm, to drive business growth across the U.S. and overseas. Founded in 1992 by entrepreneur and CEO John O’Brien, Poolwerx has demonstrated its resilience as a brand with immense growth in every year of operation despite multiple recessions. The business currently supports 350 franchise partners, 170 stores and more than 600 service vans in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand, with U.S. headquarters in Dallas. Poolwerx joins other market-leading franchise businesses in Norwest’s portfolio, including Junk King and The Learning Experience. The Norwest team brings extensive home services expertise and will provide resources that enable Poolwerx to expand its footprint across the U.S. and expand into new international markets. This strategic partnership will empower existing franchise partners to grow their businesses at a faster rate. “We are thrilled to welcome Norwest to the Poolwerx family,” said O’Brien. “Through this new partnership, we will have access to Norwest’s wealth of experience across both franchise and non-franchise businesses, allowing us to reach our ambitious growth goals faster.” “Poolwerx is one of the few international franchise brands that has cracked the U.S. market as a result of its robust expansion processes, strong relationships with franchise partners and suppliers, and fiercely loyal customer base,” said Stew Campbell, Partner at Norwest. “The company is uniquely positioned to capitalize on opportunities in the large and growing pool and spa market across products and services domestically and overseas.” “This partnership will have a huge impact on the growth opportunities for our U.S. operations. While our leadership team and day-to-day operations will remain the same, we expect to see a big impact in the success of both our brand and franchise partners,” O’Brien said. “I am proud to announce COO Andrew Kidd will move into the role as North American CEO. With 10 years of experience in leadership roles at Poolwerx, Kidd will bring his skills in franchising and operations to his enhanced role in the United States. “I will continue to strategically lead the business as Executive Director. In the meantime, it’s business as usual as we continue our mission of building a network of small businesses that help families create lifelong poolside memories.” InterFinancial Corporate Finance was the lead advisor to Poolwerx and its shareholders on this transaction. About Norwest Norwest is a leading venture and growth equity investment firm managing more than $12.5 billion in capital. Since its inception, Norwest has invested in more than 650 companies and currently partners with more than 200 companies in its venture and growth equity portfolio. The firm invests in early- to late-stage businesses across a wide range of sectors with a focus on consumer, enterprise and healthcare. The Norwest team offers a deep network of connections, operating experience, and a wide range of impactful services to help CEOs and founders scale their businesses. Norwest has offices in Palo Alto and San Francisco, with subsidiaries in India and Israel. For more information, please visit www.nvp.com. Follow Norwest on Twitter @NorwestVP. Read More

Poolwerx News Poolwerx: 12 Reasons Why Poolwerx is the Next Big Brand If you are interested in getting into the rapidly growing home services sector, you should consider joining the leader in swimming pool services and repair for the following reasons. Strong unit-level economics. Poolwerx franchisees generate both high volume and high margins and average $1.6MM in sales (see 2021 FDD for more details). Weak competition. No brand has 5% market share. The swimming pool maintenance, service, and repair business largely consists of small, unbranded, independent businesses. This makes it easier and less expensive for new franchisees to penetrate new markets and establish a brand. Poolwerx franchisees stand out. Recurring revenue. Unlike other home services like painting, closet systems, garage systems, gutters, and other residential products and services, Poolwerx franchisees have recurring revenue. Franchisees’ revenue doesn’t solely depend on new business. Anyone who has ever owned a business knows that it is easier to grow a business when you are building on a base of customers you can count on each month to generate revenue. Building equity. Recurring revenue businesses like Poolwerx not only generate revenue, but also help owners create equity and build their net worth. When it is time to sell, businesses with repeat customers create recurring revenue which business purchasers find attractive and often pay a premium for. Low entry cost. Franchisees can be acquired for under $100,000 including working capital. Easy to start. New franchisees can be open for business within months of deciding to move forward and business can ramp up quickly. Break-even. Poolwerx franchisees have low fixed costs, translating to better break-even points and quick ramp ups. Multiple revenue streams. Unlike home service products, Poolwerx franchisees diversify their revenue over services, products like chlorine, salt chlorinators, preventative maintenance (like algae treatments), repairs, equipment sales and installation (pool filters) and retail sales. Amazon-resistant. Pool service and repair seemingly cannot be serviced through online retailers nor can it be outsourced to other countries. With their small footprint retail model, Poolwerx franchisees become their community’s local pool and spa experts. Professional marketing support. As new customers select their pool service company through Google searches, online reviews, and social reputation, Poolwerx franchisees benefit from Poolwerx’s experienced digital marketing team. This is a service many independent pool services don’t have the money or sophistication to compete. Technical training and support. Poolwerx corporate office maintains a state-of-the-art training facility for pool service technicians and franchisees to stay current with the latest products and technology. You can also obtain CPO (certified pool operator) certification. Highly scalable. Franchisees can grow revenues within existing territories by adding retail and other related products and services as well as opening new territories. Poolwerx is expanding rapidly across the United States, but prime territories are still available. If you want to learn more about investing in a Poolwerx franchise, request more information through our online contact form or call us at 1-800-407-6657. Learn how to become financially independent while leveraging 25 years of award-winning support and training. Click here to access our online contact form Read More

