I don’t know about you, but I love the New Year for the simple fact that it provides an absolute, universally accepted ‘do-over’ date.

It allows me to table the good and bad events of 2009 and renew my focus on the next 12 months. Like most of us, I am quick to create resolutions ranging from a commitment to better health, improved relationships with my family and friends, financial stability, etc. The list is ambitious, but, then again, I tell myself I have 12 months to get started.

In business I share a similar philosophy; I can’t wait to start 2010. Recently I was talking to a hot tub retailer who told me, “Hope is not a business plan. I need to be proactive to create my own success.” It was this profound statement that was the creative catalyst for this issue.

            Hope and optimism are on the rise. You see hope in the way Sunbelt Spas has come back from the ashes of their industrial fire last January to rebuild a stronger and leaner manufacturing facility. You also will read articles to help you take-charge in this new year – things to do to prepare your business for growth, banishing employee burnout merchandising on a budget and an in-depth look at the merits of the swim spa market. All are designed to improve morale and reinforce the positive attitudes shared by many in the industry.

That being said, I know hope alone is not a silver bullet for success. The economy,

while still fragile, is showing signs of improvement over 2009 and many families no doubt have postponed a hot tub purchase until things improve. Hopefully the last few months of positive economic news will turn the tide and give us some much needed sustained consumer confidence.

At SpaRetailer we also are optimistic about 2010. We have designated the January/February issue as an excuse to update and refine our magazine design. You will notice new fonts, layouts, departments and even a new cover design to reflect the reading habits of our loyal readers. By the way, SR is also announcing the first wave of Certified™ Retail Stores and Pool Builders that have earned the industry’s first independent quality award.

 

Best,

 

David T. Wood

Editor-in-Chief & Publisher

dwood@bigfishpublications.com