DW Sports gym closing in Northampton after going into administration

The DW Sports gym in Northampton is closing its doors for the last time tonight (Tuesday, August 4) after going into administration.

Dave Whelan Sports blamed the decision to shut the St James Retail Park branch on the coronavirus lockdown and online shopping.

Chief executive Martin Long said: “This has clearly been a very difficult decision for the business, especially in Northampton where we have become a real part of the sporting community.

"We thank the staff and our members for the many years we have enjoyed in the area.”

Graham Newton and Ryan Grant, partners in BDO LLP, were appointed as the joint administrators for Dave Whelan Sports Ltd, founded by the former Wigan Athletic FC owner, yesterday (Monday).

DW Sports is communicating with its members across the UK to inform them of the next steps relating to their membership, a spokesman said.

They added that it is the company’s intention to work with the administrators to save as many gym sites as possible.

An email to members seen by the Chronicle & Echo said the firm's future viability had become 'materially uncertain'.

"This has clearly been a very difficult decision for the business, in many of the areas we have become a real part of the fitness community and we thank the staff and our customers for the many years we have enjoyed at each and every site," the email adds.

DW Sports operated 75 stores and a trading website, together with 73 gyms - 25 retail sites have now closed and the remaining sites will continue to trade under the administration subject to stock remaining available

Of the 73 gym locations, 59 gyms are still open in England and Northern Ireland, while a further 14 gyms in England, Scotland and Wales which are not yet able to open due to Government restrictions in response to the Covid-19 pandemic

Fitness First Clubs are owned and operated by Fitness First Clubs Limited which is unaffected by the administration of DW Sports.