Interview: Nikos Staras at Acqua Source!

Read the interview granted to us by Nikos Staras by Acqua Source!

PA: In the last three years, Greece has been facing the biggest economic, political and social crisis in its history. In this rather "depressing" business climate, where does the pool construction industry stand?

NS: Naturally, it follows the general economic trend of contraction that the Greek economy has been facing for the last two years, but I believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

PA.: It is true that now the construction of a private swimming pool is not a priority even for the well-to-do Greeks as the general economic situation of the country sounds the alarm and suggests saving and contraction. How do the companies in the sector intend to move to overcome these unfavorable "prognoses"?

NS: The pool as a product is aimed at one target group middle and upper to the highest financial level, in recent years we have placed this kind of "luxury" at such levels that they are affordable for the small-medium. We fight endless battles every day so that high-quality products are at very affordable prices in order to dispel the myth that the swimming pool is a forbidden fruit.

PA: What do you think about the intense publicity the pool construction industry receives, which - in the midst of a recession - has become more intense? Do you think that some people are taking advantage of the current conditions to "hit" the industry even more?

NS: It is yet another easy solution to collect tax revenue for the state, which completely overlooks our construction volume, the beneficial properties that characterize the operation of the swimming pool, tourism, the family...! In no country in the world does what happens in Greece happen, anyone who owns a swimming pool is put on the chopping block...!

PA: What do you consider to be the serious obstacles on the way to development for the companies in the sector not only at this time but also in the past?

N.S.: In general, there is a negative climate due to the situations, companies want to do a lot, but most of the time in their "anguish" they create obligations that they cannot cover most of the time. The banks there have their own role, which as you can see is far from what it used to be. The public administration is counterproductive, the competition in our part uncontrolled and perhaps "anarchic".

PA: What do you think has changed in the Greek pool & SPA environment, after the establishment and operation of the Association of Greek Pool and Spa Businesses (SEEPY)?

NS: It is a positive development in the field of pool companies, it was something that was missing. In any case, it should operate on merit in matters concerning the so far "unwritten" rules of the industry, monitor everything and lead developments. Listen to everyone's opinions and set priorities according to the pulse of the industry... It has a long way and still difficult.

PA: How important a role does extroversion play in the development and further development of the pool industry?

N.S.: For us as a GREEK family business active in the export sector, extroversion is undoubtedly the number ONE factor for our survival, our competition, our customers! That is why we are the protagonists.

PA: The people who decide to register in public swimming pools in Greece have always been more than in other countries abroad. Today, and while public swimming pools are closing one after the other due to financial "difficulties", what would you suggest to change to reverse this situation?

N. S.: What happens to all public services in any field. Waste, mismanagement, and lack of respect for public property. I suggest that the Individual find the solution, make suggestions and be sure that everyone will have a smile at the end..!

PA: Would you say that the existence of a swimming pool in Greece for today's individual still ensures more quality time with friends and family or is it a trend of nouveau riche?

N. S.: H use of a private swimming pool either at family level or as shared in complex constructions, brings only health and then social benefits. The swimming pool and its accessories in a small tourist accommodation upgrade the facilities and at the same time the competitiveness of the professional.

PA: A prediction for the future, in the midst of what is admittedly a maze of negative developments. Do you think that Greece will overcome "Skopelos"?

N. S.: The Greece of productive consciousness, of "brotherhood" and solidarity, you can be sure that it will not only overcome the "Skopelos" but also itself will be able to set its own terms all over the world. When the Greek support the Greek in his country (as is done in other states) then we will be able to see the...horizon in the background! We, as suppliers AND ONLY, are close to the new generation of businesses that try and work hard in the industry and that most of the time in the battle of competition the blows below the waist are many!

PA: Finally, what is your own personal commitment and vision for the future of the pool & spa industry in our country?

N.S.: What we have been saying for years, the demystification of the swimming pool from the side of the state, rational operation and identity of all companies in the sector and finally we as a company with GREEK ORIGIN and international quality will always look the customer in the eye. Even the customer with international requirements and... tastes! Nikos Staras of Acqua Source!