Orangetheory, Self Esteem Brands Merge in Major Fitness Deal
The parent company of Anytime Fitness joins forces with Orangetheory in a deal that creates a global wellness giant
Orangetheory Fitness is merging with Self Esteem Brands, the parent company of Anytime Fitness, in an all-stock transaction, the sides announced Thursday.
The “merger-of-equals” deal represents one of the biggest fitness industry consolidations in recent memory as Orangetheory, a highly popular boutique fitness brand, joins forces with Anytime Fitness, a big-box gym powerhouse with a presence across the globe.
The new, combined company will represent $3.5 billion in systemwide sales and around 7,000 franchise locations across 50 countries and territories spanning seven continents, the sides said.
“From our simple beginnings in 2002 with the first Anytime Fitness club, we’ve enjoyed rapid growth worldwide thanks to both the power of small-business franchising and our mix of brands that meet ever-increasing demand for more holistic and personalized health and wellness services,” said Chuck Runyon, co-founder of Anytime Fitness and CEO of Self Esteem Brands.
“With this merger, we will enrich even more people around the world through franchising, community and the services they need – now and in the future – on their personal health and wellness journeys,” Runyon added.
Self Esteem Brands recently reported strong revenue growth and franchise sales for its 2023 fiscal year, led by Anytime Fitness, which counts over 5,000 global gym locations. SEB’s portfolio also includes boutique brands like Waxing the City, The Bar Method, Basecamp Fitness and Summit Fitness.
For its part, Orangetheory has continued to expand nationwide and overseas, amassing over 1,500 franchised studios with a presence in all 50 states and 24 countries. The fitness franchise, which offers heart-rated-based group workouts spanning cardio and strength training, has become a cult favorite among boutique fitness enthusiasts.
Both Orangetheory and Self Esteem Brands touted the deal’s ability to lead to “significant international scale” for their brands. Orangetheory recently announced significant expansion plans in London, while Self Esteem Brands is bringing Anytime Fitness locations to France and Austria.
“As we start a new chapter, Orangetheory will continue to build on our legacy of innovation and transformation,” said Dave Long, co-founder and CEO of Orangetheory. “Today, with this groundbreaking agreement, we are one step closer to setting a new benchmark for what it means to be a global leader in fitness, health and wellness.
No timeline was given for when the merger is expected to close.