Anytime Fitness Australia’s Justin McDonell and Richard Peil have acquired a majority stake in Anytime Fitness UK.
The pair have taken ownership of the UK and Ireland master franchise which has more than 180 clubs. The master franchise agreement includes the UK, Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man.
Peil said the acquisition is “a proud moment for us”. “With a strong existing network and a thriving health and fitness industry, we see enormous potential to build on the great work already achieved.”
Anytime Fitness UK will continue to operate independently, with strategic support from the newly established International Executive. RM UK, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Purpose Brands, the global owner of the Anytime Fitness brand, and existing shareholder Marcello Jimenez, join the business.
Strategic support focuses on franchisee profitability
The strategy is to strengthen franchisee profitability through enhanced operational efficiencies, drive sustainable expansion through strategic club locations and deliver best-in-class franchise support based on real-world experience
“We’re committed to long-term, sustainable growth – built on quality, collaboration, and supporting our people,” said McDonell. “This is a proud step forward for the brand, and we look forward to what we can achieve together with our UK partners.”
McDonell, and his sister Jacinta, brought the Anytime Fitness concept to Australia in 2008. Today the business is a network of nearly 600 clubs and more than 700,000 members.
McDonell said “We’ve built a strong, values-driven business in Australia by prioritising club standards, franchisee profitability, and the member experience. We believe those principles translate globally, and we’re excited to apply them in the UK market to support growth for franchisees and greater value for members.”
