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Aquatic Leisure Technologies Announces New Manufacturing Facility in Alabama

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Aquatic Leisure Technologies Announces New Fiberglass Pool Manufacturing Facility in Opp, Alabama

Aquatic Leisure Technologies Group (ALT), one of Australia’s largest and most innovative fiberglass swimming pool manufacturers, is proud to announce the establishment of its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Opp, Alabama. The facility spans 56,000 square feet on 22 acres, marking a significant milestone in ALT’s continued expansion across the United States.

The site will serve as the U.S. manufacturing home of Aqua Technics Pools – ALT’s world-renowned pool brand and the flagship line that will be promoted across the North American market. Aqua Technics Pools has earned global recognition for design, technology, and performance, and was recently awarded SPASA Australian Business of the Year, solidifying its position as a leader in the swimming pool industry.

Aqua Technics Pools

Governor Kay Ivey welcomed the company’s decision to invest in Alabama. “We are thrilled to welcome Aquatic Leisure Technologies to Opp, Alabama. Their decision to build here underscores the strength of our state’s pro-business climate, our talented workforce, and our commitment to fostering world-class manufacturing. This facility will not only create quality jobs, but it will also help boost the local economy in Covington County. That’s what ‘Made in Alabama’ is all about — innovation, investment, and opportunity for all.”

Since entering the U.S. market in 2018, ALT has experienced sustained growth, previously supplying distributors and dealers directly from its Australian operations. The Opp facility will now localize production, improve delivery times, and support the company’s expanding dealer and distributor network across the country.

“Establishing a manufacturing presence in the United States is a natural progression for our business,” said President Lynley Papineau. “After two years of searching for the right property and the right community to call home, Opp, Alabama provides the ideal location—offering a strong local workforce, supportive community and excellent infrastructure that will help to facilitate our long-term vision for growth.”

City of Opp Mayor Chance McCurley stated, “Today marks an exciting milestone for the City of Opp. Aquatic Leisure Technologies’ decision to build its first U.S. manufacturing facility right here in our community is the result of teamwork and a shared vision,” he said. 

“We want to extend our sincere thanks to Jacob Morgan with the Covington County Economic Development Commission for his leadership throughout this process, as well as Adam Metcalfe of Metcalfe & Company, Inc., whose expertise as the commercial and industrial realtor was instrumental in securing this site.  This announcement reflects what is possible when local, county, and state partners work together. We are excited to welcome Aquatic Leisure Technologies to Opp and look forward to the new opportunities and long-term growth this project will bring to our community.”

The facility will manufacture ALT’s premium brand Aqua Technics Pools, produced using the company’s globally recognized patented technologies, including PoolColourGuard® and Graphene Nano-Tech®. These innovations deliver unmatched surface durability, color retention, and structural performance – core strengths that have positioned Aqua Technics Pools as a global industry leader.

Fiberglass Pool Manufacturer in Alabama

Commissioning is now underway, with initial production targeted for early 2026. The project will create new local employment opportunities as ALT builds and trains a U.S.-based manufacturing team. In the short term, key Australian specialists will support the facility setup and technology transfer to ensure that operations in the United States meet the company’s strict global manufacturing standards.

ALT also acknowledges the significant support received throughout this process. “We are deeply appreciative of the backing provided by the State of Alabama, particularly the Department of Commerce, AIDT, as well as the City of Opp and the Covington County Economic Development Commission,” Lynley added. “Their commitment and collaboration have been instrumental in bringing this project to life.”

Covington County Economic Development President Jacob Morgan said ” This is a great win for Opp and for all of Covington County.  Our elected officials made key decisions that helped Aquatic Leisure Technologies choose our area to call home.  We first met them in July of this year and have been working with them every week to get to this day.  These are the type of jobs that truly help families in Covington County.”

“We are committed to investing in American manufacturing and contributing to the region’s economic development,” said Lynley. “In 2026, we will be celebrating our 50th year as a family business. We are incredibly excited to be able to offer more families our world-class pools to create lasting memories.”

For more information, please contact:

Lynley Papineau – President
Aquatic Leisure Technologies (Aqua Technics Pools)
Cell:  +61 412 987 567
Email:  [email protected]

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Alise Everton has been working in the pool industry for the past decade and is an experienced press correspondent and contributor for numerous trade publications and web portals including PoolMagazine.com and PoolContractor.com among others. Contact her for guest posting opportunities, press releases, and pool equipment related news.

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Manufacturer

Pentair Announces Leadership Transition for Pentair Pool

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Pentair Announces Leadership Transition for Pentair Pool

Pentair plc (NYSE: PNR), a leader in helping the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water life’s most essential resource, today announced that Jerome Pedretti, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Pentair Pool, will depart the Company effective July 1, 2026. Pedretti concludes a distinguished career with Pentair spanning more than 20 years.

