1952
80000
$72,940
$45,000
$125,840
No
California Pools is a distinguished leader in the custom pool construction industry, renowned for transforming backyards into luxurious retreats. Since its inception in 1952, the company has built over 80,000 pools, establishing a legacy of excellence and innovation. With a strong presence across the United States, California Pools offers franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs eager to join a reputable brand committed to quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth.
Established Brand Recognition: Benefit from the trust and reputation built over decades, attracting customers who value quality and reliability.
Comprehensive Training and Support: Receive extensive training through the Grizzly Program, covering all aspects of pool construction and business operations.
Proven Business Model: Leverage a successful franchise system with a track record of profitability and growth.
Innovative Practices: Stay ahead of industry trends with access to the latest technologies and design innovations.
Community Impact: Play a role in enhancing local communities by providing families with beautiful, functional outdoor spaces.
1. Established Year:
California Pools was founded in 1952, giving it over 70 years of experience in the custom pool construction and outdoor living industry. This long-standing presence demonstrates stability, expertise, and credibility in the market.
2. Founder:
The company was founded by Wayne Steimle, a high school physics teacher who built his first pool for his family. His passion for pool design and construction evolved into a thriving business. The Steimle family has remained closely involved in the company’s growth and development, preserving its core values of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
3. Franchise Units / Market Presence:
California Pools has built over 80,000 pools nationwide and has a significant footprint across the United States. Its franchises operate in multiple regions, serving both residential and commercial clients, giving entrepreneurs the advantage of joining a well-recognized and trusted brand.
4. Company History & Brand Journey:
Started as a local pool construction business in California.
Grew steadily over decades by focusing on custom designs, quality craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.
Expanded nationwide, becoming a leader in the pool construction industry.
Introduced the Grizzly Training Program, a comprehensive franchisee education and support system that emphasizes hands-on learning and operational excellence.
5. Ownership:
California Pools is privately owned, with leadership staying in the Steimle family across multiple generations. This family-owned approach ensures continuity in values, mission, and high standards of service.
6. Industry Category:
Custom Pool Construction
Outdoor Living & Landscaping Solutions
7. Reputation & Market Positioning:
California Pools is recognized for its innovation, reliability, and award-winning designs. It consistently ranks among the top pool builders in the USA, attracting homeowners who want high-quality, custom outdoor spaces. Its strong reputation allows franchisees to leverage brand trust to generate new business.
8. Additional Information:
The brand emphasizes eco-friendly and sustainable pool solutions to align with modern consumer expectations.
Franchisees gain access to exclusive designs, construction techniques, and marketing strategies, ensuring a competitive advantage in local markets.
California Pools has received industry recognition and awards, reinforcing its position as a top-tier pool builder.
California Pools offers a comprehensive support and training system designed to ensure that franchisees succeed in both operational excellence and business growth. The support spans pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing assistance.
Before opening a franchise, California Pools assists with:
Site Selection: Guidance in identifying the ideal location based on market demand, accessibility, and potential customer base.
Business Setup: Assistance with business registration, licensing, permits, and legal requirements.
Design & Layout: Support in setting up offices, showrooms, and operational facilities to reflect the brand’s professional image.
Launch Planning: Strategic planning for opening campaigns, customer outreach, and initial marketing activities to ensure a strong start.
California Pools has developed the Grizzly Training Program, which provides franchisees with comprehensive, hands-on education:
Classroom Training: Covers business management, finance, operations, marketing, and sales strategies.
On-the-Job Training: Hands-on experience in pool construction, project management, quality control, and customer service.
Operational Procedures: Instruction on company standards, safety protocols, equipment handling, and team management.
Duration: The program typically includes 29 hours of total training, with 21 hours classroom instruction and 8 hours field training.
Franchisees receive ongoing operational guidance to maintain consistent quality and efficiency:
Project Management: Support in scheduling, budgeting, and executing pool construction projects.
Quality Control: Guidance on maintaining high standards for materials, construction, and customer satisfaction.
