BOSTON — Although some industry experts are forecasting increased competition for clubs this year, a recent survey reported that in 2005, clubs enjoyed a 5.9 percent increase in revenues and a growth in membership. The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) surveyed 193 member companies representing 1,000 clubs for the 2006 Profiles of Success report. The survey found that a typical IHRSA club earned $2.5 million in 2005 revenues, membership increased 5.2 percent, and clubs were able to retain every seven out of 10 members.
“Steady membership growth and strong retention demonstrates that it is possible to grow membership in a highly competitive market if a quality product is provided,” says Katie Rollauer, IHRSA's senior manager of research.