Mandeville, September 24, 2025
The Pelican Athletic Club in Mandeville has been sold to a larger regional fitness chain, marking a significant change in the local fitness landscape. For New Orleans residents and visitors, this acquisition means expanded access to multiple gym locations and potential upgrades in amenities and services. The facility will remain open, but members can expect adjustments to memberships and operations as the transition unfolds. Stay informed with club updates to understand how this change might affect your fitness routine.
Big Move on the North Shore: What New Orleanians Need to Know About the Pelican Athletic Club Sale
Heads up, Crescent City folks and visitors who like to keep the good times balanced with a little sweat — there’s been a notable shift in the fitness scene across Lake Pontchartrain. The well-known fitness spot in Mandeville, Pelican Athletic Club, has been acquired by a larger chain, and that means a few changes that could affect how you work out when you head up the Causeway.
What just happened?
In plain terms: Pelican Athletic Club in Mandeville was bought by a regional fitness chain that now operates a total of 78 locations. For local members and anyone who visits the North Shore from New Orleans — whether you’re heading up for a weekend at the lakefront or staying in Mandeville — this could change your access to gyms, classes, and amenities.
Why people in New Orleans should care
- More options across the region — If you travel between New Orleans and the North Shore, an expanded network could give you access to more clubs without paying multiple full-price memberships.
- Potential upgrades — Larger gym groups often bring standardized equipment, class rosters, and membership perks that didn’t exist before.
- Still the same spot you know — The facility in Mandeville isn’t disappearing; it’s just under new ownership. That matters for locals who prefer the short drive to Pelican for evening workouts or for visitors staying in nearby B&Bs and rentals.
What members can expect during the transition
The changeover is being treated like a relay handoff: the goal is to keep disruption low and routines intact. Staff will likely keep day-to-day operations running while new systems are layered in. Expect steady communication from the club — emails, posted notices, and staff briefings — explaining how memberships, billing, and class sign-ups will be handled going forward.
Memberships, fees, and the fine print
No mysterious surprises should appear out of nowhere. Members will receive direct information about any new membership terms, fee adjustments, or additional benefits. The acquiring chain usually offers options to keep existing plans in place for a period while presenting opportunities to upgrade or switch to broader-network memberships that include access to other locations.
Good to know if you’re visiting New Orleans
If you’re in town for a festival, family visit, or just a weekend of beignets and bayou air, having an expanded gym network can be handy. Instead of being tied to a single club near your rental, you may be able to drop into other locations across the metro area without hassle. For folks who love to squeeze in a morning class before hitting the French Quarter, this could mean more class times and studio options.
Practical tips for members and visitors
- Stay informed — Watch for emails and posted notices at the club for exact timelines and details.
- Talk to staff — Club staff can give you the quickest answers about how your current membership maps to any new plans.
- Review options — When the new ownership lays out membership tiers, compare them to your needs: class access, guest privileges, and multi-club use matter the most for regular travelers between NOLA and the North Shore.
What this means for the region
From a wider perspective, this is part of a trend where mid-size local clubs get integrated into larger networks. That usually brings a mix of standardized perks and some changes to the way memberships are managed. For New Orleanians who value convenience and more choices, that can be a plus. For those loyal to a small-club vibe, it’s worth watching how community-focused elements are preserved under the new setup.
The bottom line
If you live in New Orleans or are visiting and often cross the Causeway to the North Shore, this acquisition is worth a glance. It won’t change your plans overnight, but it may open up more gym options, class schedules, and conveniences in the months ahead. Keep an eye on official updates from the club, and don’t hesitate to chat with staff if you want clarity on membership impacts.
FAQ
Will Pelican Athletic Club close or move?
No — the facility in Mandeville remains open. The change is in ownership, not immediate closure.
Will my membership change immediately?
Members should expect communication about any changes. Existing memberships are typically honored during a transition period while new membership options are introduced.
Can New Orleans residents use other locations in the network?
Yes. One of the main outcomes is increased access to the chain’s other clubs. Exact access rules and any location-specific limitations will be detailed by the club.
Will class schedules and staff remain the same?
Many classes and staff are likely to remain, but schedules and offerings could be updated to align with the broader chain’s programming. Check the club’s posted schedules for the latest info.
Where can I get the latest updates?
Look for direct messages from the club, notices posted at the facility, and speak with staff for the most accurate, personalized information.
Quick Visual: How the Acquisition Affects Key Features
| Feature | Impact for New Orleans Visitors/Residents | Estimated Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Access to More Locations | Better drop-in options across the region when traveling |
90% |
| Class Variety | More program types available for different fitness styles |
75% |
| Local Club Atmosphere | May shift toward corporate standards; community feel could change |
55% |
| Membership Flexibility | Potential for cross-club access and bundled options |
85% |
Want the latest local take? Keep checking the club posts and, if you’re in town, pop in and talk to the front desk — nothing beats a face-to-face to cut through the rumor mill. Safe travels across the Causeway, and keep the sweat and the beignets balanced.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Genesis Health Clubs Acquires Pelican Athletic Club
Genesis Health Clubs Acquires Pelican Athletic Club
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
