The international fitness franchisor enters its 29th country.
Gold’s Gym, the fitness franchise with nearly 700 locations in 28 countries, will soon add a 29th international market to its portfolio following the signing of the brand’s first South African franchise agreement, in Sandton, Johannesburg.
The new site will open as soon as the local government allows gyms to begin operating again following a mandated closure, and the gym will serve as a prototype for more locations in an aggressive expansion program for South Africa.
The agreement was made in collaboration with Evolution Group, a veteran investment group with a track record for retail operations throughout the country, and Project One Fitness, who intend to grow Gold’s Gym to other major cities throughout South Africa.
“Our first Gold’s Gym location is ready to open and will offer the best equipment and amenities, strict safety and social distancing protocols in response to COVID-19 and a fitness experience like no other in the country,” said Marc Ackerman, Group CEO of Evolution Group. “I am proud that this state-of-the-art gym in Johannesburg is launching our vision by bringing the legendary Gold’s Gym name back to South Africa.”
Craig Sherwood, chief development officer for Gold’s Gym, credits the movie Pumping Iron, which features Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno facing off at the 1975 Mr. Olympia contest in South Africa, for making Gold’s Gym a household name.
“Opening gyms in South Africa feels a lot like coming home,” said Craig Sherwood. “Not only is it a country with a strong devotion to health and fitness, but South Africa is also known for its appreciation and loyalty for proven brands that lead the industry.
“The Sandton location is beautiful and will set a powerful tone for the look and feel of many more Gold’s Gym locations to follow in South Africa.”
