Christchurch’s BFT studios will close later this month, following the earlier shutdown of the Victoria Street branch.

Members were informed this week in a written notice that final classes at Ferrymead will run through Friday 26 June.

BFT Body Fit Training operates high intensity group fitness studios across New Zealand and internationally as part of a global franchise.

The Riccarton location is also set to close, Chris Lynch Media understands.

In a closed Facebook message to Ferrymead members, management wrote, “We’re writing with news that’s hard to share. After much consideration, we have decided to close BFT Ferrymead.”

It thanked members, trainers and staff, describing the studio community as “something we’re genuinely proud of.”

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Members were told billing would continue until the final week, after which it would stop automatically.

When approached for comment, Graham Smith, director of Better Training 4 Limited, which operates the Christchurch BFT studios, replied by email, “Thanks for your message, we won’t be commenting further at this stage.”

Smith also runs a commercial and property advisory service.

On his website it reads, “With decades of experience across commercial property and financial structuring, Graham operates in the $5M to $20M market where traditional processes are slow, uncertain, and often fail.”

A former member told chrislynchmedia.com, “The clubs were very popular, so it is really disappointing for the staff and even more so for the members of all 3 clubs, including Victoria Street, which closed last year.

“My view is the owner leaned too heavily on a finance and insurance style approach, even with support and direction from BFT head office. It made it harder for people to feel fully included.

“I really hope someone brings the brand back to Christchurch and shows people what it is capable of.”

Another former member said the owner had experienced success in other industries and took an opportunity on BFT, but believed a more hands on approach may have helped strengthen the club culture and member experience.