Leslie's Celebrates 60 Years of Serving Pool Owners & Professionals Nationwide - PoolMagazine.com - Get The Latest Pool News (2024)

PHOENIX,April 11, 2023/PRNewswire/ —Leslie’s, Inc. (NASDAQ:LESL), the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry, is turning 60. In addition to celebrating six decades of success delivering expert pool and spa care advice to consumers, the company also announced the opening of its 1,000^thstore, surpassing its 50-million water test milestone, and shares a useful list of pool facts.

Leslie’s was founded in 1963 byPhil Leslie Jr.in a single location inLos Angeles. The retailer has grown to a 1,000-store chain across 37 states, providing pool owners and professionals with everything they need to keep pools and spas clean, safe, and beautiful. The company opened its 1,000^thstore last week inNorth Port, Florida.

Leslie’s has a well-earned reputation for superior customer service and high-quality products, but its most valuable offering is expert pool and spa care advice from knowledgeable in-store team members and professional equipment installation and repair from more than 200 certified service technicians.

Helping pool owners achieve a clean, safe, and beautiful pool is Leslie’s top priority, and its proprietary AccuBlue^®in-store water test with customized treatment plan is key to the retailer’s success. Leslie’s AccuBlue water test is a complimentary in-store service that takes just 60 seconds to deliver a 10-point water test, a pool health score, and a corresponding treatment plan. The AccuBlue technology is a product of Leslie’s 60 years of water test experience and the accumulated data from more than 50 million tests. The AccuBlue water test and treatment plan is the most comprehensive water testing solution in the industry – and it’s provided for free at all Leslie’s stores.

In addition to free water tests, Leslie’s also offers:

• Free in-store inspection and repair of pool equipment, such as pool cleaners. Pool owners simply bring in the non-working or malfunctioning item to a Leslie’s store, and a certified on-staff expert will assess and fix it. That’s free labor; shoppers only pay for the cost of parts and materials.
• Free Pool Perks Program – members receive 5% in rewards on all purchases and services, free shipping on lesliespool.com orders, extended warranties on select equipment, and exclusive offers and promotions.
• Free expert advice from 3,500-plus knowledgeable associates, as well as helpful online resources including more than 1,500 how-to articles and YouTube videos covering everything you need to know to care for your pool.

Noteworthy Pool Facts
In celebration of its 60 years of providing expert advice, Leslie’s shared the following list of interesting facts about pool care:

• Water chemistry is different across various regions of the U.S. and water sources from local municipalities or wells can deliver hard water, soft water, higher levels of metals, nitrates, and increased calcium, among other nuances. Local Leslie’s in-store pool experts have regional know-how to help address localized issues.
• Every pool should cycle its entire volume of water through the filtration system at least once a day to remove debris, dirt, and germs. It can take as many as eight or more hours per day to fully cycle through, but this doesn’t have to happen in one continuous cycling process.
• Pool care can beeco-friendlyand there are many modern solutions to save energy, water, and the use of pool chemicals.
• Solar coversare a simple way to reduce pool water evaporation by up to 95% — saving water and money! This easy solution helps mitigate the loss of pool water, which can evaporate at one-quarter inch per day in the summertime heat, more depending on the region.
• Variable speed pumps use far less energy and are a cost-effective alternative to single-speed pumps, which are among the highest energy-consuming appliances for a home – second only to an air conditioning system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading from a single speed pump to a variable speed pump can reduce energy use by up to 90%.
• A well-maintained pool and pool water is not only safe, clean, and beautiful, it can use less water than an irrigated common-sized lawn.
• Automatic pool cleaners make cleaning a pool a breeze. Energy-efficient robotic pool cleaners are totally self-contained units that have their own built-in pump and filter to clean the pool quickly and efficiently.
• Pets – especially dogs – also enjoy pools. It’s important to test your water after your pets indulge in pool time.
• Leslie’s is conveniently located nationwide. There is a Leslie’s pool store within 20 minutes of 80% of the pools in the continental U.S.

About Leslie’s
Founded in 1963, Leslie’s is the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry. The Company serves the aftermarket needs of residential and professional consumers with an extensive and largely exclusive assortment of essential pool and spa care products. The Company operates an integrated ecosystem of 1,000 physical locations and a robust digital platform, enabling consumers to engage with Leslie’s whenever, wherever, and however they prefer to shop. Its dedicated team of associates, pool and spa care experts, and experienced service technicians are passionate about empowering Leslie’s consumers with the knowledge, products, and solutions necessary to confidently maintain and enjoy their pools and spas.

