What can eight years running restaurant franchise operations teach a fitness brand about growth? Chequan Lewis, the CEO of Crunch Fitness, says the lessons translate more directly than most operators would expect and they come down to the small, repeatable moments that happen on the gym floor everyday. As Crunch pushes past 550 clubs and prepares to plant its flag internationally, Lewis argues the brand’s next chapter depends on getting those granular details right, club-by-club, check-in by check-in.
Lewis joined Club Solutions Magazine editor and podcast host Taylor Gabhart to discuss his transition from Yum Brands to fitness, Crunch’s franchisee partnership model and the “three Es” — experience, execution and evolution — that guide the brand’s approach to innovation. The conversation offers operators a clear framework for balancing growth ambitions with the day-to-day consistency that keeps members and franchisees invested for the long haul.
Show Notes:
- At 1:10, Lewis reflects on the grind of hitting monthly membership targets, comparing tour conversion in fitness to the near-guaranteed purchase intent at a quick service restaurant.
- Lewis outlines Crunch’s growth from roughly 460 to more than 550 clubs since he’s started with the company, and introduces the “three C” franchise standard: capability, capital and commitment at 6:00.
- At 9:00, Lewis explains why Crunch treats every check-in as a “moment of truth,” arguing that club-level consistency earns the right to open more clubs.
- Lewis breaks down his “three Es” framework as the foundation as the foundation for delivering what he calls a legendary member experience at 14:05.
- At 19:15, Lewis highlights Crunch’s investment in recovery amenities, including red light therapy, infrared sauna and enhanced R&R equipment, as part of a longevity-focused strategy.
- Lewis argues that team member experience sets the ceiling for customer experience, urging operators not to overlook the small, human interactions that build culture at 22:20.
- Lastly, at 25:15, Lewis maps Crunch growth pipeline, from optimizing mature clubs in the U.S. to new international markets including India, Mexico and New Zealand.
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