énergie Group to list on stock exchange

Health club franchise énergie is to list on the London Stock Exchange's Alternative Investment Market (AIM) later this year.

Speaking to Health Club Management, a spokesperson confirmed the plans but declined to confirm an exact date for the entry. It is believed that énergie will be reversing into a cash shell company already listed on the AIM - also known as a special purpose acquisition company.

As a result, énergie could be taking on board two new board members. Paul Campbell - a former Leisure Connection chief executive and more recently CEO of restaurant group Clapham House - is believed to be coming in as the new chair of énergie, while Nick Harding is likely to be made the group's new financial director.

It is understood that the listing is part of énergie's plans to accelerate its expansion plans for the UK market. It currently operates clubs, most of which are franchised.

The group has, however, expressed its interest in growing the number of company-owned clubs from the current seven sites.

Last year the company announced that it is ramping up the expansion of its low-cost Fit Less chain. Énergie owns and operates five brands: énergie Fitness, énergie Fitness for Women, énergie Personal Fitness, énergie SHOKK (kids' fitness brand) and Fit Less. énergie has also launched its first commercial venture for Fit Less, in conjunction with North Hertfordshire College.

College students studying health and fitness-related courses will gain hands-on experience in the new Fit Less gym that's opened on-site.

Once students have qualified from their courses, they will also be able to use Fit Less facilities to start their own personal training, sports therapy, sports massage or beauty treatment businesses.