Q: Why should an operator choose a franchise over opening an independent club?
A: In a word: experience. You can choose to open your own facility, purchase your own equipment, market it and hope for the best, or you can rely on a built-in network of experienced fitness industry veterans to make you successful — fast. Plus, when you partner with a franchise, that relationship doesn’t end once your doors open. Franchises work hard to help their franchisees continue to find success for the long-term, regardless of what types of changes the marketplace may experience.
Q: How do franchises assist in purchasing equipment, and what other types of support can they expect?
A: We have deep discounts already pre-established with all of the industry’s premier equipment manufacturers, allowing our franchisees to get the best possible pricing. Plus, we’ve created finance programs with some of our equipment providers, making it even easier for clubs to get the very best offerings available. The support a franchisee can expect ranges from marketing and sales coaching, to stronger brand awareness through national advertising efforts, and continued vertical growth to help provide members with more value, and the franchisee with stronger profits.
Q: How can an existing operator enter into a franchise, and what are the benefits of being a franchisee?
A: We have many franchisees who converted independent clubs to our brand with the assistance of our in-house support team. We will get you up to speed on our system with the help of our four-day training, and help create a re-brand opening marketing strategy to make a splash immediately. Aside from the points mentioned above, the brand strength that comes from being part of a successful franchise system is an important benefit. Being able to promote things like global reciprocity, a consistent experience at every club and a reputation of helping members get results, are things franchisees enjoy, and we’re proud to help contribute to their success.
Peter Taunton is the CEO of Snap Fitness. He can be reached at ptaunton@snapfitness.com or 952.567.5992.
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
