In recent years, the retail industry has been faced with many challenges. 2023 is no different. Many retailers experienced closures, decreased foot traffic and lower sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Retailers must navigate an ever-changing marketplace in addition to these difficulties. Inflation has made it much more costly to operate a traditional brick and mortar store.
Frank Vitori, co-founder and owner of Aquablu Mosaics is an eCommerce site that specializes in pool & spa products. We spoke to him to get a better idea of how online retailers can thrive in a changing economy.
Vitori explained that Aqua Blu was founded in 2013. “We started the company because there was a huge gap in the online market for the distribution of swimming pools products. We started with the pool mosaics, turtles, and ornamental stuff. It was already catching on. We began to expand categories over time and glass tile quickly became our core competency.”
Aqua Blu Mosaics is a trusted source for pool professionals who use it every day. It has been adding distributors quickly to expand its product range. Vitori says that the company has a mission to win over people in the industry.
Vitori said, “We are excited to report that we have experienced tremendous growth since 2013.” He added, “We put a lot blood, sweat and tears into the business.” Aqua Blu Mosaics is the most trusted online distributor of pool tiles, accessories and outdoor furniture. I am humbled to say that. Now, we are in 2023. Aqua Blu is becoming a household name. Aquablu is comparable to National Pool Tile, Noble Tile, Aquabella or any other brick-and-mortar distributors.
Vitori attributes its growth to its web and marketing strategy. Aqua Blu Mosaics is ranked as the number one website for a query about pool tile. They are the top website for pool-related keywords.
“I would like to mention that glass tiles account for at least 40% of all our sales. We are the best place to go for specialty products. We have all the fun stuff. Vitori said that although we are a small company and have a boutique feel, they offer exceptional customer service.”
Aqua Blu has been keen to expand its builder network and credits the retailer’s engagement with pool professionals at all levels. Vitori explained that they have a wholesale program called the AquaPro Trade Network where we offer very competitive rates to pool builders, contractors and designers as well as landscape architects.
This strategy is one that many retailers are using with great success. Aqua Blu Mosaics has been able to prosper in the face changing economy in many different ways. Their ability to reach a wider range of customers than traditional brick-and mortar retailers is a key factor. Online shops can sell to customers around the globe, which has allowed them to weather economic downturns as well as shifts in consumer behavior.
Online retailers also have the advantage of offering a more convenient shopping experience. Online shoppers can shop anywhere they want, anytime of the day and have their orders delivered right to their door. Vitori claims that this convenience has allowed online retailers like Vitori to retain and attract customers even in times of economic uncertainty.
Vitori said, “We cater for all tastes and budgets.” “I can’t count how many times builders and homeowners have come to us with an original idea.” They don’t know how to make it. We can often tell them how to make it. And we can also give them different ways to do it at different prices.
Vitori, an online retailer, has also been able take advantage of technological advancements that allow them to identify trends and increase their profitability. Vitori noticed a trend in artificial grass sales early last year, which he attributes to the continuing drought in many areas of the country. It all seems logical, right? Many homeowners want to reduce their water costs. Vitori also said that some people don’t enjoy lawn maintenance.
Vitori said that Aqua Blu Mosaics is a distributor of 26 different manufacturing companies. He plans to add more exciting brands this year to his expanding online catalog. Vitori believes being an online retailer is a significant advantage over brick-and mortar stores. Vitori is able to quickly scale, hire more distributors and offer more of the top products consumers are searching for.
Learn more about online retailers such as Aqua Blu Mosaics that are leveling the playing fields. Listen to Frank Vitori’s entire conversation on Pool Magazine.
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