Acquisition adds three Florida locations, expands Watson’s Florida footprint to seven stores, and advances plans to exceed 50 locations within the next 12–18 months.

Cincinnati, OH (October 26, 2026) – Watson’s, founded in 1968 and the nation’s largest home recreation product retailer, today announced the acquisition of Tampa Bay Spas, marking the company’s entry into the Tampa Bay market. The acquisition adds three locations in Tampa, Lakeland, and Brandon, bringing Watson’s total network to 42 corporate and franchise locations, including seven in Florida.

Following its acquisitions of Sarasota Hot Springs and Recreational Warehouse, Watson’s continues to expand its presence in Florida as part of its broader national growth strategy. The three Tampa Bay Spas locations are expected to transition to the Watson’s brand over the next six months.

“Entering the Tampa Bay market is an important milestone for Watson’s and our continued expansion in Florida,” said Erik Mueller, CEO and Owner. “We continue to look for the right strategic acquisitions that fit our company’s culture and our growth strategy. Tampa Bay Spas gives us an established presence in an important market, and we’re excited to welcome their team to the Watson’s family. We pride ourselves in bringing families and friends together for a break from the daily stresses of life and look forward to providing that for the wonderful families in Tampa.”

“After 25 years we would like to thank all of our customers for believing in us, and we look forward to continuing to provide each and every one of you with the best possible service we can, as we move into the future with the Watson’s organization,” said Dave Corson, one of Tampa Bay Spas owners. “For over 50 years, Watson’s has been providing their customers with industry leading experiences, and we look forward to growing the Florida market together.”

Watson’s plans to exceed 50 locations within the next 12–18 months and grow to more than 75 locations over the next several years. The company will continue to pursue strategic acquisitions and organic store openings that complement its business, align with its culture, and support sustainable, intelligent growth across its corporate and franchise network.

The transaction was assisted by Cincinnati-based partners Katz Teller and Clark Schaefer. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

About Watson’s
Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Watson’s is the nation’s largest home recreation product retailer, offering hot tubs, swim spas, pools, patio furniture, billiards, game room products, and related accessories. Through its corporate and franchise locations, Watson’s helps customers create spaces for wellness, relaxation, home recreation, and entertainment. We have all the fun! For more information visit www.watsons.com.

About Tampa Bay Spas
Since 2001, Tampa Bay Spas, with locations in Tampa, Lakeland and Brandon, has proudly provided the greater Tampa area with premium Hot Spring Spas, supported by knowledgeable staff and a customer-focused approach to spa selection and ownership. An industry leader, they focus on helping customers identify solutions that fit their lifestyle and wellness needs. For more information visit www.tampabayhottubs.com.

Arizona-based custom pool builder joins international network of industry professionals dedicated to excellence in design, construction, and collaboration.

RICHMOND, VA — October 23, 2026 — Master Pools Guild (MPG), an international network of distinguished custom swimming pool builders, is pleased to announce Red Rock Design Build of Chandler, Arizona, as its newest member. Led by longtime friends and business partners Rick Chafey and Brett Blauvelt, Red Rock Design Build specializes in custom swimming pools, landscape design, and complete outdoor living environments, bringing a team-oriented approach to creating exceptional spaces for its clients.

Red Rock Design Build has established itself through a commitment to quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and personalized service. The company’s team works closely with homeowners to create outdoor environments that seamlessly integrate swimming pools, landscaping, and functional living spaces.

With decades of combined experience in the pool and construction industries, Rick and Brett bring complementary expertise to the company. Rick’s extensive background in swimming pool construction and technical craftsmanship, combined with Brett’s experience in design, business management, and construction operations, provides a strong foundation for the Red Rock team.

“Rick and Brett have built a company that reflects the values we look for in our members,” said Teri Wiltshire, Executive Director of Master Pools Guild. “Their team’s dedication to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to creating exceptional outdoor environments align with the standards of our organization. We’re excited to welcome Red Rock Design Build to the Guild and look forward to the experience and perspective their entire team will bring to our network.”

For Red Rock Design Build, joining Master Pools Guild represents an opportunity to connect with other accomplished builders, exchange ideas, and continue developing the knowledge and resources that benefit both the company and its clients.

“At Red Rock, we’ve always believed that surrounding ourselves with knowledgeable, talented people makes us better at what we do,” said Rick Chafey, Co-Founder of Red Rock Design Build. “Joining Master Pools Guild allows our entire team to learn from other respected builders, share ideas, and continue raising the bar for the projects we create.”

“One of the things we’re most excited about is the opportunity to bring new ideas and perspectives back to our team,” added Brett Blauvelt, Co-Founder of Red Rock Design Build. “The relationships and shared knowledge within Master Pools Guild will help us continue growing as a company while delivering the level of quality and service our clients expect.”

As a member of Master Pools Guild, Red Rock Design Build joins an international network of independent pool builders committed to advancing the industry through education, innovation, and collaboration. Members regularly exchange knowledge on construction techniques, emerging technologies, design trends, and business practices.

The addition of Red Rock Design Build further strengthens MPG’s network of professionals who share a dedication to craftsmanship, continuous improvement, and the advancement of the swimming pool industry.

About Red Rock Design Build

Red Rock Design Build is a Chandler, Arizona-based company specializing in custom swimming pools, landscape design, and outdoor living environments. Led by business partners Rick Chafey and Brett Blauvelt, the company brings together a skilled team of professionals dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. With an emphasis on craftsmanship, collaboration, and personalized service, Red Rock Design Build works closely with clients to transform their outdoor living visions into reality.

About Master Pools Guild

Master Pools Guild is an international network of independent custom swimming pool builders dedicated to excellence in design, construction, education, and collaboration. Through shared knowledge, industry resources, and professional relationships, MPG members work together to advance the art and business of swimming pool construction.

Media Contact:
Cheryl Lewis

[email protected]

Office (804) 657-4752

ST. LOUIS, MO – October 21, 2026 – Nidec, a manufacturer of electric motors and drives, has announced the promotion of Atticus Edge to National Account Manager for the pool and spa industry.
 
In his new role, Edge is responsible for the Pool/Aftermarket Motor business, managing Nidec’s U.S. MOTORS® network of sales representatives and supporting key national pool supplier accounts. He works closely with customers and sales partners to drive growth and deliver strong support across the pool aftermarket channel. 
 
Edge joined Nidec two years ago, serving in various engineering roles. Most recently, he supported the Variable speed and Neptune® motor platforms as a mechanical engineer, where he developed strong technical expertise and product knowledge. 
 
“As pool pumps and motors become more complex, pool service professionals often need expert guidance in selecting and programming pump motors,” said Steve O’Brien, National Sales Director at Nidec. “Atticus is already proving himself in this role as he applies his education and knowledge to benefit pool service professionals and distributors.”
 
Variable speed motors are now required by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for most pool applications, including replacement motors. Nidec’s Neptune line of pool pump motors offers energy savings plus the ability to replace only the failed motor, rather than the entire pump. 
 
With these technical advantages, Edge said the Neptune line has become a popular replacement motor for the pool industry. “We’re pleased to be able to offer service reps, and in turn their pool customers, these high-efficiency motors that meet or exceed DOE regulations.” 
 
Prior to joining Nidec, Edge worked for Spec-Tech Industrial Electric as an assembly and testing tech. He also completed an internship at Neff Power. Edge holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Saint Louis University. 
 
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
 
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