VivaGym – the fast-growing operator of high-value low-price gyms in Spain and Portugal – is acquiring Synergym International, another Spanish based HVLP gym operator to create a portfolio of more than 450 gyms.

Subject to regulatory approval, the transaction brings together two complementary businesses to create a scaled fitness platform across Spain and Portugal. It builds on VivaGym’s growth through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions that CEO, Juan del Rio, outlined in his speech at the HCM Summit last October.

Backed by Providence, the company has acquired many brands in recent years – Fitness Hut, Duet Fit, Happy Gym, Altafit, as well as multiple sites from other operators.

Speaking in HCM last year, del Rio said: “For 2025 and 2026 the task is to fortify our position in Spain and Portugal. From 2027 we’ll look further afield, assessing opportunities in Europe and potentially in other areas of the world. There is work to be done!”

Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Málaga, VivaGym has been backed by  specialist private equity investment firm, Providence, since 2024. The Synergym acquisition is designed to create a stronger platform, better positioned to invest in innovation, improve the member experience and drive long-term value. Members will benefit from access to a broader network of conveniently located clubs offering an expanded range of services.

Cristina Burzako, CEO of VivaGym, said: “We are bringing together two complementary businesses to significantly expand our reach and better serve members across Iberia. Our focus is on delivering a high-quality, accessible fitness experience, and this step allows us to accelerate that ambition. With a broader network and enhanced capabilities, we believe we are well positioned to keep improving our offer and driving the next phase of our growth.”

Also founded in Málaga – in 2013 – Synergym is one of the fastest-growing gym chains in Spain with more than 200 sites and almost €100 million turnover each year. Its clubs feature modern design, state-of-the-art equipment and a broad range of group classes. It was one of the few operators which managed to keep expanding through the pandemic.

Managing director, Jordi Bella, told HCM last year that he believed there was space for around 1,500 gyms in the value segment in Spain and at that point there were 700.

He said of the acquisition: “This operation is the culmination of a period of success and expansion for Synergym. Joining forces with VivaGym is the natural next step following a journey that began in 2013.”

He also paid tribute to the team: “What we have built together is something truly differential, the result of years of work, demand and commitment. You can be very proud of it.

“Now a new stage is opening. A stage that is a great challenge: to ensure that the sum of two companies with successful trajectories translates into an even more solid project with greater impact. And there we will be, the Synergym Espana team, with a clear vocation for collaboration and cooperation in this new project.”

Robert Sudo, managing director of Providence Equity Partners, says: “VivaGym has demonstrated its ability to expand, and we believe this acquisition further strengthens its position in the Iberian market. We see great potential to continue expanding the platform through both organic growth and targeted opportunities.”