At JMK5 Holdings, we’ve always believed in building more than just properties—we build momentum, communities, and opportunities. One of the most rewarding projects we’ve undertaken is the transformation of Mainland City Centre in Texas City, where we took a once-overlooked mall and reimagined it into a thriving commercial and lifestyle hub. At the heart of that redevelopment stood World Gym Texas City—a beacon of health, strength, and personal growth for thousands of members.
Now, we’re excited to share a significant milestone in that journey.
As of March 2025, World Gym Texas City is under new ownership. The transition marks a new chapter not only for the gym itself, but also for JMK5 Holdings. After years of operating as both the landlord and tenant, we’ve stepped into a new role: that of sole property manager. The gym is now operated by the very team that once provided personal training services within its walls—professionals who understand its mission, its members, and its value to the Texas City community.
This transition reflects everything we stand for at JMK5 Holdings: empowerment, strategic growth, and community-focused redevelopment.
Our Journey with World Gym Texas City
When we first acquired the property that would become Mainland City Centre, we saw more than vacant storefronts and aging infrastructure—we saw potential. Texas City deserved a vibrant, multi-use space that could serve families, professionals, entrepreneurs, and everyone in between. That vision came to life through tireless effort, strategic investment, and a commitment to working with passionate people who shared our goals.
World Gym was a cornerstone of that effort.
From the beginning, our goal was to deliver more than a typical gym. We envisioned a wellness hub—a place where individuals could commit to healthier lifestyles in a motivating and supportive environment. As both the landlord and operator, we built World Gym Texas City into one of the largest and most advanced fitness centers in the region. With state-of-the-art equipment, a strong team of trainers, and a loyal member base, the gym quickly became a symbol of what successful redevelopment can look like.
But as any good developer knows, growth requires evolution.
The success of World Gym Texas City created new opportunities—not just for us, but for the team that helped drive that success from within. Their energy, passion, and firsthand experience made them the perfect candidates to take the reins.
The New Chapter: Leadership Transition to Familiar Faces
In March 2025, World Gym Texas City officially changed hands—but not in the way you might expect. Rather than selling to an outside party or handing over operations to a franchise chain, we saw an opportunity to elevate those already embedded in the gym’s DNA.
The team that previously provided personal training services within World Gym has now stepped into full ownership and management of the facility. These individuals have trained side by side with members, helped build community inside those walls, and have a unique understanding of the culture and commitment that makes this gym so special.
This change wasn’t just strategic—it was personal. We’ve watched this group grow into their roles as trusted fitness professionals, and when the time came to pass the torch, we knew there was no better choice. Their leadership represents the entrepreneurial spirit we work to cultivate across all our properties.
For JMK5 Holdings and Jerome Karam personally, this transition represents a meaningful evolution. By stepping back from day-to-day gym operations and focusing entirely on our role as landlords, we’re doubling down on what we do best: revitalizing properties, enhancing infrastructure, and supporting tenants who bring their own expertise to the table.
We’ll continue to invest in the Mainland City Centre and ensure it remains a dynamic, thriving destination. And we’ll remain strong supporters of World Gym Texas City under its new leadership—cheering them on as they carry forward a legacy of excellence.
Why We Made the Shift
At JMK5 Holdings, our core strength has always been property development and revitalization. We specialize in seeing potential where others might see abandonment—breathing new life into aging or underutilized spaces and turning them into pillars of the community. That’s exactly what we did with Mainland City Centre, and it’s what we continue to do across Texas.
While our time as both landlord and operator of World Gym Texas City was an incredible experience, the decision to shift to a landlord-only role came down to one thing: focus.
Our passion lies in acquiring and redeveloping properties. Managing a gym, while rewarding, ultimately diverted time and resources from our core mission. By transitioning ownership to a trusted, capable team already immersed in the daily life of the gym, we not only freed ourselves to pursue new development opportunities—we empowered entrepreneurs to grow their own business in a space we helped shape.
This isn’t about stepping back; it’s about stepping forward with purpose. As landlords, we now focus fully on improving the property, creating opportunities for other tenants, and investing in community-centered initiatives that benefit Texas City as a whole.
That’s the JMK5 way: invest in the community, create value, and then hand over the reins to passionate people who can take things to the next level.
What This Means for World Gym Members and the Community
We understand that change can sometimes bring uncertainty—especially when it comes to places people rely on for their well-being. That’s why it was so important to us that this transition be seamless, positive, and rooted in continuity.
World Gym Texas City remains in very capable hands.
The new owners aren’t strangers. They’re the same professionals who’ve helped our members train, stay motivated, and reach their personal goals for years. They know the facility, they know the community, and most importantly, they understand what makes this gym so valuable to its members.
Their plans include maintaining high standards while exploring fresh ideas to serve the evolving needs of today’s fitness community. Whether it’s new classes, upgraded equipment, or enhanced member experiences, the future is filled with potential—and we’re excited to see it unfold.
As for JMK5 Holdings, our role doesn’t disappear—it evolves. We’re continuing to invest in the Mainland City Centre complex to attract new tenants, improve infrastructure, and create even more reasons for the community to visit and stay engaged. The gym’s success is a critical part of that ecosystem, and we’ll be behind the scenes making sure the environment supports its continued growth.
We may no longer be running the gym, but we’re still deeply invested in its success—and in the success of Texas City as a whole.
Our Broader Vision for Mainland City Centre and Texas City
World Gym Texas City is just one part of a much larger vision.
At JMK5 Holdings, we believe in the power of transformation. Over the past several years, we’ve led ambitious redevelopment projects not just in Texas City, but across Galveston County and beyond. Our approach is hands-on, locally driven, and committed to bringing long-term value to every community we touch.
Mainland City Centre is a testament to that vision. What once stood as a struggling mall is now a multi-faceted destination—home to fitness, entertainment, retail, hospitality, and more. From the largest World Gym in the country to exciting new dining options and specialty businesses, this property is a blueprint for what revitalized community hubs can look like.
We’ve worked with dozens of local entrepreneurs and organizations who share our commitment to growth and sustainability. Each business we bring in is selected not just for commercial viability, but for its ability to enhance the local lifestyle. And when the right people show they’re ready to lead—like the new owners of World Gym—we’re proud to make space for them to thrive.
Our role moving forward is to continue improving the property, enhancing experiences for visitors, and finding new ways to contribute to Texas City’s prosperity. We see this region not just as an investment—but as a place we’re proud to call home.
The Power of Strategic Growth
This transition isn’t an ending—it’s a beginning.
By handing over the day-to-day operations of World Gym Texas City to a team we trust and respect, we’re doing exactly what JMK5 Holdings was built to do: develop spaces, empower people, and support sustainable success.
We’ll continue enhancing the Mainland City Centre with new projects, improved facilities, and a vision that prioritizes community. And as landlords, we’ll ensure our tenants—new and old—have the resources they need to succeed.
To our World Gym members: you’re in excellent hands. To the new ownership team: we’re rooting for you. And to the Texas City community: we’re just getting started.
As always, we thank you for being part of the journey—and we look forward to what’s next.
