Retailer launches chain of low cost health clubs

JOHN David Sports Fashion, the listed retailer, is entering the fitness sector by launching a chain of low cost health clubs.

The group, which owns JD Sports, fashion stores such as Bank and Scotts, and most recently outdoor chain Blacks, has acquired its first site.

The Bury-based group is investing around £1m in a former Fitness First gym in Hull, which will open next month after a major refit.

JD says it wants to become the UK’s premium, low cost gym brand. It has appointed Alun Peacock, previously national operations manager of JJB Fitness Clubs and then DW Sports Fitness, to lead the new venture.

Mr Peacock said  he has identified other sites the venture: “We also have a couple of other sites under offer in other big cities but those are deals we are working on at the moment.”