Poolwerx News Poolwerx: Available Territories and Rapid Expansion Poolwerx, an industry leader in the pool, hot tub, and spa maintenance, is proud to announce that we are expanding throughout many Southern and Western U.S. states. Pools are on the rise. In the first three quarters of 2020, about 94,000 residential pools were built in the United States. That’s a 21 percent increase compared to 2019. Warm weather states such as Texas, Arizona, and Florida issued 30 percent more pool permits than the year before. Some areas saw a 400 percent increase in hot tubs. Each of these new pools and hot tubs requires regular maintenance. It’s no wonder that Poolwerx is now the fastest-growing pool and hot tub aftermarket service provider, in one of the fastest-growing industries, in the United States. Why Invest with Poolwerx? Unlike many franchise opportunities, Poolwerx offers unprecedented Franchise Partner support and training franchise owners expect. No previous industry experience is required to flourish as a Poolwerx Franchise Partner. Training and Support At Poolwerx, we shine in the areas of franchisee training and support. It’s in our combined best interest to see all franchisees succeed. Training includes such topics as: Pool, hot tub and, spa management – Before coming to Poolwerx, most of our Franchise Partners were new to pool, hot tub, and spa management. By the time they graduate from our comprehensive, structured training program, supported by field visits, they are among the best trained in the industry. We provide ongoing training, especially as new technologies, such as non-chlorine options, emerge and networking opportunities with staff and existing franchisees. Sales – Backed by Poolwerx’s marketing infrastructure, our sales training teaches our franchisees Partners to sell new business and drive top line revenue. Business management – To run a successful business, owners need more than just sales and service training. That’s why Poolwerx offers franchisees robust back-office operations such as IT, marketing, bookkeeping, accounting, human resources, and more. Franchisee network – Tap into the collective experience of fellow franchisees. Between our franchisees and our support network, new franchisees would be hard-pressed to find a situation we have not already encountered and solved. Brand Strength Poolwerx is a time-tested 30-year old brand, well-respected by both customers and suppliers. Purchasing Power Poolwerx franchisees have the benefit of mass purchasing power, giving franchisees priority and price advantages with key suppliers. Marketing Support As residential and commercial swimming pool owners often make their purchasing decisions based on online advertising and research, the small independent servicing companies who currently make up the bulk of our industry struggle to keep up. Poolwerx franchisees are supported by expert marketing professionals proficient in digital advertising and social media promotions. Poolwerx Franchise Opportunities When it comes to Poolwerx franchise territories, the sky’s the limit. Even cool Northern U.S. states offer a year-round spa, hot tub, indoor pool business, and summer outdoor pool business. Some regions are experiencing exceptionally rapid growth in pools, hot tubs, and spas. We have existing opportunities in: Arizona California – particularly, but not limited to, the San Diego market Florida – we’re seeing significant growth in the Panhandle area Georgia Nevada North Carolina South Carolina Texas – specifically, but not limited to, Houston and Dallas Virginia If you want to learn more about investing in a Poolwerx franchise, request more information through our online contact form or call us at 1-800-407-6657. Learn how to become financially independent while leveraging 25 years of award-winning support and training. Click here to access our online contact form Read More

