David Lloyd Leisure has completed a £6.5 million investment project at its Bicester club, part of a broader £100 million investment across its UK and European locations. The expansion introduces a new luxury spa, an advanced gym area, and expanded facilities for families, creating approximately 20 new jobs in the local Oxfordshire area.
The upgraded club, located in the Kingsmere development, officially reopened its new sections to members, showcasing the company's focus on enhancing its premium health, wellness, and fitness offerings. This development represents one of the most significant upgrades for the company this year.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £6.5 million to expand its Bicester facility in Oxfordshire.
- The project is part of a wider £100 million investment strategy across the company's portfolio.
- New features include a luxury spa retreat, an expanded state-of-the-art gym, and new family-oriented spaces.
- The expansion has resulted in the creation of approximately 20 new full-time and part-time positions.
- The upgraded club aims to provide a comprehensive wellness destination for members of all ages.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The Bicester club's transformation is a cornerstone of David Lloyd Leisure's 2024 capital investment program. The £6.5 million allocated to this site underscores the company's confidence in the growing demand for premium wellness and leisure facilities outside of major metropolitan hubs. The project was planned over 18 months and executed in phases to minimize disruption to existing members.
According to company statements, the primary goal was to elevate the member experience by introducing facilities that align with modern wellness trends. The investment focuses not just on physical fitness but also on mental wellbeing and relaxation, reflecting a broader shift in the health club industry.
The New Spa Retreat Experience
A significant portion of the investment was dedicated to the creation of a luxurious new Spa Retreat. This area is designed as a tranquil escape for adult members, offering a range of hydrotherapy and heat-based relaxation experiences. The spa includes a Himalayan salt sauna, a citrus steam room, and an ice cave designed to aid in post-workout recovery.
Additional features of the spa include:
- A hydrotherapy pool with powerful massage jets.
- Heated relaxation beds and a deep relaxation room.
- An outdoor spa garden with a sauna and comfortable seating.
- Experience showers with different temperature and lighting settings.
Michelle Dand, Head of Spa and Beauty for David Lloyd Clubs, commented on the new facility.
"Our Spa Retreats are designed to offer a sanctuary where members can rest, relax, and recharge. The Bicester spa incorporates some of our most popular thermal experiences, providing a world-class wellness destination right on their doorstep."
Enhanced Fitness and Family Facilities
Beyond the spa, the investment has significantly upgraded the club's core fitness offerings. The gym floor has been expanded by 300 square meters and now features the latest equipment from leading brands such as Technogym and Eleiko. This includes a new dedicated weightlifting area and a functional training zone equipped for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts.
By the Numbers
- Total Investment: £6.5 million
- New Jobs Created: ~20
- Gym Floor Expansion: 300 sq meters
- Company-wide Investment: £100 million in 2024
- Total UK Clubs: 103
Families and younger members also benefit from the expansion. The DL Kids area has been redesigned with new activity zones, and a dedicated family lounge has been introduced. This space allows parents to relax or work while their children participate in supervised activities, reinforcing the club's appeal to a family demographic.
A Focus on Group Exercise
The project also included the construction of a new purpose-built studio for David Lloyd's signature group exercise classes. This includes BLAZE, a high-intensity class combining cardio, strength, and combat training, and SPIRIT, a class that blends yoga, Pilates, and meditation. These additions cater to the growing popularity of boutique-style fitness classes within a larger club environment.
Jack Phillips, the General Manager at David Lloyd Bicester, highlighted the impact of the new facilities.
"This investment has completely transformed our club. We can now offer our members an experience that is second to none in the region. From the incredible Spa Retreat to the cutting-edge gym equipment, every aspect of the club has been enhanced to help our members achieve their health and wellness goals."
Broader Company Strategy and Local Impact
The Bicester upgrade is part of a strategic initiative by David Lloyd Leisure to solidify its position as the UK's leading premium health and wellness group. The company, which now operates 133 clubs across Europe, has been systematically investing in its existing portfolio rather than focusing solely on new site acquisitions.
About David Lloyd Leisure Group
Founded in 1982, the David Lloyd Leisure Group is a major player in the European health and fitness sector. It currently operates 103 clubs in the UK and another 30 across mainland Europe. The company serves approximately 750,000 members and employs around 8,000 people. Its strategy focuses on providing premium, family-friendly environments with a wide range of facilities.
The creation of around 20 new roles in Bicester, ranging from spa therapists and fitness coaches to operational staff, provides a welcome boost to the local economy. The company often emphasizes its role as a community hub, offering not just fitness facilities but also social spaces like the Clubroom cafe and business lounges.
This investment reflects a broader trend in the wellness industry, where consumers are increasingly looking for holistic experiences that combine fitness, relaxation, and social interaction under one roof. By providing these comprehensive offerings, David Lloyd aims to increase member retention and attract new demographics seeking an all-encompassing lifestyle solution.
