Joanne McClain

CCEI North America and Carvin Pool Equipment announced a strategic partnership to offer an integrated, app-controlled aboveground pool system for the U.S. market. The collaboration pairs Carvin’s aboveground pool line with CCEI’s TILD connected automation platform and Vigipool app, enabling single-app control of heaters, pumps, filters, lighting and chemical dosing.

With its latest acquisition, Heritage Pool Supply Group has furthered its reach in the commercial market. Last month, the McKinney, Texas-based distributor acquired Aquafinity, a wholesale distributor of commercial pool equipment, chemicals, and supplies. The companies did not disclose the terms. Headquartered in Jupiter, Fla., Aquafinity operates seven locations, collectively serving 20 states from the Sunbelt to the Pacific Northwest.

While the pool/spa industry, pool owners, safety advocates, and government entities grapple with the question of how to govern short-term rental pools, the state of Minnesota landed on its answer: The state’s Court of Appeals affirmed a decision to treat pools rented through such short-term platforms as Swimply like commercial installations. In 2021, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) declared that these pools are commercial facilities requiring the same licensing.