February 19, 2013

Mayor Emanuel and Planet Fitness Announce New Gyms Opening in Key Communities, Creating More Than 200 New Jobs

Nation's Largest Fitness Company Expanding Into Communities Across Chicago; Avondale Community Now Home to Largest Planet Fitness in the World

Mayor's Press Office    312.744.3334

Mayor Rahm Emanuel was joined today by Planet Fitness to announce that the company is building more than 10 additional gyms in Chicago, expanding into underserved communities to increase access to healthy environments and creating an additional 200 new jobs by 2015. Tuesday’s announcement was held at the grand opening of the new facility located in the Avondale community, which, at 40,000 square feet, is the largest Planet Fitness in the world.

“By creating quality jobs for Chicagoans and making important investments in our residents and communities, Planet Fitness’ expansion is an excellent example of the kind of growth we are committed to supporting in Chicago,” said Mayor Emanuel. “We are working aggressively to ensure Chicagoans in every neighborhood to have access to affordable and convenient options to help them stay healthy, from eliminating food deserts to increasing access to parks, and Planet Fitness’ growth is a great step towards that goal.”

Planet Fitness, the national brand partner for NBC’s show “The Biggest Loser,” is the fastest-growing and largest gym chain in the United States with over 620 locations nationwide and over 4 million members. Planet Fitness provides high value gym memberships at a low cost; members pay just $10 a month without commitments.

"We’re excited to continue our expansion and investment in Chicago with this landmark facility that is the World’s Largest Planet Fitness,” stated Bryan Rishforth, Owner and Developer of PF Chicago. “While our rapid expansion is noteworthy, it’s our model and commitment to bettering the health and wellness of Chicago neighborhoods that is most important. Our Judgement Free Zone provides a place where community members can get fit and feel great in a non-intimidating environment and all for a fiscally-fit price of just 33 cents a day.”

In the last two years, Planet Fitness has developed and opened 12 facilities across Cook County, creating over 200 new jobs and investing $25 million. Many of these neighborhoods were areas where no gyms or fitness facilities existed within easy access. For example, in Austin, Alderman Emma Mitts' ward had no gyms for over two miles around the area before Planet Fitness opened.

“The Austin community and the 37th Ward greatly appreciate Planet Fitness coming to the Washington Square shopping center,” said Alderman Emma Mitts, 37th Ward. “Our residents now have access to a state-of-the-art facility to promote regular exercise. With access to fresh produce and recreational fitness centers, Chicago residents are on their way to a healthier future.”

Planet Fitness plans to construct at least 10 more Planet Fitness locations within the next two years in Chicago. The upcoming projects include gyms in the Chatham Market, Stony Island and numerous other communities across Chicago.

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About Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness, the national brand partner for the NBC show “The Biggest Loser,” is the fastest-growing gym operator in the United States, with more than 620 locations and 4 million members. Founded in 1992, Planet Fitness has revolutionized the industry with a combination of extremely low prices – just $10 a month with no commitments – and a unique, friendly, and hassle-free environment called the Judgement Free Zone®.  For more information about Planet Fitness, please visit www.planetfitness.com<http://www.planetfitness.com>.

About Planet Fitness Chicago

Planet Fitness Chicago is one of the largest franchises and represents one of the most rapid expansions in the 20 year Planet Fitness history. Established in 2010, Planet Fitness Chicago accounts for 13 locations and over 100,000 members. For more information about Planet Fitness Chicago, please call 443.812.5407.