NRG Gyms Acquires Pump Gyms, Expands UK Footprint

NRG Gyms has snapped up Pump Gyms in a deal that nearly doubles its member base and grows its gym portfolio to 12 locations across the UK

More than a decade after opening its first site in Gravesend, England, NRG Gyms is accelerating growth with the acquisition of Pump Gyms.

The deal broadens NRG’s U.K. footprint, scales its member community and follows a £4.4 million ($5.9 million) investment from Puma Growth Partners earlier this year.

Founder and CEO Shafiq Ahmed confirmed the acquisition in a LinkedIn post, describing it as a key step in positioning NRG as one of the country’s leading high-value, low-price (HVLP) operators.

“This deal immediately expands our estate from 7 to 12 gyms and almost doubles the number of members in our Tribe — strengthening our footprint across the UK and establishing NRG Gyms as one of the leading HVLP gyms in the country,” Ahmed wrote.

Pump Gyms is known for its 24/7 access, contract-free memberships, “price for life” guarantee and wide class offering that spans Zumba, yoga, Pilates, spin and “boxercise.”

Ahmed reflected on NRG’s journey since 2012, noting the resilience and adaptability required to grow in a competitive market.

“Anyone working in the sector knows the challenges of building a gym brand, but we’ve stayed true to our values, been principled in our decision-making, resilient when needed and agile to evolve and adapt to retain our relevance and consistently grow our membership,” he wrote.

Earlier this summer, NRG announced a partnership with digital health provider HealthHero to expand its offering beyond physical fitness. The deal gives members and their families access to on-demand GP services, physiotherapists and mental health practitioners, with the services set to be included in an upcoming premium membership option.

The acquisition was supported by Puma Growth Partners, HSBC, Howard Kennedy LLP and Zeus. Ahmed offered a “special shout-out” to senior team member Steven Kenee for co-leading the transaction.

Looking ahead, NRG signaled more deals could be on the horizon.

“As we move forward, we remain open to continuing to grow the brand by acquisition, so please do reach out if you have other opportunities for us to consider,” Ahmed wrote.