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Octopus investments has just backed Jourdan Dunn’s favourite boutique fitness brand

London-headquartered fitness brand, Barrecore, is hoping to turbocharge its expansion across the UK and beyond after receiving an investment boost from one of Europe’s biggest venture capital houses.

The boutique fitness brand, which is favoured by the likes of Poppy Delevingne and Victoria Secret model Jourdan Dunn, has received an undisclosed amount of growth capital from Octopus Investments, as it plots more studios in the UK and makes moves into Europe.

Founded by American expatriate Niki Rein, the fitness studio has grown out of informal classes out of Niki’s central London home to encompass nine boutique studios in London, Leeds, Manchester and Bristol.

The gym’s centre around the barre workout, which incorporates elements of ballet, yoga and pilates, along with core strength work and small weights.

Rebecca Hunt of Octopus Investments, said that Barrecore is well placed to capitalise on the 200% rise in boutique studios opening the last two years in the UK.

She commented: “The growth in boutique fitness has come to Europe and Barrecore is uniquely positioned as the market leader to capitalise on this fast-growing trend.”

The investment has also coincided with a reshuffle of Barrecore’s executive team, with former David Lloyd Leisure executive, Peter Woods becoming the studio brand’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Meanwhile, founder Niki will move to the role of Creative Director and remain on the company’s board of directors.

Sunaina Sinha, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said: “We are delighted about the investment from Octopus, which will enable us to expand rapidly throughout the UK and in Europe.

“Peter, as the new CEO, brings a wealth of experience in scaling fast-growing businesses in the fitness and leisure industry in Europe.”

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