Merrithew® Establishes Distribution Partnership with THINK Fitness Co., Ltd. in Japan
Toronto, ON – May 11, 2026 – Merrithew®, global leader in mindful movement education and equipment has entered a distribution partnership with THINK Fitness Co., Ltd. in Japan. The collaboration will support large equipment distribution, installation, maintenance, and ongoing service for Merrithew’s premium Pilates equipment throughout the region.
The partnership marks an important step in Merrithew’s continued global expansion strategy, strengthening its operational presence in one of Asia’s most quality-driven and service-oriented wellness markets. Through THINK Fitness’s established infrastructure and industry expertise, Merrithew will enhance localized support for studios, rehabilitation facilities, fitness operators, and wellness professionals across Japan.
Japan’s Pilates market continues to evolve alongside growing demand for preventative health, active aging, rehabilitation, and performance-focused movement. The market is characterized by high expectations around equipment reliability, professional instruction, and long-term service continuity, particularly among boutique studios and facilities serving older adults and rehabilitation clients.
In this environment, after-sales support and operational consistency play a critical role in purchasing decisions and client retention. Merrithew’s partnership with THINK Fitness is designed to address these market dynamics directly by combining globally recognized Pilates equipment with dependable local service capabilities.
“Success in Japan depends on equipment availability and consistent service standards. Studios and facilities operate on intensive schedules, and expectations around performance and reliability are high. Service and follow-through carry equal weight with the equipment itself. THINK Fitness brings the operational discipline required to deliver our standards in-market, with the infrastructure to support equipment over its full lifecycle.”
— Jim Heidenreich, Chief Executive Officer, Merrithew
With more than 40 years of experience in fitness equipment sales, installation, and technical service, THINK Fitness has built a strong reputation for operational reliability and long-term customer support across Japan’s fitness and wellness sector. The partnership further expands access to Merrithew’s premium Pilates equipment while reinforcing service standards essential to supporting commercial studios and clinical environments.
“We are honored to partner with Merrithew as a distributor in Japan. Our strength lies in supplying equipment alongside reliable after-sales service and maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted, long-term support for our customers. By combining Merrithew’s premium Pilates equipment with our service capabilities, we aim to provide a stable foundation for studios and facilities operating day to day.”
— Mr. Tezuka, President, THINK Fitness Co., Ltd.
The agreement reflects Merrithew’s broader commitment to supporting international markets with region-specific operational partnerships that align with the company’s premium positioning, educational standards, and long-term customer experience strategy.
About THINK Fitness Co., Ltd.
THINK Fitness has more than 40 years of experience in the fitness industry, specializing in the sales, installation, and servicing of fitness equipment. Guided by a commitment to supporting health, movement, and physical performance, the company delivers high-quality fitness environments tailored to the needs of commercial facilities, studios, medical institutions, and rehabilitation settings.
As a trusted supplier in Japan, THINK Fitness provides comprehensive support across the equipment lifecycle—from planning and installation to maintenance and after-sales service. The company continues to adapt to evolving wellness trends while delivering dependable operational support to facilities throughout the country.
About Merrithew®
Merrithew® is the global leader in mindful movement, the company behind the STOTT PILATES® Movement System™ and the worldwide community built around it. Since 1988, we've trained over 90,000 instructors in more than 135 countries and developed premium equipment and science-based education trusted by leading studios, rehab centers and fitness professionals.
Merrithew supports instructors, studio owners and wellness leaders with a complete ecosystem to thrive, including training, equipment, digital resources, business tools and a global network of peers. Our vision is to transform lives through intentional, inclusive movement, shaping the next era of mindful movement with innovation, purpose and a commitment to professional excellence. Merrithew.com.
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