Maybe you’re scrolling through social media on your phone and see an ad, or perhaps you have heard the advertisement on the radio while driving to work. No matter where you have seen it, we’ve all seen them: an ad for a hot tub expo or super sale at the Ford Idaho Center down in Boise, or Expo Idaho
The ads always seem to advertise impossibly good deals, 50-70% off supposed “retail price,” discounts in the thousands! Are they for real, or is it just a marketing gimmick? Let’s break down their tactics.
Before anything else, make sure to check who the event is hosted by. Is it a local company? An out-of-town company doing a traveling show? If an out-of-town company hosts the show, you may want to consider passing it up; here’s why!
High-Pressure Sales Tactics:
Some expo environments can be high-pressure sales zones. Sales representatives may use aggressive tactics to push you into making quick decisions. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, and take the time you need to make an informed choice.
Research Exhibitors In Advance:
Not all exhibitors are reputable. Often, they might be fly-by-night operators. Research the participating companies in advance to ensure they have a credible history and positive customer feedback. Look out for red flags, such as companies with no online presence or limited contact information.
Learn the background of the company/dealer. Visit the Better Business Bureau or search social media for reviews.
Unrealistic Promotions:
While expos often boast exclusive deals and discounts, be cautious of promotions that seem overly generous. Some may have hidden costs or conditions that are not immediately apparent. Read the fine print and ensure you fully understand the terms of any promotion before committing. While the prices at hot tub expos may seem like good deals, sales at expos are around 40% higher than our prices here at Love’s Hot Tubs.
Quality vs. Quantity:
The sheer number of exhibitors at an expo doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality. Instead of being overwhelmed by the multitude of options, focus on a few reputable brands with a track record of customer satisfaction. Quality should always take precedence over quantity.
Check For Genuine Products:
Some expos may feature counterfeit or low-quality products. Inspect the hot tubs and swim spas closely to ensure they meet industry standards. Verify that the exhibitors are authorized dealers of reputable brands.
Verify Warranties And After-Sales Support:
Hot tubs from out-of-town expos often have poor customer service, warranties, and after-sales support. This is because they lack a local presence.
Suppose you make a purchase, make sure to confirm the warranty details offered by exhibitors. Some might promise extensive coverage but fail to deliver when it comes to honoring warranties. Additionally, inquire about after-sales support and the availability of replacement parts.
Educate Yourself On Industry Standards:
Familiarize yourself with industry standards for hot tubs and swim spas. This knowledge will empower you to ask informed questions and recognize when a product or deal falls short of established norms.
Take Your Time:
Resist the pressure to make impulsive decisions. A reputable exhibitor will allow you the time to evaluate and compare products. If you feel rushed or pressured, that is a serious red flag.
Trust Your Instincts:
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. A reputable company will be transparent, provide clear information, and genuinely prioritize your needs over making a quick sale.
Your best bet for a good quality and well-priced hot tub will be at a local hot tub dealer. At Love’s Hot Tubs, you’ll receive top-notch service, affordable prices, a reliable warranty, and free delivery in the Treasure Valley.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us. We also invite you to visit our showroom, where you can see our quality selection of hot tubs & swim spas and experience superior customer service. We eagerly await the opportunity to assist you in finding the perfect hot tub for your home.