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Here's a rework of a media release from spasearch.org. The program is intended to meet certain criticisms about so-called hot tub "awards" based largely on advertising volume. The Spasearch Certified endorsement requires companies to meet certain objective standards (UL listing, warranty, customer support etc), as well as an 85% customer satisfaction rating on a survey administered by a third party.Full details at:http://www.bigfishpublications.com/PDF/End...ntWinnersPR.pdfhttp://www.spasearch.org/awards.php- - - - - - - - - -INTERNATIONAL POOL & SPA EXPO, LAS VEGAS, NOVEMBER 2006 - As proof of their longtime commitments to excellence, five hot tub manufacturers have received the coveted Spasearch Certified award - the only independent customer endorsement in the hot tub industry. Marquis Spas, Hot Spring Spas, Caldera Spas, Dimension One Spas and Arctic Spas are the first hot tub manufacturers to satisfy the rigorous certification standards. Sixteen additional hot tub manufacturers are currently under evaluation for the award and winners will be recognized in the spring 2007 issue of Spasearch Magazine™.These companies represent the top 10% of hot tub manufacturers currently operating in the United States. Completely independent and based solely on customer surveys, the only way for hot tub manufacturers to earn Spasearch Certified status is to demonstrate excellence on every level from product reliability straight through to consumer satisfaction.To maintain complete impartiality, all results were tabulated through a team of third-party auditors, ensuring that this certification was fairly won rather than influenced by advertising dollars. “Having an annual independent endorsement program is long overdue,” says David Wood, Editor-in-Chief of Spasearch Magazine™. “For years our industry has been plagued with unaccredited sources that offer awards based on paid advertising or other financial consideration. We are delighted to offer this unique program to hot tub manufacturers and consumers alike.”
Since the Aqua show will probably be no more not sure what will happen now.
Doc I have heard the same rumors and Jim YES the aqua show was way down this year almost felt empty as I walked around.