Consumer Complaints Against Physical Fitness
In the wake of Hong Kong gym chain Physical Fitness announcing a “temporary shutdown,” the city’s consumer watchdog has been inundated with complaints from dissatisfied customers. With a staggering 1,000 complaints received, the claims against Physical Fitness amount to approximately HK$31 million. This surge in discontent follows the abrupt closure of 23 fitness and health centers across Hong Kong, with the company citing high rents as the primary reason for this drastic decision.
Impact on Customers
Customers who had previously purchased fitness plans and trainer programs with Physical Fitness were left in limbo after the company’s closure. However, a glimmer of hope emerged when the company announced that “new investors” had reached a deal with the landlord of its Wan Chai branch. Under a new brand named Healthy, the branch was set to resume operations, allowing customers to complete their existing plans with the new entity. Despite this reassurance, the uncertainty surrounding the transition and potential changes to services left many consumers anxious about the future of their fitness commitments.
Consumer Council’s Response
The Consumer Council has been at the forefront of addressing the fallout from Physical Fitness’ closure, with over 1,000 complaints pouring in by Monday afternoon. Gilly Wong, head of the Consumer Council, emphasized the importance of customers keeping detailed records of their transactions with Physical Fitness to facilitate refund requests. Wong highlighted the challenges faced by consumers in navigating the transition to a new service provider, urging clarity and transparency from both the previous and future companies involved in the fitness plans.
As concerns mounted over the fate of beauty treatment services purchased from Physical Fitness, Wong urged the company to make appropriate arrangements for this segment of customers. Amid the confusion surrounding the handover to new investors, Wong underscored the rights of consumers to seek refunds and called for swift action from Physical Fitness to address customer concerns.
Trainers’ Allegations and Police Report
In a startling development, a group of eight former fitness trainers with Physical Fitness filed a police report alleging misconduct by the company’s management. The trainers claimed that they were offered additional commissions to promote fitness plans shortly before the abrupt closure, indicating a lack of transparency and accountability on the part of the company. With trainer Fung expressing dismay over the lack of communication regarding the closure and subsequent salary arrangements, the trainers called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading up to the shutdown.
District Councillor Chan Siu-tong and lawmaker Bill Tang echoed the trainers’ concerns, urging authorities to probe suspected offenses committed by Physical Fitness management. Tang revealed that the Federation of Trade Unions had received numerous complaints from staff members who had not been paid for their services, shedding light on the financial challenges faced by employees in the aftermath of the closure.
As the investigation unfolds and the implications of Physical Fitness’ closure reverberate throughout Hong Kong, the need for accountability and redress for affected customers and employees remains paramount. Amidst the uncertainty and upheaval caused by the sudden shutdown, stakeholders are looking to authorities to ensure justice and restitution for those impacted by the chain’s tumultuous downfall.