Anytime Fitness UK and Ireland has entered a new chapter as two of the leading figures behind the brand’s extraordinary growth in Australia assume a majority shareholding in the regional master franchise. Justin McDonell and Richard Peil, who built Anytime Fitness Australia into the country’s largest gym network, are now set to bring their expertise to the UK market.
The pair’s acquisition is in partnership with RM UK, LLC—a subsidiary of Purpose Brands, the global owner of the Anytime Fitness brand, and Marcello Jimenez, an existing shareholder. Together, this new leadership team is pledging a franchise-first approach aimed at expanding and strengthening Anytime Fitness across the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.
With more than 180 clubs currently operating in the UK, the announcement signals a renewed focus on growth, quality, and franchisee success. The move comes at a time when the fitness industry is rebounding post-pandemic, and consumer interest in health and wellbeing is at an all-time high.
Bringing Australian success to British shores
Richard Peil, co-owner of the Australian master franchise, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition. “This is a proud moment for us. Anytime Fitness is a globally respected brand, and we’re excited to bring our experience and passion to the UK,” he said. “With a strong network already established and a thriving fitness industry, we see enormous potential to build on the excellent foundations laid to date.”
McDonell and Peil have spent the last 17 years turning Anytime Fitness Australia into a market leader, operating over 585 clubs and servicing more than 700,000 members. Their approach – rooted in operational excellence, robust franchisee support, and a consistent focus on member satisfaction has set a benchmark for the industry.
“We’ve grown a values-driven business in Australia by prioritising club standards, franchisee success, and member satisfaction,” added Justin McDonell. “We firmly believe these principles are universal, and we’re excited to apply them here in the UK.”
Strategic support and international expertise
While the UK business will continue to operate independently, it will now have access to strategic guidance from a newly formed International Executive Team. This group will work across multiple regions to promote best practices in marketing, finance, and operation – areas identified as essential for sustainable growth.
The partnership is designed not only to increase the number of Anytime Fitness clubs across the UK and Ireland but also to ensure each location delivers consistent value to its members and profitability for its franchisees.
A blueprint for sustainable growth
The new leadership plans to replicate the strategies that made their Australian business such a success. These include:
Enhancing franchisee profitability through more efficient operations
Driving growth via smart, targeted club development
Providing top-tier support grounded in hands-on franchising experience
McDonell summarised the team’s vision: “We are committed to fostering long-term, sustainable growth, driven by collaboration, quality, and a deep commitment to our people. This marks an exciting new chapter for Anytime Fitness in the UK and Ireland, and we look forward to working closely with our franchisees to achieve even greater success together.”
As health and fitness become increasingly central to people’s lifestyles, this transition in leadership sets the stage for Anytime Fitness to strengthen its presence and impact in communities across the UK and Ireland.
This article comes courtesy of Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest fitness franchise. For more information, contact our Business Development team – [email protected]
