The APSP, a national organization that represents pool, hot tub, and spa manufacturers, has announced a new strategic plan by the board of directors.

The Board of Directors of The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals has approved a new strategic plan for the organization. Two key areas will be the focus: Creating an environment for APSP members' businesses to grow and protecting APSP members' ability to do business.

The new APSP focus encompasses dual strategies of engaging in consumer outreach and ramping up regulatory advocacy at the national, state and local level through chapter revitalization and expansion.

"The leadership of APSP recognizes that all constituencies of the Association – whether they are builders, service contractors, hot tub dealers, retailers, manufacturers or distributors – agree on one thing: we must grow the market for our products," said Rich Gottwald, APSP president and CEO. "As the recession fades, APSP will direct its full resources towards promoting the desirable lifestyle of swimming pool and hot tubs directly to the consumer, while ensuring that a favorable regulatory environment not only exists for industry, but favors the skills and professional know-how of APSP members."

"APSP has many strengths that we will put to work to grow and protect our members' businesses," said Jeff Fausett, chairman- elect of APSP. "Our chapters represent an army of dedicated and talented professionals who are standing by ready to help build this industry to new heights," he said. "We have incredible intellectual property and strong industry leadership that will be the foundation of our renewed path forward."

Gottwald acknowledged the road ahead is long, but noted the organization's focus has never been more defined. "We plan to keep membership up-to-date as we work toward a more detailed plan and how they can be a part of this new direction for the industry."

For more information about the APSP, please visit apsp.org.

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