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Planet Fitness to open new Pensacola gym in September, clearing way for Costco

Planet Fitness Expands to Nine Mile Road While Costco Takes Over Former Gym Space in Pensacola

In a significant development for Pensacola's retail and fitness landscapes, Planet Fitness has announced plans to open a new gym location along Nine Mile Road, coinciding with Costco's move into the space previously occupied by the fitness chain. This dual announcement, revealed in recent local business filings and confirmed by company representatives, signals a reshuffling of commercial spaces in the area, potentially boosting economic activity and providing new options for residents in Escambia County. The moves come at a time when Pensacola is experiencing growth in both the health and wellness sector and big-box retail, driven by population increases and shifting consumer demands post-pandemic.

The new Planet Fitness gym is set to occupy a prime spot on Nine Mile Road, specifically in a newly developed commercial plaza near the intersection with Pine Forest Road. This location, which has been under construction for several months, was originally slated for a mix of retail outlets but has now been anchored by the popular budget-friendly gym chain. Planet Fitness, known for its "Judgment Free Zone" philosophy and affordable membership options starting at just $10 per month, aims to cater to a broad demographic, including beginners and those seeking a non-intimidating workout environment. The gym will feature state-of-the-art equipment, including cardio machines, strength training areas, free weights, and the signature Black Card Spa amenities like massage chairs, tanning beds, and hydro massage loungers for premium members.

According to a statement from Planet Fitness regional manager Sarah Thompson, the decision to expand to Nine Mile Road was driven by strong demand from the local community. "We've seen tremendous growth in our existing Pensacola locations, and Nine Mile Road represents an underserved area with a growing population," Thompson said. "This new gym will provide accessible fitness options to families, students, and professionals in the northern part of the city, helping to promote healthier lifestyles without the high costs associated with boutique gyms." The facility is expected to span approximately 20,000 square feet, making it one of the larger Planet Fitness outlets in the Florida Panhandle. Construction is nearing completion, with an anticipated grand opening in early fall 2025, complete with promotional events, free trial memberships, and community fitness classes to kick things off.

This expansion isn't just about adding another gym; it's part of Planet Fitness's broader strategy to increase its footprint in the Southeast. The company, which operates over 2,400 locations nationwide, has been aggressively pursuing growth in suburban and semi-rural areas where affordable fitness is in high demand. In Pensacola, this marks the third Planet Fitness location, joining existing gyms on North Davis Highway and in the Cordova Mall area. Local economic development experts believe this could create up to 50 new jobs, ranging from front-desk staff to personal trainers, further stimulating the local economy. "Investments like this from national chains show confidence in Pensacola's future," noted Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender. "It's a win for residents who get more choices and for the tax base that supports our community services."

Meanwhile, the former Planet Fitness space, located in a bustling shopping center off University Parkway, is being repurposed for a new Costco Wholesale warehouse. This transition has been in the works since Planet Fitness decided to relocate some of its operations to accommodate growth and better serve different parts of the city. The vacated gym, which spans about 25,000 square feet, will undergo renovations to transform it into a Costco Business Center, a specialized format of the membership-based retailer that focuses on bulk goods for small businesses, restaurants, and large families. Unlike traditional Costco warehouses, Business Centers emphasize office supplies, janitorial products, and commercial-grade food items, though they will still offer a selection of consumer favorites like electronics and groceries.

Costco's entry into this space addresses a long-standing gap in the Pensacola market, where residents have often traveled to Mobile, Alabama, or further afield for bulk shopping needs. "We're excited to bring the Costco experience closer to home for our members in the Panhandle," said Costco spokesperson Michael Rivera. "This location will provide unbeatable value on everyday essentials, and by repurposing an existing building, we're minimizing our environmental footprint while integrating into the community seamlessly." The renovation process is expected to take several months, with an opening targeted for late 2025. Key features will include expanded parking, energy-efficient lighting, and dedicated sections for business-oriented products, such as bulk paper goods and restaurant supplies.

The swap of spaces between Planet Fitness and Costco highlights a trend in commercial real estate where businesses are optimizing locations to better align with consumer patterns. The University Parkway site, previously home to Planet Fitness since 2018, has proven to be a high-traffic area due to its proximity to the University of West Florida and major residential developments. By moving Planet Fitness to Nine Mile Road, which is seeing rapid suburban expansion, the gym chain can tap into a new customer base, while Costco benefits from the established foot traffic at the old location. Real estate analysts point out that this kind of adaptive reuse reduces vacancy rates and supports sustainable development. "Repurposing existing structures like this former gym prevents urban sprawl and keeps investment dollars circulating locally," explained commercial broker Lisa Hargrove of Hargrove Realty Group.

Community reactions to these changes have been largely positive, though not without some concerns. Local fitness enthusiasts like longtime Planet Fitness member John Ramirez expressed enthusiasm for the new location. "Nine Mile Road is closer to my house, and it'll be great to have updated facilities," he said. However, some residents worry about increased traffic congestion, particularly around the Nine Mile Road site, which is already a busy corridor. "We need better infrastructure to handle the influx," commented area resident Maria Gonzalez during a recent town hall meeting. On the Costco side, small business owners are thrilled. "As a restaurant operator, having a local source for bulk ingredients will save me time and money," shared Tom Nguyen, owner of a downtown eatery.

From an economic perspective, these developments are poised to inject vitality into Pensacola's economy. The Pensacola area has seen a 5% population growth over the past five years, fueled by military relocations to Naval Air Station Pensacola and an influx of retirees drawn to the Gulf Coast's affordable living. Retail giants like Costco typically generate significant sales tax revenue, which could fund improvements in local schools and roads. Similarly, Planet Fitness's expansion aligns with national health trends, where gym memberships have surged as people prioritize wellness after COVID-19. According to industry reports, the fitness sector in Florida is projected to grow by 8% annually through 2027, with budget chains like Planet Fitness leading the charge.

Looking ahead, both companies have hinted at further investments in the region. Planet Fitness is exploring partnerships with local schools for youth fitness programs, while Costco plans to host job fairs and community events to build goodwill. These initiatives underscore a commitment to not just business growth but also community integration. As Pensacola continues to evolve, moves like these demonstrate how national brands can adapt to local needs, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits everyone involved.

In summary, the opening of Planet Fitness on Nine Mile Road and Costco's takeover of the former gym space represent more than just corporate relocations; they signify progress, opportunity, and adaptation in a dynamic local market. Residents can look forward to enhanced fitness and shopping options, while the broader economic ripple effects promise sustained growth for years to come. As these projects come to fruition in 2025, they will undoubtedly shape the commercial landscape of Escambia County, offering a glimpse into the future of retail and wellness in the Florida Panhandle. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Pensacola News Journal Article at:
[ https://www.pnj.com/story/news/local/2025/07/28/planet-fitness-opening-gym-nine-mile-road-costco-going-in-former-space/85264614007/ ]