ClassPass Acquisition Extends Global Footprint

ClassPass announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire GuavaPass, an aggregator of fitness experiences operating in Asia and the Middle East.

Through the deal, which is expected to close this month, ClassPass will acquire GuavaPass operations in 11 cities throughout Asia and the Middle East: Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Beijing, Dubai, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Mumbai, Shanghai and Singapore. In addition, GuavaPass founders Jeffrey Liu and Rob Pachter will join ClassPass, along with select GuavaPass employees.

“To be acquired by an industry leader like ClassPass is a true testament to what we’ve built across Asia and the Middle East,” said GuavaPass Co-Founder Jeffrey Liu in a press release. “When my co-founder, Rob Pachter, and I started this company three years ago, our mission was to provide convenient access to top fitness experiences. ClassPass’ unrivaled talent and technology means that, together, we can take our common mission further.”

Once the deal is closed, GuavaPass will stop its operations in markets where ClassPass is available, while the GuavaPass brand will continue to operate under the ClassPass umbrella in remaining markets until further notice.

“We’re thrilled to acquire GuavaPass’ assets and select talent, and continue building the biggest fitness membership for our customers, and the largest global network for our partners. This transaction will only accelerate our robust growth trajectory as we continue expanding throughout Asia and the Middle East,” said ClassPass CEO Fritz Lanman. “While acquiring competition is not part of our growth strategy, it’s clear that GuavaPass’ founders and team are committed to a common mission, and we look forward to welcoming them to ClassPass as we continue global expansion.”

With this acquisition, ClassPass will operate in over 80 markets across 15 countries, and there are plans to continue its expansion into at least 50 new markets this year.

“ClassPass is already the leading fitness aggregator in the U.S.,” said Chloe Ross, ClassPass’ VP of International. “We’re doubling down on our international expansion efforts with no intentions of slowing down in 2019. We’re excited to have Jeff, Rob and the GuavaPass team join us as we continue to take our peerless product worldwide.”