The Third Space 
Transaction Background
In July 2007 Graphite Capital backed the £22 million management buy-out of The Third Space, which is one of London’s premier health and fitness clubs. The Third Space opened in June 2001 in the Soho area of London. Its single 40,000 square foot site comprises of a state-of-the-art gym, medical centre and associated retail operations. The strategy is to develop the current site and to add additional London clubs.
Deal Attractions
Graphite has considerable experience of investing in leisure and consumer businesses. The Third Space is a highly regarded operator in the premium segment of the fitness sector. While there has been significant activity in the UK fitness market, the premium fitness segment is less competitive and there is an opportunity to develop a premium London-focused health and fitness group.
Achievements
- commercial work has identified suitable socio-economic areas within London as potential areas for future sites
- a second site will open at the exclusive Marylebone Hotel in Spring 2011
- the management team has developed a business plan for the original Soho site. It is well positioned to benefit from the opening of the Quadrant development, expected in the first half of 2012, in nearby Regent Street
- the company continues to have market-leading retention rates