Merrithew Has Acquired the Gyrotonic Organization
The fitness company aims to scale the Gyrotonic brand through its global distribution and education infrastructure.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Business Strategy
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Fitness firm Merrithew has announced the acquisition of the Gyrotonic organization, a method utilizing specialist pulley and rotation-based apparatus. This move continues a string of strategic expansions for Merrithew, which is backed by the private equity firm ONCAP.
Why it matters
The acquisition reflects a broader push by Merrithew to capitalize on accelerating global demand for Pilates, Reformer training, and adjacent movement disciplines. The company intends to leverage its extensive distribution network and educational infrastructure to scale the Gyrotonic brand internationally.
Merrithew operates across more than 135 countries with over 100,000 students and partners. As of 2020, the Gyrotonic brand utilized a network of approximately 16,000 trainers and 5,000 studios across 60 nations.
The players
Merrithew
A global fitness company headquartered in Canada that provides equipment and education for movement disciplines including Stott Pilates.
ONCAP
The middle-market private equity platform of Onex Corporation that acquired a majority stake in Merrithew in 2022.
Gyrotonic
A specialized movement method that uses unique apparatus designed with pulleys and rotating components to facilitate exercise.
Align-Pilates
A fitness equipment manufacturer based in the UK that was acquired by Merrithew in late 2024.
The details
Merrithew, which also owns the Stott Pilates brand, is applying its commercial capabilities to integrate Gyrotonic into its existing ecosystem. This acquisition follows Merrithew's November 2024 purchase of Align-Pilates and its 2026 international distribution partnerships, supporting the firm's goal of acquisition-led growth.
Timeline
In 2020, Gyrotonic methods reached 16,000 trainers.
ONCAP acquired a majority stake in Merrithew in February 2022.
Merrithew acquired Align-Pilates in November 2024.
Merrithew announced international distribution partnerships in 2026.
The acquisition of Gyrotonic was announced on September 24, 2026.
Market Landscape
The acquisition of Gyrotonic by Merrithew follows the documented trend of industry consolidation in the boutique fitness and wellness equipment market. Parent firms are increasingly leveraging centralized education and distribution networks to scale niche movement brands globally.
Consumers may eventually see expanded availability of Gyrotonic equipment and training programs in regions previously served primarily by Merrithew's other brands. The integration of these services into Merrithew's infrastructure could also lead to more standardized educational pathways for global students.
The takeaway
Merrithew's continued acquisition strategy positions it to become a dominant provider in the global movement and wellness market. By diversifying its portfolio, the company is effectively capturing different segments of the fitness audience while streamlining its operational reach.
Further reading
For additional context on corporate growth and industry trends, visit the Business Strategy section.
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