Fitness Industry Growth Report 2027

Opening new clubs is only part of the story.

Today’s leading operators are balancing expansion with profitability, operational efficiency, member retention, and technology investment. And as businesses grow, the challenges become more complex.

That’s why Exerp, together with our colleagues across Xplor Fitness & Leisure, surveyed more than 180 fitness and leisure operators worldwide to understand what’s driving sustainable growth, what’s slowing it down, and where operators are investing next.

We’ve compiled all those findings into an extensive report. Inside the Fitness Industry Growth Report 2027, you’ll discover:

• Recent expansion activity and future growth plans
• The biggest barriers to scaling successfully
• The strategies driving sustainable growth
• Common operational and technology challenges
• Lessons learned from operators who have already expanded

Here’s a preview of what you’ll find inside:

• 68% of operators surveyed have opened a new club within the last three years, with most choosing to build new locations rather than (or in addition to) acquiring existing clubs.
• Nearly three-quarters reported moderate or strong business growth during that period, driven by a range of operational, commercial, and strategic initiatives.
• Memberships remain one of the fastest-growing revenue streams for 69% of operators, supported by membership growth, pricing strategies, and improved retention.
• 60% have seen member acquisition costs increase, making retention and maximising member lifetime value more important than ever.
• Operators managing multiple locations rank access control and multi-site memberships among their highest technology priorities.
• More than one in four say access to capital is currently their biggest barrier to growth, ahead of staffing, property availability, and local demand.

Download the Fitness Industry Growth Report 2027 for the complete findings, including regional insights for the UK and France, plus practical advice and lessons learned from operators who have successfully expanded their businesses.