Justin McDonell and Richard Peil to take control of Anytime Fitness UK

In a significant move for Australian fitness and franchising, Justin McDonell and Richard Peil, the pair who built Anytime Fitness Australia into the country’s largest gym network, are taking ownership of the UK and Ireland Anytime Fitness Master Franchise.

McDonell and Peil have acquired a majority stake in Anytime Fitness UK and are joined by RM UK, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Purpose Brands (the global owner of the Anytime Fitness brand) and existing shareholder Marcello Jimenez, ensuring a strong, collaborative approach to the brand’s ongoing success in the market in the British Isles, where it operates more than 180 clubs.

The Master Franchise Agreement covers an extensive territory that includes the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, the Island of Guernsey, the Island of Jersey, and the Isle of Man.

This broad market presents significant opportunities to expand the Anytime Fitness footprint and further engage with communities across these regions.

Commenting on the investment, Peil advised “this acquisition is a proud moment for us.

“Anytime Fitness is a globally successful brand, and we’re excited to share our experience and passion to the UK. With a strong existing network and a thriving health and fitness industry, we see enormous potential to build on the great work already achieved.”

Sharing Australian skills with the UK Market
Over the past 17 years, McDonell and Peil have led the growth of Anytime Fitness Australia to over 575 clubs and 700,000+ members, setting a benchmark for franchisee support, operational excellence, and member experience. Their focus now is on leveraging that experience to support and grow the UK network.

McDonell noted “we’ve built a strong, values-driven business in Australia by prioritising club standards, franchisee profitability, and the member experience.

“We believe those principles translate globally, and we’re excited to apply them in the UK market to support growth for franchisees and greater value for members.”

While Anytime Fitness UK will continue to operate independently, the UK team will benefit from strategic support from the newly established International Executive Team, sharing best practices in marketing, finance, and operations to ensure a smooth transition and long-term sustainability.

Franchise-First Strategy
The strategy driving this acquisition is centred on the same proven formula that has underpinned growth in Australia:

• Strengthening franchisee profitability through enhanced operational efficiencies

• Driving sustainable expansion through strategic club locations

• Delivering best-in-class franchise support based on real-world experience

McDonell went on to say “we’re committed to long-term, sustainable growth - built on quality, collaboration, and supporting our people.

“This is a proud step forward for the brand, and we look forward to what we can achieve together with our UK partners.”

Image: Justin McDonell and Richard Peil. Credit: Anytime Fitness Australia.