David Lloyd adds desks and hot tubs so members can work, rest and play

David Lloyd Leisure is increasing its focus on flexible lifestyles by introducing dedicated workspaces at its exclusive health clubs, allowing members to squeeze exercise, spa time and telecommuting into one place.

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 suit modern life: “Just because people aren’t in the office doesn’t mean they aren’t working. Some of our members fit in an early swim or a late round 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 well-being without losing productivity.”

David Lloyd has already set up these work-friendly areas in Brighton, Port Solent (Portsmouth) and Raynes Park (South West London), with plans to introduce more. Between 50 and 100 people use them daily, showing a 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 embarking on a major £500m investment program over the next three to four years. This will fund 15 new locations, 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, further differentiating itself 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 £750m. Although TDR was rumored to be considering a sale in 2023, nothing happened.

David Lloyd Leisure’s latest reported revenue was £630m in 2023 – up from £557m the previous year – as membership increased. Still, operating profit fell to £47m from £90m in 2022, reflecting higher costs and one-off impairments.

Despite these economic headwinds, the company insists demand for premium fitness and lifestyle services remains high. A recent member survey found that three-quarters believe that going to their club helps reduce everyday stress and increases overall well-being – a sentiment that Barnes hopes will extend to those eager to add wellness to their workday – the mix.

Jamie Young

Jamie is an experienced business journalist and senior reporter at Business Matters, with over ten years’ experience in UK SME business reporting. Jamie holds a degree in Business Administration and regularly attends industry conferences and workshops to stay on top of new trends. When not reporting on the latest business developments, Jamie is passionate about mentoring up-and-coming journalists and entrepreneurs and sharing their wealth of knowledge to inspire the next generation of business leaders.