In connection with Pedretti’s departure, Pentair is eliminating the Chief Executive Officer of Pentair Pool role. De’Mon Wiggins, current EVP and President, Pentair Flow and Pentair Water Solutions, will assume responsibility for the Pool segment as EVP and President, Pentair Flow, Water Solutions and Pool, effective April 28, 2026. Pedretti will remain with Pentair through his departure date to support an orderly transition.

“Over more than two decades with Pentair, Jerome has made a significant and lasting impact on our Pool and Flow businesses through his leadership, deep expertise, and unwavering commitment to our customers and our culture,” said John Stauch, Pentair President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are truly grateful for Jerome’s many contributions and for his thoughtful partnership in supporting a smooth transition. With De’Mon’s strong track record of execution and strategic leadership, I am confident in the continued momentum of our Pool business and excited about the opportunities ahead.”

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains statements that we believe to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Without limitation, any statements preceded or followed by or that include the words “targets,” “plans,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “likely,” “may,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “positioned,” “strategy,” or “future” or words, phrases, or terms of similar substance or the negative thereof are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include the overall global economic and business conditions impacting our business, including the strength of housing and related markets and conditions relating to international hostilities; supply, demand, logistics, competition and pricing pressures related to and in the markets we serve; the ability to achieve the benefits of our restructuring plans, cost reduction initiatives and Transformation Program; the impact of raw material, logistics and labor costs and other inflation; volatility in currency exchange rates and interest rates; failure of markets to accept new product introductions and enhancements; the ability to successfully identify, finance, complete and integrate acquisitions; risks associated with operating foreign businesses; the impact of seasonality of sales and weather conditions; our ability to comply with laws and regulations; the impact of changes in laws, regulations and administrative policy, including those that limit U.S. tax benefits or impact trade agreements and tariffs; the outcome of litigation and governmental proceedings; and the ability to achieve our long-term strategic operating and sustainability goals and targets. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025. All forward-looking statements, including all financial forecasts, speak only as of the date of this release. Pentair assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update the information contained in this release.

ABOUT PENTAIR PLC

At Pentair, we help the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and commercial water solutions, to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is a core large cap value S&P 500 equity stock focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive.

Pentair had revenue in 2025 of approximately $4.2 billion, and trades under the ticker symbol PNR. With approximately 9,000 global employees serving customers in more than 150 countries, we work to help improve lives and the environment around the world. To learn more, visit www.pentair.com.

Contacts

Media Contact:

Shelly Hubbard
Vice President, Investor Relations
Direct: 612-812-0148
Email: [email protected]

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Manufacturer

Nidec Commercial & Industrial Names New President and CTO 

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Nidec Motor Company

ST. LOUIS, MO – April 28, 2026 – Nidec, a manufacturer of compressors and electric motors and drives used in numerous industries, has announced the promotion of Tim Schamel to President of Nidec Commercial & Industrial. The company has also named Tim Albers as Chief Technology Officer. 

The moves come as part of Nidec’s organizational strengthening strategy and with the goal of ensuring greater alignment across all areas of Nidec’s Appliance, Commercial and Industrial Motors (ACIM) business unit. 

ACIM is one of Nidec’s largest business units in terms of sales, with approximately 18,000 employees and more than 30 manufacturing sites in 25 countries. ACIM offers a product portfolio that includes compressors, condensing units, and motors for home and commercial appliances, as well as motors and electronic drives for commercial, residential, industrial, and utilities applications. 

Tim Schamel previously served as President of Nidec/U.S. MOTORS®. He joined the company in 2016 as Vice President and General Manager of HVAC/R and Appliance Motors. His long career in the industry includes roles at Parker Sporlan and Emerson.

Tim Albers, as Chief Technology Officer for Nidec Commercial & Industrial, brings a wealth of engineering and industry experience to his new role.  He previously served as Senior Director of Product Management for 15 years, and prior to that worked for Emerson in marketing and project management. 

About Nidec 

Nidec Corporation is the world’s No.1 comprehensive motor manufacturer. Based in Kyoto, Japan, Nidec Corporation offers motors ranging from micro-size to super large, as well as application products and services in IT, automation, home appliances, automobiles, commercial and industrial systems, environmental, energy, and many other businesses. Nidec is comprised of approximately 340 companies employing more than 110,000 people all over the world. Nidec.com

About Nidec ACIM

Nidec Appliance, Commercial and Industrial Motors (ACIM) is a Business Unit of the Appliance and Automotive Division (AAD) composed of two Platforms: Global Appliance (GA) and Commercial & Industrial (C&I). ACIM is one of the largest Business Units in terms of sales inside Nidec Group, with approximately 18,000 employees and more than 30 manufacturing sites in 25 countries. ACIM offers a product portfolio such as compressors, condensing units, and motors for home and commercial appliances, as well as motors and electronic drives for commercial, residential, industrial, and utilities applications. This comprehensive set of solutions is characterized by high standards of quality and energy efficiency that delivers innovation at the service of sustainability.

