New Evolution Ventures (NEV) has announced that it will open the second Hard Candy-branded health club in Russia next year.

NEV, which is chaired by industry entrepreneur Mark Mastrov, created the Hard Candy brand with pop star Madonna and the joint venture opened its first club in Mexico last month. The Russian club is expected to open in March 2011.

Mark Mastrov, chair of NEV, told Leisure Opportunities that Hard candy plans to open 8-10 facilities in Europe over the next 12-18 months.

"Our goal is to create an environment inspired by Madonna's vision and high standards of what the ideal gym would be," he said.

"Hard Candy Fitness will be a reflection of Madonna's point of view and will reflect her input on every detail including music, space, light and other design cues. Madonna's touch will be everywhere."