Image: The company plans to have 50 clubs in 2013

The Gym Group has been officially recognised as an Investors in People organisation – a Kitemark associated with 'exceptional commitment' to staff development.

In order to achieve the accolade, the budget gym chain had to demonstrate the implementation, management and practice of processes and procedures that fully support staff training needs and career development.

An Investors in People assessor interviewed staff members from all tiers of the organisation to ensure all written claims by the company's senior management team were genuine.

Following the assessment process, The Gym Group has become the only group operator in the fitness sector to currently be accredited by Investors in People, being especially commended for high motivation and energy levels displayed by the staff team.

John Treharne, founder and CEO of The Gym Group, said: "Since our launch in 2008, the company has experienced incredible growth at a time when most of the other operators in the sector are shrinking, consolidating or standing still.

"In 2012 we will open six more clubs and a further 11 are planned for 2013. Expansion brings opportunity for our employees and we have been proactive in making sure a clear development path is available for all our staff. We are very pleased that this commitment has been recognised by Investors in People."

The Gym Group currently has 30 sites in its portfolio, six of which are in pre-opening stage. Treharne said the aim is to grow the group to 50 clubs during 2013.