Leisure DB State of the UK Swimming Industry Report 2024

OUR EXPERT TEAM

LEISURE DB

DAVID TURNER, Chair A trailblazer in the fitness industry for almost 50 years, David opened his first club in 1979. He went on to co-found the LA Fitness Group, overseeing its expansion to over 70 clubs; held a directorship at Holmes Place Europe; and served as chair of Esporta. In 1991, he founded the Market Sports Group, pioneering the first indoor sports centre for multiple sporting disciplines. Collaboration with organisations such as the Prince’s Trust and Arsenal Football Club followed, empowering young individuals to pursue careers in the leisure industry. After the sale of LA Fitness in 2005, he co-founded Addleisure plc, where the portfolio included Movers & Shapers, an investment in multi-studio concept Mosaic, and screen-led HIIT boutique CIRQ. DAVID MINTON, Founder & Director With over 30 years’ experience in the health and fitness industry, David possesses a profound understanding of the sector’s developments, an extensive network, and an endless enthusiasm for being active – cycling in particular. The founder of Leisure DB, he still passionately leads his expert team in delivering accurate, detailed data for a comprehensive view of the industry. These figures are widely adopted by industry professionals, operators, government bodies, media outlets, investors and financial institutions. As a mentor, analyst, advisor and consultant, David’s insights are sought by health and fitness organisations and leisure investors worldwide. A popular speaker and presenter, he also collaborates with leading journalists and publications to ignite discussions and generate support for the sector.

HEIDI BLACKBURN, Chief Operating Officer Over 25 years’ experience as an operator in the health and fitness sector – from Dragons Health Clubs to LA Fitness to the Health Club Collection – has given Heidi a deep and first-hand understanding of how important it is for clubs to forge a data-centric culture. It is, she will tell you, the key to evolving your offering to stay relevant and engaging, and to drive continued success. A supreme team-worker, networker and change management expert, Heidi joined Leisure DB in 2023. She brings with her an infectious energy, creativity and desire to innovate and drive growth within the business and the sector as a whole. When she finds a moment to breathe, she enjoys getting out to walk the dog.

STEWART WENBOURNE, Financial Director Stewart started his professional career as an auditor for Wilder Coe, a West End firm of chartered accountants. He then moved to LA Fitness, holding the position of financial controller during a period of rapid growth and a main market flotation on the London Stock Exchange. Relocating to Russia in 2001, he spent five years working as a financial controller for offshore investment companies and funds. He returned to the UK in 2006, and after a short stint at Schroders working on investment trusts, joined The Playgate Group as its financial director. He joined the Leisure DB team in 2022. In his spare time, Stuart enjoys a game of golf.

JAMIE BUCK, Chief Technology Officer Jamie is a bona fide pillar of the Leisure DB team having joined the business in 1998. Now CTO, he dives deep into the areas where data and technology collide in the leisure sector to drive exciting new digital projects. An expert in customer success and customer experience, sales growth and project management, he helps leisure businesses embrace the power of data to transform their performance. He also covers all areas of IT in the company and oversees the development of Leisure DB’s TLDCi sports facility database. In keeping with his passion for all things tech, Jamie’s go-to workout is bootcamp training on his Peloton.

Leisure DB’s expert team is on-hand and ready to unlock the power of data for your business Find out more at leisuredb.com

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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2023 STATE OF THE UK SWIMMING INDUSTRY REPORT 2024