Industry News
Leslie’s, Inc. Names Jeff White As New CFO And Treasurer
Leslie’s, Inc. (NASDAQ: LESL), the largest and most trusted direct-to-customer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry serving residential customers and pool professionals nationwide, today announced the board of directors has appointed Jeff White as chief financial officer and treasurer effective October 5, 2025. Mr. White succeeds Tony Iskander, who notified the company on August 15, 2025 of his resignation from his position as interim chief financial officer and treasurer effective October 4, 2025, due to personal reasons.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jeff to the Leslie’s leadership team,” said Jason McDonell, Leslie’s chief executive officer. “His breadth of experience in financial strategy, capital markets and delivering enhanced operational efficiency makes him the ideal leader to guide our finance organization forward. I am confident his proven ability to build high-performing finance organizations and leading investor engagement will support Leslie’s continued focus on disciplined execution, operational performance and transparent communication with all shareholders. Jeff’s expertise will help provide stability and financial discipline as we deliver against our strategic initiatives while remaining focused on long-term value creation for shareholders.”
Mr. White brings a proven track record of financial and operational leadership, including significant experience overseeing accounting, FP&A, compliance, investor relations, legal, real estate and treasury. Most recently, Mr. White served as chief financial officer for Sportsman’s Warehouse (NASDAQ: SPWH) where he led critical initiatives including rebuilding the FP&A and investor relations functions, leading the company’s Investor Day activities, driving two successful credit facility renegotiations and funding a FILO term loan to augment the company’s liquidity. Mr. White also brings a strong background in SEC reporting, SOX compliance, M&A due diligence and operational process improvements. Prior to his tenure at Sportsman’s Warehouse, Mr. White was an audit manager at KPMG LLP where he spent six years in roles of increasing responsibility.
“We want to thank Tony for his many contributions to Leslie’s and our transformation initiatives,” said Mr. McDonell. “Tony is a trusted thought partner and has helped deliver meaningful progress across the organization while strengthening our finance and accounting capabilities. The board remains committed to strong governance and oversight through this transition, with a clear focus on accountability and transparency.”
To ensure a smooth transition and support the company’s ongoing strategic initiatives, Mr. Iskander will remain employed with the company in an advisory role through January 3, 2026.
About Leslie’s
Founded in 1963, Leslie’s is the largest and most trusted direct-to-customer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry serving residential customers and pool professionals nationwide. The company serves the aftermarket needs of residential and professional consumers with an extensive and largely exclusive assortment of essential pool and spa care products. The company operates an integrated ecosystem of over 1,000 physical locations and a robust digital platform, enabling consumers to engage with Leslie’s whenever, wherever, and however they prefer to shop. Its dedicated team of associates, pool and spa care experts, and experienced service technicians are passionate about empowering Leslie’s consumers with the knowledge, products, and solutions necessary to confidently maintain and enjoy their pools and spas.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements about us and our industry that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations or financial condition, business strategy, value proposition, dispositions, legal proceedings, competitive advantages, market size, growth opportunities, industry expectations, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions. Our actual results or outcomes could differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons, including, among others:
our ability to execute on our growth strategies;
our expectations regarding our cash resources and cash generation from normal operations;
supply disruptions or increased costs, including as a result of trade policies;
our ability to maintain favorable relationships with suppliers and manufacturers;
competition from mass merchants and specialty retailers;
impacts on our business from the sensitivity of our business to weather conditions, changes in the economy (including high interest rates, recession fears, inflationary pressures and changes in trade policies, including tariffs or other trade restrictions or the threat of such actions), geopolitical events or conflicts, and the housing market;
disruptions in the operations of our distribution centers;
our ability to implement technology initiatives that deliver the anticipated benefits, without disrupting our operations;
our ability to execute on our management transition plans and to attract and retain senior management and other qualified personnel;
regulatory changes and developments affecting our current and future products including evolving legal standards, regulations and stakeholder expectations concerning environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters;
our ability to obtain additional capital to finance operations;
commodity price inflation and deflation;
impacts on our business from epidemics, pandemics, or natural disasters;
impacts on our business from cyber incidents and other security threats or disruptions;
our ability to regain and maintain compliance with Nasdaq listing standards;
our ability to implement the proposed reverse stock split in a timely manner, if at all, and the anticipated effects of the proposed reverse stock split on the price of shares of our common stock;
our ability to remediate material weaknesses or other deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting or to maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting; and
other risks and uncertainties, including those listed in the section titled “Risk Factors” in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. We have based the forward-looking statements contained in this press release primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, and operating results. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors described in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 28, 2024, in Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 29, 2025 and in our other filings with the SEC. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all risks and uncertainties that could have an impact on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The results, outcomes, events, and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements may not be achieved or occur, and actual results or outcomes could differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements.
