Planet Fitness Expands Northern Mexico Footprint With New Franchise Agreement
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Planet Fitness is expanding its presence in Mexico through a newly signed franchise agreement that will bring additional clubs to Tijuana and Mexicali. The company currently operates 47 locations across 14 Mexican states and is continuing to build its footprint in the country.
The agreement is with Impulso Gym, a joint venture between Great American Hospitality and Fernando Sada, owner of Desarrollos Mafersa. Great American Hospitality develops and operates several established U.S. restaurant brands in Mexico, including Applebee's, Little Caesars, and Wendy's. Desarrollos Mafersa previously served as general contractor for the first Planet Fitness locations built in Monterrey.
Planet Fitness entered Mexico in 2018. According to the International Health and Fitness Association, gym membership penetration in the country remains below 7 percent, suggesting room for additional growth in the commercial fitness market.
Chip Ohlsson, Chief Development Officer at Planet Fitness, said the company has seen strong performance in Mexico since launch and expressed confidence in Impulso Gym’s ability to execute at the market level. Eduardo Orozco, owner of Great American Hospitality, noted that the partnership adds a fitness brand to the group’s existing portfolio of international concepts operating in Mexico.
In Mexico, Classic Card memberships start at MXN 279 per month, while PF Black Card memberships start at MXN 499 per month. The Black Card tier includes access to any Planet Fitness club worldwide, the ability to bring a guest, and access to select amenities such as massage chairs and other in-club services.
Globally, Planet Fitness reports more than 20.8 million members and over 2,800 clubs across the United States, Canada, Panama, Mexico, Australia, and Spain.
Memberships include access to strength and cardio equipment, complimentary fitness training with a certified trainer, and use of the Planet Fitness mobile app, which features on-demand digital workouts.
