Long Island Sports and Fitness, an independently operated club and gym in New York, recently converted to Retrofitness, the 1980s-themed fitness chain. North Port residents Ben Filingeri and his brother Sal own the new Retrofitness — Ben’s wife Diane operates the club. Both gentlemen are entrepreneurs who also own a construction company and various real-estate properties throughout the state. This will be the fourth location in the Long Island market with an additional three scheduled to open by the end of 2010.
“During these difficult economical times, my business partners and I were looking for a business plan that could accommodate our members and stay profitable at the same time,” Filingeri said. “Retrofitness has given us great business advice and support. As an entrepreneur and businessman, I’m confident that joining the Retro family will allow us to grow our existing gym and also open additional locations in the future.”
Before converting to Retrofitness, Filingeri spent several months interviewing other Retro owners. Ultimately, Filingeri was impressed by the positive feedback he received, as well as Retrofitness’ energetic design and superior business model. Filingeri’s 24,000-square-foot facility has an unparalleled ’80s atmosphere with retro color schemes, classic ’80s music and “RetroTheatres” that show film classics like “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” on screens up to 20 feet wide. Each gym is also outfitted with more than $500,000 worth of equipment that include 60 to 100 pieces of cardiovascular equipment, three different types of circuit training and free weights.
“Having owned and operated several independent gyms myself over the years, I understand the value a franchise can bring to an independent business owner,” said Retrofitness Founder and CEO Eric Casaburi. “By providing our franchisees with ongoing, professional support and multiple revenue streams like personal training and in-house childcare, we’ve created a culture that is conducive to success.”
