Global report suggests corporate wellness offers 'huge opportunity' for fitness operators

A new report from international management consultant Deloitte has suggested that getting involved in corporate wellness programs could offer health and fitness operators a huge opportunity for revenue growth.

Based on a study of the corporate wellness industry at a global level, the Deloitte Corporate Wellness Report reveals that 78% of employers were looking to invest in physical activity programs in the next three years and that most of the current corporate wellness programs include initiatives focused on promoting physical activity.

Among the existing programs, on-site fitness classes and subsidies or discounts for off-site gym memberships are most popular. In the US, 70% of corporations include these practices within their wellness strategy in 2018.

Companies stated that their top three priorities for developing a wellness programme were to improve performance and productivity, improve employee engagement and morale and to attract and retain employees.

According to Concepción Iglesias, Sports Leader of Deloitte Spain - which conducted the study - the sector presents huge scope for health and fitness operators.

Iglesias stated “a rich opportunity exists within the corporate wellness market, where companies are investing in programs to attract and retain employees, to promote healthy and active lifestyles.

"These programs are becoming increasingly popular and valuable to many corporations.

"The fitness industry is well-positioned to serve corporate clients, resulting in a win-win partnership. Companies gain an in-demand, widely appealing wellness program, while health clubs benefit from incremental traffic and higher revenue."

Explaining that, for the majority of the companies surveyed, the level of success in a physical activity program depends directly on the engagement of employees, Iglesias added “the programs that can help provide this ROI will be very valuable to these companies.

"To increase the investment in physical activities, companies interviewed prefer a higher quality service with a lower price so that employees perceive greater value and more flexibility in programs."

The study also revealed that many operators have recognised the opportunities presented by the market.

A total of 56% of the fitness operators interviewed for the survey consider corporate wellness a "big opportunity" for growth, while a further 36% indicated that it will help increase their total revenues.

Click here to download and read the full Deloitte Corporate Wellness Report.