Expansion of The Little Gym into California by Somersault Backed by Hidden River Strategic Capital
Somersault's Strategic Expansion in California
On February 19, 2026, Hidden River Strategic Capital made a significant announcement about its portfolio company, Somersault, which has expanded into California by acquiring six locations of The Little Gym. These gyms are positioned within the South Bay and San Jose markets, marking a noteworthy step in Somersault’s growth strategy.
Somersault has established itself as the largest franchisee in The Little Gym network, which is part of Unleashed Brands, a platform focused on youth enrichment. With this latest expansion, Somersault now operates a total of 29 locations across eight states, with plans for an additional 12 gyms in the pipeline. Richard Moore, CEO of Somersault, expressed pride in the team's achievements, highlighting their commitment to shaping a leading organization within the recreational gymnastics sector.
Somersault's formation dates back to August 2023, initiated by Hidden River and Taurus Capital Partners, aimed at developing a focused buy-and-build strategy. This venture began with the acquisition of seven Little Gym locations and has seen impressive growth over the past two and a half years. Moore attributes the company’s success to its strategic acquisitions, new openings, and strong performance at the unit level.
Kevin Condon, co-founder of Hidden River, emphasized the importance of this expansion, viewing it as a pivotal moment in the company's growth trajectory. The California market offers ample opportunity for Somersault, and Hidden River remains committed to providing support as the company strategically scales into new regions.
About The Little Gym
The Little Gym is recognized globally as a premier enrichment center for children aged four months to 12 years. The program is designed to teach kids vital social and physical skills through three-dimensional learning that includes cognitive and emotional development. Activities, programs, and special events at The Little Gym are crafted to build confidence, enhancement of coordination skills, and the development of foundational life skills, all while ensuring an enjoyable atmosphere.
The first location of The Little Gym was launched in 1976 under the visionary guidance of Robin Wes. With a passion for child development, Wes established a program that has grown tremendously since its inception and became franchised in 1992. Today, The Little Gym operates nearly 400 locations in over 31 countries, offering opportunities for children across the globe to engage in beneficial physical activities.
About Hidden River and Taurus Capital Partners
Hidden River Strategic Capital focuses its investments on U.S.-based businesses that generate at least $10 million in revenue. They offer customized debt and equity solutions tailored to support the growth needs of management-owned firms. Additionally, Taurus Capital Partners brings an operational focus to its investments, targeting long-term opportunities in mid-market companies. Led by experienced operators, Taurus aims to drive sustainable growth and value within its portfolio.
As the demand for children's educational and enrichment programs continues to rise, the expansion of Somersault and The Little Gym aligns perfectly with current market trends, promising a bright future ahead in California and beyond.
Somersault's strategic moves demonstrate a clear commitment to enriching children's lives while building a scalable business model that supports community needs. With the continued backing of Hidden River and their partners, Somersault looks well-positioned to achieve even greater success.
For more information about Hidden River Strategic Capital, Somersault, and The Little Gym, you can visit their respective websites.