Technology Integration: Training on software tools for project tracking, customer management, and reporting.
California Pools helps franchisees attract and retain customers with:
Proven Marketing Strategies: Access to templates, campaigns, and local marketing plans.
Digital Marketing Support: Guidance on social media, SEO, email campaigns, and local online advertising.
Brand Materials: Supply of branded collateral, brochures, signage, and promotional content.
Event Support: Assistance with local events, open houses, and community engagement to increase visibility.
The franchise model ensures continued growth and learning:
Regular Updates: Education on new construction techniques, design trends, and industry innovations.
Franchise Advisory Support: Ongoing consultation with corporate experts to resolve operational challenges.
Networking Opportunities: Access to franchisee forums, conferences, and regional meetings to share best practices.
Customer Experience Guidance: Strategies to enhance client satisfaction and maintain a strong reputation in local markets.
California Pools seeks franchisees who are entrepreneurial, motivated, and aligned with the company’s standards of quality and customer service. The ideal candidate combines business acumen, leadership skills, and a passion for creating beautiful outdoor living spaces.
Proactive & Driven: Franchisees should be self-motivated and willing to take initiative in building and growing the business.
Goal-Oriented: Focused on achieving sales targets, increasing market share, and delivering consistent profitability.
Adaptable: Able to respond to market trends, customer preferences, and seasonal demand fluctuations in the pool construction industry.
Team Leadership: Ability to recruit, train, and manage skilled construction teams and support staff.
Project Oversight: Competence in overseeing multiple pool construction projects simultaneously while maintaining quality and deadlines.
Customer Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal skills to interact with clients, understand their needs, and provide excellent service.
Investment Readiness: Must have the financial resources to cover the initial franchise investment, working capital, and ongoing operational costs.
Budget Management: Ability to plan and manage budgets effectively, including marketing, payroll, and project expenses.
Business Acumen: Understanding of financial statements, cash flow management, and profitability analysis.
Interest in Pools & Outdoor Living: Genuine enthusiasm for pool construction, landscaping, and creating luxurious outdoor spaces.
Commitment to Quality: Dedication to delivering high-standard construction projects that enhance the brand reputation.
Customer-Focused: Driven by the desire to improve clients’ homes and lifestyles through personalized outdoor experiences.
Open to Training: Willingness to participate in California Pools’ Grizzly Training Program and ongoing educational initiatives.
Adaptable to Brand Systems: Ready to implement standardized procedures, operational guidelines, and marketing strategies.
Strategic Mindset: Preference for territories with growth potential, strong residential markets, and favorable demographics.
Community Engagement: Willingness to network locally, participate in community events, and develop relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.
The ideal California Pools franchisee is a financially capable, motivated, and customer-oriented entrepreneur with leadership skills, a passion for pool construction, and a commitment to maintaining the brand’s high standards. This profile ensures that the franchisee can effectively manage operations, grow the business, and deliver exceptional experiences to homeowners, positioning the franchise for long-term success.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $45,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $72,940 – $125,840 |
| Working Capital | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Infrastructure / Equipment Costs | Included in total investment; varies by location |
| Marketing Budget | Allocated within initial investment; local marketing campaigns supported |
| Ongoing Royalty Fees | Information provided during franchise disclosure; typically a percentage of revenue |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and performance; generally achievable within 2–3 years |
| Break-Even Time | Approximately 2–3 years, depending on market and operational efficiency |
| Revenue Streams | Custom pool construction, pool renovation, maintenance services, upselling pool equipment & accessories |
| Franchise Units (USA) | Over 80,000 pools built; multiple franchise locations nationwide |
| Additional Fees | Training program fees included; other local operational expenses vary |
Notes:
ROI and break-even timelines depend on local market demand, franchisee performance, and operational efficiency.
Marketing and operational support are provided to maximize revenue potential and brand visibility.
The franchise model offers multiple revenue streams, from new pool construction to maintenance and accessory sales, providing financial stability.
