As the world’s leading boutique fitness franchisor, Xponential Fitness has built an impressive portfolio of nine distinct wellness and fitness brands, ranging from stretching and Pilates to barre and cycling. With over 3,000 studios in operation and licenses for more than 6,250 locations across 49 U.S. states and 24 countries, the company has expanded its global reach and established itself as a platform for entrepreneurs looking to succeed in the competitive world of small business ownership.
Xponential Fitness franchisees, who have experienced the challenges and rewards of running their studios, share valuable insights into what it takes to thrive in this dynamic industry. One common theme that emerges from their experiences is the comprehensive support Xponential’s corporate team provides. Franchisees appreciate the step-by-step guidance and the availability of experts across various business functions, from marketing to studio development.
For Beth Georges, a multiunit and multi-brand franchisee with several Club Pilates and Yoga Six locations in California, relying on the expertise of the corporate team has been crucial to her success. “Don’t reinvent the wheel. Don’t go rogue. Follow the plan that is working across dozens if not hundreds of other studios,” she advises, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the proven playbook the franchisor provides.
However, franchisees also acknowledge that owning and operating a fitness studio is no walk in the park. As Georges points out, buying a franchise does not guarantee success, and hard work is essential. She cites sobering statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which indicate that a significant percentage of small businesses fail within the first few years. Access to a multi-brand portfolio and robust franchisee support system in this challenging environment can make all the difference.
Successful Xponential Fitness franchisees share several key attributes and practices that have contributed to their success. Adaptability tops the list, with Georges advising aspiring entrepreneurs to “get comfortable being uncomfortable.” A willingness to learn, whether through formal programs or seeking advice from corporate team members and fellow franchisees, is also crucial. Maintaining a strong focus on customer needs and preferences is also essential for long-term success.
Building a solid sense of community among fellow business owners and within their own teams is another critical factor franchisees emphasize. Georges highlights the value of having a core group of owners to share experiences and advice with and the importance of hiring good people and helping them realize their dreams. As franchisees expand to multiple locations, developing a solid team becomes even more critical, as the owner needs help to do everything.
Ultimately, while the Xponential Fitness multi-brand approach and corporate support structure can help aspiring fitness entrepreneurs overcome barriers to entry and growth, success still requires hard work, adaptability, and sound business practices. As Georges suggests, it also helps to build a business around a fitness practice that aligns with one’s passions. “If you are passionate about the work you do in your business, the work is more fun. And that’s the ultimate success — making great money doing something you love!”
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