Poolwerx News Poolwerx Launches Summer Sweepstakes One lucky winner will win free pool service for one year courtesy of the nearest local Poolwerx Franchise Partner. Poolwerx, in coordination with their local franchise community, announced today that one lucky client within a Poolwerx service territory will receive free pool service for an entire year. Pool homeowners that reside near a Poolwerx retail location or are within a service area can register to win by submitting their email address and verifying their zip code. In addition to free pool service, participants are also eligible to win weekly prizes like pool party packs that contain essential chemicals like a non-chlorine oxidizer, shock, phosphate remover, and an enzyme clarifier. No purchase is necessary to enter. “Between the pandemic last year and the tightening supply chain industry-wide, we wanted to remind pool owners that we’re always here for all their pool needs in spite of these challenges,” said Ruben Avendano, the VP of Marketing at Poolwerx. “That’s why we are thrilled to offer this opportunity to a lucky client to have a completely worry-free summer and enjoy their pool all year long.” Poolwerx retail locations are also handing out scratch-offs to clients that bring their pool water samples for a free in-store digital water test. Every scratch-off presents another opportunity for pool owners to win more prizes toward their next Poolwerx visit. Shoppers can win up to $15 off their next purchase or a mystery gift. “Owning a pool should be fun and affordable. We pride ourselves on providing our clients great, knowledgeable service at the best value. These scratch-offs are a great way to give our shoppers a little something extra,” said Avendano. “In conjunction with our first sweepstakes, we’re looking forward to a fun-filled summer and we can’t wait to find out who the lucky grand-prize winner is.” The grand prize winner will be announced in July. For full terms and conditions or to enter visit https://www.poolwerx.com/summersweepstakes. Read More

Poolwerx News Poolwerx gains two entries on the exclusive AQUA 100 list Poolwerx Forest Lane, Poolwerx Union Hills and Poolwerx Beaches are among 10 US pool and spa retailers honored for industry excellence. Three Poolwerx locations have earned accolades from AQUA Magazine. Poolwerx Forest Lane in Dallas, TX, Poolwerx Union Hills in Phoenix, AZ, and Poolwerx Beaches in Jacksonville, FL are proud to announce they have been inducted into the AQUA 100, an exclusive honor bestowed to just 10 North American pool and spa retailers each year. The AQUA 100, presented by AQUA Magazine, is an industry-leading competition designed to honor excellence in pool and spa retail. In light of the adversity specialty retailers of all kinds have faced over the past decade — the rise of online shopping, the pressure of a recession and, this past year, the global pandemic — the AQUA 100 honors the diamonds of excellence that have not only survived, but thrived, proving once and for all the spirit of brick-and-mortar businesses will carry on. “To win an independently judged, national contest like the AQUA 100 is a real achievement,” says AQUA Magazine Executive Editor Scott Webb. “It is the highest honor in pool and spa retail.” “We couldn’t be prouder of our teams in Dallas, Phoenix, and Jacksonville,” said Chief Operating Officer at Poolwerx, Andrew Kidd. “As a franchise system, it’s our local partners that truly make the difference and exemplify all Poolwerx stands for; top quality pool service at a fair price from a friendly face.” The application process was rigorous, requiring entrants to provide detailed information on company history, customer service, store design, digital presence, marketing and community involvement, complete with supporting documents. Applicants were judged by an independent panel of retail experts. “As a small business owner, I pride myself on viewing customers as more than a transaction. They are my neighbors, friends, family and colleagues,” said Franchise Partner/Owner of Poolwerx Beaches, Nick McAbee. “I’m thrilled that my team and I are being recognized amongst these industry leaders for simply doing our best to serve our community.” Click here to read more at Aqua Magazine Read More

