Additional Coverage:
- Federal Trade Commission sues LA Fitness operators over ‘exceedingly difficult’ membership cancellations (foxbusiness.com)
LA Fitness Slapped with Lawsuit Over “Exceedingly Difficult” Membership Cancellations
The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit Wednesday against the operators of LA Fitness, alleging the company makes it nearly impossible for members to cancel their subscriptions. The FTC claims Fitness International and Fitness & Sports Clubs, which operate LA Fitness, Esporta Fitness, City Sports Club, and Club Studio, have wrongfully charged hundreds of millions of dollars in recurring fees due to their convoluted cancellation processes.
FTC Chair Andrew N. Ferguson stated the issue of difficult gym cancellations has plagued consumers for years, even noting a “Friends” episode dedicated to the struggle.
The FTC’s complaint alleges LA Fitness’s cancellation procedures are unnecessarily complex, requiring members to speak with often-unavailable managers or navigate a challenging mail-in process. Tens of thousands of members have reported similar difficulties.
Ferguson emphasized the FTC’s aim to simplify cancellations for consumers and ensure they aren’t trapped paying for unwanted memberships. The FTC seeks refunds for affected customers and a court order to prohibit these practices.
Jill Hill, president of club operations for Fitness International, expressed confidence in prevailing in court, stating the company diligently complies with all state laws regarding membership cancellations and offers all legally required cancellation methods. She maintained that LA Fitness provides “clear, simple and fair membership experiences.”
Some LA Fitness memberships, with optional add-ons, can cost as much as $299 per month, according to the FTC. This isn’t the FTC’s first foray into tackling difficult-to-cancel subscriptions and recurring fees; the agency has a history of targeting such practices.