Basic-Fit has officially opened its 1,000th club, with the launch of a new site in the Dutch city of Tilburg.

It marks a significant landmark for the Netherlands-based brand, which is now Europe's largest fitness operator and listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange in 2016.

CEO René Moos said the latest opening forms part of a period of rapid growth for the company, as it looks to open 250 new sites over the next 14 months.

“We're extremely proud to open our 1,000th location – it is a milestone that we owe to our loyal members and employees, without whom this could not be possible," Moos said.

"As soon as we were allowed to reopen after the lockdown, the number of memberships increased enormously in a short period of time. It really confirms the significant role we have in society.

"Working out is a basic necessity and we are glad to help people to maintain their health in a safe and responsible environment. We will continue to grow and work towards our goal of 1,250 clubs by the end of 2022.”

The opening of the 1,000th club has been dedicated to the memory of Basic-Fit property director Jeroen den Burger, who died in 2019 at the age of 53.

In a LinkedIn post, Basic-Fit's digital fitness and innovation director, Marcel Boots, wrote: "Jeroen has been at the basis of streamlining our expansion and construction process together with Rédouane Zekkri, which allowed us to open so many clubs in the last few years.

"Before Jeroen died we made him a promise to honour him at club number 1,000 and open this milestone club in his name.

"We could never have expected it would take us so long, as we had a stop for 10 months due to the COVID-19 lockdowns, but we have been able to celebrate our 1,000th club and to make good on our team's promise.

"This one's for you Jeroen. It is a beautiful club in Tilburg and you will be proud this one is bearing your name."