"We strive to build trust and create happy customers with high-quality products, fair prices and friendly, dependable service."
—Dennis Marunde
President, Arvidson Pools & Spa
"My grandfather once told me to always protect your good name," says Dennis Marunde, president of Arvidson Pools & Spas. "I have never forgotten that, and it guides me daily."
The story of Arvidson Pools & Spas is one of American dreams. Marunde's grandfather, Bengt Arvidson, moved to America from Gammelstad, Sweden in 1924. He founded a construction business that would later, after it became incorporated in 1958, become Arvidson Pools & Spas. Well into its third-generation of family ownership, the now multi-million dollar company has expanded into three locations and has a very successful e-commerce site.
The company has continued to evolve and stay profitable. It recently underwent a major brand redesign that incorporates a playful penguin mascot in all marketing materials. It worked hard to reduce its carbon footprint after renovating its three showrooms to include new LED lighting, energy-efficient windows, new HVAC systems and even efficient plumbing fixtures in customer restrooms.
Arvidson Pools & Spas is also thriving in today's digital age. It has been able to reach a larger scope of customers outside its brick and mortar locations by including an extensive product offering, from pool and hot tub parts and accessories to a full line of water care products on its website. The company even offers a buy online, pickup in- store service for time-pressed pool owners.
"Our website is always undergoing assessment, updates and content revisions to ensure the user experience is relevant, engaging and easy to navigate," says Marketing Manager Jami Switzer. The website also features regular blog posts and an ever-expanding learning center with how- to articles, FAQs and useful videos.
But perhaps most impressive is the company's commitment to its surrounding communities, where it hosts a number of annual fundraising events. "Six years ago, we launched our Dog Days of Summer event to benefit local animal shelters in each of the three communities where we have a retail presence," says Switzer. "We have successfully raised thousands of dollars through this program."
The business also participates in the national program Decorated Families, where company volunteers provide outdoor holiday lighting installations for nominated families of active Armed Services members.
Switzer adds, "We also encourage and celebrate good Samaritan decisions that our employees provide spontaneously in the course of doing their jobs."
