Reputable Home and Hardware stores in the UK
Shops such as Argos® and B&Q® both stock a selection of hot tubs (hardshell and inflatable) as well as accessories, chemicals and much more.
There are some hot tub manufacturers and dealers who have their products stocked in these shops so they can reach customers who may not live near a retail store. This means you will have access to support, installation and service from the dealer or manufacturer you buy from.
You will also find that some brands may have their hot tub store situated within a garden centre. An example of this is the Jacuzzi Manchester store based inside the Bents Garden and Home Centre in Warrington.
Shows, events and fairs in the UK
The UK is a great place for businesses to sell their products at shows, fairs and events. They vary in size too. Shows on the annual calendar around the country include:
- Large national shows – including the Ideal Home Show and Grand Designs
- County shows - including the Yorkshire Show
- Events - including the Royal Horticultural Show (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show
Not only are these shows and events lively and have a great atmosphere, they are also a fantastic way to meet the brand or manufacturer face to face and learn about the products displayed too.
Online hot tub stores in the UK
Retailers and manufacture owned stores will offer the ability to both buy in store or buy online. The opportunity to buy online can be useful if you’re based in a remote location or do not have the ability to visit a showroom. There are also a small number of suppliers in the UK who sell lower price point products online only, and do not have a physical store or showroom for customers to visit.
These products sold ‘online only’ typically have a cheaper price tag. That’s because there are no overhead fixed costs that come with displaying and selling hot tubs in stores. An example of an online only business is Blue Whale Spa™.
A lot of brands, including Jacuzzi, do not allow resellers to sell hot tubs as ‘online only’. Some brands maintain a view that customers should have the opportunity to wet test hot tubs and try them out for comfort, size, appearance and usability.
This enables you as a customer to know if the hot tub ticks the boxes for you, or if you’re best to explore other options.
What to look for when visiting a hot tub or swim spa store in the UK?
One of the first steps to a positive buying experience is the type of store you enter. From the surroundings to the people serving you, it can make a world of difference.
Here are our Top 7 points you should keep in mind before you enter each hot tub store.
1 - Clean, tidy and proud looking store.
2 - Decent length of time in business.
3 - Trusting, attentive salespeople.
4 - Customer reviews on reputable online sites.
5 - Product pricing displayed on the website.
6 - Fair warranties.
7 - Quality after-sales service.
For more details, read this article that will help you become aware of key points to keep in mind as you make plans to visit showrooms.