perFACE takes over operations of ‘Physical’ chain

In a new development over the now-defunct fitness chain Physical Fitness, medical beauty group perFACE said on Friday it is looking to take over part of the chain’s existing operations.

Physical Fitness last month announced it was closing down all of its branches temporarily and looking for new investors. Its Wan Chai branch was later reopened under the new name of "HEALTHY".

perFACE confirmed in a press release today its intention to take over part of the fitness and beauty services previously offered by Physical.

The group has initiated plans to relaunch the fitness chain under the brand "perFIT," and will focus on reopening branches at Capital Building in Wan Chai and Mong Kok's Hollywood Plaza. The group also said it is negotiating with the landlords of other branches, hoping for agreements that will allow them to continue operations at these locations.

As for beauty services, existing Physical patrons were assured that their needs would be met across the group’s 11 beauty clinics.

The group said it has already begun the hiring process for over 700 former employees of Physical, with around 200 retained so far.