John Prior (JP) stands out as a leader in the ever-evolving fitness industry. He bridges innovation with humanity. With nearly two decades of experience in fitness operations and eleven years with the Snap Fitness brand, JP’s journey reflects passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
JP has overseen ten successful Snap Fitness franchise gyms across England and Wales, and played a pivotal role in many more openings since 2014. He has now carved his own path as a franchise owner of Snap Fitness Addlestone, a state-of-the-art 24/7 fitness hub that champions both physical performance and holistic wellbeing.
Guided by values of accessibility, authenticity, and community, Snap Fitness Addlestone is redefining what it means to belong to a fitness community in 2025.
A Shared Vision Under Strong Leadership
The appointment of Kevin Yates as CEO, EMEA has brought a renewed strategic direction to Snap Fitness across the UK, Ireland, and the wider EMEA region. For JP, this leadership change reinforces a shared mission.
John Prior says, “Under Kevin’s leadership, my vision is to elevate Snap Fitness as the most trusted, accessible, and community-driven fitness brand across our regions. We’re aligned under one purpose—to deliver results for members and franchisees through operational excellence, innovation, and authentic connection.”
Kevin’s people-first leadership and strategic clarity resonate strongly with JP’s philosophy of sustainable and inclusive fitness. Together, they are steering Snap Fitness towards a future that is digitally advanced, human-centred, and globally scalable.
Driving Growth Through Member-Centric Innovation
Snap Fitness UK has achieved an approximate 18% year-on-year membership growth, outpacing the industry average. It is a testament to a strong foundation built on listening, adapting, and acting quickly.
JP outlines several growth drivers that have powered this trajectory:
- Enhanced onboarding systems that improve member experience from day one.
- Refined marketing analytics that identify engagement opportunities.
- Franchisee support through expert-led operational guidance.
- Localized community engagement and charity partnerships.
At Snap Fitness, JP operates on a philosophy of ecosystem harmony, where operations, experience, and people development intersect. His site isn’t just a gym; it’s a performance-driven community that thrives on shared motivation and measurable progress.
Branded Experiences and the Evolution of Group Fitness
The introduction of signature S7 Group Exercise Classes marks a key turning point in how the brand connects with members. JP believes that curated, branded fitness experiences create emotional connection and long-term loyalty.
He says, “Members today want more than gym access; they want purpose, energy, and structure in their workouts. Group classes are evolving into lifestyle anchors—spaces where accountability and social motivation meet. The future of memberships will be defined by personalisation within community—our model embraces both.”
By offering dynamic, purpose-built sessions, Snap Fitness is helping members find motivation through community, transforming gyms into lifestyle destinations. JP envisions a future where personalisation meets social engagement, setting a new standard for retention in the fitness industry.
Technology That Connects the Physical and Digital Approach
At the heart of Snap Fitness Addlestone’s success is its digital-first approach. Technology is seamlessly woven into the member journey, from first contact to long-term engagement.
Some key integrations include:
- Digital onboarding & door access for 24/7 convenience.
- Body analysis tracking for personalized progress insights.
- Fitness On Demand via the Snap App, enabling virtual workouts anytime, anywhere.
- Data-driven engagement tools that help members stay consistent.
“Our 24/7 model gives members complete freedom, but our tech ensures they’re never training alone. The fusion of physical and digital access allows us to personalise fitness on demand, anytime, anywhere,” JP notes.
Empowering Franchise Growth and Success
With over 100 Snap Fitness gym locations across the UK and Ireland, the franchise network continues to grow rapidly. As both a franchise owner and an experienced industry professional, JP understands what it takes to succeed.
He explains the holistic support system that underpins franchise expansion:
- Comprehensive site selection and demographic analysis.
- Project management, pre-sales support, and launch execution.
- Business mentoring and continuous operational training.
JP shares, “Snap’s approach is partnership-led. Each new franchisee receives the resources and support they need to thrive. I’m always open to advising new owners based on my own experience.”
Since opening his first site in 2023, JP has already secured eight additional licenses, reflecting his confidence in the brand’s potential and his passion for scaling responsibly.
Operational Excellence in Rapid Expansion
Scaling from a handful of gyms to more than 100 is no small feat. Snap Fitness achieved this through operational discipline and strategic standardization.
JP outlines how the brand tackled its biggest growth challenges:
- Establishing consistent quality standards across all clubs.
- Building regional support networks for franchisees.
- Strengthening internal communication frameworks to maintain culture.
