Swimart franchisor Waterco is marking its 40th year anniversary, reflecting on its capacity to survive the rollercoaster of business over the decades.
It has faced a number of industrial, economic and environmental challenges, says Waterco founder and CEO, Soon Sinn Goh.
“We celebrate our 40 years in business in a position of strength, having survived recessions, economic downturns, two factory fires and one pandemic,” he says.
However, the company continues to innovate, expand and diversify, he points out.
The company’s innovative engineering and efficient manufacturing processes have given Waterco an international reputation.
“This enables us to deliver high quality, durable products to over 40 countries around the world,” Goh says.
“Thanks to our loyal staff, customers, investors and Swimart franchise partners, we are now able to proudly position ourselves as a successful Australian company competing effectively on a global scale with the major players in each of the international markets in which we operate – many of which are significantly larger than Waterco.”
Today an ASX listed company, it started out in 1981 selling PVC pipes in Sydney with three staff and one truck driver. Waterco now operates one of Australasia’s biggest — and oldest — pool and spa networks.
While the store branding has changed several times over the years the latest iteration launched last year was the first major brand refresh for 36 years.
Executive officer Rick Graham, marketing manager Nathan Hallahan and franchise development manager Alex Johnson, spearheaded the initiative.
Since opening its first store in 1983 in the Sydney suburb of Killara, Swimart has evolved into 77-franchisee-strong network of stores across Australia and New Zealand.
And while many franchisees have struggled to keep their businesses afloat during the pandemic, those in the pool industry have thrived.
Hallahan says “International travel restrictions and domestic border closures have fuelled a renewed focus on home improvements, as consumers invest in installing a pool rather than taking a holiday.”
