North Wales hot tub firm smashes previous records as coronavirus lockdown and sunshine lead to surge in sales

A hot tub company has smashed predicted records as warm weather coupled with the coronavirus lockdown led to a surge in sales.

Gareth Jones, managing director of UK Leisure Living is encouraging people to support local firms when restrictions are lifted as hospitality and tourism firms believe they will take a long time to recover.

The St Asaph and Mochdre-based business was 70 per cent up on sales in comparison to the previous April, and May has been the busiest ever for the company.

Having opened a new premises just weeks before the pandemic struck the UK, Gareth says they are fortunate the hot tubs sector has received a positive response but is concerned for other local organisations.

He said: “The weather has certainly helped us, and the fact we work with different brands and suppliers means we have a steady flow of hot tubs coming into the warehouse and going out to customers.

“We are applying social distancing laws when installing and to be honest it’s like any other mail order process, we’re just there slightly longer.”

“Ultimately, the whole industry has seen an increase in demand and while some will say it’s not an essential service the counter-argument is that having a hot tub – and they are a wide range of options, so it’s not as expensive as many people think – is a distraction and an escape for people at this challenging time

“For physical and mental health, it can be beneficial, and now more than ever that is vital.”

With people cancelling summer holidays abroad to stay in the UK and at home, he anticipates the trend will continue in the months ahead.

Gareth said: “For most of us we are going to be in the UK enjoying the garden this summer, so if having a hot tub makes them happy during a ‘staycation’ then that can only be a good thing.

“For any customers who are concerned about self-isolation and distancing we have online tutorials and consultations or can even host a video conference to explain how to use and maintain the hot tub.

“Like every business out there, we are taking each day as it comes.”

He added: “We’ve been offering discounts – notably to NHS workers – and had competitions including giving away a hot tub, anything to try and help people, as well as keeping business going and our staff in work.”

“It’s the local business people who support the community, sponsor local sports teams, raise money for local charities, employ local people who in turn spend their money in the region and contribute to the local economy, so please help them when they open their doors again.”