As my colleague Sarah Halzack has noted, studio concepts, some of which are also attracting private equity interest, flourished in a buoyant economy. Consumers pulling in the purse strings may take a different view of value, and if clubs can sufficiently up their game, a monthly gym fee might start to look more attractive than high-priced pay-as-you-go aerial yoga classes. The budget sector may be due for a shake up too.
There has already been significant consolidation, led by Pure Gym and The Gym Group, but there could be further reshaping as smaller operators feel the burn.
But for the mainstream brands, it’s too early to break for a relaxing cooldown any time soon.
This article was provided by Bloomberg News.