Low-cost operator énergie Fitness is looking to more than double the number of franchised clubs it has in Scotland this year.

There are currently six énergie sites in the country but, according to Matt Roberts, managing director of énergie Fitness Scotland, the chain is targeting eight new openings by the end of the year.

"We have four franchisees signed up so far this year," Roberts told Health Club Management, while adding that the search is on for more.

"We won't be offering this opportunity to just anybody, it is essential that we find the right people who share our vision, commitment and drive for betterment.

"Our whole business is centred around excellent customer service and this has to continue. For the right person this is a great opportunity to create a successful high-demand business with huge potential."

The move comes three months after énergie appointed financial advisors ahead of what it described as a 'sale and aggressive expansion'.

The company tasked Clearwater International and Canaccord Genuity with finding énergie a financial partner which will be able to provide énergie with growth capital, as well as "liquidity for legacy shareholders", who are currently invested in the business.

Canaccord Genuity previously advised LA Fitness on its sale to Pure Gym.

Founded in 2003, énergie is the largest and fastest growing budget fitness franchise group in the UK with 106 clubs open and in presale, around £30m network turnover and more than 135,000 members across the UK, Republic of Ireland and Europe. énergie grants between 30 and 40 new franchises every year and already has 26 clubs scheduled for opening in 2018.