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Homes and Interiors MagazineThe UK HOT TUB Market steams up |
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The British and Irish Hot Tub association (BISHTA) has reported a rapid growth in the hot tub market, with the market growing by 25% in 2003. The beginning of 2004 has seen record sales in the first month and a further of 30% is expected later in the year. Within five years the market is expected to be worth a staggering £160 million. Stephen Crabb, Sales Director of Catalina Spas Limited and a BISHTA member, reports.. "2003 has been a record year and in 2004 we have seen a forty to fifty percent growth in January, so double or treble figures or expected by the end of year." Over 100,000 homes in the UK are benefiting from the therapeutic effects of spas and hot tubs in the form of their private hot tub. People are realising the joys of having their own hot tub to use at their own convenient and privacy. With clinically proven research suggesting that the warm, bubbling massaging waters can reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, ease aching muscles and joint inflammation, as well help reduce cellulite, it is no wonder that hot tubs are so popular! Affordability is the reason for the surge in sales. With prices starting at around £2,500 for a small domestic hot tub, there are products to suit most pockets, and the hot tub, though luxurious, is no longer perceived as a luxury purchase. For example, a four-person model costs around 75 pence a day, to cover heating costs and chemicals - a small price to pay for the luxury and the fun it provides. There are many options and price levels, depending on the degree of luxury required - and there are constant developments, with additional features being added all the time. Maintenance is also easy, amounting to only around five minutes a day, and a little longer once a week. With more and more homes having hot tubs installed, BISHTA's objective, to educate the public and ensure the safety basics of using and maintaining a hot tub are understood, becomes event more imperative. Alan Brobyn, Managing Director of BSPF, advises people to use BISHTA approved installers: "The BSPF and BISHTA are here to promote the pool and hot tub industry. Our main piece of advice to the public is to use a BISHTA approved installer. All members have to comply with strict industry standards for water quality and hygiene so people can feel rest assured that they will get a safe product and knowledgeable advice."
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