It’s no secret that the fitness industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with operators from low-cost gyms to high-end studios expanding their presence in the UK.

However, as this increasing focus on fitness continues to grow, we are also beginning to see a ripple effect take place within the wider sphere of health and wellness.

First and foremost, we’re observing a growing number of clinic-based operators offering a spectrum of medically influenced services such as dermatology, nutrition and physiotherapy, catering to those who may need a little TLC alongside a workout. Operators such as Pure Sports Medicine offer sports and exercise specialists to address injuries and provide tailored advice on health management.

On the other hand, we’re also witnessing an uplift in the number of alternative wellness concepts seeking space, particularly within London. With a significant rise in mental health awareness, we are consequently seeing a growing number of emerging brands taking a more holistic approach to health and wellbeing. These are ranging from the far more commonplace, such as yoga studios, to differentiated and unconventional therapies.  

While meditation may often feature within a yoga class, we are now seeing meditation studios open in their own right. Victoria-based Re:Mind opened its debut studio in 2018, and in the same style as a classic gym, attendees book a session from a timetable of various classes. However, instead of building up a sweat, visitors can expect to leave feeling calm, refreshed and rejuvenated.

Another wellness operator on the hunt for space in London is Floatworks. Having successfully opened in Vauxhall, the floatation therapy brand now has a second site in Angel and is looking for sites close to major transport hubs across the capital. The process involves lying back in a floatation tank filled with water and half a tonne of Epsom salt, which allows the user to float effortlessly, and reported benefits include reduced stress and better sleep.

As wellness becomes increasingly mainstream, we can expect to see a race for space in an already competitive market. The desirable locations for these brands will be in areas that already have an established presence from brands within the fitness sector, given that the area already has a proven community of people that take an active interest in wellbeing.

As the market continues to develop, and consumers begin to explore new sides to the  industry, we can look forward to seeing a growing number of alternative brands and new concepts taking sites in established locations. The race for space claxon may be sounding sooner than we think.

Further information

Contact Savills Leisure