SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 15, 2024 – PureGym, the UK's leading low-cost gym operator, is celebrating a major milestone with the opening of its 400th UK club. The company is demonstrating impressive growth, having launched 44 new gyms in 2024 and with plans to open 70 more in 2025. This rapid expansion is driven by increasing demand for affordable and accessible fitness options across the UK.
PureGym's 400th Club Opens in Plymouth
The 400th club, located in Plymouth, Devon, was officially opened with a launch party on December 13th. This new gym showcases PureGym's medium box format, offering a comprehensive fitness experience with extensive cardio, functional, and free weights areas, as well as a studio with over 50 classes per week.
"I was very keen to get this site because I first visited it two and a half years ago," said Rebecca Passmore, chief group operating officer at PureGym. "It has attractive co-anchor tenants with M&S and Aldi and great footfall, as well as being next door to a large hospital.”
Expanding Reach with Flexible Formats
PureGym's success is attributed in part to its flexible gym formats, ranging from large to very small box sizes. This allows the company to cater to diverse communities and locations, including those with lower footfall.
"We have four gym sizes – large, medium, small and very small format – and this will allow us to get full national coverage," Passmore explained. "Currently we think there is potential for 600 sites in the UK."
Meeting the Demand for Affordable Fitness
PureGym's expansion is fueled by the growing demand for high-quality, low-cost fitness options.
"Demand for high-quality, low-cost fitness has grown exponentially, with a gym membership moving from a ‘nice to have’ to a ‘must have’ for millions of people," said Passmore. “Penetration will improve when the whole population has access to a low-cost gym and we’ve embarked on ambitious expansion to meet this demand, investing in cities, towns and retail parks across the UK to provide greater access to affordable and flexible fitness facilities.”
Ambitious Growth Plans
PureGym has been the most expansive business in out-of-town locations across all sectors in the UK, outpacing even major retailers like Aldi and Lidl. The company plans to continue its rapid expansion, with 200 more sites planned in the medium term.
"There's demand for our offer all over the UK and beyond," said Clive Chesser, PureGym's CEO. "All our gyms have a strong return on investment, we're well capitalised and with our flexible formats we can go into lower density areas, so we're looking for sites everywhere.”
Focus on Innovation and Member Experience
PureGym is committed to ongoing innovation, particularly in its smaller gym formats and group exercise offerings. The company is also exploring new concepts like women-only areas to enhance the member experience.
"We work hard at cost protection," Chesser added. "Although we’d like some more support from the government, the upside is that our members will have more money in their pockets.”
PureGym's Commitment to Accessibility
With its focus on affordability, accessibility, and flexible formats, PureGym is making fitness more inclusive and convenient for people across the UK. The company's rapid expansion and commitment to innovation are set to further solidify its position as a leader in the low-cost fitness market.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is PureGym's pricing model?
PureGym offers low-cost memberships with an average price of £25 per month, although prices may vary by location based on local supply and demand.
2. What types of gym formats does PureGym offer?
PureGym has four gym formats: large, medium, small, and very small box, allowing them to cater to different communities and locations.
3. What is PureGym's expansion strategy?
PureGym is focused on rapid expansion across the UK, with plans to open 70 new gyms in 2025 and 200 more in the medium term.
4. What is PureGym doing to innovate and improve the member experience?
PureGym is investing in innovation, particularly in its smaller gym formats and group exercise offerings, and is exploring new concepts like women-only areas.
5. Where can I find a PureGym near me?
You can use the gym finder tool on the PureGym website to locate your nearest club.