Whelan claims JJB health clubs deal
ENTREPRENEUR Dave Whelan today said he had completed the purchase of 52 health clubs and stores from his former company JJB Sports.
In a statement on Wigan Athletic’s website – which is also owned by the 72-year-old – the businessman announced the launch of DW Sports Fitness.com “following the purchase of the nationwide chain of fitness clubs from his former company”.
Mr Whelan said Wigan’s JJB Stadium would be renamed the DW Stadium from August 1.
JJB Sports said the deal – for a reported £70m – had not yet been confirmed, but an announcement would be made later today.
The ailing retailer has been forced to sell the health clubs to secure its future. It owes £60m to Barclays, HBOS and Kaupthing. A standstill agreement on its facility with the trio expired yesterday.
