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Rapid expansion plans for Spanish chain DiR fitness
Barcelona-based health and fitness chain DiR Fitness has announced plans to open five new clubs by the end of 2003.
DiR is Barcelona's largest fitness chain, and already has 10 sites in the city.
The group plans to invest up to EUR21m in the new clubs, which will all be between 1,500 and 3,000sq m in size. With a total of 65,000 members in Barcelona already, the group has a unique knowledge of the local market, and plans to consolidate its position by opening all of the new sites there.
DiR was established in 1979, but the chain has seen its most rapid growth in the last three years, with the opening of seven sites. Most recently, the group opened its first club on the outskirts of Barcelona, in Sant Cugat. The 5,000sq m club includes a fitness studio and spinning room plus two supervised gyms.
In addition to this there is a 25m swimming pool, a giant spa pool, a steam bath and a solarium as well as four paddle courts, a basketball court, a café and a sports shop.
Optional services available from the club include a beautician and a personal trainer.
Company director Ramón Canela said: 'Our mission is to make the benefits of fitness accessible to citizens in Barcelona in terms of proximity and value for money.
'DiR excels by offering the best facilities with constant innovation that keeps our members satisfied. In this sense, the ultimate goal is to provide a site within walking distance of each citizen's home or workplace.'