Are you considering investing in a gym franchise in the UK but unsure about the costs and best options? With the UK fitness industry worth over £5 billion, gym franchises offer a lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the health and wellness market.
This guide will answer all your questions, including:
- What are the costs involved in opening a gym franchise?
- Which are the best gym franchises in the UK?
- How can you successfully start and run a gym franchise?
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap for choosing the right franchise, understanding investment costs, and launching your business successfully.
Why Should You Invest in a Gym Franchise in the UK?
The demand for fitness centres in the UK has skyrocketed, with over 10 million people holding gym memberships. Here’s why investing in a gym franchise can be a smart business move:
- Proven Business Model: Franchise gyms come with established branding, marketing, and operational support.
- Growing Industry: The UK fitness sector is experiencing continuous growth, making it a profitable market.
- Lower Risk: Unlike starting an independent gym, franchises have higher success rates due to an established reputation.
- Multiple Revenue Streams: Earn from membership fees, personal training, retail sales, and corporate wellness programmes.
How Much Does It Cost to Open a Gym Franchise in the UK?
The cost of opening a gym franchise varies based on several factors, including the brand, location, gym size, and required equipment. A gym franchise is a significant investment, so it’s essential to understand both the initial and ongoing costs involved.
Factors That Influence Gym Franchise Costs
- Franchise Fees: This is the upfront cost paid to the franchisor for the right to operate under their brand. It typically ranges from £10,000 to £50,000.
- Location & Premises: The cost of leasing or purchasing a property depends on location, with prime city locations being more expensive. Leasing can range from £20,000 to £100,000 annually.
- Equipment & Setup Costs: Gym equipment (treadmills, weights, machines) can cost anywhere from £50,000 to £200,000, depending on the franchise model.
- Renovation & Interior Design: Creating an attractive gym environment can cost an additional £10,000 to £50,000, depending on branding requirements.
- Insurance & Licensing: Business insurance, health and safety compliance, and licensing can add up to £5,000 to £20,000.
- Staff Salaries & Training: Hiring certified personal trainers, front-desk staff, and cleaners adds to ongoing expenses, costing at least £50,000 per year.
- Marketing & Branding: Initial marketing campaigns, digital ads, and signage can cost between £5,000 and £15,000 annually.
Ongoing Costs of Running a Gym Franchise
- Royalty Fees: Most gym franchises require ongoing royalty payments, usually 6%–10% of monthly revenue.
- Utility Bills: Electricity, water, and internet expenses can range between £3,000 and £10,000 per year.
- Maintenance & Repairs: Keeping gym equipment in top shape can cost £5,000+ annually.
Estimated Investment Ranges for Top Gym Franchises in the UK
| Franchise | Initial Investment | Royalty Fees | Equipment Cost |
| Anytime Fitness | £170,000 – £250,000 | 6% of revenue | £80,000 – £150,000 |
| Snap Fitness | £550,000 – £750,000 | 8% of revenue | £60,000 – £120,000 |
| énergie Fitness | £115,000 – £200,000 | 7% of revenue | £50,000 – £100,000 |
| F45 Training | £100,000 – £250,000 | 7% of revenue | £80,000 – £150,000 |
| The Gym Group | £500,000+ | No royalties | £200,000 – £400,000 |
What Are the Best Gym Franchises in the UK?
Choosing the right gym franchise in the UK depends on several factors, including initial investment costs, brand reputation, market demand, and profitability.
Some gym franchises cater to budget-conscious members, while others focus on premium fitness experiences, high-intensity training, or niche markets.
Here’s a look at some of the best gym franchises in the UK, covering their minimum investment, business model, and why they stand out.
1. Anytime Fitness
- Minimum Investment: £170,000 – £250,000
- Royalty Fees: 6% of revenue
- Franchise Type: 24/7 access gym
Why Choose Anytime Fitness?
Anytime Fitness is one of the world’s largest 24/7 gym franchises, offering members unlimited access to any of its locations worldwide. With over 4,500 locations globally and 180+ in the UK, it has a proven business model with high brand recognition.
Key Benefits
- Recurring revenue model with membership-based income
- Low staffing requirements (24/7 gyms use automated check-ins)
- Franchisee support in site selection, training, and marketing
Who Should Invest?
- This franchise is ideal for investors looking for a low-maintenance gym business with a focus on convenience and accessibility.
2. Snap Fitness
- Minimum Investment: £550,000 – £750,000 (subject to 60% bank funding)
- Royalty Fees: 8% of revenue
- Franchise Type: Budget-friendly gym with a tech-driven approach
Why Choose Snap Fitness?