For more information about Leslie’s, visitlesliespool.comor follow and engage with us:@lesliespoolcareon Instagram,Leslie’son Facebook, and@lesliespoolcareon Twitter.

Media:Mardi Larson, Amendola for Leslie’s,[emailprotected]

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India’s ceramic tile industry finds itself under scrutiny as U.S. manufacturers, comprising the majority of domestic ceramic tile production, take a decisive step in filing anti-dumping and countervailing duty petitions. Their aim? To curb the influx of Indian ceramic tile imports that they argue have undercut fair market prices and disrupted the equilibrium of the tile industry.

The crux of the matter lies in the alleged disparity between the cost of Indian imports and their domestic counterparts. The U.S. industry claims that Indian producers benefit from substantial government subsidies, allowing them to flood the market with low-priced tiles, which they say endangers the livelihoods of American manufacturers and their employees.

Proposed Anti-Dumping & Countervailing Duties on India Ceramic Tile Imports

On April 19, 2024, the Coalition for Fair Trade in Ceramic Tile lodged a petition requesting the imposition of anti-dumping and countervailing duties on ceramic tile imports from India. Allegations within the petition cite dumping margins ranging from 407.78% to 827.60%.

The products under scrutiny encompass various forms of ceramic tiles, including flooring, wall, paving, hearth, porcelain, mosaic, flags, finishing tiles, and similar items. These ceramic tiles are defined as items composed of mineral mixtures, primarily clay, fired to fuse raw materials into a finished product measuring less than 3.2 cm in thickness. The scope of the investigation extends to all ceramic tile regardless of its end use, surface area, weight, glazing, water absorption coefficient, vitrification level, or whether it’s backed. The petition offers detailed scope descriptions and specific product exclusions.

The International Trade Commission’s Preliminary Conference is projected to convene on May 10, 2024. The earliest conceivable dates for retroactive suspension of liquidation are June 28, 2024, for antidumping and May 9, 2024, for countervailing duties.

Imports Have Grown Dramatically Over The Past Decade

The TCNA (Tile Council of North America) claims the scale of the issue is staggering, with Indian tile sales in the U.S. ballooning from a modest figure in 2013 to an enormous volume by 2023. Over the last 10 years, sales of tile from India have increased from 344,000 square feet in 2013 to 405 million sq. ft. in 2023. This exponential growth has prompted the U.S. coalition to seek recourse through the federal government, invoking anti-dumping measures and countervailing duties to level the playing field.

“American tile manufacturers have thrived amidst fair competition, leveraging abundant resources and a skilled workforce,” remarks TCNA Executive Director, Eric Astrachan. “However, the surge of Indian imports, buoyed by government support and dumped prices, has necessitated action to safeguard our industry’s integrity.”

Legal counsel for the Coalition for Fair Trade in Ceramic Tile underscores the gravity of the situation, affirming that the federal government will conduct a thorough investigation. If found culpable of unfair trade practices detrimental to U.S. manufacturers, Indian imports will face tariffs as a corrective measure.

The road ahead promises deliberation and due process, with preliminary tariffs expected in the coming months and final tariffs following after an extensive investigation period. The outcome will not only impact the dynamics of ceramic tile trade between India and the U.S. but also reverberate across the global industry landscape.

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Today is April 27th and you know what that means. It’s National Pool Opening Day, a day dedicated to the anticipation of summer days spent lounging by the pool, splashing with friends and family, and embracing the refreshing embrace of crystal-clear waters. National Pool Opening Day falls on the last Saturday in April each year.

Swimming pools hold a special place in the hearts of many, offering a plethora of benefits beyond mere recreation. From the physical exercise that strengthens muscles and joints to the social interaction that fosters bonds and relieves stress, the pool is a sanctuary of health and happiness for all who take the plunge.

One of the remarkable features of swimming is its ability to provide a full-body workout with minimal strain on the joints. Buoyancy in water reduces the impact on muscles and bones, making it an ideal exercise for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. The resistance of water adds an extra challenge, ensuring that every stroke and kick contributes to a fulfilling workout. And let’s not forget the cooling effect of water, a welcome relief on hot summer days that prevents overheating and allows for prolonged enjoyment of outdoor activities.

