Summary

The French swimming pool market, as of 2020, ranks as the second largest in the world for private pools and the leading market in Europe, with an estimated market size of 4.526 billion euros -- a robust 21.5% increase from the previous year. Despite the potential challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the French pool industry experienced a significant surge in consumer demand, with sales soaring especially post-lockdown as residents sought to enhance their home environments; this led to full order books for the 2020 season and beyond. The market features a diverse range of products and players, catering to various consumer needs and budgets. For instance, above-ground pools remain a popular choice due to their affordability, accounting for a substantial portion of the 249,000 new pools installed in 2021.

The industry is also shifting towards eco-friendly trends, with improvements in water and energy efficiency, and the rise of renovations and complementary services like pool covers that cater to both aesthetic and practical requirements. Regulations ensure safety and environmental considerations, while labels like Propiscines attest to the industry's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Overall, the French swimming pool market continues to thrive with ongoing innovation and a strong consumer base eager to invest in private pools.

The Rising Tide of Swimming Pool Demand in France

As we dive into the French swimming pool market, it's clear that this sector has been making waves, especially following a period of growth that has culminated in an astounding increase in sales. The market, renowned as the largest for private pools in Europe and proudly sitting as the second largest in the world, boasts a stunning estimate of nearly 3 million pools as of 2020.

This is indicative of the growing endorsement of pool ownership among the French population, where currently, there is approximately one private pool for every 27 inhabitants. This saturation represents a stark increase from the earlier ratio of one pool per 38 inhabitants, depicting a country that has seen a dramatic surge in its pool-count over recent years. The momentum of growth in the French market is reflected not just in quantity but also in economic terms. With a significant yearly increment in turnover within the industry, the French swimming pool market estimates ranged from 3 to 4 billion euros as of 2019, and 4 to 5 billion euros by 2020. This indicates that demand is sky-high, with the last few seasons experiencing remarkable growth rates.

Notably, the aftermath of the COVID-19 lockdowns saw an explosion in pool orders, potentially propelled by the prospect of staycations and home-based leisure. Focusing on the demographics, the pool ownership landscape is dominated by individuals with a personal income bracket exceeding 3,000 euros monthly, with a considerable portion of potential buyers still untapped. With an average pool construction budget around 24,000 euros, it is clear that pool ownership is tilting towards those with substantial disposable incomes. Interestingly, the profile of new pool buyers skews towards the middle-aged, married demographic, primarily individuals in the workforce or retirees who favor securing a pool via credit, suggesting consumption is closely tied to life stage and financial stability.

The burgeoning demand also resonates in the second-home market, hotels, and campgrounds which are significant contributors to the pool industry's growth. A notable fraction of the urban populace resorts to secondary homes to enjoy the luxury of pool ownership, given the spatial constraints of urban living. This market segment has been climbing at a steady pace, and in conjunction with the high prevalence of pools in well-rated campgrounds and star-studded hotels, it drives a persistent demand for pool installations.

When it comes to types of pools, there's been a palpable shift towards smaller, more ecological, and cost-effective options. 

Prominent Actors Steering the French Swimming Pool Market

As the French swimming pool industry experiences remarkable growth, key players have established themselves as leading forces driving market development through their specialized services and innovative offerings. These companies have solidified their market position by catering to diverse consumer demands, ranging from pool design and construction to renovation and accessory supply.

  • Desjoyaux stands out as a prominent figure in the swimming pool specialist networks. This firm is recognized for its comprehensive pool solutions, offering everything from design to the final construction phases. Its end-to-end service approach ensures that customers receive a fully equipped and ready-to-use pool tailored to their desires.
  • Cash Piscines has carved a niche in the retail sector, where it thrives by providing a wide array of pool-related products. From pool kits, cleaning equipment, to fun pool accessories, Cash Piscines is a one-stop shop for pool owners looking for quality supplies and professional advice.
  • *rrijardin takes pride in its expertise in not only pools but also in water management for gardens. As environmental sustainability becomes increasingly important, Irrijardin delivers efficient solutions for eco-conscious pool owners seeking responsible and water-efficient systems.
  • Among pool and equipment manufacturers, Waterair is renowned for its innovative pool kits that facilitate self-installation. These kits have revolutionized the market, making pool ownership attainable for a broader segment of consumers through affordability and convenience.
  • Mondial Piscine is yet another distinguished manufacturer contributing significant value to the market. With its focus on quality and elegance, Mondial Piscine appeals to those seeking a luxurious swimming experience fused with impeccable design.
  • Esprit Piscines and Piscines de France also contribute substantially to the marketplace with their exceptional designs and well-crafted pools. While specific revenue details are not disclosed, these actors' influence and presence within the French pool landscape are undeniable.
  • On the digital front, pure players such as Piscine-center and Raviday Piscines excel by leveraging online retail spaces to reach and serve customers nationwide. They offer convenience and competitive pricing, which has earned them a strong customer base in an increasingly digital-driven shopping environment.

