The Gym Group

Demand for low-cost gyms keeps growing, supported enthusiastically by “Gen Z” members, who like the look of the gyms and the quality of the equipment plus they appreciate the flexible membership options and phone-based technology interface.

The Board of the Gym Group has a clear strategy to meet this steadily increasing demand, working hard in areas such as pricing, marketing and customer retention. On the social side, The Gym Group is at pains to welcome all users and to contribute to the health of the nation.

It is unusual to find a consumer-facing business with improving financial returns, internally funded expansion and improving profit margins, but The Gym Group offers all these good things.

The Gym Group operates around 250 locations, all of which are open 24/7. Continuous operation drives significant energy consumption for lighting, heating and aircon systems and hot water for showers. Despite efforts to reduce environmental impact through efficient design, high energy consumption and reliance on commercially purchased power remain concerns, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

As in other parts of the leisure sector, the company must be alive to the potential of harassment of members, especially women. Health and safety is also a concern, particularly due to the exercise used by customers. Injuries can result from improper use, lack of supervision, or equipment malfunction, leading to legal claims and reputational damage. These risks are heightened during unmanned hours.

In addition to customer safety, the company must also manage risks to employees, including those related to lone working and the handling of heavy equipment.