Tax Strategy
Pure Gym - TAX STRATEGY
Introduction
Pinnacle Topco Limited and its subsidiaries (“the Group”) operate low-cost physical fitness facilities under the Pure Gym brand in the UK, Denmark and Switzerland (trading through Pure Gym Limited, Pure Gym Denmark AS and PureGym AG respectively) and under the Pure Fitness brand in the US (trading through Pure Fitness LLC). The Group is a significant contributor to the UK Exchequer through the payment of VAT, corporation tax, employment taxes, national insurance contributions, environmental taxes and property taxes.
This document, covering all UK subsidiaries listed in the appendix and approved by the board of Pinnacle Topco Limited, sets out the Group’s approach to conducting its tax affairs and dealing with its tax risks for the year ended 31 December 2023 and will remain valid until superseded.
This strategy is made publicly available in accordance with Schedule 19 of the Finance Act 2016, paragraphs 16(2) for a UK headed group and 22(2) for a UK company, branch or partnership
Tax Risk Management and Governance
The Group is committed to being a responsible and compliant taxpayer, managing tax risk in a manner expected by its shareholders, its members and its staff.
The responsibility for ensuring the Group’s tax affairs are conducted in accordance with this tax strategy rests with the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) who is a member of the board of directors.
The CFO delegates day to day management of the Group’s tax affairs to the Director of Treasury and the Group Head of Tax. Robust processes and controls are in place to minimise the risk of errors arising, which could impact the amount of tax that we pay. Tax risks and material tax matters are discussed and agreed with the CFO on a regular basis and reported to the board of directors as appropriate.
Attitude to Tax Planning
The Group complies with applicable tax legislation; ensuring that all taxes due are paid on time. In cases where the tax guidance is unclear or the Group does not feel it has the necessary expert knowledge to adequately assess tax consequences, we work closely with our experienced external tax advisors to support the decision-making process.
Tax planning for the Group is driven by the commercial needs of the business and anticipated future developments. The tax function is therefore involved in decision making and provides an appropriate input into business proposals to ensure a clear understanding of the tax consequences of any decisions made. In no circumstances will the commercial needs of the business override compliance with applicable tax laws and regulation.
Acceptable Tax Risks
The Group has a prudent appetite for tax risk. It does not operate with prescriptive risk targets or levels, but instead assesses the tax position of transactions specific to their facts and circumstances, with complexity and materiality determining the level in the organisation at which decisions are made.
Working with HMRC
The Group is committed to maintaining an open, honest and constructive working relationship with the tax authorities, ensuring professional and timely engagement in respect of tax matters requiring further guidance or clearance.
APPENDIX: UK SUBSIDIARIES COVERED BY THIS TAX STRATEGY
Company Name
Pinnacle Topco Limited
Pinnacle Midco 1 Limited
Pinnacle Midco 2 Limited
Pinnacle Bidco plc
Gym Topco Limited
Gym Midco Limited
Gym Midco 2 Limited
Gym Bidco Limited
Pure Gym Limited
Ovalhouse Limited
Pinnacle Europe Holdings Limited
Pure Gym (Dudley) Limited
Tolmers Newco 1 Limited
Tolmers Newco 2 Limited
LA Fitness Limited
LA Leisure Limited
LA Westminster Limited
CS Leisure Limited
Company Registration
11038720
11038809
11038870
11038859
8508586
8507790
8512273
8507812
6690189
01709244
12344695
08238001
8963776
8974502
3224406
1728962
3238726
2357146