The Spot Acquires Louisville and Golden Climbing Gym Facilities
Pioneering bouldering gym brand expands network
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Today The Spot, based out of Boulder, CO, announced the completion of a purchase agreement to acquire two climbing gyms in Golden and Louisville. Previously branded EVO, these new locations expand The Spot’s footprint in the Front Range to four facilities, doubling both the number of gyms and square footage of climbing surface available for customers. They have been renamed The Spot Golden and The Spot Louisville.
Founded in 2002, The Spot pioneered the first commercial dedicated bouldering facility in the US. Since then thousands of bouldering-focused gyms have opened across the world. With this acquisition, The Spot will be the first chain of bouldering gyms to serve Boulder, Denver and Golden.
By adding the Louisville gym, The Spot network now includes taller roped walls with top-rope, lead, and auto belay routes, including a spec 10 meter IFSC Speed Wall. Together with comprehensive youth, adult, and outdoor programs The Spot is now a full service rock climbing business with walls and programs to fit any climber’s needs, be they expert or new.
“After nearly 20 years in operation, I’m thrilled to continue expanding the unique culture we have built in Boulder and Denver” said Dan Howley, founder and CEO of The Spot. “Members and customers get more options for their climbing and value for their dollar, and our larger staff will enjoy new career opportunities. It’s a win-win-win all around.”
When asked about the acquisition, Hillary Harris said “EVO was founded on the principle of building upon, strengthening, and evolving with climbers and the climbing community. We couldn’t be more thrilled to pass the torch on to The Spot. They share the same sentiment of building a strong community. Together these locations will offer the Front Range more diverse opportunities along with the in-depth experience The Spot brings to the table.”
Staff will be retained in most areas including the routesetting, coaching, and front desk teams. “Routesetters get better when they serve multiple facilities and clientele,” said Head Routesetter TJ Sanford. “I’m excited to watch our combined setting team flourish.” Similarly, youth teams at The Spot will improve by offering athletes more diverse training environments.
Current members of The Spot will feel the benefits of this expansion immediately as their membership gains access to two additional climbing gyms. Altogether, The Spot will now offer climbing enthusiasts four main locations featuring 65,000 square feet of climbing with over 600 routes of heights up to 45 feet tall. All four facilities have dedicated training spaces with the latest equipment, as well as a variety of instructional programs for every level of climber from beginner to expert.
About The Spot
The Spot was the first bouldering gym of the US. The original Boulder facility has hosted more USA Bouldering Nationals and other pro-level competitions than any other gym. The Spot is known for world-class routesetting and also a warm, encouraging community of climbers.