LA fitness – diversifying or downsizing?

LA fitness has rolled out its new high intensity, 20-minute signature classes across its UK and Ireland clubs, following their popularity at the operator's new premium LAX facility in central London.

The operator launched 'LA 20' high intensity 20-minute training sessions – originally piloted at LAX, where they were branded LAX20 – across all 79 LA fitness clubs on 6 January.

The popularity of these sessions further fuels suspicions that the company may make a move into the microgym sector – something company CEO Martin Long hinted at in his recent interview with Health Club Management magazine.

But amid these rumours of potential expansion and diversification – about which the company remains tight-lipped – there are also signs that LA fitness could be looking to downsize its core business and offload unprofitable clubs.

The Sunday Times reports that restructuring expert Andy Leeser has been brought in to lead a turnaround and is looking at a company voluntary arrangement (CVA), which allows troubled businesses to shed loss-making properties and concentrate on a smaller, profitable estate.

“I cannot confirm or deny anything but we are always looking at different options,” company chair Fred Turok was quoted as saying.