Planet Fitness vs AutoNation

Planet Fitness and AutoNation are examined to help you understand their business models, financial performance, and market context. This comparison explains how each company operates, the value it creates, and its relative position in the marketplace in neutral terms. Educational content, not financial advice.

Planet Fitness and AutoNation are examined to help you understand their business models, financial performance, and market context. This comparison explains how each company operates, the value it cre...

Comparison Snapshot

Key Financial Metrics

PLNT

Metric

AN

$8.08B

Market Cap

$7.85B

31.03%

Potential Profit

7.92%

Buy

Analyst Rating

Buy

Investment Analysis

Planet Fitness

PLNT

Pros

Recent Q3 2025 earnings beat analyst expectations, with strong EPS and revenue growth driving a significant stock price surge.
System-wide same club sales increased by 6.9%, supporting raised full-year growth outlook for 2025.
Company has repurchased approximately $100 million of its shares, indicating capital allocation confidence.

Considerations

Shares experienced a slight decline of about 4.4% over the past month before the recent rebound, reflecting some market volatility.
The stock trades at a relatively high forward P/E ratio of around 30.4, which may imply limited valuation upside.
Beta of 1.30 suggests higher volatility compared to the market, increasing investment risk under turbulent conditions.

AutoNation

AN

Pros

AutoNation is the largest automotive retailer in the U.S., benefiting from significant scale and brand recognition.
The company has demonstrated operational resilience with consistent sales growth amid fluctuating auto market conditions.
AutoNation has a strong balance sheet and liquidity position, supporting strategic investments and acquisitions.

Considerations

Exposure to cyclical automotive industry subjects AutoNation to risks from economic downturns and fluctuating consumer demand.
Margins can be pressured by competitive pricing and rising costs of vehicles and aftermarket services.
Regulatory risks related to emissions standards, electric vehicle transition, and franchise laws create potential compliance costs.

About The Companies

Planet Fitness (PLNT)

Planet Fitness, Inc. (PLNT) operates one of the largest budget gym chains in the United States, offering low-cost memberships focused on casual exercisers rather than hardcore gym-goers. Its asset-light, franchise-heavy model provides recurring revenue from membership fees and franchise royalties, while corporate stores contribute directly to revenue and cash flow. Investors should note the company’s emphasis on scale, value pricing and brand awareness, which can support steady membership growth but also invite intense competition. Growth drivers include continued U.S. market penetration, inbound international expansion, and ancillary services such as personal training and retail. Key risks are sensitivity to consumer spending, competitive pressure from boutique and low-cost rivals, concentration in the U.S. market, and potential membership churn during economic stress. With a market capitalisation around $8.1bn, Planet Fitness may suit investors seeking exposure to consumer discretionary leisure trends, but it’s important to weigh growth prospects against operational and macro risks—this is educational information, not personalised advice.

AutoNation (AN)

AutoNation, Inc. is a prominent automotive retailer in the United States, operating through a large network of franchises. The company's business is structured into several key segments: Domestic, featuring brands like Ford and General Motors; Import, with manufacturers such as Toyota and Honda; and Premium Luxury, which includes marques like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Beyond selling new and used vehicles, AutoNation provides a comprehensive range of services. These include vehicle parts and automotive servicing, as well as finance and insurance products for customers. The company also operates its own finance division, AutoNation Finance, which offers financing solutions directly to its retail customers. This diversified model allows AutoNation to engage with customers at multiple points in the vehicle ownership lifecycle. As with any investment, the value can go down as well as up, and returns are not guaranteed.

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Active Lifestyle Portfolio

Tap into the powerful consumer shift toward personal health and fitness with this carefully selected group of companies. Our team of analysts has chosen brands that are leading the wellness economy as it becomes an essential part of modern life.

Published: June 18, 2025

Explore Basket

Body & Fitness

Invest in the companies powering the global wellness movement. This collection features carefully selected market leaders in athletic apparel, fitness equipment, gym chains, and wellness technology, chosen by our investment professionals for their growth potential.

Published: June 17, 2025

Explore Basket

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Active Lifestyle Portfolio

Tap into the powerful consumer shift toward personal health and fitness with this carefully selected group of companies. Our team of analysts has chosen brands that are leading the wellness economy as it becomes an essential part of modern life.

Published: June 18, 2025

Explore Basket

Body & Fitness

Invest in the companies powering the global wellness movement. This collection features carefully selected market leaders in athletic apparel, fitness equipment, gym chains, and wellness technology, chosen by our investment professionals for their growth potential.

Published: June 17, 2025

Explore Basket

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Comparison Snapshot