Belgian fitness chain Sportopolis is in merger talks with HealthCity – the largest fitness chain in the Netherlands – and private equity investor Waterland, one of HealthCity’s shareholders.

Sportopolis currently operates 12 clubs across Limbourg, Antwerp and Brabant. The group is expanding its club in Ekeren and has plans to upgrade its centres in Jette, Antwerp and Maaseik, meaning Sportopolis will operate a total of 50,000sq m (538,000sq ft).

Co-founder Geert Diepers says: “Sportopolis sees the merger as a way to grow into a leading fitness chain in Europe. The expansion in Brussels and Flanders would happen faster and more efficiently through the new structure. In the short-term, a total of 25 Sportopolis clubs in Flanders is certainly feasible.”

Waterland’s Frank Vlayen adds: “The Belgian fitness market is very fragmented, which offers Sportopolis the chance to strengthen its position by playing an active role in the consolidation.”

The merger is expected to be complete by the autumn, after which both Sportopolis and HealthCity will continue to operate in their geographical markets under their existing brands.