David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £17 million health and wellness club in Bicester, Oxfordshire, marking a significant step in the company's ongoing UK expansion. The new facility, which created approximately 80 local jobs, is part of a broader £120 million investment plan by the group to enhance its portfolio of clubs across the country.
The Bicester club spans over 100,000 square feet and features a wide range of premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and an expansive luxury spa. The opening reflects a growing consumer demand for comprehensive, family-oriented wellness destinations.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has launched a new £17 million club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The facility is part of the company's larger £120 million investment strategy for 2024.
- The new club has generated around 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Features include a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a modern gym, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
- The development aligns with industry trends toward premium, all-encompassing wellness and leisure centers.
A Closer Look at the Bicester Facility
The newly unveiled David Lloyd Bicester club is designed to cater to a wide range of health, fitness, and relaxation needs for individuals and families. The facility represents one of the company's most significant new builds in recent years, integrating modern design with extensive amenities.
Central to the club is its 10,000-square-foot gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology. Members have access to a variety of zones dedicated to cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. The club also offers four bespoke exercise studios for group classes, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and cycling.
Comprehensive Aquatic and Spa Offerings
The aquatic facilities are a major highlight of the new location. The club features both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. A separate indoor splash pool is available for children, reinforcing the club's family-friendly focus.
Adjacent to the pools is the expansive Spa Retreat, a signature feature of David Lloyd's premium locations. The spa includes:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice cave and salt therapy room
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden with a sauna and relaxation area
This focus on recovery and relaxation underscores the shift in the leisure industry towards a more holistic view of wellness that goes beyond physical exercise.
Bicester Club by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £17 million
- Total Area: 100,000 sq ft
- Jobs Created: ~80
- Indoor Pool Length: 25 meters
- Outdoor Pool Length: 20 meters
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
Strategic Expansion and Investment
The opening in Bicester is a key component of David Lloyd Leisure's ambitious growth strategy. The company has allocated £120 million for investment in 2024, aimed at both developing new sites and upgrading its existing 103 clubs across the UK.
According to company statements, this investment focuses on enhancing member experience through modernization and the introduction of new amenities. Many existing clubs are receiving upgrades to their spas, gyms, and social areas to align them with the high standards set by new locations like Bicester.
"Our Bicester club represents the next generation of our facilities. We are committed to providing premium spaces for our members to focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. This £17 million investment is a testament to our confidence in the UK leisure market and our dedication to continuous improvement across our entire estate."
This strategy appears to be paying off. The company has reported strong membership growth following the pandemic, as more people prioritize health and seek out high-quality, community-focused leisure environments.
Economic Impact on the Local Community
The establishment of the David Lloyd club in Bicester brings a notable economic benefit to the local area. The creation of approximately 80 new jobs provides a significant boost to local employment. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, club management, and maintenance.
The club is located at the Wendlebury Interchange business park, a developing commercial hub. Its presence is expected to attract further investment and footfall to the area, benefiting other local businesses. The construction phase also provided opportunities for local contractors and suppliers.
The UK Health and Wellness Market
The UK's health and wellness industry has shown remarkable resilience and growth. According to market research, the sector is valued at over £25 billion. Consumers are increasingly willing to invest in premium memberships that offer a wide range of services, from fitness and sports to spa treatments and social spaces. This trend supports the business model of companies like David Lloyd, which position themselves as comprehensive lifestyle destinations rather than just gyms.
Adapting to Modern Wellness Trends
The design and offerings at the Bicester club reflect key trends shaping the modern leisure industry. There is a clear move away from basic gym facilities towards integrated wellness centers that cater to the entire family.
Key Trends Embodied by the New Club:
- Holistic Wellbeing: The extensive spa facilities and dedicated mind-body studios show a focus on mental as well as physical health.
- Family-Centric Approach: With dedicated kids' clubs, swimming lessons, and family activities, the club is designed to be a destination for all ages.
- Premium Experience: High-end finishes, advanced technology, and a wide array of amenities justify a higher price point and cater to a discerning clientele.
- Community and Social Space: The club includes a large 'Clubroom' with a restaurant, bar, and workspaces, encouraging members to socialize and spend more time at the facility.
By incorporating these elements, David Lloyd aims to create a strong sense of community and position its clubs as an integral part of its members' lifestyles. This strategy helps foster member retention and differentiates the brand from lower-cost, no-frills gym chains. The Bicester club serves as a clear blueprint for the company's future direction.
