Blog: David Barton Gym's Demise Is Simple Economics

The news that David Barton Gym has filed for bankruptcy protection was another kick in the teeth for our industry. It also should serve as a reminder to every health club owner that the next new thing is not necessarily the right thing.

Certainly, David Barton facilities have a unique market position. They are gorgeous, appealing to high-end customers in urban markets. How exclusive are they? When we tried to work out at one during a trade show in New York last year, we were turned away. They wouldn't even show us around when we made it clear that we were out-of-town club owners hoping to see the facility. Nope. We'd have to fill in lead forms and meet with a salesperson. (The fact that this was a waste of time for both of us seemed not to matter.)

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