The U.S. MOTORS® brand of Nidec Motor Corporation encompasses a complete line of general and special purpose commercial and industrial motors from 1/3 horsepower through 4000 horsepower for a wide variety of applications. Since 1908, the U.S. MOTORS brand has stood for exceptional product reliability and performance. It is one of the oldest and most trusted brands in the motor industry and is recognized worldwide as the mark of leadership and technological innovation.  USMotors.com  

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Soake Pools Partners with Slipstream to Elevate At-Home Wellness

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The Leading Precast Plunge Pool Manufacturer Partners with Slipstream to Bring Swim Technology to Its Premium Plunge Pools

Pembroke, N.H. — April 22, 2026 — Soake Pools, the leader in luxury precast plunge pools, announces a new partnership with Slipstream, the first portable swimming machine that transforms any pool into an endless swim lane. This collaboration introduces Slipstream’s advanced drop-in swim current system as a seamless enhancement to Soake Pools’ premium concrete plunge pool offerings, creating a powerful, new option for water fitness at home with space-saving convenience. 

Slipstream’s battery-powered, portable system transforms virtually any compatible pool into an active swimming environment with a fully adjustable speed current that is both wide and smooth. The easy, tool-free setup allows users to install or remove the device in seconds, making it a flexible and accessible upgrade for both new and existing pool owners. 

The partnership further diversifies Soake Pools’ Fitness & Wellness program by expanding the range of options available to customers beyond the existing Complete Static Swim System. The distinct experiences offered by the Static Swim and Slipstream enhance the versatility of exercise in Soake Pools.  

“This partnership allows us to offer our customers an entirely new way to enjoy their Soake Pool,” said Karen Larson, co-founder of Soake Pools. “By integrating Slipstream, we’re expanding the possibilities for water exercise while collaborating with a like-minded company that shares our commitment to helping homeowners create a truly personalized wellness experience at home. After hosting a unit in our Experience Center, it quickly became one of the most popular features for guests to try, reinforcing the strong demand for this type of offering.”

As part of the partnership, Soake customers will receive an exclusive $250 discount on Slipstream systems. Owners and prospective Soake Pools customers can fill out an online form to receive their offer, which can be stacked onto any active sales. 

“Recognizing the strong alignment between both brands, we saw an opportunity to bring our fitness capabilities and deliver a differentiated solution to Soake Pools customers,” said James Murdock, Founder of Slipstream. “We’re promoting performance and overall wellness while redefining what’s possible in the at-home pool industry.”

With a shared focus on health and personalized fitness, Soake Pools and Slipstream are bringing the benefits of low-impact exercise and performance swimming to more homeowners than ever before.

To learn more about Soake Pools and Slipstream, please visit soakepools.com and swimslipstream.com.

About Soake Pools: Karen and Brian Larson, Co-Founders of Soake® Pools, created the company from the ground up in 2014, deeming them the first company to offer hand-tiled precast concrete plunge pools for the home. Today, Soake Pools is the leading prefabricated plunge pool manufacturer in North America, designing luxury, space-saving pools for year-round use and enjoyment. The team proudly continues its legacy, revolutionizing the industry, offering a steady stream of new dimensions, unparalleled luxury finishes, and a litany of safety, aesthetic, and user-friendly functionalities. Each Soake Pools plunge pool is made to order in New England using state-of-the-art tiles and proprietary concrete, entirely customizable, delivered pre-built and ready to install. Designed to be enjoyed year-round, Soake Pools are equipped with the adjustability for a hot dip in the winter and a cold, refreshing plunge in the summer, and can even provide athletic training with resistance system offerings. Soake Pool’s bespoke, monolithic concrete design offers accessibility in both size and pricing, sustainability in terms of the saltwater contents, lower water usage, and variable speed pumps, offering flexibility with countless physical and mental wellness benefits and, undoubtedly, increased home value.

About Slipstream: Slipstream Swim Machines is redefining the at-home swimming experience with a new generation of portable, high-performance swim technology. Created by James Murdock—the innovator behind Endless Pools—Slipstream represents over 30 years of advancement in swim-in-place systems, delivering a smoother, more natural current in a powerful, easy-to-use design. Engineered for simplicity and versatility, Slipstream’s battery-powered swim machines can be placed in virtually any pool—inground or above-ground—without the need for construction, wiring, or permanent installation. The system creates a consistent, adjustable current suitable for all levels, from beginners and families to competitive swimmers, triathletes, and rehabilitation users. Designed to remove the barriers of traditional swim systems, Slipstream combines portability, quiet operation, and performance in a lightweight format that brings year-round swim training and low-impact aquatic fitness into the home. By eliminating the need for shared lanes, travel to pools, and flip turns, Slipstream enables a continuous swim experience that is both convenient and highly effective. With a commitment to innovation, accessibility, and user-focused design, Slipstream Swim Machines is leading the next evolution of swimming—empowering individuals to train, recover, and enjoy the water on their own terms.

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