Preity G. Zinta and Shubman Gill partners for launch of Gym chain ‘DRIVE FITT’ role out in India.
Bollywood star and IPL Mohali franchise co-owner Preity G. Zinta, along with Indian cricketer Shubman Gill, has invested in DRIVE FITT. The aim of the partnership is to strengthen the Indian fitness market. After the launch, DRIVE FITT aims to franchise the business across India, aiming to sell the first 20 locations quickly.
DRIVE FITT is a new gym chain founded by Australian entrepreneurs Mark Sellar and Deke Smith. DRIVE FITT is set to launch in India this October and combines cricket with fitness, featuring 24/7 cricket training facilities integrated with comprehensive gym amenities.
The flagship facility will open later this year, with plans to expand to 300 locations in three years, aiming to make top-tier fitness and cricket training widely accessible.
The chain will open its first facility in Gurgaon this October, with a second location in Noida scheduled for November. DRIVE FITT plans to establish 300 franchises across India within the next three years, with 20 locations already identified for initial rollout.
“I am excited to bring DRIVE FITT to India. It represents a unique fusion of fitness and cricket, two passions that resonate deeply with me and many people in India. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment for all ages and fitness levels,” Zinta said in a statement.
About DRIVE FITT
DRIVE FITT gym chain offers a distinctive fitness experience, blending cricket training with traditional gym services. Members will have access to cricket coaching, group fitness classes, and yoga studios, all using cricket-inspired methods.
The brand’s offerings are crafted by Gill, along with Australian cricketers Chris Lynn and Ryan Harris, who have joined as co-founders.
“DRIVE FITT addresses the lack of accessible, quality training facilities I experienced growing up. It integrates world-class gym and fitness facilities with cricket-infused training.
Our goal is to help both aspiring cricketers and fitness enthusiasts excel on the field and in life,” Gill said.
DRIVE FITT has appointed Nikhil Kakkar, former COO of Gold’s Gym, as its COO. Kakkar, who has 16 years of experience at Gold’s Gym, will spearhead the company’s operations and franchising efforts.
Data suggests we could potentially have up to 800 locations in India, given the population and affordability. Our facility is open to everyone, not just aspiring cricketers,” Sellar, chairman and co-founder, DRIVE FITT.
Preity Zinta, Co-founder of DRIVE FITT, said, “I am excited to bring DRIVE FITT to India as it represents a unique fusion of fitness and cricket, two passions that resonate deeply with me and a lot of people in India. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where people of all ages and fitness levels can come together to train, have fun, and stay healthy.”
The Indian fitness market has grown tremendously due to various factors, such as increasing health awareness, rising disposable income, changing lifestyle preferences, and government initiatives to promote sports culture. The emergence of online platforms, social media influencers, and celebrity endorsements have also boosted the demand for sports and fitness goods among consumers.
Deke Smith, CEO & Co-Founder, DRIVE FITT said, “With DRIVE FITT, we’re thrilled to bring a unique blend of cricket and fitness to India. With India’s fitness industry growing at an impressive 25-30% year-on-year and cricket participation surging, DRIVE FITT offers a comprehensive solution for all fitness and cricket enthusiasts of every age.
Our goal is to inspire a passion for health and wellness through the excitement of cricket, providing world class facilities and training methods designed by cricketing experts.”
