Our recent 48-hour trip to London was a whirlwind of activity, showcasing key industry trends and solidifying valuable partnerships.

The journey kicked off with a refreshing 6-mile run through the city, setting a positive tone for the PerformX Live Advisory Board meeting. Scheduled for February 2025 in Birmingham, this event is shaping up to be a landmark gathering of industry executives and thought leaders.

A key interaction included an insightful conversation with James H. from PureGym, who shared exciting news about their bid to acquire Blink Fitness, a move signaling significant shifts and opportunities within the industry.

Day 2 began with an invigorating SoulCycle session led by CEO Evelyn Webster. The day was filled with productive meetings, culminating in a pivotal private dinner with our partners at Mux.

Key takeaways from the dinner included:

• Digital and Technology: These are now central to fitness and wellness strategies.

• Community Engagement: Critical for retention, whether through Group X, boutique experiences, or co-working spaces within clubs.

• Content Integration: While content is abundant, effectively integrating it into members’ libraries remains a challenge.

The trip wrapped up with a workout at Third Space SOHO and a breakfast with Emma Forrest. Our observations highlighted several market differences between New York and London:

• Income and Cost of Living: London’s average salary is around $51k USD, compared to NYC’s $75k, though the cost of living in both cities is comparable.

• Population Density: New York, despite its smaller size, has twice the population density of London, influencing the distribution and reach of fitness facilities.

• Diversity: Both cities boast foreign-born populations nearing 40%.

• Food Scene: London's diverse and exceptional culinary offerings continue to defy outdated stereotypes of bland British cuisine.

While the UK market has often been viewed as trailing behind the US, it’s clear that it is highly innovative and competitive in its own right. The products and innovations emerging from the UK deserve recognition and attention.

London remains a city of great interest and excitement. We look forward to our next visit and to deepening our collaborations with industry leaders and partners.