David Lloyd Leisure, a leading European health and wellness group, has announced a significant expansion into the United States with a new flagship club in Austin, Texas. The company is investing $55 million to develop a state-of-the-art facility, marking one of its largest single investments outside of Europe.
The new club, slated to open in the first quarter of 2026, will be located in the growing suburban area of North Austin. It aims to provide a premium, family-oriented health and racquets club experience, creating approximately 150 new jobs in the local community.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure is investing $55 million to build a new luxury health club in Austin, Texas.
- The project represents a major step in the company's North American expansion strategy.
- The 180,000-square-foot facility will include extensive fitness, racquets, and spa amenities.
- The new club is expected to create around 150 permanent jobs and open in early 2026.
A Major Investment in Austin's Wellness Market
David Lloyd Leisure's entry into the Austin market is a calculated move to tap into the city's rapidly growing population and strong economy. The $55 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the demand for premium wellness and leisure services in the region. This project is part of a broader strategy to establish a presence in key metropolitan areas across North America.
The company has acquired a 15-acre plot of land near The Domain, a high-density office, retail, and residential center in North Austin. This strategic location provides access to a large base of potential members, including families and corporate professionals seeking comprehensive wellness facilities.
Who is David Lloyd Leisure?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's largest health, fitness, and racquets groups. The company operates over 130 clubs across the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, serving more than 730,000 members. It is known for its large, family-focused clubs that offer a wide range of services beyond a standard gym.
Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the expansion, highlighting the city's appeal. He stated that Austin's dynamic environment and health-conscious community make it the ideal location for their first major U.S. club.
"Austin is a vibrant, fast-growing city with a community that values health and an active lifestyle. We see a tremendous opportunity to introduce our unique, family-focused club concept to the market. This is more than just a gym; it's a destination for the whole family to spend quality time together," Earlam said in a press release.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The planned Austin club will span an impressive 180,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. The design focuses on creating a premium experience with a wide array of facilities that cater to all ages and fitness levels. The goal is to provide a comprehensive lifestyle hub rather than just a place to exercise.
The facility's extensive offerings are designed to set it apart from existing fitness centers in the area. Members will have access to a variety of specialized zones and amenities, all under one roof.
Key Features and Amenities
The club's plans detail a comprehensive suite of services. According to the development proposal, the amenities will include:
- Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools: Including a 25-meter indoor lap pool and a resort-style outdoor pool with a dedicated family splash area.
- Extensive Racquet Sports: 10 championship-standard tennis courts (both indoor and outdoor), along with several pickleball and padel courts.
- Advanced Fitness Areas: A large gymnasium with the latest cardio and strength-training equipment, plus multiple studios for group classes like yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- Luxury Spa and Wellness Suite: A world-class spa featuring a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam rooms, and treatment rooms for massages and other wellness services.
- Family-Oriented Spaces: A dedicated kids' club with structured activities, a soft-play area, and a family lounge.
- Clubroom and Restaurant: A spacious social area with an indoor-outdoor terrace, offering a full menu for members to dine and socialize.
Austin Club by the Numbers
- Total Investment: $55 Million
- Total Area: 15 acres
- Building Size: 180,000 sq. ft.
- New Jobs Created: ~150
- Tennis Courts: 10
Economic Impact and Community Focus
The development is expected to have a positive economic impact on the local community, beginning with the construction phase and continuing with long-term employment. The creation of approximately 150 full-time and part-time positions will offer opportunities in management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and facility maintenance.
Local officials have welcomed the investment. A spokesperson for the Austin Economic Development Corporation noted that projects of this scale contribute significantly to the local economy and enhance the quality of life for residents.
"We are pleased to see a globally recognized brand like David Lloyd choose Austin for its flagship U.S. location. This investment not only creates jobs but also provides a valuable community asset that promotes health and wellness," the spokesperson commented.
David Lloyd Leisure has also expressed its commitment to community integration. The company plans to partner with local schools and sports organizations to offer coaching programs and host community events, further embedding the club into the fabric of North Austin.
David Lloyd's North American Expansion Strategy
While David Lloyd has a dominant presence in Europe, its move into Austin signals a clear and ambitious strategy for North American growth. The company has been carefully researching potential markets for several years, looking for cities with strong demographic and economic profiles.
The Austin project will serve as a blueprint for future clubs in the United States and Canada. The company aims to test and refine its model in the American market before committing to a wider rollout. Success in Austin could pave the way for new locations in other major tech and business hubs such as Dallas, Denver, and Atlanta over the next decade.
This expansion follows a trend of international fitness and wellness brands entering the competitive U.S. market, seeking to capture a share of the growing demand for premium and specialized health services. David Lloyd's unique selling proposition is its all-encompassing, family-centric model, which it believes will resonate strongly with American consumers seeking more than a traditional gym membership.
