Planet Fitness Initiates $350 Million Accelerated Share Buyback Program with Citibank
Planet Fitness Launches a $350 Million Share Buyback Initiative
On December 15, 2025, Planet Fitness, Inc. (NYSE: PLNT) made headlines by unveiling a significant $350 million accelerated share repurchase (ASR) agreement with Citibank, N.A. This move is a part of their broader $500 million share repurchase program that was initially authorized on June 13, 2024.
This new initiative is designed to enhance shareholder value by allowing the company to buy back shares swiftly, a strategy that is becoming increasingly common in corporate finance as firms seek to return capital to shareholders.
The Details of the Agreement
Under the ASR agreement, Planet Fitness will pay Citibank $350 million in cash in exchange for approximately 2.5 million shares of its Class A common stock, which corresponds to about 80% of the shares the company anticipates repurchasing under this agreement. The total number of shares ultimately repurchased will depend on the average of the daily volume-weighted prices of the Class A stock during the period of the transaction, minus a previously agreed discount. The ASR agreement includes certain clauses that may require Planet Fitness to deliver additional shares or make cash payments at final settlement, which is expected to conclude no later than the first quarter of 2026.
A New Era of Share Repurchase Programs
In conjunction with this announcement, the Board of Directors of Planet Fitness has also authorized a new $500 million share repurchase program, set to take effect upon completion of the ASR agreement. This newly approved program replaces the previous 2024 Share Repurchase Program. The execution of buybacks will be regulated by market conditions, company needs, and stock prices, among other variables.
Share repurchase programs allow companies like Planet Fitness to manage their stock effectively while trying to improve their performance metrics. The decision regarding when and how much stock to repurchase remains at the company's discretion, highlighting their proactive approach to capital management.
About Planet Fitness
Founded in 1992 in Dover, New Hampshire, Planet Fitness has evolved into one of the largest franchisors and operators of fitness centers globally. With approximately 20.7 million members and 2,795 clubs spread across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and several other nations by 2025, the company's mission centers around providing a judgment-free fitness experience.
Over 90% of their clubs are independently owned and operated by franchisees, reinforcing their community-centric business model. As a result, Planet Fitness not only focuses on personal health and wellness but also embraces the entrepreneurial spirit within different regions.
Forward-Looking Statements
This announcement contains forward-looking statements related to the company's share repurchase authorizations, terms, and anticipated timing of the ASR program. As these statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may vary significantly from projections. Factors influencing this uncertainty include the company's ability to execute the refinancing agreed with Citibank, market conditions, competition in the fitness industry, and various economic factors affecting their operations and capital management strategies.
In summary, with a robust new strategy in place and an emphasis on shareholder value, Planet Fitness is making calculated moves toward a stronger future both in their stock performance and overall business trajectory. The developments in their capital management programs indicate a dynamic approach toward navigating the industry landscape as they continue to attract and serve millions of fitness enthusiasts worldwide.