Gym chain flexes growth plans with new site

An independent gym chain is flexing its expansion plans with a tenth location after securing a £320,000 funding boost.

Fitness Worx has received the loan from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II) through fund manager Frontier Development Capital (FDC) to support its expansion into Solihull.

Work is underway to transform a 12,900sq ft former Britvic office building on Drayton Road into a four-storey, 24-hour gym.

The facility will feature cardio, strength and weights areas alongside a sauna, personal training and small group classes.

Demand has already proved strong, with the first 1100 memberships selling out ahead of the opening weekend on September 12 and 13, when further memberships will be released.

Founded in 2014 by personal trainer Jack Gibson, Fitness Worx operates gyms in Kenilworth, Warwick, Southam, Leamington Spa, Bristol, Stratford and Rugby, alongside two Coventry locations.

Its existing sites are operating at between 90 and 95 per cent membership capacity.

The business employs more than 30 people and expects to create several jobs through the Solihull opening, with ambitions to grow to 25 locations across the Midlands and beyond over the next decade.

Jack said: “Solihull is currently lacking the type of high-end, independent gym offering that Fitness Worx provides. 

“It has been on our target list for a long time but until now we have been unable to find the right location. 

“It’s great to be opening here at last – and another step towards our goal of opening a Fitness Worx in every major town in the Midlands.”

The investment marks Fitness Worx’s third round of support from MEIF II and FDC, following £320,000 for its Coventry operation in 2024 and £250,000 towards its Rugby expansion last year.

It previously secured backing through the first Midlands Engine Investment Fund in 2023.

Marie Kelly, investment manager at Frontier Development Capital, added: “With a strong mix of professionals, families and active older residents, Solihull is an ideal location for Fitness Worx’s next move. 

“This new facility represents another major step in expanding the brand’s reach and reputation and will cement its position as one of the region’s leading independent fitness providers.”

The £400 million MEIF II, operated by the British Business Bank, provides debt finance of £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help Midlands-based small and medium-sized businesses start, grow or innovate, aiming to boost sustainable economic growth, increase early-stage funding availability and improve access to finance for firms that might otherwise miss out.

David Tindall, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, added: “Fitness Worx has continued to grow and build a loyal membership base since it was founded over a decade ago. 

“It has established itself as a valued part of the local community. 

“The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II is proud to continue supporting the business through this latest round of funding, helping Fitness Worx capitalise on its growth.”

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