Time to focus on the consumer

Engaging the consumer, one of the health and fitness industry’s biggest challenges, will be the topic of the Fitness Industry Association’s (FIA) forthcoming Industry Summit in November.

According to Deloitte, out of 10,000 UK adults interviewed, approximately 30 per cent confessed to being lapsed gym members.

Almost 40 per cent of them spent their money on “other priorities” and more than 25 per cent claimed that they don’t use the facilities often enough to justify membership. This is the challenge the industry faces and this is the issue that experts and authorities will address at the summit on 8 November.

“Almost every manager in the industry believes that improving consumer relations and services should be our number one priority,” said Andrée Deane, chief executive of the FIA.

“The summit will provide a unique opportunity to focus our minds and thinking on how we target and excite consumers enough to join up. The country’s leading experts in consumer communication will provide vital insights and advice.”

In addition, sports minister, Richard Caborn and the new fitness minister, Caroline Flint, will update the industry on current developments in the public health agenda and in particular how the government plans to tackle the obesity crisis.

The ministers will also share their thoughts on how the industry can partner with government and increase its role as part of the solution.

A drinks reception will follow the event and a portion of the proceeds will go to the FIA’s nominated Commit to Get Fit® charity, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Details: +44 (0)20 7202 4723 or email [email protected]