Anytime Fitness has record month for new memberships

But CEO warns health and fitness sector faces tough times ahead without more government support

April was Anytime Fitness’ busiest month for new memberships since it opened for business in the UK and Ireland.

But the 175-plus network of franchised clubs has warned that the health and fitness sector faces challenging times ahead.

The record breaking month comes despite Anytime Fitness clubs in England opening 12 days into April, while its Scottish and Northern Ireland clubs opened in the final week.

The company’s Wales and Republic of Ireland clubs remained closed throughout April, with the former opening their doors on May 3.

Neil Randall, CEO of Anytime Fitness UK, says: “We’ve been delighted to see so many of our local communities wanting to reinvest in their health and well-being.

“It would seem that more people than ever are seeing the importance of their own personal health, having come through such a challenging year.

“As independent business owners, our franchisees have shared those challenges, but have all shown great proactivity and initiative to attract so many new members throughout April.”

However, even though Anytime Fitness welcomed tens of thousands of new members in April Neil believes the health and fitness industry still requires more government support to secure the future of facilities.

He adds: “Our clubs have made great early inroads in rebuilding their membership bases, but many have had over eight months of no income in the past year with no deferrals on sizeable payments such as rent.

“The moratorium preventing commercial evictions is due to be lifted soon, which will present a significant challenge to both ourselves and the wider industry.

“As a sector, we continue to campaign for the same VAT relief enjoyed by the hospitality sector, as well as legislative support around landlord and tenant relationships.”

Since the turn of the year, Anytime Fitness has opened five new clubs in the UK.

It’s expecting to open a further four clubs in May, taking the company’s UK portfolio to in excess of 180 clubs.