David Lloyd Leisure, a leading UK-based health and wellness group, has officially entered the Italian market by acquiring the Malaspina Sporting & Country Club near Milan. The company announced a significant €6 million investment to upgrade the facility, marking a key step in its ongoing European expansion strategy.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has acquired its first club in Italy, the Malaspina Sporting & Country Club near Milan.
- The company is investing €6 million to extensively refurbish and rebrand the facility.
- This acquisition expands David Lloyd Leisure's presence to 10 European countries.
- The move is part of a broader strategy to grow its portfolio across mainland Europe.
First Foray into Italy
David Lloyd Leisure has confirmed its strategic entry into the Italian health and fitness sector. The acquisition of the Malaspina Sporting & Country Club, located in San Felice on the eastern edge of Milan, represents the company's first operational site in the country.
This move is a significant milestone for the group, which now operates clubs in 10 European nations. Italy joins a growing list that includes the UK, Ireland, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Portugal.
According to the company, the acquisition aligns with its long-term goal of establishing a strong presence in key European markets. The Milan area was identified as a prime location due to its strong economy and demographic profile.
A History of Expansion
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure has grown to become one of Europe's largest racquets, health, and fitness operators. The group currently manages 133 clubs, with 103 in the UK and 30 located across mainland Europe. The company serves approximately 750,000 members and employs around 10,000 people.
Details of the €6 Million Investment
A central component of the acquisition is a planned €6 million investment to comprehensively upgrade the existing facilities. David Lloyd Leisure intends to transform the club into a premium destination for families, aligning it with the high standards of its other European locations.
The refurbishment project is scheduled to begin in early 2025. It will involve a phased development to minimize disruption for current members of the Malaspina club.
Planned Upgrades and New Features
The investment will cover extensive modernization across the club's various amenities. Key areas targeted for improvement include:
- Spa and Wellness: A new state-of-the-art spa facility will be constructed, featuring a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and relaxation areas.
- Fitness Areas: The gym will be expanded and equipped with the latest fitness technology and equipment. New studios for group classes, including High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), Mind & Body, and indoor cycling, are also planned.
- Family Facilities: A dedicated DL Kids area will be developed to offer activities for children, alongside a new indoor soft play zone.
- Clubroom and Dining: The club's social spaces, including the restaurant and bar, will be redesigned to create a modern and comfortable Clubroom environment.
- Racquet Sports: The club's existing 16 tennis courts and 5 padel courts will be refurbished.
The company stated that the goal is to create a comprehensive wellness destination that caters to all age groups, from young children to adults.
Malaspina Club at a Glance
The existing Malaspina Sporting & Country Club is a well-established facility. It currently features an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, 16 tennis courts, 5 padel courts, a gym, and a restaurant, all set within four hectares of grounds.
Strategic Importance of the Milan Acquisition
The acquisition is more than just adding a new club; it's a strategic entry point into one of Europe's major economies. Glenn Earlam, the Executive Chairman of David Lloyd Leisure, highlighted the importance of this move.
"We are thrilled to announce our first acquisition in Italy, a country which has been a key target for us for some time. The Malaspina Club is a fantastic facility, and our €6 million investment will transform it into one of the leading health and wellness clubs in the Milan area," Earlam stated.
He further commented on the potential for growth in the region. "We see a great deal of potential in the Italian market and are actively seeking more opportunities to expand our brand across the country."
This statement indicates that the Malaspina club is likely the first of several planned locations in Italy as the company seeks to build a national presence.
Broader European Growth Strategy
David Lloyd Leisure's expansion is not limited to Italy. The company has been actively growing its portfolio across mainland Europe for several years, using a combination of new builds and acquisitions of existing clubs.
Recent activity includes the acquisition of clubs in Germany and the development of new sites in locations such as Bicester in the UK. The company's model focuses on large, family-oriented clubs with a wide range of facilities, which differentiates it from smaller, budget-focused gym chains.
Focus on Premium Family Wellness
David Lloyd Leisure's business model centers on the premium end of the market. Its clubs are designed as comprehensive destinations for health, fitness, and social activities, with a strong emphasis on family membership. This includes extensive children's programs, coaching for sports like tennis and swimming, and social spaces for members to work or relax.
The company's continued investment, even in a challenging economic climate, signals confidence in the long-term demand for premium health and wellness services. The addition of the Milan club strengthens its position as a dominant player in the European leisure market.
The rebranding of the Malaspina club to David Lloyd Malaspina is expected to be completed following the refurbishment in 2025. The company will work with the existing club team to manage the transition and integrate the facility into its wider operational network.
