David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest state-of-the-art health and wellness facility in Austin, Texas, marking a significant step in the company's expansion into the United States market. The new 150,000-square-foot club represents a $45 million investment in the region and is expected to create over 150 full-time and part-time jobs.
The facility, located in the growing suburban area of North Austin, aims to provide comprehensive health, fitness, and leisure services for families and individuals. It features a wide array of amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, advanced gym equipment, tennis courts, and a luxury spa area.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new 150,000-square-foot facility in Austin, Texas.
- The project is a $45 million investment and is projected to create more than 150 local jobs.
- The club includes extensive family-friendly features, such as dedicated kids' zones and swimming lessons.
- This opening is a key part of the company's strategic growth plan within the United States.
A Major Investment in the Austin Community
The decision to build a flagship club in Austin reflects the city's rapid population growth and strong economic outlook. Company officials noted that Austin's demographic, with a high concentration of young families and professionals, aligns perfectly with the David Lloyd brand's target audience.
The construction phase of the project involved numerous local contractors and suppliers, contributing significantly to the local economy over the past 18 months. Now operational, the club will provide ongoing employment across various sectors, including fitness instruction, hospitality, facility management, and childcare.
"We see Austin as a vibrant, health-conscious city that is ideal for our family-oriented concept," said Simon Pearson, CEO of David Lloyd Clubs USA. "This is more than just a gym; it's a community hub where families can spend quality time together while pursuing their health and wellness goals."
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The creation of over 150 new positions is a welcome development for the local job market. Roles range from entry-level positions in guest services to specialized careers for certified personal trainers, tennis coaches, and spa therapists. The company has emphasized its commitment to local hiring and ongoing professional development for its staff.
According to an analysis by the Austin Chamber of Commerce, the club is expected to generate an estimated $5 million in annual local economic activity, factoring in employee wages, local supply chain spending, and visitor-related revenue.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The Austin club is designed to be an all-encompassing destination for health and leisure. The facility is divided into distinct zones to cater to different activities and age groups, ensuring a comfortable experience for all members.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Size: 150,000 square feet
- Investment: $45 million
- Gym Floor: 20,000 square feet with over 200 pieces of equipment
- Swimming Pools: One 25-meter indoor pool and one outdoor resort-style pool
- Tennis Courts: 8 courts (4 indoor, 4 outdoor)
- Spa Area: 10,000 square feet
The main gym floor is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. It includes dedicated areas for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members can also participate in over 130 group exercise classes offered weekly, ranging from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to yoga and Pilates.
Focus on Racquet Sports
A significant feature of the new club is its extensive offering for racquet sports enthusiasts. The facility includes eight championship-standard tennis courts, evenly split between indoor and outdoor playing surfaces to allow for year-round activity. In addition to tennis, the club also features four dedicated pickleball courts, catering to the sport's rising popularity.
A team of professional coaches will be on-site to offer private lessons, group clinics, and junior development programs. According to the club's management, the goal is to build a vibrant racquet sports community for players of all ages and skill levels.
Family-Friendly Design and Amenities
One of the core principles of the David Lloyd brand is its focus on the family. The Austin club was designed from the ground up to be a welcoming space for members with children. A dedicated DL Kids zone offers supervised activities, arts and crafts, and play areas for children while their parents use the facilities.
About David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in the UK in 1982, David Lloyd Clubs operates over 130 clubs across Europe and is one of the continent's leading health and leisure groups. The company is known for its premium, family-focused facilities that combine fitness, relaxation, and social activities. The Austin opening represents a key milestone in its global expansion strategy.
The club's programming includes structured swimming and tennis lessons for children, after-school clubs, and holiday camps. This integrated approach allows families to incorporate health and fitness into their daily routines seamlessly.
Luxury Spa and Wellness Offerings
Beyond physical fitness, the club places a strong emphasis on relaxation and recovery. The 10,000-square-foot luxury spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat,' is a standout feature. It is an adult-only sanctuary designed for quiet relaxation.
Amenities within the Spa Retreat include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas with different temperatures and humidity levels
- A crystal steam room
- An ice fountain for cold therapy
- Heated relaxation beds
The spa also offers a full menu of treatment options, including massages, facials, and other wellness therapies, which are available to both members and non-members by appointment.
Strategic Vision for North America
The opening in Austin is not an isolated event but rather a calculated move in David Lloyd Clubs' broader strategy for North America. The company has been carefully studying the U.S. market for several years, identifying key metropolitan areas with growth potential.
"Our success in Europe has been built on creating premium clubs that become an integral part of our members' lives," Pearson added. "We are confident that this model will resonate with American consumers who are increasingly prioritizing health, wellness, and family-oriented experiences. Austin is just the beginning."
Industry analysts will be watching the performance of the Austin club closely as an indicator of the brand's potential for further expansion across the country. The company has reportedly been scouting locations in other major Texan cities as well as in Florida and California.
The club is now open to the public, with founding membership packages available. The official grand opening ceremony is scheduled for next month and will feature community events and facility tours.
