Episode #136 From Building Blocks to Bubbles: Fred Bachmann’s Journey in the Hot Tub Industry

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Megan Kendrick interviews Fred Bachmann, owner of Bachmann’s Pools, Spas and Saunas in Wisconsin. They discuss Fred’s journey from a building contractor to a prominent figure in the hot tub industry. Fred delves into his early challenges, including renovating his showrooms during COVID and acquiring a failing business, which eventual turned out to be beneficial. Fred also shares insights into how aggressive marketing, top-notch service, and rigorous staff training have driven the store’s continued growth. Winning the Locksin Thompson Award affirmed their success. Additionally, Fred highlights his interest in cold plunge products and ambitious plans for his business’s future. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:13 Showroom Success and Awards01:44 Store Renovations During COVID02:22 Fred’s Background and Entry into the Hot Tub Industry03:37 Early Business Challenges and Growth09:46 Marketing Strategies and Turning Points12:51 Expansion and Real Estate Investments15:25 Navigating the 2008 Recession16:23 COVID-19 Impact and Adaptations23:48 Post-COVID Growth and Future Outlook27:50 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges28:27 The Impact of Tariffs on Pricing30:02 Consumer Demand for Hot Tubs30:18 Marketing Strategies and Industry Trends32:06 The Rise of Cold Plunges37:48 Training and Development40:05 Future Business Plans41:30 Winning the Locksin and Thompson Award43:18 Personal Reflections and Insights50:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts