SPATEX 2026 A RECORD BREAKER
The 30th edition of the UK’s dedicated water leisure exhibition attracted the highest number of exhibitors and visitors at the Coventry Building Society Arena
Professionals from across the aquatics and leisure sectors descended on Coventry for the annual SPATEX event, which acts both as an educational event and a showcase for the latest products and innovations. From swimming pools, ice baths, spas and saunas to steam rooms, hot tubs, enclosures and swim spas, the hall was brimming with new solutions. “The event illustrated just how integral water leisure has become to 21st century life,” said SPATEX Organiser, Michele Bridle.
“The industry’s overwhelmingly positive response to SPATEX was this year rewarded with a fantastic turnout of 1,749 unique visitors – which is up 14% on last year.”
LEARNINGS
SPATEX’s double seminar programme, with leading industry speakers addressing topical and current issues and giving vital health and safety guidance, also recorded an impressive increase in attendance figures – up nearly a quarter (23%) to 737. This included a highly informative Pool Plant Theatre for commercial pool operators, plus the ever-popular CPD-accredited ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers) technical workshops.
The Industry Hub was launched this year with great success. Free impartial advice was provided by the BSPF (British Swimming Pool Federation) representing SPATA (Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association) and BISHTA (British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association), RLSS UK (Royal Life Saving Society UK), IOS (Institute of Swimming), PWTAG (Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group) and STA (Swimming Teachers’ Association).
Experts from LCA (Legionella Control Association) and WMSoc (Water Management Society) were also on hand to give keynote talks in the seminar arenas.
TALKING SHOP
With the “who’s who” of water leisure gathered under one roof, networking was to the fore. The BSPF hosted an entertaining Wet Leisure Industry Gala Evening & Awards, highlighting exemplary projects and honouring winners who continue to raise industry standards and deliver exceptional results. This year’s ceremony was made even more special by the presence of the Guest of Honour, Anna Hopkin MBE, Olympic champion and one of Great Britain’s most accomplished sprint swimmers.
The following evening, SPATEX hosted a special anniversary edition of the now famous SPATEX Networking Party. Visitors and exhibitors enjoyed challenging and cheering on colleagues with a variety of interactive games and fantastic prizes. With the night still young, the fun continued with a Bandeoke Curry Night, with many taking to the stage, complete with a lively audience providing an exuberant support act.
Visitor Kushal Vyas of Humidity Solutions: “We spent the day meeting a range of pool and spa experts, from installers and consultants to engineers and manufacturers. It was a great opportunity to further understand the challenges the industry faces with regards to humidity control.”
Visitor Anthony Jackson, Project Manager: “Always worth stepping away from site to see what’s new, what’s changing, and what’s coming next in the pool and spa world. Plenty of good chat, new ideas, and a few sore feet by the end of it.”
Visitor Sarah Morley of Water Hygiene Centre Ltd: “A great opportunity to connect with industry professionals, share insights, and keep up to date with the latest developments across the sector.”
Exhibitor Jordan Lemon of Superior Wellness: “An incredible few days packed with great conversations, increased momentum and exciting new opportunities. One clear highlight: sauna enquiries were through the roof. A strong signal of where the market is heading.”
Exhibitor Robert Smits Poolstar: “What an incredible experience. Celebrating 30 years of the pool and spa industry in the UK was the perfect backdrop for what turned out to be one of our most successful shows yet.”
SAVE THE DATE: The 31st edition of SPATEX will take place from Tuesday 2nd to Thursday 4th February 2027 at the Coventry Building Society Arena