What is National Pool Opening Day All About?

National Pool Opening Day was initiated by Leslie’s Swimming Pool Supplies in 2016 to celebrate the anticipation of the swimming season and promote pool safety and hygiene.

Pool Opening Day isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s also about creating cherished memories with loved ones. Whether it’s a leisurely afternoon swim with friends or a lively pool party with family, the pool serves as a backdrop for laughter, conversation, and endless fun. And in today’s digital age, sharing these moments has never been easier. Pool owners are encouraged to capture their poolside adventures and share them on social media using the hashtag #PoolOpeningDay, spreading the joy of swimming far and wide.

The history of swimming stretches back centuries, with civilizations like the Romans, Assyrians, and Greeks recognizing its importance for both recreation and military training. In more recent times, swimming has evolved into a competitive sport, with the first indoor swimming pools appearing in England in the 19th century. The inclusion of swimming in the Olympics in 1896 marked a significant milestone, though initially only males were allowed to compete. It wasn’t until 1912 that women were granted the opportunity to showcase their aquatic skills on the world stage.

One of the most iconic feats in swimming history occurred in 1875 when merchant navy captain Matthew Webb became the first person to swim across the English Channel. His grueling journey against tidal currents lasted over 21 hours, setting a precedent for future swimmers seeking to conquer the channel. Nearly half a century later, Gertrude Caroline Ederle made history as the first woman to achieve this remarkable feat, completing the crossing in just over 14 hours.

Today, swimming continues to be a beloved pastime and a cornerstone of physical education in schools, colleges, and universities worldwide. From learning the basics of water safety to mastering advanced swimming techniques, students of all ages benefit from the life-saving skills and lifelong enjoyment that swimming provides.

As we celebrate National Pool Opening Day, millions of pool owners across the country are taking the plunge, preparing their pools for a season of aquatic adventures and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So whether you’re diving into the deep end or lounging poolside with a refreshing beverage in hand, take a moment to celebrate the joy of swimming and all that National Pool Opening Day represents.

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Philadelphia’s Schuylkill River could soon undergo a transformation with the introduction of the West Philly Waterfront project by the University City District (UCD). This initiative, situated adjacent to 30th Street Station, aims to inject energy into the city’s landscape through a mix of recreational and entertainment offerings.

Spanning the area between Chestnut and Market Streets along Schuylkill Avenue, the West Philly Waterfront is envisioned to encompass features like a beach, a slide, a public pool, and an entertainment venue. UCD’s proposal emphasizes practicality, with plans for swimming classes, lifeguard training, and swim meets complemented by natural landscaping and shaded areas for comfort during warmer months.

“The time is right for a bold vision to further enhance our connection to the Schuylkill River,” states District President Matt Bergheiser. “Now is the time to think with great aspiration about a new iconic space to connect the waterfront to the dynamic growth of University City, and to make it accessible for all Philadelphians.”

$60M Project Could Revitalize West Philly Waterfront

However, the realization of this vision depends on securing funding. With a projected cost of $60 million, UCD is actively seeking partners to support the project. “Once fundraising is complete, we anticipate a roughly 3-year process to conduct community engagement, make tweaks to the design, secure the needed permits and approvals, and complete construction,” says Director of Marketing and Communications Chris Richman. “Right now, we’re specifically focused on raising the funds for a robust community engagement process, which will be critical to the project’s success.”

Bergheiser draws parallels to past successes such as The Porch at 30th Street, envisioning the West Philly Waterfront as a catalyst for urban renewal. Through innovative design and inclusive programming, the project seeks to revitalize the area while stimulating economic activity in the surrounding vicinity.

The project’s timeline remains undisclosed, yet the University City District asserts it will serve as a beacon for Philadelphia’s future beyond 2026. Anticipating a surge of visitors for the U.S. semiquincentennial, the FIFA World Cup, and the MLB All-Star Game, Philadelphia braces for a transformative era.

“The park would help draw in tourists and residents alike, and bring additional traffic to businesses in the area,” Richman emphasizes.

Collaborating with the University City District on the project’s planning are AECOM, Digsau, the Collaborative, and Bio Habitats Inc.

Positioned as a gateway to University City, the project aligns with the area’s burgeoning development, fueled by growth at the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and the city’s thriving life sciences industry.

Photo Credits: AECOM

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