Gym Chain Penalized for Unfair Trade Practices

An international gym franchise was found guilty of unfair trade practice by a consumer forum for denying a woman access to another branch. The gym must refund 50% of her membership fee and pay Rs 5,000 in compensation. The difference between membership types was not communicated.

A renowned international gym franchise has been held accountable for engaging in unfair trade practices, according to a recent ruling by the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in South Mumbai.

The case stems from a woman's complaint, who was denied access to a separate location from where she originally purchased her membership. Upon attempting to use the services at the Mazgaon branch, she was informed that her membership was 'standard' and not 'global', which meant additional fees were necessary—a distinction that was not previously communicated to her.

The consumer commission directed the gym to refund half of her Rs 16,000 membership fee and also pay Rs 5,000 in compensation. This decision highlights the importance of transparent communication from businesses to avoid similar disputes in the future.

(With inputs from agencies.)