Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and WellnessEquinox has appointed former Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth as its new Chief Executive Officer as the luxury fitness operator prepares to expand its global footprint following a major refinancing agreement.
Whitworth will also join the Equinox Board of Directors, while Harvey Spevak, who has led the company since 1999, will transition to Chairman.
The leadership change comes as Equinox outlines plans to accelerate club development, supported by more than $1 billion in capital earmarked for investments in new locations, existing facilities and member experiences.
Whitworth most recently served as CEO of Anheuser-Busch, where he oversaw the company's business strategy and operations. A former U.S. Marine Corps officer, he brings experience leading a major consumer brand to Equinox as the company looks to expand its position in the premium fitness market.
"People embrace Equinox in their daily lives and routines because of how it makes them feel and what it helps them achieve, and I take seriously the responsibility of upholding that standard of excellence and earning our members' loyalty day in and day out," said Whitworth.
Equinox currently operates 118 clubs across 18 major markets and has a development pipeline of approximately 50 additional locations. The company says it is targeting expansion into new markets while investing in upgrades to its existing portfolio.
According to Equinox, the business is experiencing double-digit revenue growth, with membership levels, club activity and check-ins reaching record highs. The company also reported that recent club openings have exceeded initial performance projections, although it did not disclose specific membership or revenue figures.
The expansion strategy follows a comprehensive refinancing that Equinox says has strengthened its balance sheet and provided additional capital to support future growth.
The transaction included new equity investments from existing backers Silver Lake, principals of Related Companies and Ares, alongside debt refinancing involving Ares and Sixth Street.
The financing provides Equinox with more than $1 billion in planned investment capacity as the company pursues new club openings and upgrades to its current locations.
Spevak, who has overseen Equinox's development for nearly three decades, said he was personally involved in recruiting Whitworth and will continue working with him in his new role as Chairman.
"Brendan has a deep appreciation for what Equinox represents and a deep understanding of what makes exceptional brands resonate with consumers," said Spevak.
The appointment represents a significant leadership transition for Equinox, which has expanded from a premium gym operator into a broader luxury fitness and wellness business under Spevak's tenure.
With additional financing secured and a substantial development pipeline, Whitworth will take over responsibility for executing the company's next phase of expansion as competition intensifies across the premium fitness, wellness and longevity sectors.
