9Round, the world’s fastest-growing kickboxing gym franchise, announced today it has signed a Master Franchise agreement to develop 100 clubs in Japan.
This latest development expands 9Round’s international footprint to nine countries and will be led by Shimpei Okumura, CEO of Japan Wellness Innovation Inc. Okumura has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the Japanese fitness space, particularly as the head of Zumba in the country.
He plans to develop the 100 gyms over the next 10 years, with the first slated to open in Tokyo later this year.
“We’re continuing to ride the positive momentum we’ve built internationally over the past couple of years and are thrilled to welcome such an experienced partner to the growing 9Round team,” said 9Round co-founder and CEO Shannon Hudson. “Shimpei’s strong track-record in the fitness industry, coupled with Japan’s Martial Arts roots, makes him the perfect franchise partner for our expansion in the region.”
The Japan deal is one of several international agreements 9Round has signed in the last couple of years. Other deals have been executed in the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East, and total more than 300 clubs.
“This recent growth validates the international demand for 9Round and we plan to continue to partner with qualified franchise partners to expand our presence both domestically and internationally,” Hudson added.
Since the company began franchising in 2009, 9Round has opened 350 gyms in 39 states and eight countries, making it the fastest-growing kickboxing gym franchise in the world. Today, 9Round can be found in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, England, Jordan and Saudi Arabia.
Press release submitted by 9Round Fitness.
