United PF Partners has acquired 26 Planet Fitness locations and development rights, taking the number of Planet Fitness-branded clubs in its portfolio to 152 clubs across 14 states.

The deal, for which financials were undisclosed, strengthens United PF's position as the largest franchisee of Planet Fitness clubs in the US.

United PF was formed by JLM Financial Partners and Eagle Merchant Partners in November 2016 and merged several leading Planet Fitness franchisees.

The move was seen as a way to focus resources and fuel club improvements, new club buildouts, upgrading of systems and infrastructure improvements – as well as a way to expand the franchisees' collective footprint.

"The addition of these clubs is an incredible opportunity for United PF to continue our growth momentum and expand our footprint throughout our target development areas," said Trey Owen, CEO United PF.

"This expansion serves as another example of our continued commitment to help the Planet Fitness brand bring affordable, high-quality fitness to more people across the country. We are excited to see what the future holds."

Founded in 1992, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of gyms in the US by number of members and locations.

In total, Planet Fitness has more than 13.6 million members and 1,806 sites across 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Panama and Mexico.