Virgin Active Explores Smart Toilets at UC Expo London 2025
At the UC Expo London 2025, the fitness industry's embrace of technology took centre stage. Virgin Active, a leading fitness chain, discussed its exploration of smart toilets in gyms and the role of technology in promoting longevity. However, specific details about a speaker discussing these functionalities remain unavailable.
Virgin Active is delving into the potential of smart urinals that provide real-time feedback to users, encouraging better hydration habits. This initiative aligns with the company's exploration of technology to measure factors like VO2 max, grip strength, and body composition, all aimed at promoting longevity.
The fitness giant maintains a standardised technology stack, relying on Microsoft for most services, HP for hardware, and Poly for collaboration tools. Louise John, European Head of IT Service Delivery at Virgin Active, shared insights into the company's tech journey with UC Today. To manage its devices across multiple locations, Virgin Active has deployed PDQ Connect, ensuring they are patched, secure, and compliant. The company also utilises Freshservice for IT service management and Freshdesk for contact centre solutions.
As Virgin Active transitions to a hybrid work model, it faces logistical challenges such as tracking assets and managing postage costs. To navigate these challenges, the company is approaching AI with caution, hiring a Global AI Director to focus on adoption and measure ROI.
Virgin Active's exploration of smart toilets and other tech innovations in fitness studios signals a shift towards more data-driven and personalised workouts. As the company continues to embrace technology, it is also mindful of the logistical challenges and the responsible adoption of AI.