Klaipėda Sports Club to Close After 15 Years Amid Investment Dispute

After 15 years of operation, the "Apelsinas" sports club in Klaipėda is set to close its doors at the "Studlendas" shopping center on September 14. Club founder and director Tomas Kesminas announced the closure, describing the "Studlendas" location as an important part of their network where thousands of Klaipėda residents have trained and their community has grown.

“

We are closing it. "Studlendas" was an important part of our club network, thousands of Klaipėda residents trained here, our community grew. Sentiments make it difficult to speak, but it's all for the best.

Kesminas shared the news via a Facebook video, aiming to clarify earlier information that suggested the space would reopen after renovations. He expressed that while sentiments make it difficult to speak about the closure, he believes it is ultimately for the best. The announcement has prompted a wave of supportive comments from clients who have cherished the northern Klaipėda location, with many lamenting the loss of a "good sports club."

“

What a loss in the northern part of the city.

Trainers and clients from the closing "Studlendas" facility will transition to the "Apelsinas" club located in the "Grandus" shopping center, near the intersection of Taikos and Baltijos avenues. Kesminas extended a warm welcome, expressing hope to see most clients at the new location in the fall. Many clients have already committed to continuing their fitness journey with "Apelsinas" at "Grandus."

“

How sad. Such a good sports club, I tried elsewhere and always came back because I missed it.

Kesminas explained that the club had to leave "Studlendas" because they could not meet the building owner's investment requirements. The owner, "Baltisches Haus," which manages "Studlendas," sought significant investments in the premises. Competitor "Gym Plius," an Estonian-capitalized chain, reportedly offered more substantial investment plans, intending to invest 700,000 euros compared to "Apelsinas'" proposed 400,000 euros. "Gym Plius" is rumored to be planning multiple new clubs in Klaipėda, including one in "Studlendas" after reconstruction.

“

There we will wait for you with a big heart and open arms. From autumn, I expect to see most of you there.