David Lloyd Leisure is ramping up its focus on flexible lifestyles by introducing dedicated workspaces at its upmarket health clubs, allowing members to squeeze exercise, spa time, and remote work into one location.
The move comes in response to changing work patterns, as more professionals break free from daily office commutes.
Russell Barnes, chief executive of David Lloyd Leisure, says the new facilities fit modern life: “Just because people are not in the office does not mean they are not working. Some of our members fit in an early swim or a late game of padel around working in one of our dedicated spaces. It’s being smart about planning your day and making time for your health and wellbeing, without losing productivity.”
David Lloyd has already set up these work-friendly areas in Brighton, Port Solent (Portsmouth), and Raynes Park (southwest London), with plans to introduce more. Between 50 and 100 people use them daily, demonstrating clear demand for flexible setups that combine fitness, leisure, and community.
With 133 clubs across the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe, David Lloyd Leisure is undertaking a major £500 million investment programme over the next three to four years. This will fund 15 new sites, plus the addition of spa retreats at 50 clubs and padel courts at 60. The group’s ambition is to bring a sense of “work, rest, and play” to its 750,000 members, distinguishing itself further from rival operators.
Founded in 1982 by former tennis player David Lloyd, the company was designed to create family-friendly destinations that combined fitness and tennis. Owned by private equity firm TDR Capital since 2013, it was once valued at £750 million. Although TDR was rumoured to be considering a sale in 2023, nothing materialised.
David Lloyd Leisure’s most recent reported revenues were £630 million in 2023—up from £557 million the previous year—as membership numbers increased. Yet operating profit slipped to £47 million from £90 million in 2022, reflecting higher costs and one-off impairments.
Despite these financial headwinds, the company insists demand for premium fitness and lifestyle services remains high. A recent member survey showed three quarters believe going to their club helps reduce everyday stresses and boosts overall wellbeing—a sentiment Barnes hopes will extend to those keen to add their workday into the wellness mix.