WARREN, RI—January 23, 2024—WaterRower Inc., a renowned innovator in the fitness equipment industry, announced the acquisition of CityRow, the pioneering rowing and omnichannel fitness brand. This strategic move by WaterRower follows a fruitful partnership since CityRow's inception in 2014, marking a significant milestone in the $87 billion fitness industry and a meaningful combination of two powerhouses in the fitness space.
"This acquisition is a significant step in our mission to deliver the best products to our clients worldwide,” said Peter King, CEO of WaterRower and Nohrd. “This brand complements our almost 40 years of rowing manufacturing and global distribution as well as our Nohrd brand of strength and performance products. We are excited to introduce a new technology and content ecosystem to our worldwide customer base. "
The acquisition brings CityRow’s robust content engine and cutting-edge technology in-house to complement and more deeply integrate with WaterRower’s best-in-class products. In the post-pandemic and ever-evolving connected fitness landscape, this immediately enhances value for current and future WaterRower clients and provides a great home for CityRow subscribers.
"We have had a strong partnership with WaterRower for years and this is the final step in delivering both what the market is asking for today and setting up a strong offering for the future,” commented Helaine Knapp, founder and CEO of CityRow. “Joining forces with WaterRower is something that has made sense for a long time and is finally coming to fruition. There is no better home for CityRow than under the WaterRower portfolio. It will continue to bring innovation and amazing content to the platform for our team, instructors, and clients and I cannot wait to see how the brand and offering strengthens and expands under their leadership."
The acquisition was expertly facilitated by Mohammed Iqbal, founder and CEO of SweatWorks. His guidance was instrumental in orchestrating a deal that promises to reshape the future of hybrid-based and digital fitness.
About WaterRower Inc.
WaterRower Inc. is a globally recognized leader in designing and manufacturing rowing machines and fitness equipment, celebrated for its innovation, design, and enduring quality.
About CityRow
CityRow was a pioneer in both the rowing modality brought to the masses as well as their foresight in trailblazing an omnichannel ecosystem. Founded in 2014, CityRow has offered a unique blend of online and offline workouts. With its renowned in-home instructor-led classes, it has emerged as a frontrunner in delivering holistic fitness solutions that cater to the modern fitness enthusiast.