Holmes Place was founded in 1980 by Allan Fisher, who is considered to be one of the founding fathers of the premium health clubs segment and continues to serve as Chairman of the Group. Currently in nine countries and has more than 275,000 members.

Alan Fisher commented on the transaction, "The approach of Virgin and Holmes Place has much in common. Both organisations make the necessary investments to build long-lasting quality clubs whilst focusing on creating a people-centric culture dedicated to high levels of service. Holmes Place continues to develop its offering with signature group-exercise classes and a personalized member approach that includes nutritional services, physiotherapy, and medical-fitness. We look forward to welcoming the Virgin Active team and members into the "Holmes Place family" and supporting them to enjoy their health and fitness in our service-oriented, positive, social environments."

Virgin Active is the leading international brand of health clubs, with 1.1 million members on four continents. Virgin Active Iberia has four clubs in Portugal, namely in the Sotto Mayor Palace in Lisbon, Oeiras, Porto and Gaia, and eight in Spain. Managing the clubs now will be made by Holmes Place Portugal and Holmes Place Spain, respectively, and the main priority is the harmonious integration of partners and employees in the universe Holmes Place.

Matthew Bucknall, President and CEO of Virgin Active, comments: "This transaction is a further step in Virgin Active's international strategy to focus its operations in the metropolitan areas and its major markets. After the sale of the Iberian business, we see great opportunities to continue our long-term growth by investing in becoming market leaders in other territories, already existing and emerging '.

Source: Holmes Place
Pictures: Holmes Place