- Implementing data-driven systems to ensure scalability and transparency.
The result is a network that combines local community authenticity with global operational excellence.
Retention Through Community and Connection
JP firmly believes that retention starts with relationships, not contracts.
Snap Fitness Addlestone drives engagement through:
- Local events and charity initiatives that build camaraderie.
- Referral and reward programs that celebrate loyalty.
- Corporate wellness partnerships that integrate fitness into workplace culture.
- Digital engagement tools that keep members connected.
“We focus on relationships, not transactions. Our goal is to make every member feel seen, supported, and valued,” he emphasizes.
This approach has created a genuine sense of belonging, translating into strong retention rates and a community that extends beyond the gym walls.
Trends Shaping the Future of Fitness
Looking ahead, JP highlights three key trends defining the next phase of the industry:
- Hybrid fitness models that blend digital convenience with in-person experience.
- Holistic wellbeing with the integration of mental, emotional, and physical health.
- Personalized recovery and wellbeing programs.
Snap Fitness Addlestone is already adapting by expanding into reformer Pilates, recovery zones, and mental fitness initiatives.
JP envisions a future where gyms function as wellness ecosystems, helping members build balance as much as strength.
Making Fitness Accessible to All
Accessibility is central to Snap Fitness’s global mission.
- 24/7 access ensures flexibility for every schedule.
- Nationwide locations bring high-quality fitness within reach.
- Flexible membership models make wellness affordable.
JP says, “Accessibility for us means every individual—regardless of age, ability, or schedule—has a place to belong.”
This commitment to inclusivity has helped Snap Fitness stand out as a community-first fitness brand in the UK and beyond.
Leadership Grounded in Integrity and Growth
JP’s leadership philosophy is simple but powerful: lead with integrity, empower people, and remain grounded in purpose.
John Prior says, “Leadership isn’t about control; it’s about collective elevation. When we empower others, our members, teams, or franchisees, everyone grows together.”
He believes in creating environments where individuals can grow, whether that’s his members, franchisees, or team.
During times of rapid expansion, JP prioritizes clarity, empathy, and adaptability, ensuring that both business performance and human connection stay at the core. His leadership has inspired a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
A Future Built on Purpose
As Snap Fitness Addlestone continues to grow, one thing remains constant: its purpose. JP’s vision is not merely to operate gyms, but to inspire healthier, happier communities across the UK and beyond.
JP and Snap Fitness Addlestone are not just shaping the fitness landscape; they’re redefining what wellness truly means in the modern world.
About Snap Fitness Addlestone
Under Priority Fitness Group, Snap Fitness Addlestone offers a 24/7 inclusive environment focused on both physical transformation and overall well-being. Through personalized programs, cutting-edge technology, and community-driven initiatives, the club embodies the next generation of fitness experiences.
With over 19 years in the industry, JP’s journey from operations leader to franchise owner represents not just personal achievement but the evolution of an entire fitness culture built on trust, innovation, and accessibility.
Company Details
- Company Name: Priority Fitness Group T/A Snap Fitness Addlestone
- Founding Year: 2023
- Office Locations: Addlestone, Surrey, UK
- Official Website: https://www.snapfitness.com/uk/gyms/addlestone
- Industry/ Sector: Fitness, Wellness
Leader’s Profile
- Name of the Featured Leader: John Prior (JP)
- Designation: Owner/ Operator
- LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-p-a64570275?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Brief Background & Experience:
With over 19 years of experience in the fitness industry and 18 years in fitness operations across high-end corporate gyms, JP has built an impressive career shaping successful fitness ventures.
Having overseen 10 thriving Snap Fitness franchise gyms across England and Wales, he played a key role in supporting new openings since the launch of the fourth Snap Fitness location in the U.K. back in 2014.
After 11 dedicated years with the brand, JP is now a proud franchisee, continuing to grow and elevate the brand’s presence while developing strong, community-focused fitness locations..
Company Highlights
- Key Services/Offerings: Through Snap, a truly all inclusive environment that focuses on the members fitness goals and journey but also prioritising their wellness at the convenience of 24/7 access. Through JP consulting, training, and honest advice.
- Major Achievements or Recognitions:
- MVP 2019
- CEO One Team Award 2021
- Area Manager of the Year 2022
- CEO One Team Award 2023
- Business Elite Awards: The Best 24/7 Gym in Surrey 2025
- IE 100 Global Best 24/7 Multifunctional Gym 2025
- CIO Bulletin Innovators of the Year 2025