Female-friendly fitness operator Sweat! has closed its doors, just nine months after it revealed ambitious plans to roll out a network of in-store gyms at Debenhams retail stores.

The CEO of fitness operator Sweat! tells us about partnering with Debenhams to create a chain of in-store gyms

Retailer Debenhams and fitness operator Sweat! have unveiled the opening date for the first of a chain if instore gyms.

Debenhams is partnering with former Virgin Active co-founder Frank Reed to launch in-store gyms as part of the retailer’s strategy to attract more customers and a younger female base.

Asda’s plans to add in-store gyms as part of a push into the growing fitness market have been held up as the supermarket battles to reverse the worst sales performance in its 50- year history.

Following the news that JD Sports plans to incorporate a JD Gym into its major Newcastle store, retail and health club rival Sports Direct is eager to not be outdone and will reportedly also incorporate branded gyms above three new stores.