Wirral-based gym secures £100k to launch new initiatives for ambitious growth

A Wirral-based gym has secured a £100k investment from NPIF River & GC Microfinance, allowing the business to expand its premises, provide equipment, and create new jobs.

EmpoweredFIT, founded by Chris Ellerby-Hemmings and Thea Anne Holden, now employs 35 team members, which includes personal trainers who help provide training and guidance to EmpoweredFIT gym members.

The gym group also has plans to expand its offerings by providing a new system for tailoring online work out programmes, expanding its product range in its shop to include more supplement and clothing brands, and holding more educational events in the gym. These initiatives are expected to increase EmpoweredFIT’s turnover to £1.1m by the end of 2023.

Chris Ellerby-Hemmings, founder of EmpoweredFIT, said: “Our mission has always been to provide a friendly and welcoming gym environment, where everyone feels empowered to achieve their fitness goals. We’re proud to have built a community of passionate members and expert trainers who support and motivate each other every day.”

“The NPIF investment has been crucial in enabling us to take our vision to the next level, and we’re now looking to explore further business options like franchising, taking advantage of the personable and engaging brand we have curated over the years. We’re committed to making EmpoweredFIT a household name synonymous with health and vitality.”

Sue Chambers, investment manager, River Capital, commented: “Since moving to larger premises EmpowerFIT has literally gone from strength to strength and we are delighted to have enabled Chris and Thea to achieve their growth plans.

“Their entrepreneurial spirit combined with their passion to support their members achieve their fitness goals was evident from the beginning and will continue to stand the business in good stead for the years ahead”.

Sean Hutchinson at the British Business Bank added: “EmpoweredFIT’s commitment to its gym members, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the business. The success story of the team is an inspiration to all small businesses that with hard work and access to finance, they can transform themselves into a high-growth enterprise.”

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