Dynamic duo recognised as rising stars
Andy Slater- 22 hours ago
Superior Wellness Managing Director Rob Carlin and Global Sales Director Gareth Ward have been recognised as ‘rising stars’ for their exceptional contributions to the hot tub industry.
The dynamic duo have been honoured for their leadership and outstanding achievements after being selected for SpaRetailer’s 2024 30 Under 40 list that celebrates the rising stars who are driving the industry forward with innovative ideas and their relentless passion. In just a few years since entering the U.S. market, the Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness directors have been instrumental in remarkable growth, following meteoric hot tub and swim spa manufacturing and distribution success in the UK and Europe.
On his inclusion in the list, Rob expressed his gratitude by saying: “I’m extremely proud to be featured in SpaRetailer’s 30 Under 40. This industry is full of talented individuals, and it’s a privilege to be recognised for contributing fresh ideas to move the sector forward.
“What excites me most about the hot tub industry is the incredible potential for growth and global reach,” divulged Rob Carlin; “My vision is to continue expanding Superior Wellness across the globe, with the ultimate goal of becoming the world’s largest hot tub company.
Gareth Ward added: “Being named in the 30 Under 40 list is a tremendous honour, and I am committed to furthering our global presence and achieving our goals.
“Entering new markets and embracing different cultures and business practices is what drives me. My passion is helping our network of partners grow, and ensuring that both Superior Wellness and our dealers thrive together.”
Also featured from outside the U.S in the SpaRetailer’s 30 Under 40 is Spa World Business Development Manager Dale Jamieson, who is based in New South Wales, Australia, and aspires to become Managing Director of Vortex Spas, distributed in the UK by Spa Solutions. Other rising stars include Watkins Wellness Brand Manager for Caldera Spas Rachel Ertman; Master Spas of West Michigan Sales Manager Gregory Coblentz; and Viking Spas Customer Service Manager Daniel Yonkers.
Rachel Ertman has revealed that she aspires to be remembered as someone who made a lasting impact on the Caldera Spas brand, by creating a story that resonates with dealers and owners, along with prospective customers.
“Every day, I feel so lucky to work with our talented team at Watkins and our incredible dealer network,” divulged Rachel. “Together, we’re able to help more people enjoy the wellness benefits of hot tubbing.”
Following his recognition by the rising stars list, Daniel Yonkers has highlighted the increasing importance of hot tubs in physical therapy and mental rest, along with the increasing demand for cold water therapy.
“It feels good to support the people who need these products and see how much it can impact their daily lives,” revealed Daniel; “Cold plunges are just taking off now, and I think there are more big ideas on the horizon.”
Another on the list is Alicia Peter who is Retail Performance Optimisation Manager for Backyard Leisure, which supplies Caldera Spas, Hot Spring Spas, Endless Pools and Covana automated covers. It has been revealed that her dream it is to generate passion in everyone who enters the hot tub industry.
“If you remember what your ‘why’ is — to come to work each day and discover why your customer walked in to find a hot tub — then you’ll truly understand the power behind the products we are selling,” suggests Alicia.
“Where else can you work and see marriages saved, relationships restored between parents and children and those with ailments now able to live more life?”
Rob Carlin and Gareth Ward have been instrumental in creating healthier lifestyles for owners of their booming wellness product ranges after evolving the company from Superior Spas. Now, under their stewardship, Superior Wellness has become the fastest-growing hot tub manufacturer and distributor in the world with a network of over 500 global partners, and a diverse portfolio of brands that include Platinum Spas, which has gained 2024 WhatSpa? Best Buy Awards for the Platinum Spas Deluxe Refresh, Platinum Spas Premium Tokyo, and Premium Maximus; as well as Chill Tubs, and Hekla Saunas to cater for the demand from the cold water therapy and sauna markets.
As the driving force behind Superior Wellness, which he originally founded in 2011 from his bedroom, Rob Carlin has gained extensive experience in the hot tub industry after working in delivery, sales, marketing, finance, logistics and after-sales support. He is now aiming for further global expansion success, which will include officially launching a new U.S warehouse and office later this year and plans for further exploits in Europe and Australia.
“My ultimate goal is for us to become the largest hot tub company in the world, and I will persist until this vision is realised, no matter how long it takes,” divulged Rob.
“If I could change one thing about the hot tub industry, it would be to drive more innovation in product development, sales and marketing. The industry is currently too outdated in these areas.”
Ahead of Superior Wellness appearing at the PSP/Deck Expo in Dallas, from November 9 to 11; and Piscine Global in Lyon, from November 19 to 22; Gareth Ward declared: “My ambition is boundless, and I am deeply driven to realize our vision of becoming the largest hot tub company in the world. Growth of our brands and innovation are key to me.”
A significant part of Gareth’s role is building relationships with dealers, which he considers one of the most rewarding aspects of his work. He also enjoys the opportunities to diversify Superior Wellness’ product offerings, expanding into new areas like ice baths and saunas.
“Entering new markets and understanding the different cultures and ways of working excites me,” he says. “My passion is seeing our network of partners grow in new territories and giving the best service we can to enable growth not only for Superior Wellness but also for our dealer network.”
Editor-in-Chief of SpaRetailer Megan Kendrick has praised Superior Wellness for its rapid progress in the U.S. market and the leadership of Rob Carlin and Gareth Ward in their accomplishments, which she believes makes them excellent recipients of SpaRetailer’s 30 Under 40 award.
“I congratulate them and all the winners this year,” said Megan; “In the short time Superior Wellness has been in the U.S. market, it has made waves in the industry with its innovation and growth.”
