E-252 Pool Nation Podcast - From Skimmers to Smart Tech: Hayward’s Century of Pool Innovation

A Century of Innovation: Celebrating Hayward's Extraordinary Milestone

In an industry where businesses come and go with the seasons, reaching a 100-year anniversary is nothing short of extraordinary. Hayward Pool Products has achieved this remarkable milestone, joining the exclusive ranks of companies that have weathered a full century of economic ups and downs, technological revolutions, and global changes. To put this achievement in perspective, less than 1% of companies nationwide ever reach their 100th birthday.

The Pool Nation Podcast recently welcomed Hayward's VP of Sales Ryan Morrison and technical expert Justin Butler to celebrate this incredible achievement and explore what it takes to not just survive, but thrive for an entire century in the pool industry.

The Rarity of Centennial Success

When we talk about 100-year-old companies, we're discussing an extremely exclusive club. As Edgar De Jesus noted during the podcast, his research revealed a sobering statistic about business longevity:

I was actually doing a little bit of research and I think it's like anywhere from 0.5 to 0.8% of the companies that do business nationwide actually reach 100 years. And a lot of them are like Coca-Cola and just big, huge companies like that.

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

This puts Hayward's achievement into sharp focus. Starting in 1925, the company has navigated through the Great Depression, two World Wars, countless economic recessions, and dramatic technological shifts that have completely transformed not just the pool industry, but the entire business landscape.

The significance extends beyond mere survival. Hayward has evolved from a small private company into one of the "big three" in the pool industry, eventually becoming a publicly traded company that leads innovation on multiple fronts. This transformation represents the American dream in action – proof that with determination, focus, and what one podcast host called "some good old elbow grease," extraordinary things are possible.

From Accidental Beginnings to Industry Leadership

Both Morrison and Butler's journeys to Hayward exemplify how careers in the pool industry often begin unexpectedly but can lead to extraordinary opportunities. Morrison started cleaning pools in college, and as he explains, this humble beginning shaped his entire career trajectory:

I was servicing pools in college as a summer job, graduated college. And the only thing I had on my resume during that time was swimming pool cleaning.

— Ryan Morrison, VP of Sales, Hayward

Similarly, Justin Butler's entry into the pool world was entirely unplanned. Working at an aquatic theme park in Orlando in 2005, he was initially reluctant when a friend suggested he apply for an electrical position at a pool company. However, the promise of a few extra dollars per hour was enough to change his mind, leading to a career that would see him become the only person in Hayward's history to win both District Technical Manager of the Year and Salesperson of the Year.

Butler's unique perspective, having succeeded on both the technical and sales sides of the business, gives him invaluable insight into the industry's challenges and opportunities. This dual expertise is rare in an industry where technical professionals and sales teams often struggle to understand each other's perspectives.

The Evolution of Pool Technology

Over its 100-year history, Hayward has witnessed and driven incredible technological advancement in the pool industry. From basic skimmers in the early days to today's smart pool technology, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in pool equipment and automation.

The transformation reflects broader technological trends that have reshaped how we interact with our homes and recreational spaces. Modern pool owners expect the same level of connectivity and control they have with other smart home devices, and companies like Hayward have risen to meet these expectations.

This technological evolution also represents changing consumer expectations. Pool ownership has transformed from a luxury requiring constant manual maintenance to an accessible lifestyle enhancement that can largely manage itself through intelligent automation and monitoring systems.

Building Lasting Relationships in a Relationship-Driven Industry

One of the key factors in Hayward's longevity appears to be its commitment to building genuine relationships within the industry. Butler's path to Hayward illustrates this perfectly – he was drawn to the company because of the exceptional service he received from a Hayward representative:

Before I worked for Hayward, I unfortunately, you know, I wasn't the owner of the company. So I would have difficulty getting in touch with my reps sometimes. And I had one rep that would return my call and actually happened to work for Hayward at the time.

— Justin Butler, Technical Expert, Hayward

This commitment to responsiveness and support isn't just good customer service – it's a business philosophy that has helped Hayward build lasting partnerships throughout the industry. In a field where technical expertise and reliable support can make the difference between a successful installation and a customer nightmare, these relationships become the foundation of long-term success.

The pool industry remains fundamentally relationship-driven, despite technological advances. Pool professionals rely on manufacturers and suppliers they can trust to stand behind their products and provide support when challenges arise. Hayward's century of success suggests they've mastered this crucial aspect of the business.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Pool Professionals

Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of Hayward's centennial celebration is its potential to inspire current and future pool industry professionals. As John "JJ Flawless" observed during the podcast, the company's journey from small beginnings to industry leadership offers hope to struggling business owners:

I sit back and I laugh and giggle sometimes when I talk to some of the pool pros that I have over the years and the frustrations they go through sometimes and think of how insignificant they are and think that, ah, I don't matter or we can't do much more than what we've already done. But the reality is the possibilities are endless.

— John "JJ Flawless," Pool Nation Podcast

This message resonates particularly strongly in today's business environment, where many pool service professionals struggle with the daily challenges of running a small business. Hayward's story demonstrates that with persistence, focus, and commitment to excellence, remarkable growth is possible.

The company's evolution also highlights the importance of adaptability. Over 100 years, Hayward has successfully navigated countless changes in technology, customer expectations, and market conditions. This adaptability, combined with a commitment to innovation and customer service, provides a blueprint for success that other companies can follow.

Looking Forward: Lessons for Industry Success

As Hayward celebrates its centennial, the company's story offers several key lessons for anyone in the pool industry. First, the importance of starting with a solid foundation of technical expertise and customer service cannot be overstated. Second, the ability to evolve with changing technology and customer expectations is crucial for long-term survival.

Third, building genuine relationships throughout the industry – with customers, dealers, and partners – creates a network of support that can weather difficult times and fuel growth during good times. Finally, the willingness to invest in people, whether employees like Morrison and Butler or the broader pool professional community, pays dividends over the long term.

The pool industry continues to evolve rapidly, with new technologies, changing consumer preferences, and shifting market dynamics creating both challenges and opportunities. Companies that can learn from Hayward's example – combining technical innovation with relationship building and customer focus – will be best positioned for long-term success.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Hayward's 100-year journey from a small company in 1925 to one of the pool industry's leading manufacturers represents more than just business success – it's a testament to the power of persistence, innovation, and customer focus. The company's ability to navigate a full century of changes while maintaining its commitment to excellence offers valuable lessons for anyone in the pool industry.

As we look to the future, Hayward's centennial celebration reminds us that while the tools and technologies may change, the fundamental principles of business success remain constant: provide excellent products, support your customers, build lasting relationships, and never stop innovating. For pool professionals at every level, from service technicians to business owners, Hayward's story proves that with dedication and focus, extraordinary achievements are possible.

The next century of pool industry innovation is just beginning, and if Hayward's first hundred years are any indication, the best is yet to come.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Hayward's 100-Year Celebration
• 05:30 The Significance of Reaching 100 Years in Business
• 12:15 Meet the Hayward Team - Ryan Morrison and Justin Butler
• 18:45 Career Journeys in the Pool Industry
• 25:20 The Evolution of Pool Technology and Innovation
• 32:10 Building Relationships in the Pool Industry
• 38:45 Lessons for Pool Professionals and Business Success