David Lloyd Leisure, a prominent European health and wellness group, has officially entered the Italian market by acquiring the Malaspina Sporting & Country Club. The facility, located near Milan, represents the company's first venture in Italy and will undergo a significant £6 million refurbishment project.
This strategic acquisition expands David Lloyd Leisure's presence to 11 countries across Europe. The club will be rebranded as David Lloyd Malaspina, integrating it into the company's extensive network of premium health, sport, and leisure facilities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has acquired the Malaspina Sporting & Country Club, marking its first entry into the Italian market.
- The company plans to invest £6 million (€7 million) to upgrade and refurbish the facility, which is located east of Milan.
- The acquisition expands David Lloyd's European footprint to 11 countries and 134 clubs.
- The club will be rebranded as David Lloyd Malaspina and will feature new amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, indoor cycling studio, and spa facilities.
A Strategic Expansion into the Italian Market
The acquisition of the Malaspina club marks a significant milestone for David Lloyd Leisure. Italy is now the 11th country in the company's growing European portfolio, which includes locations in the UK, Ireland, Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands, among others.
This move is part of a broader strategy to establish a strong presence in key European metropolitan areas. Milan, as a major economic and cultural hub, was identified as an ideal starting point for the company's Italian operations.
"We are delighted to announce our first acquisition in Italy. The Malaspina family has built a fantastic club with a rich heritage and a strong sense of community over the last 30 years, and it provides the perfect foundation for the David Lloyd brand," said Glenn Earlam, Executive Chairman of David Lloyd Leisure.
The company aims to leverage its extensive experience in the premium family leisure sector to enhance the club's offerings and attract a new generation of members seeking high-quality wellness and fitness facilities.
David Lloyd Leisure's European Footprint
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure has grown to become one of Europe's leading health and racquets groups. Prior to the Italian acquisition, the company operated 133 clubs across 10 countries. The addition of David Lloyd Malaspina brings the total to 134 clubs, serving over 750,000 members. The group is backed by private equity firm TDR Capital, which has supported its ongoing expansion strategy.
Details of the Malaspina Sporting & Country Club
The Malaspina Sporting & Country Club is a well-established facility situated in the residential area of San Felice, east of Milan. The club currently serves around 4,000 members and is set within a spacious four-hectare site.
Its existing amenities provide a strong base for the planned upgrades. The club's facilities before the acquisition included:
- 16 tennis courts (both clay and hard courts)
- 2 padel courts
- An Olympic-sized 50-meter outdoor swimming pool
- A fully equipped gymnasium
- A spa and wellness area
- A restaurant and bar
The Malaspina family, which founded and operated the club for three decades, expressed confidence in the transition. Andrea Malaspina, speaking for the family, noted that David Lloyd Leisure was the right partner to continue the club's legacy.
"We are happy to have found in David Lloyd Leisure, a leading international group in the fitness and leisure sector, the right partner who can continue the history of our Club, developing its potential and guaranteeing a bright future for our members and employees," stated Andrea Malaspina.
The £6 Million Transformation Plan
David Lloyd Leisure has committed a substantial £6 million (approximately €7 million) to a comprehensive refurbishment and development project for the newly acquired club. The investment is designed to elevate the facility to the company's premium standards and introduce a wider range of services.
The transformation will begin immediately and is expected to be completed in stages to minimize disruption for existing members. The project will introduce several of David Lloyd's signature facilities.
Key Upgrades and New Features
- State-of-the-Art Gym: A complete overhaul of the fitness area, introducing the latest gym equipment and technology.
- Group Exercise Studios: The development of three mind and body studios, a high-impact studio, and an indoor cycling studio featuring the BLAZE and SPIRIT fitness classes.
- Spa and Wellness: The creation of a luxurious new Spa Retreat, offering a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and deep relaxation beds.
- Family-Focused Areas: Introduction of a dedicated DL Kids area for children's activities and a Clubroom for members to socialize and work.
- Padel Courts: Construction of four new padel courts to meet the growing demand for the popular racquet sport.
Investment at a Glance
Total Investment: £6 million (€7 million)
Key Areas: Gym, Spa Retreat, Group Exercise Studios, Padel Courts, DL Kids area.
Goal: To create the leading premium family-focused health and wellness club in the Milan area.
Future Outlook and Market Impact
The entry of David Lloyd Leisure into Italy is expected to have a notable impact on the country's health and wellness market. The company's model, which combines fitness, racquet sports, and family-oriented leisure, fills a specific niche in the premium segment.
Glenn Earlam emphasized the long-term vision for the new club. "Our vision is to make David Lloyd Malaspina the number one premium family-friendly health and wellness club in the Milan area," he said. He also confirmed that the company is actively seeking further expansion opportunities across Italy.
The investment reflects a broader trend of growing consumer demand for high-quality, experience-led wellness services. By offering a comprehensive range of activities for all ages, from children's programs to spa facilities and advanced fitness classes, David Lloyd aims to create a community hub that goes beyond a traditional gym.
The successful integration and development of the Malaspina club will serve as a blueprint for David Lloyd's future growth in the Italian market, as it looks to replicate its success from other European countries.
