In 1989, Tom Riggs bought a Hot Spring spa as therapy for his diabetes. Little did he know that he had found much more than just an effective treatment for the circulatory problems of diabetes. After miraculous improvements in his own condition, Riggs was so impressed with the quality and energy efficiency of his spa (ranked as the #1 spa by "Consumer's Digest"), he decided to research the possibility of a business that offered such quality products. This research led to the start of a business that would experience growth at an average of 20% a year for the next 16 years. As a result, Hot Springs Pools & Spas was founded and is today the largest Hot Spring spa dealer in the southeast. Hot Spring Spas are endorsed by medical associations such as The American Institute of Stress and the Arthritis Foundation. In many cases, a Hot Spring Spa is covered by medical insurance. Tom Riggs has since passed on, but Riggs' son, Matt has continued the business. First, he looked to other family members, his mother Marilyn, and his brother, Jim, to assist him in the startup of the business. In 1996 Jim, a player for the Cincinnati Bengals retired from the NFL. With Matt bringing exceptional people skills to the business, Jim's leadership and Mrs. Riggs natural ability to know what needs to be done and when, this combination of talent has proven to be a winning formula.