The Future of Pool Service: AI, Consolidation, and Scaling with Skimmer’s Niki Acosta & Hal Denbar

The pool industry is changing fast—and technology is driving much of that change. In this episode, I sit down with Niki Acosta and Hal Denbar from Skimmer to discuss where the industry is headed and what operators need to do to stay ahead. We cover everything from AI-powered phone systems and workflow automation to industry consolidation, professionalization, and building businesses that can scale without depending on the owner.   We discuss: - Why the pool industry is maturing rapidly - How AI is changing customer service and lead management - The risks of relying on disconnected software tools - Building systems that remove owner dependency - Industry consolidation and private equity trends - What makes a pool company valuable to buyers - Why many operators struggle to grow past a certain point - The future of technology in pool service - Safety, insurance, and professionalism in a changing industry If you’re building a pool company for long-term growth, this episode offers a look at what’s coming next.