DW was established in 2009, when Dave Whelan bought 52 fitness clubs and attached retail stores from JJB Sports Plc, a company he had built up before selling in 2007. DW is a leading leisure and retail business which currently operates 90 retail stores around the UK stocking a wide range of authentic sports performance brands, as well as 76 leisure clubs providing extensive facilities for members including large gym floor and functional training areas, member cafes, swimming facilities and a wide range of group exercise classes.
In September 2016 DW Sports acquired Fitness First UK, increasing its portfolio further to include an additional 45 Fitness First clubs. ‘DW Fitness First’ is now the second largest operator of gyms in the UK providing expert training and top class facilities around the country.