Markus Weber, 54, Managing Director of Behncke GmbH in Hohenbrunn near Munich, has spent more than three decades in the pool industry. His journey began almost by accident. “My girlfriend’s father had a company that maintained and built pools. I earned some extra money by helping with installations and changing the sand in the filters,” he recalls. Little did he know that this early exposure would spark a lifelong passion for pools and water technology.
Since joining Behncke in 2006, Weber has been at the helm of a company that combines manufacturing, distribution, and trading in essential products for its own range. “We are both a manufacturer and a distributor, and we also trade in goods that we need for our own products,” he explains. “This makes us unique in the industry and allows us to operate across different markets with a broad product range.” It is this versatility that allows Behncke to maintain a competitive edge, offering innovative solutions while remaining committed to reliability and quality.
Innovation, Design, and Trends
When asked about current trends, Weber believes one area is often underestimated: design and individuality in high-quality swimming pools. “Differently colored built-in components are an example,” he says. “Other industries, such as sanitary ware or kitchen fittings, are already far ahead of us in this respect.” Beyond aesthetics, he sees technological developments as a source of hope for the industry. Intelligent control systems, for instance, make pools more resource-efficient and easier to operate.
Yet Weber is not blind to challenges. “I am concerned about the future structure of specialist retailers and their viability,” he admits. Aggressive price dumping has squeezed margins and threatened the survival of many smaller players in the industry. Still, he remains optimistic that innovation and customer-centric solutions can help businesses thrive despite these pressures.
Leadership and Courageous Decisions
Throughout his career, Weber has been known for bold yet thoughtful decision-making. One of his most courageous moves in recent years was the construction of Behncke’s new company building. “It was a big step, but necessary for the growth and future of the company,” he reflects. At the same time, he emphasizes the importance of prudence in leadership. “I do not want to retire regretting that I jeopardized what I had built over many years through poor decisions,” he says, highlighting the careful balance between ambition and responsibility.
Weber’s personal strengths lie in building networks and creating sales structures. “These are definitely my strengths,” he admits. “At the same time, I challenge myself with demanding projects that require persistence and creative solutions.” His approach combines vision with pragmatism, ensuring that Behncke continues to evolve without losing sight of its roots as a family business.
I do not want to retire regretting that I jeopardized, what I had built over many years, through poor decisions
Sustainability and Technology
Sustainability is at the forefront of Weber’s strategy. “Energy-efficient solutions are becoming more and more important,” he says. Behncke continuously develops new applications to improve resource efficiency, ensuring that the company not only meets current environmental standards but anticipates future demands.
User-friendly technology is equally critical. “Control systems must be intuitive, offering customers clear benefits while remaining easy to operate,” he explains. AI is increasingly integrated into Behncke’s processes, from operational planning to product innovation. “It has become a practical tool in various areas of the company and will certainly play an even greater role in the future,” Weber predicts.
Mentorship, Learning, and Legacy
Despite decades of experience, Weber remains a lifelong learner. “I’m constantly learning new things, particularly from younger colleagues—AI and digital applications are at the top of that list,” he says. He also places great value on fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. “I hope they continue to develop as we have done, learn from their mistakes, and avoid repeating too many of ours,” he notes.
For Weber, the ultimate measure of success is leaving behind a company and an industry in better shape than he found them. “I would like to be remembered as someone who contributed to innovations and modern sales concepts,” he says. At the heart of his leadership is a desire to combine solid technology with strong partnerships. “All our partners—whether suppliers or customers—are equally important to us. Maintaining partnerships and working together in a spirit of mutual respect defines our company culture,” he adds.
The Future of the Pool Industry
Looking ahead, Weber sees a sector in constant evolution. Customers today expect more support, ongoing training, and personalized solutions than they did just five years ago. Meanwhile, demographic changes bring new challenges as experienced employees retire. Yet Weber remains confident. “So far, this has not caused us any noticeable difficulties,” he says. He also believes that the industry’s appeal to young professionals has increased, with intergenerational collaboration now easier than in the past.
Markus Weber’s career demonstrates that the pool industry is about far more than technology or construction—it is about people, relationships, and vision. Through careful leadership, a commitment to innovation, and respect for the next generation, he is shaping a legacy that combines tradition with forward-thinking progress.
