31 Oct 2018
Xponential Fitness acquires Pure Barre – grows brand portfolio to seven
BY Tom Walker
Xponential Fitness has acquired Pure Barre, one of the largest barre franchises in the US – making it the seventh business in Xponential's rapidly growing portfolio of fitness brands.
Founded in 2001 by dancer and choreographer Carrie Rezabek Dorr, Pure Barre has more than 517 studios throughout the US and Canada. The chain has expanded rapidly since launching its franchised operations in 2009.
"Pure Barre sets the standard for barre workouts not only in the US, but globally as well," said Anthony Geisler, CEO of Xponential Fitness.
"The addition of Pure Barre to our already robust portfolio of brands enhances our company and establishes Xponential as the number one curator of the best brands in the boutique fitness industry."
As part of the deal, private equity firm L Catterton – which invested in Pure Barre in 2015 – will contribute its investment into the acquisition.
Pure Barre becomes the seventh brand in Xponential Fitness' wellness portfolio, which already includes Yoga Six, Club Pilates, CycleBar, StretchLab, Row House and AKT.
Xponential is led by a team of industry veterans who have experience of building fitness brands internationally.
CEO and founder Anthony Geisler developed LA Boxing into a successful boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts fitness concept, before selling it on.
John Kersh – who helped grow Anytime Fitness into a global business – has also joined the team as chief international development officer.
Earlier this year, the company announced it would kick off its global expansion in the UK. It signed a master franchise deal to open at least 30 CycleBar studios in UK over the next five years.
"What we're creating at Xponential Fitness hasn't been done before and there's enormous consumer interest in boutique fitness across the globe that we intend to capitalise on," said Kersh.
Commenting on the deal for Pure Barre, Marc Magliacano, managing partner at L Catterton, said: "We have known Anthony Geisler and his team at Xponential Fitness since he acquired his first concept, Club Pilates, and are truly impressed by the portfolio of brands that Xponential has attracted.
"This transaction offers us a unique opportunity to foster Pure Barre's continued success as part of a powerful franchise platform in the US and internationally."
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