Browne Jacobson advises PureGym on acquisition

PureGym, one of the world's leading gym operators, is set to expand its international reach with the acquisition of Swiss business NonStop Gym for £235m. This significant cross-border deal, which is expected to conclude by 2 November, has been facilitated by UK law firm Browne Jacobson. The acquisition unites two complementary gym networks, establishing PureGym as Switzerland’s leading low-cost fitness operator. After the merger, the combined network will boast over 100 gyms by the end of 2026, enhancing customer access to affordable fitness options.

With its headquarters in Leeds and majority ownership by US private equity firm Leonard Green & Partners, PureGym operates over 700 facilities across six key markets: the UK, Denmark, Switzerland, the US, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This acquisition marks the second time Browne Jacobson has assisted PureGym in an international transaction, previously advising on its 2020 purchase of Denmark's Fitness World. Browne Jacobson's real estate team, led by Sarah Parkinson, continues to support PureGym with property matters relevant to its retail operations in the UK.

Mark Hughes, a partner in private equity at Browne Jacobson, led the team advising PureGym, collaborating closely with Swiss law firm Bär & Karrer. He expressed pride in supporting PureGym's strategic growth, noting, “PureGym is one of the UK’s big success stories having expanded significantly in recent years via strategic acquisitions and organic growth.” Hughes highlighted the firm’s long-standing relationship with PureGym's leadership team and anticipation of future developments.

Miles Miller, PureGym's Chief Transformation and Technology Officer, acknowledged the importance of expert support during major transactions, stating, “During any major transaction, it’s always important to be supported by teams of experts who have a deep understanding of our business and this is exactly what we had in Browne Jacobson.”

The acquisition of NonStop Gym aligns with PureGym’s prior expansion moves, including the purchase of Blink Fitness in the US in 2024. This strategic initiative not only strengthens its market leadership domestically and across Europe but also underscores its commitment to establishing a robust presence in profitable international fitness markets. As part of the integration process, PureGym plans to retain NSG's operational capabilities and team while rebranding it under the PureGym name to ensure a consistent national identity.

Alex Wood, Chief Executive Officer of PureGym, echoed the significance of the acquisition in enhancing the company's international growth strategy, saying, “This acquisition is an important step in PureGym's international growth strategy and demonstrates our continued ambition to invest in attractive markets where we believe we can build strong, sustainable businesses.” He expressed enthusiasm about welcoming the NSG team to the PureGym family and embarking on the next chapter in its evolution.