Snap Fitness is known for its affordable membership fees, smart gym technology, and compact gym size, making it a cost-effective option for franchisees. It has a strong digital presence and mobile app integration for members.
Key Benefits
- Flexible gym size options, allowing for lower real estate costs
- Advanced fitness technology, including AI-powered training programs
- Franchisee support includes pre-launch training and ongoing operational guidance
Who Should Invest?
- Perfect for investors looking for a lower-cost entry into the fitness industry, especially in high-footfall areas.
3. énergie Fitness
- Minimum Investment: £115,000 – £200,000
- Royalty Fees: 7% of revenue
- Franchise Type: Affordable community-driven fitness club
Why Choose énergie Fitness?
énergie Fitness is a budget-friendly gym franchise that differentiates itself with a strong community focus and personalised member engagement. It offers flexible gym layouts, catering to different demographics, from casual gym-goers to dedicated fitness enthusiasts.
Key Benefits
- Budget-friendly membership options attract a wide audience
- Proven franchise system with strong brand awareness in the UK
- Comprehensive support for franchisees, including marketing and operational assistance
Who Should Invest?
- Ideal for franchisees looking to create a community-driven gym with affordable membership options.
4. F45 Training
- Minimum Investment: £100,000 – £250,000
- Royalty Fees: 7% of revenue
- Franchise Type: High-intensity functional training (HIT)
Why Choose F45 Training?
F45 Training is a global fitness franchise focusing on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and functional fitness workouts. Unlike traditional gyms, F45 relies on group training sessions, meaning it requires less gym space and fewer machines.
Key Benefits
- High-profit margins due to lower equipment costs
- Attracts younger demographics who prefer instructor-led workouts
- Strong global brand presence, with 3,000+ locations worldwide
Who Should Invest?
- Great for investors interested in a boutique-style fitness franchise that focuses on group fitness and high-energy workouts.
5. The Gym Group
- Minimum Investment: £500,000+
- Royalty Fees: No royalties
- Franchise Type: Budget-friendly, high-volume gym
Why Choose The Gym Group?
The Gym Group is one of the UK’s largest gym brands, known for its low-cost, high-volume business model. It provides members with 24/7 access, budget-friendly memberships, and a no-contract policy, making it highly attractive to cost-conscious consumers.
Key Benefits
- No royalty fees, which allows for higher profit margins
- Large-scale business model, ideal for urban areas with high foot traffic
- Well-established brand with strong consumer trust
Who Should Invest?
- Best suited for high-net-worth investors who can afford a larger investment and want to tap into the budget gym market.
6. Body Fit Training (BFT)
- Minimum Investment: £120,000
- Royalty Fees: Varies
- Franchise Type: Strength and conditioning group training
Why Choose BFT?
Body Fit Training (BFT) is one of Australia’s fastest-growing fitness franchises, now expanding into the UK. It combines strength training with group fitness classes, offering a structured workout experience.
Key Benefits
- High-intensity training programs, appealing to fitness enthusiasts
- Less equipment required, reducing setup costs
- Fast-growing brand with strong franchisor support
Who Should Invest?
- Ideal for franchisees looking to introduce a fresh, structured group fitness concept to the UK market.
7. PureGym
- Minimum Net Worth Requirement: $2,000,000
- Minimum Liquid Assets: $500,000
- Franchise Type: Large-scale budget gym
Why Choose PureGym?
PureGym is one of the UK’s largest gym brands, operating a low-cost, high-value membership model. It focuses on large facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and a no-contract membership approach.
Key Benefits
- Huge brand awareness, making it easier to attract members
- Scalable business model, suitable for multiple locations
- Advanced fitness technology, including digital workout guides
Who Should Invest?
- Best suited for high-net-worth individuals looking for a large-scale, high-revenue fitness business.
How Can You Start a Gym Franchise in the UK?
Starting a gym franchise requires careful planning and strategic execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Research & Choose a Franchise
- Compare costs, support, and brand reputation.
- Visit franchise expos and speak to existing franchisees.
Step 2: Understand Legal & Financial Requirements
- Review franchise agreements carefully to avoid hidden fees.
- Secure funding through bank loans, investors, or government grants.
Step 3: Secure a Location & Set Up the Gym
- Choose a high-traffic location near business districts or shopping centres.
- Invest in high-quality equipment and design an appealing gym layout.
Step 4: Hire Staff & Train Employees
- Recruit certified personal trainers and front-desk staff.
