Equinox Group, the parent company to Equinox and SoulCycle, announced in a press release that it will require members and employees to show one-time proof of vaccination to enter its facilities in New York City, starting in early September.
The news comes in step with New York City Major Bill de Blasio’s announcement on Tuesday, August 3, that proof of vaccination will be required in the city to enter all restaurants, fitness centers and indoor entertainment venues, according to CNN. The transition will take place in the coming weeks.
One-time proof of vaccination can be provided through a physical immunization card, photo of an immunization card or a digital vaccine card. Equinox Group will work with members and employees who require medical and religious accommodations.
“We have always made the health and safety of our communities our top priority, and we will continue to do so in partnership with infectious disease experts as well as local governments,” said Harvey Spevak, the executive chairman and managing partner of Equinox Group, in a statement. “We have a responsibility to take bold action and respond to changing circumstances with urgency. We encourage other leading brands to join us in this effort to best protect our communities.”
According to Equinox Group, the brand plans to implement similar policies in additional markets and will continue to follow all current local health guidelines.
Equinox boasts more than 100 locations globally. SoulCycle has more than 90 studios across the U.S., Canada and London.
The announcement from Equinox Group is in line with a growing trend of businesses and certain cities requiring proof of vaccination among either employees and/or customers.
According to CNN, “companies from Disney to Walmart to Google have begun mandating their employees get shots to protect against Covid-19.”
*This story has been updated to account for additional information.
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
