Barry’s Announces CEO Transition and Global Expansion Plans
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Barry’s has announced a leadership transition as it sets its sights on significant international growth. Current Co-CEOs Joey Gonzalez and JJ Gantt will step into new roles, with Gonzalez transitioning to Executive Chairman and Gantt assuming full responsibilities as CEO.
The leadership change comes as Barry’s prepares to more than double its global footprint over the next four years, including new studio openings in key U.S. and international markets.
“This new chapter is deeply personal,” Gonzalez said in a statement. “It gives me the opportunity to spend more time in the field, listening, learning, and staying closely connected to the soul of our business: our studio teams and clients. While I'll continue to partner with the leadership team on Barry's vision and strategy, I'm eager to be back on the ground—where I can hear the music, feel the sweat, and witness firsthand the impact Barry's has on lives every single day.”
Gonzalez has been with Barry’s for over two decades, a period during which the brand grew to 92 locations across 16 countries and four continents. In his new role as Executive Chairman, he will continue to support long-term strategy and innovation efforts.
JJ Gantt, who joined Barry’s in 2018 as Chief Financial Officer and most recently served as Co-CEO, will now lead the company’s operations and expansion strategy as sole CEO. Gantt first experienced the brand as a customer in 2015 and emphasized the personal impact it has had on him.
“I am honored and grateful to be named CEO at this inflection point in Barry's history,” Gantt said. “I have tremendous respect and admiration for this iconic brand and the global Fit Fam. My Barry’s journey first began in 2015 when I walked into the Barry's Chelsea studio for my first class. From that first sweat, I was hooked. I know the transformational power of this workout and community because my life was transformed.”
As part of its expansion strategy, supported by a new investment from Princeton Equity Group, Barry’s plans to open new studios in Charleston, Hoboken, Williamsburg, and Salt Lake City. International growth will include upcoming locations in Switzerland, Kuwait, and Greece, following recent launches in Madrid and Dublin.
According to the company, Barry’s logged more than 8 million visits in 2024. Gantt said the company is committed to maintaining consistency in the workout experience, even as it scales.
“We are growing globally—but never at the expense of what makes Barry’s special,” he said. “We're expanding with intention, ensuring every location delivers the amazing Red Room experience that has defined Barry's since its inception.”
The brand says its core identity—centered around connection, community, and its signature high-intensity interval training format—will remain central as it enters this next phase of growth.
