Šimon Janča: Carrying the Niveko Family Legacy into the Future of Premium Pools

For Šimon Janča, the pool industry is more than a profession. It is a legacy shaped across three generations. As General Manager of NIVEKO, a position he holds after more than three decades in the industry, Janča combines family tradition with strategic vision. In an interview with poolbiz.eu, he speaks about craftsmanship, individuality, sustainability, and the future of premium pool design.

A Business Built on Generations

“The pool industry has been in our family for three generations. The company was founded by my grandfather, then developed by my father, and today, I continue in their footsteps, building on a strong foundation of honest craftsmanship.”

Since joining the company in 2002, he has been committed to preserving that foundation while guiding NIVEKO into a new era. A key milestone came in 2018, when NIVEKO became part of the Pollet Group. “After we became part of the Pollet Group in 2018, our family values remained firmly embedded in everything we do. The partnership strengthened us on the strategic side, but the spirit of a family owned business, with its focus on responsibility, trust, and long term thinking, has stayed unchanged.”

Leadership with Vision and Consistency

Asked how his employees might describe his leadership style, Janča answers without hesitation: “I would say open, visionary, and consistent.” His management philosophy centers on empowerment and clarity of purpose. “I strive to create an environment where people have space to bring their own ideas, grow personally and professionally, and feel that their work has purpose and direction.”

This approach reflects his belief that sustainable innovation depends on both human potential and technological strength.

When it comes to prioritizing investments, Janča rejects a simplistic hierarchy. “Everything is interconnected, but the foundation lies in people and technology.” He emphasizes that innovation cannot exist without a strong team, and that even the most capable team requires vision and technological support. “Brand and sales then naturally follow as the result of well executed work.”

This integrated perspective has shaped NIVEKO’s evolution from a respected manufacturer into a brand recognized for high end, customized solutions.

The Power of Individuality

In a market often dominated by standardization, Janča believes one trend remains underestimated: individuality. “Most people today buy products designed for the masses, made to suit anyone. Only a few brands offer truly personal solutions that reflect the owner’s style and personality.”

NIVEKO deliberately takes a different path. “At NIVEKO, we take the opposite approach, in a time overwhelmed by uniform design and fast production, we focus on originality, detail, and the individuality of every single project.” For Janča, a pool is not merely a product. It is an architectural and emotional statement.

Looking ahead, Janča is clear about the legacy he hopes to leave. “I want NIVEKO to be synonymous with quality, innovation, and honest craftsmanship.” More importantly, he aims to reshape how pools are perceived. “I want people to talk about our company as one that redefined the way people perceive a pool, not just as a technical product, but as a part of a lifestyle and a reflection of its owner’s personality.”

Sustainability and Short Term Pressures

Within the broader industry landscape, Janča sees both promise and risk. “What gives me hope is the growing focus on sustainability, which is very important for us at NIVEKO.” At the same time, he warns against market dynamics driven by immediacy. “What worries me is the pressure of short term trends that often prioritize price over quality and long term value.”

His perspective aligns with a long term brand strategy built on durability, design integrity, and responsible production.

To remain mentally and professionally sharp, Janča relies on balance and external inspiration. “I like a combination of sports, travel, and inspiration from successful people who have something meaningful to share.” While he closely monitors industry trends, his ambition goes beyond adaptation. “I keep track of trends and developments in the pool industry, but at the same time, I strive for NIVEKO not to be a follower, but a creator. Our goal is to bring innovations and improvements that set new standards.”

His favorite product from the company’s portfolio, the NIVEKO Motion Pool, reflects this mindset of continuous development and technical refinement.

NIVEKO Motion Pool

Janča also observes clear differences between markets. “Customers abroad are often more accustomed to investing in design and personalization, while the domestic market tends to be more price sensitive.” This distinction reinforces NIVEKO’s focus on international markets where bespoke design and premium positioning are highly valued.

From Luxury to Well Being

One of the most significant shifts he sees is the transition from luxury symbolism to health oriented investment. “Definitely yes. People today perceive a pool differently than before, it’s no longer just a design feature in the garden, but a space for daily regeneration and mental balance.” He notes that many customers now use their pools for regular swimming, cold therapy, or relaxation.

Beyond personal well being, he highlights an environmental dimension that is often overlooked. “And beyond personal well being, a pool today also plays an unexpectedly positive role in the environment. What used to be seen primarily as a symbol of luxury is now becoming a useful element of the landscape, especially in today’s climate. A pool helps retain water in the garden and stabilizes the microclimate, bringing benefits not only to the owner, but to the entire surrounding area.”

Working with Courage and Passion

Ultimately, Janča’s motivation is closely tied to the people he collaborates with. “I enjoy working with people who have the courage to think differently, who are not afraid of change, and who always want to move forward.” Shared ambition and dedication to quality are essential for him. “When you share the same passion for quality, you can create things that truly matter and bring long term value.”

From Nivnice to international markets, Šimon Janča continues to build on a family tradition while steering NIVEKO toward innovation and individuality. His vision is precise: to create pools that are not just engineered products, but lasting expressions of lifestyle, personality, and responsible craftsmanship.