In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this press release, and, while we believe that information provides a reasonable basis for these statements, that information may be limited or incomplete. Our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain, and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on these statements.
The forward-looking statements made in this press release are based on events or circumstances as of the date on which the statements are made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information, changed expectations, the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise, except as required by law. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions, outcomes, or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures, or investments.
CONTACT: Contact Elisabeth Eisleben Senior Vice President, Investor & Public Relations Leslie’s, Inc. [email protected]
Industry News
PHTA Opens Public Review of Revised PHTA-6 Spa Standard
The revised PHTA-6 standard addresses requirements for residential portable spas and exercise spas, with public comments being accepted during the review period.
(Alexandria, Va.) — The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, is inviting public review and comment on the proposed revision of the PHTA-6 Standard for Residential Portable Spas and Exercise Spas.
As an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited standards developer, PHTA follows a consensus-based standards development process that includes public review and comment opportunities for proposed standards revisions.
The draft revision of the PHTA-6 standard focuses on site-specific installation and consumer use of residential portable spas and exercise spas after delivery to the end user. Proposed updates are intended to improve enforceability, support regulatory alignment, address certification gaps, and enhance safety continuity throughout the industry.
The revised draft also includes updated language and new content designed to reflect current industry practices, technologies, and requirements.
The public review period for the draft PHTA-6 standard opens May 22, 2026, and closes July 6, 2026. During this time, industry professionals, regulatory agencies, and other interested parties are encouraged to review the draft and submit comments for consideration.
The public review announcement was published in ANSI Standards Action on May 22, 2026.
The draft standard and instructions for submitting comments are available on the PHTA-6 webpage at phta.org.
For additional information, please contact PHTA’s Standards Department at [email protected] or call (703) 838-0083.
About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance:
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with 4,000+ members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $62B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes the use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.
Industry News
Watson’s Expands into Carolinas with Viridien Acquisition
Watson’s Accelerates Strategic Growth with Acquisition of Viridien Patio + Fireplace, Strengthening Southern U.S. Presence
Cincinnati, OH (May 18th, 2026) – Watson’s, one of the nation’s largest retailers of home recreational products and furnishings, today announced the acquisition of Charlotte, NC based Viridien Patio + Fireplace, the Carolinas premier destination for high-end outdoor furniture, outdoor kitchens, fireplace and hearth products.
The acquisition of Viridien further strengthens Watson’s Southern U.S. presence, building on its 2024 acquisition of Fort Myers, Florida-based Recreational Warehouse, while also expanding its leadership in the outdoor furnishings category overall. The addition of four Carolinas locations—Charlotte, Lake Norman, Raleigh, and Greenville—brings Watson’s total store count to 39. Following the acquisition, Watson’s will operate 23 corporate locations and 16 franchise and affiliate locations.
“Expanding into the Carolinas market has long been a strategic objective for us,” said Erik Mueller, CEO of Watson’s. “The market’s strength and sustained economic growth make it a natural fit for our continued expansion. Combined with Viridien’s strong team, shared values, proven business model, and established presence, this acquisition represents an excellent strategic alignment. We are excited to welcome the entire Viridien team into the Watson’s family and to continue delivering high-quality products and experiences that bring enjoyment and relaxation to families across the region. Looking ahead, we see meaningful
opportunities to expand our product offerings and further grow our presence throughout the state as we invest in and grow alongside the community.”
