Freeflow Spas Purchased by Industry Leader Watkins Manufacturing
Big News this month-It’s the acquisition of Freeflow Spas® a leader in the rotationally molded spa category by Watkins Manufacturing of Vista, California. Watkins, the leading maker of hot tubs worldwide, now has a roto-molded spa to add to their portfolio of premium brands that includes Limelight® Spas and HotSpring® Spas, the world’s number one selling brand.
Watkins has long been after the right product mix to make their retailers (including Olympic Hot Tub) a one-stop-shop in fulfilling the hot water relaxation needs of today’s discriminating consumer. “The addition of Freeflow Spas fits perfectly with Watkins consumer strategy to deliver the right products to the right markets at the right prices,” says Steve Hammock, President of Watkins Manufacturing. Over the years, we’ve been very impressed with the product offering developed by, and the integrity of, the Freeflow team,” says Hammock.
Freeflow was not for sale, but “ Watkins presented us with an interesting opportunity we simply had to consider,” explained Bob Gawlik, general manager, American Hydrotherapy Systems, Freeflow’s parent company. Many other companies had expressed interest in buying FreeFlow over the years, but “Watkins, an icon in our industry, was the first suitor that we believed would continue what we have worked so hard to build in a manner we think will honor the company’s values.”
From Olympic Hot Tub’s viewpoint, this was a terrific move for Watkins and its dealers. Watkins marketing savvy and strength will take Freeflow to the position it deserves in the low-price category-that’s at the top. Right now, it’s the little brand that no one but owners have ever heard of. Watkins will put Freeflow on the map.
Also, it’s good news for Freeflow Spa owners and prospective owners. Watkins has never cheapened a product or refused to support a brand at less than 100%. I can say with certainty that the product will get even better technically and warranty support will be even better nationwide. Having a Fortune 500 company behind the brand gives consumers added protection that no other spa manufacturer provides.
Olympic Hot Tub has carried the Freeflow brand for two years in its 5 retail stores in the Puget Sound Area: Seattle, Fife, Everett, Issaquah and Lacey. Olympic received a Top Dealer Award from FreeFlow Spas earlier this year. We’ve found their spas to be reliable and a terrific value at a low price point. Freeflow Spa owners love their spas for affordable relaxation, easy care, energy efficiency and, the easy set-up. They plug into a standard electrical outlet. Freeflow Spas coined the term “plug-n-play” in the spa category. And that’s just it! No wiring modifications required. Set it up, fill it up and plug it in. That’s the beauty of Freeflow Spas!
Any questions or comments about the purchase of Freeflow Spas by Watkins? Please post in the comments section. We’d love to hear from you.
RES SERVA EST VERUM GAUDIUM. True pleasure is a serious business.
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About Watkins Manufacturing Corporation
Watkins Manufacturing was established in 1977, in Vista, California. They are the world’s largest manufacturer of hot tubs, including Hot Spring® Spas, Limelight® Hot Tubs, Hot Spot® Spas and Caldera® Spas. The Watkins Dealer network extends into all 50 states and over 60 countries. Watkins is a division of Masco Corporation, a Fortune 500 company whose products include Delta® Faucets, KraftMaid® Cabinets, and Behr® paint.
