Press Office

Esporta in Espana

Date: 19 May, 2005

Esporta recently treated nearly 100 staff to an all-expenses paid trip to Barcelona to celebrate successes throughout 2004 and first quarter results for 2005.

Esporta has just announced a five percent (5%) increase in like for like revenue during the first three months of the year, with an increase in membership by 9,500 for the period, and a 1% increase in retained membership (compared to the same period in 2004).

The Barcelona trip was designed by the board of directors to thank staff, including general managers, regional managers, and regional sales managers.  Directors met the managers at the airport, before escorting them to a champagne reception at Hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza where they were presented with personalised gift bags from chief executive Neil Gillis.

The trip then included a company conference at which the 2005 first quarter achievements were announced, strategy revealed for the next 12 months, and bonus cheques awarded to the highest achieving managers.  In addition, seven clubs were awarded the 'Club Class' standard, an initiative started in 2005 to recognise those clubs with the highest level of services and facilities.

Following the conference, the managers were taken on a tour of the city, before enjoying dinner at the El Asador de Aranda restaurant and the opportunity to enjoy a night in one of Europe's top party destinations.

Esporta's marketing director Scott Wallace commented:
"Our two days in Barcelona were great fun, and a fitting celebration for a fantastic year.  It was important to recognise the hard work of our managers, and we're particularly pleased to see seven clubs awarded 'Club Class'.  I'm sure we'll see further progress throughout the year as we continue our focus on retention and new membership by upholding our excellent service standards, and developing innovative products for our members."

Ends

For further information please contact:
Joanna Randall or Tom Bowden-Green, Corixa Communications, 0117 949 3394
Email: joanna.randall@corixa.co.uk, thomas.bowden-green@corixa.co.uk
Date of issue: 19 May 2005