“Watson’s is a family business with a strong culture, an outstanding reputation, and values that closely align with our own. From the beginning, it was important to me to find a partner that truly understood what Viridien has been built on over the past 45 years — taking care of our employees, customers, and vendor partners while always operating with integrity and a long-term perspective. I genuinely don’t believe we could have found a better home for our business. This partnership creates exciting opportunities for growth while allowing us to preserve the culture, service, and relationships that have defined Viridien for decades,” said Grant W. Henegan, Owner and President of Viridien Patio + Fireplace.
Following the acquisition, Viridien will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Watson’s and will be branded as Viridien by Watson’s. Customers should continue to expect a seamless and premium experience, with the same high standards of product selection and exceptional customer service delivered by both Watson’s and Viridien.
Building on this most recent expansion, Watson’s continues to evaluate and pursue multiple avenues for growth across the U.S. “We see significant opportunity to continue scaling Watson’s through new store development and strategic acquisitions in both our existing and new markets,” said Mueller.
Founded in 1968, Watson’s is one of the nation’s largest retailers of home recreation products, offering outdoor furniture, spas, pools, saunas, billiards, indoor furnishings, and more.
Assisting in the acquisition were Cincinnati-based partners Katz Teller, Clark Schaefer Hackett and Charlotte-based partner Stump & Company.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
About Watson’s
Since 1968, Watson’s has grown from a pool store in Cincinnati to one of the nation’s largest retailers of home recreation products and home furnishings. Their stores feature outdoor furnishings, indoor furnishings, game tables, pools, spas, and more, all under one roof. Watson’s mission is to bring families together for fun, relaxation, and a break from the stress of daily life. Their vision is to bring creativity to the home furnishings and leisure industries, by providing leadership with cutting-edge products, innovation, and world-class customer service. For more information visit www.watsons.com.
About Viridien Patio + Fireplace
Viridien Patio + Fireplace is a Carolinas based specialty retailer founded in 1981 that has evolved from a single fireplace store into a regional leader in premium outdoor furniture, outdoor kitchens, and fireplace products. Formerly known as The Fire House Casual Living Store, the company rebranded as Viridien in 2022 to reflect its focus on elevated outdoor living, design expertise, and customer-centric service. www.viridien.com
Industry News
POOLCORP Welcomes John Watwood as President and Chief Executive Officer
Seasoned distribution leader to drive POOLCORP’s next chapter of growth, deepening commitment to customers and supply partners
COVINGTON, LA., May 14, 2026 — POOLCORP, the world’s largest wholesale distributor of swimming pool and outdoor living products, recently announced the appointment of John Watwood as President and Chief Executive Officer.
Watwood joined the company in January 2026 as Executive Vice President and has quickly made an impact after spending much of his time in POOLCORP sales centers, meeting with customers, engaging with suppliers, and aligning closely with teams across the business. With extensive leadership experience in industrial and specialty distribution, Watwood brings a deep understanding of how to build high-performing teams, strengthen customer connections, and create long-term value in the industry.
Prior to joining POOLCORP, Watwood served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Operations at Motion Industries, a leading distributor of industrial parts and value-added solutions and a subsidiary of Genuine Parts Company. During his career, he has led large-scale sales and operations organizations focused on customer growth, supply chain excellence, and market expansion.

“John has gained the trust of our employees, customers, and suppliers in a very short period of time,” said Kenny St. Romain, Senior Vice President at POOLCORP. “He understands distribution at its core, but more importantly, he understands the value of relationships and the local support that our customers need. Our field teams have seen firsthand his commitment to listening, supporting our customers, and helping us continue to evolve our already successful service model. There’s real excitement across the organization about where we’re headed under John’s leadership.”
Watwood’s appointment marks the next chapter for POOLCORP as the company continues to invest in customer-focused solutions, sales and service excellence, operational capabilities, and technology-enabled experiences designed to help industry professionals grow and operate more efficiently.

About Pool Corporation
POOLCORP is the world’s largest wholesale distributor of swimming pool and related outdoor living products. The Company operates approximately 455 sales centers in North America, Europe, and Australia, through which it distributes more than 200,000 products to roughly 125,000 wholesale customers, including pool builders, retail stores, and service professionals. For more information, please visit www.poolcorp.com.
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