Franchising with Poolwerx Poolwerx Franchise Partner Selected as Pool Pro Magazine Panelist We are proud to announce that Frank Disher, Franchise Partner and owner of Poolwerx North Richland Hills, has been selected as a 2021 pro panelist for Pool Pro Magazine! Pool Pro Magazine is a leading pool industry publication serving the hundreds of thousands of professionals in the swimming pool and spa industry in the U.S. and abroad. This panel was created by Pool Pro Magazine with the aim to share the opinions and expertise of knowledgeable professionals in the industry from around the U.S. Each edition of the magazine poses questions to the members of this group. Frank is known to be a leader at not just at Poolwerx, but around the industry as well. He is very opinionated and vocal in calling for higher standards in education, ethics, and professionalism for pros in the swimming pool and spa industry. In 2019, Frank and his incredible staff at Poolwerx North Richland Hills were awarded the Poolwerx Franchise of the Year award, which Poolwerx grants one U.S. location each year that demonstrates excellent performance among their peers. Click here to read more at Pool Pro Magazine Read More

Franchising with Poolwerx Poolwerx growing internationally, opening 11 stores in 11 months Poolwerx USA would like to congratulate our Australian counterparts on opening one new international store for every month this year! Poolwerx is continuing to grow even in these difficult economic times, both in the U.S. and abroad. Franchise Business Executive reports, “Poolwerx opens 11 stores in 11 months, with conversions and new outlets in the mix. The openings are evidence, says founder and CEO John O’Brien, of the demand for home services. The pool care chain has acquired five independent pool servicing stores across Australia and New Zealand– in Baulkham Hills in New South Wales, Kings Park and Hampstead Gardens South Australia and another two due to open on New Zealand’s North Island. John O’Brien said “In all of these acquisitions, we’re helping long term industry veterans with their exit strategy. I’m also buoyed to see our existing franchise partners continue to grow their business and open new retail locations, which speaks to the resilience of our business model, even in the midst of a recession. “The home service industry has proven time and time again to be recession-resistant and this has become particularly evident during Covid-19,” O’Brien said. Click here to read more at Franchise Business Executive Read More

Franchising with Poolwerx Four Poolwerx locations win Top Service Award Four Poolwerx locations have had the honor of receiving the Pool and Spa News and Jandy Service Award for 2020! Poolwerx Forest Lane in Texas, Poolwerx Union Hills in Arizona, Poolwerx Redlands in California, and Poolwerx Beaches in Florida were among the 50 winners of this prestigious award. This top service award is Pool and Spa News and Jandy’s annual recognition of the top 50 service-only firms and service operations attached to builders and retail firms. The judging criteria for this award includes revenue, staff management, web presence, industry participation and community participation. According to a survey of this group, whose results are found on the following pages, these companies didn’t miss a step this year, despite the unprecedented times. Thank you to Jandy for its sponsorship, and congratulations to our Poolwerx Franchise Partners for their excellent performance! Click here to read more at Pool & Spa News Read More

Franchising with Poolwerx Poolwerx Welcomes Campbell’s Pool & Spa Knoxville, Tenn.-based Campbell’s Pools and Spas has signed on as a franchisee with Poolwerx. Campbell’s also relocated its Lenoir City store and reopened as a Poolwerx-branded dealership. In addition to the stores, the company adds four service vehicles to the Poolwerx network. Tony Campbell will continue to own and operate the stores, which include hot-tub showrooms. It is expected to retain its current staff. He also will continue to operate his construction business as Campbell’s Pools. Click here to read more at Pool & Spa News Read More