The Piscine Global Show, held from 19th to 22nd November, 2024, at Eurexpo Lyon, France, reaffirmed its status as the premier international event for the swimming pool and spa industry.
Organised by GL Events’ GreenTech+ division, in collaboration with the Fédération des Professionnels de la Piscine et du Spa (FPP - Federation of Swimming Pool and Spa Professionals), this biennial exhibition showcased significant growth, featuring over 2,000 exhibitors and attracting thousands of visitors, with large attendance from international markets.
A Hub for Innovation and Industry Trends
The 2024 edition surpassed its 2022 predecessor, serving as a dynamic platform for product showcases, new releases, and partnership announcements. The event’s ‘Start-Up Village’ provided emerging companies the opportunity to present their innovations, while the central Pool Arena hosted live demonstrations and interactive sessions. Key themes included sustainable development, digitalisation, as well as employment and training within the industry.
Global Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
A notable highlight was the meeting of the World Alliance of Pool and Spa Associations (WAPSA), convened by the FPP on the eve of the exhibition.
This international congress brought together professional associations to discuss critical topics such as training, economic data, environmental concerns, and safety standards.
For the first time, WAPSA representatives addressed attendees during the FPP press conference and led three conferences focusing on environmental issues, economic trends, and professional training.
Australian Presence and Contributions
The Australian and New Zealand pool and spa sectors were well-represented. Exhibitors from the region included Freedom Pools, Davey Water Products, Waterco, and AIS Water. Additionally, global brands with significant market presence in Australia, such as Fluidra, Maytronics, Pentair, Hayward, BWT, Pool Systems (SCP, Pool Corp) and Aiper, showcased their latest offerings.
AIS Water Chief Executive Elena Gosse noted “for Australian companies it’s a must to attend the show to showcase our beautiful technology. Australia has a great reputation of being innovators and having quality technology. Presence is critical for us...”
The event attracted a variety of Australian visitors, including representatives from Clark Rubber, Sterns Group, TPEC, Bunnings and more, highlighting the region’s active engagement in global industry developments.
In alliance with WAPSA, SPASA Australia took to the Pool Arena stage on Wednesday afternoon to present data from the Global Training & Education survey. Compiling 14 question responses from 13 participating international associations, results depicted areas of growth and collaboration to further professionalise the global swimming pool and spa industries.
Spotlight on Innovation
The exhibition floor was a testament to the industry’s innovative spirit. Robotic pool cleaners were prominently featured, reflecting advancements in automation and efficiency. Exhibitors emphasised holistic backyard solutions, integrating pools with landscaping and outdoor living spaces. Noteworthy innovations included stainless steel pools, modern enclosures, and state-of-the-art saunas, catering to evolving consumer preferences for luxury and sustainability.
Conclusion
Piscine Global 2024 not only highlighted the latest products and trends but also fostered international collaboration and knowledge exchange. The active participation of Australian and New Zealand companies underscores the region’s integral role in the global pool and spa industry. As the sector continues to evolve, events like Piscine Global serve as essential platforms for innovation, networking, and professional development.
Declan Gillard-Martin is Brand Manager for Australasian Leisure Management / SPASA.
Adelaide-based Gillard-Martin has a solid industry background, holding a number of roles across the commercial and community aquatics industry - most recently with Royal Life Saving Society - South Australia, as General Manager Operations, and as Chief Executive of public safety-focused organisation, Quack Group.
A volunteer Surf Lifesaver, with a working career in local government, for facility manager BlueFit and the SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre, Gillard-Martin also spent years as a high-performance swimmer and triathlete.
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