Four Snap Fitness centers change hands

SNAP FITNESS centers in Chatham, Auburn and Carlinville, and one in Springfield, have a new owner.

Adam Lopez, who took over the Chatham outlet last year, recently acquired the location on the west side of Springfield, as well as the centers in Auburn and Carlinville. Lopez, president of the Springfield School Board and a representative for Country Financial, said last week the previous owners for the three newly acquired locations decided to sell after moving out of state.

“We’re going to be updating them,” Lopez said. “They’ll have a whole new look.”

Lopez said the Snap Fitness at 1929 W. Iles Ave. will relocate this summer to a retail strip center near Del’s Popcorn in the Parkway Pointe shopping center. The franchise also has a separately owned facility at 1362 Toronto Road in Springfield.

Plans are to update the Springfield facility as part of the move and to remodel the Auburn and Carlinville centers this fall.

The local fitness market has rapidly expanded the last few years, but Lopez said he believes there still is room for membership growth, especially in the 24-hour access market.

“People like the 24-7 hours. It’s really become a trend,” said Lopez, who added that he plans to lower rates. Lopez’ father, Mike, is village president in Jerome

According to the company website, snapfitness.com, there are now more than 2,000 Snap Fitness clubs in 18 countries.