Bannatyne Group, a prominent UK fitness operator, has unveiled its latest venture, Just Fitness by Bannatyne, marking a return to one of its original brand names. Originally launched as Just Fitness 25 years ago by the company’s founder, Duncan Bannatyne, the brand has been reintroduced with a budget-focused gym concept.
The strategic development of Just Fitness by Bannatyne will be executed selectively, with a particular emphasis on high footfall areas where a budget fitness option is deemed advantageous. The inaugural establishment is situated in Broadstairs, Kent, UK, occupying a redeveloped former DW Fitness site in proximity to an existing Bannatyne Health and Fitness location.
Just Fitness Broadstairs boasts a 108-square-meter functional workout and cross-training space, including a central workout zone known as The Pitch. The club features essential gym equipment such as racks, plates, weights, benches, and punch bags. Additionally, a dedicated cardio zone incorporates Wattbikes and Stairmasters, along with a selection of selectorized equipment.
Despite the absence of a pool, the facility offers a comprehensive fitness experience, encompassing Les Mills classes in two studios. Notably, Just Fitness has introduced a unique gym floor class named Turbo, designed for individual workouts, pairs, or teams of three competing against the clock. The club places a strong emphasis on strength training for women and integrates Myzone technology to enhance member engagement.
Among the facility’s highlights are specialized glute training and combat stations. An activation and recovery room equipped with PowerPlate, TRX, and massage chairs further enhances the overall fitness experience. Just Fitness Broadstairs takes pride in being among the world’s pioneers to introduce collar-free barbells from the Norwegian company Gungnir bars, featuring SlideLock collars for enhanced safety and usability.
In collaboration with Indigo Fitness, ServiceSport refurbished equipment for the new gym, reinforcing its commitment to eco-friendly practices. Colin MacGillivray, representing Bannatyne, emphasized the versatility of Just Fitness, stating, “Development will be opportunistic, favoring setups such as retail due to synergies with footfall.”
Membership rates for Just Fitness range between £22.99 and £24.99 per month, with day passes available at £7 and no ClassPass options. Special rates are offered for younger members and students. The club operates seven days a week, opening from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm Monday to Thursday, 6:00 am to 9:00 pm on Friday, and 8:00 am to 8:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Bannatyne Group, which recently announced a return to profitability post-COVID disruptions, manages a network of 69 clubs, 46 spas, and three hotels. The company reported impressive financial figures, with a turnover increase from £75.5 million in 2021 to £127 million in 2022, EBITDA rising from £14.8 million to £29.6 million, and pre-tax profit rebounding from -£12.9 million to +£1 million. Membership numbers climbed from 179,737 in 2021 to 199,046 in 2022, reaching 210,000 by August 2023. Founder and CEO Duncan Bannatyne expressed satisfaction with the positive position for further growth, citing the leadership team’s hard work amid challenges in minimum wage, energy, and interest rate increases.
