Equinox Fitness isn't owned by a single individual; it's a privately held company with a complex ownership structure. While pinpointing a single "owner" is difficult, understanding the key players and the company's history illuminates its current ownership situation.
Who Founded Equinox?
Equinox was founded by Stephen Ross in 1991. While he's no longer the sole owner, his influence on the brand and its trajectory remains significant. Ross's real estate development company, Related Companies, played a crucial role in Equinox's initial growth and continues to have ties to the fitness giant.
Is Equinox Publicly Traded?
No, Equinox is not publicly traded on any major stock exchange. This means its ownership details aren't readily available to the public through SEC filings. The lack of public information contributes to the mystery surrounding the exact ownership breakdown.
What is the Current Ownership Structure of Equinox?
Equinox is currently owned by a private equity firm called The Related Companies. This is an important distinction. While Stephen Ross founded the company and remains involved, the majority ownership and decision-making power rest with Related Companies, a real estate and investment giant. The precise percentages of ownership held by individuals or other investment entities within Related Companies are not public knowledge. It's a complex web of ownership beyond a simple single-owner model.
What about the other brands under Equinox Holdings?
Equinox Holdings, the parent company, also owns several other fitness and wellness brands including SoulCycle, Pure Yoga, and Blink Fitness. The ownership structure across these brands mirrors that of Equinox itself, meaning it remains under the umbrella of Related Companies, not a single individual.
How is Equinox Managed?
While the ownership is complex, Equinox's day-to-day operations are managed by a team of executives and professionals responsible for overseeing the business strategy, brand image, and overall success of the fitness chain. This management team is separate from the ownership structure, focusing on operational efficiency and expansion.
Conclusion:
While Stephen Ross's founding role and Related Companies' ownership are crucial aspects of understanding Equinox's structure, the "owner" isn't a singular entity. The complex private ownership means precise details aren't public, highlighting the substantial investment and strategic involvement of various parties within Related Companies' portfolio.
