David Lloyd Leisure has announced its acquisition of The Park Club in Acton, West London, further expanding its portfolio of health, fitness, and wellness facilities. This strategic purchase marks the company's 103rd club in the United Kingdom and its 133rd globally, reinforcing its position as a leading operator in the European leisure sector.
The integration of The Park Club into the David Lloyd brand will involve a significant multi-million-pound investment to upgrade the facilities. The club is expected to reopen under the David Lloyd name in early 2026, offering members an enhanced experience with state-of-the-art amenities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has acquired The Park Club, a 27-acre family sports facility in Acton, West London.
- This acquisition increases David Lloyd's UK presence to 103 clubs and its global count to 133.
- A multi-million-pound investment is planned to refurbish the club, with a relaunch scheduled for early 2026.
- The deal was supported by legal and real estate advisors, including Freeths LLP and Cushman & Wakefield.
Strategic Expansion in a Key Market
The acquisition of The Park Club represents a calculated move by David Lloyd Leisure to strengthen its footprint in London. The facility, situated on a 27-acre site, has served the local community for over two decades, offering a wide range of sports and leisure activities. Its location and extensive grounds make it a valuable asset for the company's growth strategy.
According to company statements, the purchase aligns with David Lloyd's mission to provide premium family-oriented health and wellness experiences. The existing infrastructure of The Park Club provides a solid foundation for the planned upgrades, which will bring the facility in line with the high standards of other David Lloyd locations.
Russell Barnes, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the significance of the deal.
“The Park Club is a fantastic addition to our portfolio, with a brilliant history as a family-focused club. We are excited about the opportunity to build on this legacy,” he stated.
Details of the Planned Refurbishment
David Lloyd Leisure has committed to a comprehensive investment program to transform the newly acquired club. The refurbishment will focus on modernizing the existing facilities and introducing new amenities that are hallmarks of the David Lloyd brand. While specific details are still in development, the company has indicated the project will be extensive.
The planned upgrades are expected to include:
- Renovation of indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
- Modernization of the gym with the latest fitness equipment.
- Enhancements to racquet sports facilities, including tennis courts.
- Introduction of David Lloyd's signature spa and wellness areas.
- Upgrades to family-friendly zones and food and beverage outlets.
This investment aims to create a premier destination for health and fitness in West London, attracting both existing members of The Park Club and new clientele seeking a comprehensive wellness experience.
About David Lloyd Leisure Group
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure has grown to become Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure group. The company operates clubs across nine European countries, serving over 750,000 members. It is known for its family-friendly environment, extensive racquet facilities, and premium fitness and spa amenities.
The Integration Process
The transition from The Park Club to a David Lloyd Club will be managed in phases. The club will continue to operate under its current branding for a period before closing for the major refurbishment works. This phased approach is designed to minimize disruption for existing members while preparing for the relaunch.
David Lloyd Leisure has a well-established process for integrating new clubs into its network. This includes staff training, implementation of new operating systems, and a marketing campaign to introduce the new brand to the local community. The company has expressed its commitment to retaining the community feel of The Park Club while elevating its offerings.
The target for the grand reopening is early 2026. This timeline allows for a thorough renovation process, ensuring that all aspects of the club meet the company's quality standards before welcoming members. Further announcements regarding membership options and specific facility details are expected closer to the reopening date.
David Lloyd Leisure by the Numbers
- 133 clubs globally across nine countries.
- 103 clubs located in the United Kingdom.
- Over 750,000 members across Europe.
- More than 1,000 tennis courts and 400 badminton and squash courts group-wide.
Expert Advisory Teams Behind the Deal
The successful acquisition was facilitated by a team of professional advisors. Freeths LLP, a national law firm, provided legal counsel to David Lloyd Leisure. The legal team was led by real estate partner Adam Watson, who has a history of working with the leisure company on previous acquisitions.
Watson commented on the complexity and collaborative nature of the transaction.
“We are delighted to have once again supported David Lloyd on this latest acquisition. This was a complex deal which required a real collaborative team effort from all sides to get it over the line,” he said.
Real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield also played a crucial role, advising on property-related aspects of the deal. Their expertise in the leisure property market was instrumental in navigating the transaction. The involvement of these experienced firms highlights the strategic importance and financial scale of the acquisition for David Lloyd Leisure.
This move signals continued confidence in the UK's health and wellness market. As consumers increasingly prioritize health and family-oriented activities, operators like David Lloyd are positioning themselves to meet this demand through strategic expansion and investment in high-quality facilities.
