Flynn Group has significantly expanded its presence in the fitness franchising space, acquiring Grand Fitness Partners in what marks its biggest move in the category to date.
The transaction, announced by private equity firm HGGC, sees Flynn Group take over a 98-club portfolio within the Planet Fitness system, spanning California, Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Florida, Grand Fitness has grown into one of the largest operators in the Planet Fitness network, expanding from 14 locations to 98 clubs through a mix of new unit development and strategic acquisitions under private equity ownership. The deal also marks the exit of Monogram Capital Partners, which first backed the business in 2017 and retained a minority stake following HGGC’s majority investment in 2021.
With the addition of Grand Fitness, Flynn Group’s Planet Fitness footprint increases to 141 clubs across seven states, more than tripling the platform it established after entering the brand in 2023 with an initial 37-club deal. The acquisition positions Flynn among the largest multi-unit operators in the system, where ownership is increasingly concentrated among scaled franchisees.
Greg Flynn, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Flynn Group, said: “We’re very excited to welcome the Grand Fitness teams and clubs into the Flynn Group family. Health and wellness are on the minds of consumers more than ever before, and fitness is a natural complement to our core restaurant business.” He added that the transaction “meaningfully expands our presence in the Planet Fitness system and allows us to reach and support even more customers on their fitness journeys.”
From the brand side, Colleen Keating described Flynn as “a proven, accomplished operator and a valued franchisee,” adding that the company looks forward to supporting its continued growth across markets.
HGGC noted that Grand Fitness “has grown meaningfully through a combination of new club openings and strategic acquisitions,” while maintaining strong operational standards within the Planet Fitness system.
Founded in 1999, Flynn Group operates more than 3,000 restaurants and fitness locations across brands including Applebee’s, Taco Bell and Panera Bread, generating approximately $5 billion in annual system sales.
The acquisition underscores Flynn Group’s strategy to diversify beyond foodservice and scale its presence in high-growth consumer categories, with fitness emerging as a key pillar in its evolving global franchise portfolio.
