Simon Hayes to spearhead UK franchise expansion plans
Norwegian fitness chain HITIO Gym has appointed Simon Hayes as UK managing director to lead its expansion in the UK.
Simon has 19 years’ experience in senior commercial roles in the UK, Europe and Asia, including most recently as head of franchise partnership & development at énergie Fitness. During his time at énergie, he recruited over 80 new franchisees.
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Mark Chambers, CEO of HITIO Gym, says: “Simon’s expertise in business-to-business franchise sales and the health and fitness sector make him the ideal candidate to lead the HITIO Gym takeover across the UK. With a proven track record at several successful gym chains across multiple continents, we are delighted to have him on board.
“Simon joins us as we prepare to open our first two UK clubs in January 2020, soon to be followed by a number of other sites in Q1. We also opened our first club in Portugal and have recently signed a master franchise agreement in Sweden, so it’s a really exciting time for the brand.”
HITIO Gym combines a traditional gym and studio offering with combat sports training. It’s one of the largest fitness chains in Norway, with 32 clubs open and 10 more set to open in 2020. Its target market includes families and children.
Of his new role, Simon says: “It’s rare an opportunity like this comes along to work for a brand with what I believe is the most exciting concept that has come to market in recent times. HITIO Gym offers a clear alternative to other gym operators and it’s a hugely attractive proposition to investors.
“I can’t wait to get started and to work with the franchisees to bring communities around the country together through physical activity and make a real difference through HITIO Gym’s unique offering.”