The four-day show is expected to draw about 25,000 to 30,000 people, organizers say. While few new products stole the show, updated standards like whirlpools and saunas seemed to draw more attention this year, vendors said. However, one new item drew a lot of attention to the Hot Springs whirlpool booth. The Heatwave is an indoor, portable sauna that uses space-age technology and infrared lighting to heat. Rick Pettit, regional sales manager of Watkin's Manufacturing, said Hot Springs sales are booming, much to the credit of sales to aging baby boomers.
Whirlpools come in all sizes, colors and price ranges.
More than 100 U.S. companies manufacture whirlpools or saunas. Reasons for buying a whirlpool vary from relaxation to health. Some people feel that a whirlpool will increase the quality time they spend with their families, Pettit said. Another whirlpool distributor seeing booming business was Jim Heidesch from the Jim and Dale Nursery in Remsen. Heidesch said most of his customers were interested in the larger models.