Abu Dhabi: Gold’s Gym is set to open eight new outlets in the UAE by the end of this year, bringing the total number of outlets to 22, according to Chief Operations Officer, Nitesh Seebran.
“We are currently on 14 clubs, with our latest gym opening its doors in Ras Al Khaimah. We are looking at expanding the brand into other GCC countries from 2015, with an overall goal to be on 50 clubs as soon as possible,” Seebran told Gulf News.
As part of its expansion plans, the gym also plans to attract more members.
“As our brand gets stronger, so will our membership base. I’m sure Gold’s Gym will capture a fair share of the 10-plus million UAE market,” Seebran added.
Such incline is expected to be boosted by the increasing health awareness in the UAE, and the government’s growing role in promoting health and wellness among residents.
This is coupled with the popularity of competitions that encourage people to lose weight for a chance to win cash and gold prizes.
“New membership joiners are on an incline. We have seen a steady increase, not only in new members joining, but also with existing members visiting our clubs more regularly. The majority of new members joining us are opting for a year membership, with very few deciding to go for the six-month option,” he said.
As for the gym’s biggest selling point to attract such an increasing number of customers, Seebran said it was mostly the power of the brand name. With over 500 gyms in 25 countries, Gold’s Gym is regarded as a landmark in the industry.
Locations
The gym also provides the latest equipment, highly-qualified trainers, and has accessible locations.
“Prospective members walk into our gym because of the iconic brand; join because of our facilities and value for money. They continue to be part of the family because of our service and quality of staff,” the COO said.
Gold’s Gym, which first opened its doors in California, is currently mostly mixed gender. However, given the nature of the Emirati culture, the COO said there is a plan to have half of the gyms as single sex in the future.
Despite being one of the biggest names in the industry, Gold’s Gym still regards every other gym as a competitor, especially with the fast pace of growth in the industry. According to Seebran, this ensures the gym keeps up with new trends and does not lose focus.
