Hong Kong fitness chain Pure Fitness said on Friday that it had laid off staff as part of its “strategic business actions” after reports that sacked employees had sought help from the Labour Department over unpaid wages.

The chain, which has 21 outlets in the city, said it had reduced its headcount but denied allegations it owed employees wages.

“Pure has been committed to ensuring appropriate compensation and support to the affected employees,” it said.

“There have been no delays in any statutory compensation payments, and we are fully compliant with the regulations of the Labour Department.

“All payments including commissions are settled.”

The chain’s statement followed reports that more than 40 staff had been fired in recent months, including fitness coaches, logistics workers and nutritionists, some of whom were middle- and senior-level employees.

The company said it had taken “a number of strategic business actions” and had invested in artificial intelligence (AI) and automated technologies across its operations to boost productivity and efficiency