Barry’s announced a leadership transition as it enters a new phase of global expansion: current co-CEOs Joey Gonzalez and JJ Gantt will take on new roles, with Gonzalez becoming executive chairman and Gantt assuming the role of CEO. The brand plans to more than double its global footprint over the next four years.
“This new chapter is deeply personal,” said Gonzalez. “It gives me the opportunity to spend more time in the field, listening, learning and staying closely connected to the soul of our business: our studio teams and clients. While I’ll continue to partner with the leadership team on Barry’s vision and strategy, I’m eager to be back on the ground — where I can hear the music, feel the sweat and witness firsthand the impact Barry’s has on lives every single day.”
During Gonzalez’s 21 years with the brand, Barry’s expanded to 92 locations across 16 countries and four continents, redefining boutique fitness and cultivating a powerful global community. As executive chairman, he will partner with the leadership team in the brand’s long-term vision and innovation, while CEO Gantt will assume leadership of the company including strategy execution, team development, and scalable growth. Gantt joined Barry’s in 2018 as CFO then assumed the title of president in 2022 before being named co-CEO in January 2024.
“I’m honored and grateful to be named CEO at this inflection point in Barry’s history. I have tremendous respect and admiration for this iconic brand and the global Fit Fam,” said Gantt. “My Barry’s journey first began in 2015 when I walked into the Barry’s Chelsea studio for my first class. From that first sweat, I was hooked. I know the transformational power of this workout and community because my life was transformed. I am eager to build upon the strong foundation built over the past 27 years while continuing to partner with the incredible Barry’s team as we strive to achieve our vision of transforming lives worldwide.”
With a new strategic investment from Princeton Equity Group, Barry’s growth strategy reinforces its commitment to intentional expansion while preserving its premium workout and experience. Studio launches are planned in key U.S. markets including Charleston, Hoboken, Williamsburg and Salt Lake City, following the recent opening of Barry’s Navy Yard in Washington D.C. Internationally, the brand will launch new locations in Switzerland, Kuwait and Greece, expanding on recent successful openings in Madrid and Dublin.
With more than 8 million visits in 2024, Barry’s is scaling with purpose. “We are growing globally but never at the expense of what makes Barry’s special,” said Gantt. “We’re expanding with intention, ensuring every location delivers the amazing Red Room experience that has defined Barry’s since its inception. We build more than just structures — we build communities. We are excited to continue to open new studios in markets across the globe.”
As the company continues to grow, it remains rooted in the core values that launched a movement: connection and community. From Los Angeles to Singapore to Switzerland, every Barry’s studio delivers on the same promise— to offer The Best Workout in the World in an environment that inspires both physical and mental transformation.
