Boutique fitness studio operator Barrecore is looking to expand “rapidly across the UK and Europe” after securing private investment funding from venture capital firm Octopus Investments.

The company currently operates nine studios in the UK – in London, Manchester, Bristol and Leeds – and its growth has been helped by celebrity endorsements from the likes of Pippa Middleton and dancer Darcey Bussell.

Barrecore is looking to benefit from the increased demand for high-end, studio-based fitness.

According to figures from the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), there has been a 200 per cent rise in boutique studio openings in the last two years.

Rebecca Hunt, Octopus Investments, said: “The growth in boutique fitness has come to Europe and Barrecore is uniquely positioned as the market leader to capitalise on this fast-growing trend.”

To drive the expansion push, Barrecore has appointed Peter Woods as its new CEO.

Woods has more than 20 years’ of experience in the health and wellness industry, having previously held senior roles at David Lloyd Leisure, Aspria, Holmes Place and Sk:n Clinics.

As part of the top team shuffle, founder Niki Rein moves to the role of creative director and remains on the board of directors.

Sunaina Sinha, Barrecore chair, said: “The investment from Octopus will enable us to expand rapidly throughout the UK and in Europe. Peter, as the new CEO, brings a wealth of experience in scaling fast-growing businesses in the fitness and leisure industry in Europe.”

Barrecore classes integrate high-intensity, low-impact fat-burning movements – incorporating small isometric motions while utilising the barre and body weight as resistance – designed to achieve “fast and enviable change in the body.”

Classes cost between £24 and £28 to attend.