- Implement strong customer service policies.
Step 5: Launch & Market Your Gym
- Use local marketing, digital ads, and corporate partnerships.
- Offer introductory discounts and referral programmes.
What Are the Biggest Challenges in Running a Gym Franchise?
Running a successful gym franchise isn’t just about opening doors—it comes with challenges that require strategic solutions.
High Competition
- The UK fitness market is saturated, with both independent gyms and franchises competing for members.
- Solution: Differentiate your gym with unique fitness programmes, excellent customer service, and targeted marketing campaigns.
Membership Retention Issues
- Gyms experience high member churn rates, with people often cancelling memberships.
- Solution: Implement loyalty programmes, personalised training sessions, and social events to keep members engaged.
Managing Operational Costs
- Rent, staff salaries, and maintenance can quickly eat into profits.
- Solution: Use cost-saving strategies, such as energy-efficient equipment and outsourcing certain tasks.
Keeping Up with Industry Trends
- The fitness industry is constantly evolving with trends like virtual training, wellness programmes, and AI-driven fitness tracking.
- Solution: Regularly update your gym’s offerings and invest in modern technology.
What Are the Key Strategies for Success in a Gym Franchise?
Opening a gym franchise in the UK is just the first step ensuring long-term success requires strategic planning, effective management, and innovation.
Here are the key strategies that successful gym franchisees follow to maximise profitability and maintain a strong membership base.
Focus on Exceptional Member Experience
- A gym is more than just a place to work out it’s a community. Happy members are more likely to stay loyal, refer friends, and spend money on additional services like personal training and merchandise.
How to Improve Member Experience?
- Personalised Customer Service: Train staff to engage with members and provide tailored fitness recommendations.
- Community Engagement: Organise fitness challenges, group workouts, and social events to create a sense of belonging.
- User-Friendly Technology: Offer a gym app for class bookings, progress tracking, and member support.
Strong Digital Marketing & Social Media Presence
- With most people discovering gyms online, having a strong digital marketing strategy is essential for success.
Effective Marketing Strategies for a Gym Franchise
- Local SEO Optimisation: Ensure your gym ranks high on Google when people search for gyms in your area.
- Social Media Engagement: Regularly post workout tips, success stories, and promotional offers on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
- Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with local fitness influencers to attract a wider audience.
- Paid Digital Ads: Use Google Ads and Facebook Ads to target potential members based on location and interests.
Member Retention Strategies
- Attracting new members is important, but retaining existing ones is even more critical for long-term profitability.
Proven Member Retention Tactics
- Loyalty Programs: Offer discounts or free sessions to long-term members.
- Personalised Workout Plans: Help members achieve their fitness goals by offering tailored training plans.
- Flexible Membership Options: Provide pay-as-you-go, short-term, and premium memberships to suit different budgets.
- Engagement with Trainers: Encourage trainers to interact with members, offering tips and motivation.
Maximising Additional Revenue Streams
- Most profitable gyms don’t rely solely on membership fees. Adding extra services can significantly boost revenue.
Additional Revenue Opportunities
- Personal Training Sessions: Charge members for one-on-one coaching.
- Nutritional Programs & Supplements: Sell protein shakes, vitamins, and meal plans.
- Merchandise Sales: Offer branded gym apparel, water bottles, and fitness accessories.
- Corporate Partnerships: Offer discounted memberships to businesses for their employees.
Staying Ahead of Fitness Trends
- The fitness industry is constantly evolving. Staying ahead of trends helps attract new members and retain existing ones.
Current & Emerging Fitness Trends
- Virtual & Hybrid Workouts: Many gyms now offer live-streamed or on-demand workouts for members.
- Wearable Fitness Technology: Encourage members to use devices like Fitbit or Apple Watch for progress tracking.
- Group Training Popularity: HIIT, functional training, and small-group sessions are in high demand.
- Wellness & Recovery Services: Offer yoga, meditation, physiotherapy, and recovery zones.
Cost-Effective Operations & Smart Gym Management
- Controlling costs is key to maximising profits. Poor financial management can hurt profitability, even with high membership numbers.
Smart Gym Management Practices
- Energy Efficiency: Use LED lighting and smart thermostats to reduce utility costs.
- Automated Systems: Use digital check-in kiosks to reduce staffing costs.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Analyse membership trends to improve retention and optimise class schedules.
- Equipment Maintenance: Regularly service gym machines to avoid costly breakdowns.
By implementing these strategies, franchise owners can increase profitability, improve customer satisfaction, and ensure long-term success.