Together, these market players form the backbone of a vibrant and thriving French swimming pool industry, each bringing unique strengths and specialties to the table. With their expert services, quality products, and dedication to innovation, they underline their substantial roles in shaping the contours of the market and satisfying a diverse array of customer needs.

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  • Number of pages : 30 pages
  • Format : Digital and PDF versions
  • Last update : 06/07/2023
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Summary and extracts

1 Market overview

1.1 Definition and presentation

This study covers the French swimming pool market and all players in the industry, from the manufacture, installation and distribution of new products to the maintenance and renovation of existing ones.

A swimming pool is an artificial, water-filled basin designed for bathing and/or swimming. It is equipped with filtration systems (pumps, filters, etc.) to keep the water healthy, as well as accessories (heating, shelters, cleaning equipment, etc.)

There are different types of pool, depending on their purpose (private, public, etc.) and use (family, hotel, leisure, therapeutic, sports training, Olympic, diving, etc.). Moreover, pool shapes and materials vary widely: above-ground pools, in-ground or semi-in-ground pools, pools made of concrete, steel, kits and more.

With nearly 3.4 million pools by 2022, France is Europe's leading market for private swimming pools, and the world's second largest after the United States. This market experienced a slowdown in the early 2010s, but has since recorded a period of strong growth, culminating in a 32% increase in sales by 2021. [Guide-Piscine Pro]

This booming market has benefited́ from a particularly favorable environment in recent years, between lower credit rates, favorable weather and dynamic housing construction. The healthy state of the French pool market is also due to the democratization of pools (shallower, smaller, less expensive) and changing lifestyles (mechanized maintenance, importance of equipment, etc.). Even so, the French swimming pool market́ remains highly sensitive to the economic climate, at a time when more and more French households are rethinking their relationship with savings and ecology.

List of charts

  • Size of the Pool Market
  • Breakdown of sales by services
  • Overall trends in pool market sales
  • Pool Owner Income
  • Credit pool buyers by age
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Latest news

Récréa passes the 100 mark for pools under management - 25/08/2023
  • Year Récréa was founded: 1989 in Caen, Calvados
  • Number of facilities managed by Récréa: over 100
  • Leading French group in pools and aquatic centers under delegated public service contracts
  • Récréa sales in 2022: 123 million euros (doubled since 2018)
  • Number of Récréa employees: 2,300
  • Number of users served by Récréa establishments in 2022: nearly 12 million
  • Récréa's first international site: management of the Virton swimming pool in Belgium since June 2023
Record 10 franchises for Irrijardin by 2022. - 10/04/2023
  • IrriJardin sales in 2022: €132 million (+4%).
  • Number of ponds installed in France: 3 million, representing 0.15% of national water use, or around 40 million m3 per year.
  • Leaks in French drinking water networks: over 1 billion m3 of water wasted every year.
  • Number of pool professionals in France: 60,000.
  • Growth in IrriJardin sales over the last 5 years: 80%.
  • Number of IrriJardin employees: 800
  • IrriJardin target for 2023: opening of 10 new franchises, reaching a total of 148 stores.
Irrijardin to open a record ten franchises by 2022 - 03/04/2023
  • Opening of 10 new franchise stores in 2022.
  • Recruitment of 102 people by 2022.
  • Growth of 80% over the past 5 years.
  • Sales forecast for 2023: 138.4 million euros.
  • Expected opening of 10 new stores in France in 2023, taking the network to 150 points of sale.
  • Opening of first store abroad, in Marrakech, Morocco.
  • Construction of a future logistics platform in Meaux, France.
Desjoyaux pools offer a new R&D center - 01/02/2023
  • Family-run, listed company with 280 employees
  • 2022 sales €160.5 million
  • Slowdown in export market, which accounts for 40% of sales
Piscines Magiline, the pool leader - 06/01/2023
  • 28 years' experience in designing, manufacturing and marketing Premium in-ground pools
  • Over 50,000 pools produced since 1994
  • Presence in 34 countries, including Japan, Germany, Poland, Switzerland, Belgium, Czech Republic, Greece, Malaysia, Thailand
  • 150 exclusive dealers in its network of professional partners
  • 87 patents for unique products in the pool construction and renovation market

Companies quoted in this study

This study contains a complete overview of the companies in the market, with the latest figures and news for each company. :

Desjoyaux Piscines
Waterair
Mondiale Piscine
L'Esprit Piscine (Groupement)
Piscines de France Groupe
Irrijardin
Piscines-Center
Raviday piscines
Piscines Magiline
Piscines Carré Bleu
Alliance Piscines
Diffazur Piscines

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