Technical Standards Are the Strongest Indicator of Industry Professionalism
As technical standards, sustainability, digital transformation, and international cooperation continue to reshape the European pool and wellness sector, the role of industry associations is becoming increasingly critical. Representing nearly 250 members across Germany and Europe, the German Pool and Wellness Association (BSW) is entering a new management period with a strong focus on technical guidance, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration. BSW’s newly appointed Chairman of the Board, Jürgen Koenig, emphasizes that the future of the sector will be shaped by cooperation and shared standards built on quality, safety, and sustainability.
Highlighting the importance of unity in a fragmented world, Koenig underlines that collaboration lies at the heart of BSW’s philosophy. “Despite all our differences, we are stronger when we work together. Only through joint action can we raise quality levels, further develop technical standards, and make real progress in areas such as sustainability and digitalization,” he says.
International cooperation plays a key role in this vision. Koenig points out that BSW is an active member of both the European Union of Swimming Pool and Spa Associations (EUSA) and the global working group WAPSA, which brings together pool associations from around the world. According to Koenig, the international pool community shares a common mindset: “The global pool industry is clearly focused on networking and knowledge exchange. As long as we remain open to learning from one another, we will continue to move the sector forward together.”
“Through the regulations we have implemented, we clearly demonstrate the importance of safety, hygiene, quality, and sustainability in private pools.”
BSW’s technical guidance work focuses primarily on privately used swimming pools. Koenig explains that the association’s technical documents—developed on a voluntary basis by industry practitioners—provide practical support in areas such as quality, safety, hygiene, and sustainability. “Our main objective is to make existing regulations easier to understand and implement in day-to-day practice,” he notes, adding that BSW guidelines are reviewed and updated regularly to ensure they remain current. Koenig also stresses the importance of cooperation with standardization bodies such as DIN and CEN, describing standards as a clear expression of industry professionalism. “Standardization processes can be complex and time-consuming, but they demonstrate our commitment to safety, quality, and sustainability,” he explains. European standards such as DIN EN 16582 (safety), DIN EN 16713 (water quality and hygiene), and DIN EN 17645 (environmental aspects) have helped establish a common technical framework across Europe and raise awareness of sustainable pool operation.
BSW’s broad membership structure—covering pool construction, technical products, architecture, and planning—is another key strength. Koenig emphasizes that bringing together different stages of the value chain under one roof accelerates knowledge transfer and innovation. “Feedback between manufacturers and pool builders is invaluable. It helps improve products and ensures that companies remain closely aligned with market developments,” he explains.
Digitalization and artificial intelligence are also high on BSW’s agenda. Koenig notes that training programs are shaped directly by member input and that AI is currently a major focus. “Our goal is to understand which digital tools can meaningfully support automation in products and processes,” he says. At the same time, Koenig underlines that sales and management training remain essential, as “it is always people who make decisions and drive companies forward.”
“Sustainability, meanwhile, is firmly embedded in BSW’s communication and guidance activities”
Koenig highlights the association’s publications on energy efficiency and water conservation, which aim to raise awareness and counter common misconceptions. “A modern pool built by a specialist company keeps water in a closed cycle and uses resources efficiently,” he explains, adding that pool covers are now essential to reduce evaporation and retain heat. Turning to the Turkish market, Koenig expresses strong appreciation for the sector’s development. He notes that Turkish pool projects are regularly recognized with prestigious EUSA Awards, underlining the high level of competence within the industry. “What truly sets Turkey apart is its unique natural backdrop—sea, coastline, and impressive landscapes—which adds exceptional value to every pool project,” he says, while also emphasizing the importance of ongoing cooperation between Turkish and German companies.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Koenig points to sustainability and the renovation market as key growth areas. Despite economic uncertainties, he believes demand for private pools and wellness spaces will remain strong. “People are increasingly seeking places where they can relax, recharge, and maintain both physical and mental well-being in their own homes,” he concludes, expressing confidence in continued international collaboration and wishing all industry stakeholders a successful 2026 season.
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