International fitness and wellness group Virgin Active signed an unconditional agreement on October 30, 2026, to fully acquire Holmes Place Germany. The seller is a joint venture between Holmes Place Europe and funds controlled by investment firm AUCTUS Capital Partners AG, who have jointly built and developed the portfolio into a profitable, large-format premium platform since 2016. The transaction volume of 135 million euros is funded from existing cash resources following a rights issue conducted by existing shareholders in October 2026.

The acquisition comprises a total of 13 high-end wellness clubs located in the metropolitan areas of Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Cologne, Essen, and Lübeck. Germany is recognized as Europe's largest fitness market with approximately 12.4 million members, exhibiting strong forecast growth particularly within the premium segment. For Virgin Active, this step represents the ideal market entry: instead of building a proprietary network organically at high cost and time investment, the group acquires an established premium market leadership that will contribute roughly 14% to the Virgin Active Group's 2026 EBITDA on a pro forma basis.

Virgin Active's management plans to progressively integrate its proven "Social Wellness Clubs" concept—which combines traditional training areas with dedicated recovery spaces, spas, co-working facilities, and social gathering zones—into the German clubs. The existing local management team under the leadership of CEO Doron Dickman will remain on board to ensure a smooth transition and continuity for members. Following its recent market entry in Switzerland (Lugano) and the planned opening in Vienna in early 2027, Virgin Active is heavily solidifying its presence across the entire DACH region.

Quotes and Statements on the Transaction:

Dean Kowarski (Group CEO of Virgin Active): “Our entry into Germany is an important milestone in Virgin Active's global expansion in the premium wellness segment. Germany is Europe's largest fitness market, and through Holmes Place, its leading premium operator, we are acquiring a high-quality network of clubs in major cities, a highly experienced team and a loyal membership base. We intend to build on that foundation and progressively introduce our Social Wellness Club model, which brings together the best training and fitness facilities, recovery and spa, best-in-class group exercise, and spaces to work and connect.”

Doron Dickman (CEO of Holmes Place Germany): “Joining the Virgin Active Group marks the beginning of a new phase of development for our operations in Germany. We share a commitment to delivering high-quality experience and prioritizing members' wellbeing. We will work together to manage this transition, ensuring continuity of service and laying the foundations for the next phase of development.”

Xavier Gilabert (Group CEO of Holmes Place): "Since 1980, Holmes Place has been recognised as one of the leading operators in the premium fitness sector. We are particularly proud of what we have achieved in Germany, where we have built a strong, stable and talented team and a truly special workplace culture. Our team and members have always been like family to us, and we are confident that Virgin Active will continue to grow and develop the business."

Florian Buddemeier (Partner at AUCTUS): "When we partnered with Holmes Place Europe in 2016, our goal was to build a premium platform in a German fitness market that was still highly fragmented. […] That Virgin Active has chosen Holmes Place Germany for its entry into Germany confirms what this team has built. We thank management and all employees for ten years of excellent cooperation."

Source: Virgin Active, Holmes Place, AUCTUS, edelhelfer Research
Picture: Holmes Place