Costco carries spas made by different manufacturers, just like local dealers carry spas by different manufacturers. Saying that Costco tubs are all junk is like saying that spas sold by Joe's Pool & Spa are all perfect. I worked for 2 different local dealers over the past 10 years, and I've sold (in no particular order)...Master, Marquis, Strong, Hotspring, D1, Four Winds, FreeFlow, Saratoga.The first dealer I worked for is no longer in business (so much for local support). Costco offers tremendous member support. Does anyone believe Costco is going out of business anytime soon? We service Costco members, and I know for a fact that we are still asked to do warranty service on brands no longer carried by Costco, in one case a brand that is no longer made. I'm just trying to level the playing field and point out that purchasing from Costco is not all about price. I have talked to many Costco members who are happy with their spas, and a few of them even post on this forum. Strong spas (maker of Evolution spas for Costco) look to be well made, and use quality components, but I'm not here to push any one brand.