The merger was notified to the AFCA on 20.09.2026. In addition to the acquiring company, the Basic-Fit Group also includes the fitness studio operator clever fit. On 13.10.2026, the notifying party requested an extension of the deadline for filing a request for an in-depth examination pursuant to Section 11(1a) of the Austrian Cartel Act. This extended the deadline for the official parties from four to six weeks.
Companies involved
clever fit (part of the Basic-Fit Group) and the target company Speedfit each operate several low-cost fitness studios in Austria.
Investigations and market survey
As part of its investigations, the AFCA requested extensive data and information from the companies involved and examined these in detail. The AFCA also conducted extensive market surveys, questioning competitors of both companies in the fitness studio sector as well as other operators of fitness and health facilities.
Market definition
In line with the previous decision-making practice of other competition authorities and based on the findings of its investigations, the AFCA considers the relevant product market to comprise fitness studios in the low- and mid-price segments. These differ from premium and specialised fitness studios in terms of, among other factors, prices, opening hours, supervision by qualified trainers, studio size, fitness services offered and target customer groups. In the AFCA's view, premium and specialised fitness studios (including women-only fitness studios and CrossFit studios), as well as studios offering martial arts, yoga or Pilates, gymnastics clubs and climbing or bouldering gyms, therefore do not form part of the relevant market.
In geographical terms, the AFCA considers that the relevant market should not extend beyond a radius of 5–10 km, with smaller catchment areas assumed in urban areas. As the actual accessibility of individual locations from the customers' perspective, and thus the intensity of geographical competition between them, cannot be assessed solely on the basis of straight-line distances, the specific geographical circumstances must also be taken into account.
Competition assessment
The AFCA investigated the potential negative effects of the merger on competition and evaluated the results of the market survey. The investigation did not reveal any competition concerns that would have justified a request for an in-depth examination by the Cartel Court (Phase II).
The deadline for filing a request for an in-depth examination therefore expired on 3.11.2026. The merger may consequently be implemented.
Background on merger control
The AFCA generally reviews notified mergers within four weeks (Phase I). At the request of the notifying party, this period may be extended to six weeks. Where competition concerns arise, the official parties may request an in-depth examination by the Cartel Court (Phase II).
Third parties, in particular competitors, customers and suppliers, may also contact the AFCA during the review proceedings to provide competition-related information and raise concerns.