What Is the Future of Gym Franchises in the UK?
The UK fitness industry is evolving rapidly due to technological advancements, changing consumer behaviour, and new health trends. Here’s what the future of gym franchises in the UK looks like:
Rise of Hybrid & Digital Fitness Models
- The pandemic accelerated the growth of online and hybrid fitness solutions, which is now a permanent trend in the industry.
What’s Changing?
- Many gym franchises are integrating on-demand workout platforms into their memberships.
- Apps like Peloton and Les Mills+ have set a new standard for virtual training.
- Live-streamed group classes are becoming a core offering at many franchises.
Future Gym Model: A combination of in-person training and digital classes to give members more flexibility.
Increased Demand for Boutique & Niche Fitness Studios
- Consumers are shifting towards specialised workout experiences rather than traditional gyms.
Popular Niche Fitness Trends
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Franchises like F45 Training and Body Fit Training (BFT) are leading this trend.
- Boxing & Strength Studios: UBX Boxing + Strength is growing rapidly due to the rising demand for combat-based fitness.
- Recovery & Wellness Studios: Gyms offering sauna, cryotherapy, and mental well-being sessions are gaining traction.
Future Gym Model: Smaller boutique studios will complement traditional gyms by offering exclusive, results-driven programs.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Gyms
- As environmental concerns grow, many gym franchises are investing in eco-friendly solutions.
How Gyms Are Going Green?
- Self-Powered Equipment: Treadmills and bikes that generate renewable energy.
- Solar-Powered Gyms: Some franchises are switching to solar panels to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Eco-Friendly Building Materials: Using recycled rubber flooring and energy-efficient lighting.
Future Gym Model: The first fully sustainable, zero-carbon gym franchises could emerge in the UK.
Personalisation Through AI & Wearable Tech
- Artificial intelligence and wearable fitness technology are revolutionising the gym industry.
AI-Driven Fitness Trends
- AI-Powered Personal Training: Apps that analyse workout performance and provide real-time feedback.
- Wearable Integration: Smartwatches and fitness bands will sync directly with gym equipment.
- AI Coaching & Virtual Assistants: Chatbots will provide nutrition advice, workout plans, and fitness tracking.
Future Gym Model: AI-driven gyms that track progress and offer real-time personalised training plans.
Expansion of Low-Cost & 24/7 Gyms
- Budget-friendly gyms continue to dominate the UK market, with The Gym Group, PureGym, and Anytime Fitness leading the way.
Why Low-Cost Gyms Are Winning?
- Affordable memberships attract more people.
- 24/7 access reduces staffing costs, increasing profitability.
- Self-service gym models are growing, reducing the need for large staff teams.
Future Gym Model: More automated, self-service gyms will open, offering low-cost, high-value memberships.
Conclusion
Investing in a gym franchise in the UK is a fantastic business opportunity, especially with the booming fitness industry and increasing demand for health and wellness services.
However, choosing the right franchise, understanding investment costs, and implementing effective business strategies are crucial for long-term success.
The future of gym franchises is shifting towards hybrid fitness models, AI-driven personalisation, and eco-friendly gyms.
Staying ahead of these trends, focusing on customer experience, and maximising additional revenue streams can help franchise owners build a profitable and sustainable fitness business.
If you’re considering owning a gym franchise, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Research your options, evaluate your investment, and choose a franchise that aligns with your business goals and passion for fitness!
FAQs
What is the most profitable gym franchise in the UK?
The most profitable gym franchises include Anytime Fitness, The Gym Group, and F45 Training, thanks to their strong brand presence and recurring revenue models.
How much does it cost to open a gym franchise in the UK?
The initial investment varies between £80,000 and £500,000+, depending on the franchise, location, and equipment required.
Do I need experience in the fitness industry to open a gym franchise?
No, most gym franchises provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, making it possible for investors with no fitness background to succeed.
How long does it take to break even with a gym franchise?
Most gym franchises take between 2 to 4 years to break even, depending on location, membership growth, and operating costs.
What are the biggest challenges of running a gym franchise?
Challenges include high competition, retaining members, managing operational costs, and keeping up with fitness trends. A strong marketing and retention strategy can help overcome these hurdles.
Which gym franchise is best for a low-budget investor?
My Fit Pod, SportsCool, and Bodystreet offer lower investment costs (starting from £10,000 to £25,000) compared to large-scale gym franchises.
Is owning a gym franchise a good investment?
Yes, gym franchises offer recurring revenue through memberships, have a proven business model, and benefit from the growing fitness industry, making them a solid investment.
