Aligned Fitness Holdings, one of the nation’s leading operators within the Club Pilates system, has announced the acquisition of six high-performing Club Pilates studios in central New Jersey, marking the company’s entry into that market and expanding its portfolio to 61 studios across multiple states. The acquisitions include two studios from entrepreneur Gary Laden and four studios from fitness operators Karen and Todd Spidare. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 2016 and originally operating six studios in Raleigh, North Carolina, Aligned Fitness has grown into a multi-state platform recognized for operational consistency, instructor development, and adherence to the Club Pilates methodology. The company’s expansion is supported through its partnership with Atlanta-based private equity firm Eagle Merchant Partners, which focuses on investments in health, wellness, and consumer services businesses. The New Jersey acquisitions represent the latest step in Aligned’s strategy of identifying best-in-class franchisees whose operations and culture align with the company’s long-term vision.
The boutique fitness category continues to demonstrate resilience and consumer demand, with the Club Pilates brand maintaining strong member loyalty and community presence across its locations. Aligned said it expects continued consolidation opportunities within the segment and remains actively focused on franchise partnerships that can scale alongside the company’s disciplined growth strategy. The three sellers — Laden and the Spidares — built what Aligned described as outstanding businesses with strong teams, loyal members, and excellent community reputations that provide a strong foundation to build upon.
Eagle Merchant Partners said the acquisitions reflect the significant opportunity it sees within the Club Pilates ecosystem and its conviction in Aligned’s position as a highly respected operator with substantial runway remaining for expansion through strategic franchise partnerships.
KEY QUOTES:
“Gary, Todd and Karen built outstanding businesses with strong teams, loyal members and excellent reputations in their communities. We’re excited to welcome them into the Aligned family and continue building upon the foundation they created. We believe there is significant opportunity ahead. The Club Pilates brand continues to resonate with consumers, and we are actively looking for the right franchise partners who want to continue growing alongside us.”
Jon Smith, Co-Founder, Aligned Fitness
“These acquisitions reflect the continued strength of the boutique fitness category and the significant opportunity we see within the Club Pilates ecosystem. Aligned has established itself as a highly respected operator with a disciplined growth strategy, and we believe there remains substantial runway for expansion through partnerships with best-in-class franchisees.”
Jake Rubenstein, Eagle Merchant Partners
