Women-only gym to open

A NEW women-only gym concept is to open in Preston.

Nipul and Jay Govinde who run N&J Ventures have taken a lease on a 2,300sq ft unit a unit on North Road, Preston.

The Govindes will open a franchise of popular women’s-only gym chain, Energy Fitness for Women.

The brand, based in Milton Keynes, is very successful in the South, with more than 60 health clubs, and has recently seen a number of branches open in the North.

Law firm Napthens advised N&J Ventures on the lease.

Simon England, solicitor in the firm’s commercial property department, said: “Franchise operations are very popular at the moment, as they provide a tried and tested way to do business in the economic downturn.”

Nipul Govinde added: “The fitness industry is booming, and there are a lot of gyms for mixed use but not so many catering for women only.

Mark Clarkson, property consultant at Eckersleys, also advised on the deal.