Ray Algar pointing at one of his opening presentation slides

Ray Algar during a conference presentation in Taiwan (click to enlarge)

Meet the Founder

For the majority of my career, I have been strongly connected to the health and fitness industry. During this time, I have held senior roles with large and small gym groups. I have also worked on the ‘supplier’ side of the industry and so possess a deep understanding of this exciting and fast-evolving industry.

I am the former Chairman of Wave Leisure Trust which operates eight leisure centres in Southern England. Leisure Trusts operate approximately 30% of the UK’s public leisure centres with a combined turnover in excess of £1 billion so play an influential role in getting the public active. I made a significant contribution during this time with Peter Crowley, the Chief Executive saying that ‘my ability to access the most complex issues and offer options for a resolution was so important.’

Long-term advisory roles

I am available for long-term strategic advisory roles where I can support the business in a non-executive capacity. I can contribute to strategy, mentor and advise members of the senior team, provide fitness industry insights and facilitate connections. Presently, I am advising a fast-growing gym brand in Finland and a Spanish-based company that is bringing an AI-powered exercise system to the global health and fitness industry.

Consultancy assignments

The consultancy and research assignments that I undertake have a UK and international perspective. Recently, I completed a consultancy project for a Russian client who required insight into the low-cost gym segment. Then back in the UK, I helped an established independent health club in Surrey to sell their business to Anytime Fitness, the fast-growing gym franchise with more than 4,000 clubs across the globe. I’ve worked on large projects with adidas that involved collaborating closely with the UK managing director and smaller assignments when Precor, a leading fitness equipment manufacturer, invited me to run a half-day trends briefing for one of their clients.

Industry reports

When not engaged with consulting assignments, I produce strategic industry reports which attract a global readership.

Report cover for Health Club Industry Active Ageing Report from Ray Algar

Health Club Industry Active Ageing Report – harnessing the opportunity of an ageing society

 

Below is a current summary of Oxygen’s reports:

  • Health Club Industry Active Ageing Report.
  • Health Club Industry Mid-Market Report.
  • UK Boutique Fitness Sector Report.
  • Review of the UK Health and Fitness Industry and 2015 Outlook.
  • Fitness Sector Social Good Report.
  • Review of the UK Health and Fitness Industry and 2014 Outlook.
  • UK Low-cost Gym Sector Report (updated).
  • Global Low-cost Gym Sector Report.
  • European Health Club Industry Web and Social Media Report.
  • UK Low-cost Gym Sector Report.

The reports can be purchased from my Knowledge Store.

Conference talks and workshops

I am often invited to deliver thought-provoking talks at conferences in Asia, the United States, Latin America and Europe on a range of a marketing, technology, research and trends-based themes that are impacting the global fitness industry.

Rigorous approach

I have three University degrees, including an MBA which ensures that all projects are rigorously completed. I believe that combining academic rigor with a deep knowledge of the industry creates significant results for the organisations we work with.

Company story

To better understand why I am fascinated by the global health and fitness industry, please download and read the Oxygen Consulting Company Story.

New opportunities

I am always scanning the globe for ideas that will help the world to become more healthy and physically active. If you have an idea that we can potentially collaborate on, please do get in touch.

What clients say

Ray’s ability to access the most complex issues and offer options for a resolution has been so important.

Peter Crowley, Managing Director, Wave Leisure Trust

Ray is one of the best researchers that I know. His insight into new trends is invaluable and ensures that he is at the forefront of new developments. Ray has a strong marketing background and knowledge of the web is definitely one of his strengths.

Rob Gregory, Managing Director, Lifetime Health Ltd