"In multi-cultural Britain there are many communities in which the concept of a ladies-only gym is not only preferable, but vital for the customer base which may be restricted from unisex gyms," comments Jason Chong, Master Franchisee of Contours Express. "In fact, Contours Express appeals to all women who believe in the benefits of participating in exercise, but feel uncomfortable or intimidated in traditional unisex gyms."

The popularity of the Contours Express concept has seen it establish over 600 franchisees in 21 different countries. The company recently opened it 100th club in Australia and its 42nd in South Africa, within two years of entering the two countries. "This shows the phenomenal growth rate that can be replicated in the UK," reflects Jason, who brought the concept to the UK in 2004.

In 2005 the pilot franchisee Sue Arrowsmith launched her gym in Aldridge, in the West Midlands. "I had no fitness background when I approached Contours Express," she reveals. "My background was in project management for a large utility company managing a nationwide project. When I was notified that I was approaching redundancy, I began looking for something else that would allow me to work for myself."

Turning to franchising for the answer, Sue was immediately impressed by Contours Express. "I was a member of a ladies-only gym myself so I could recognise the appeal," she explains. "My interest quickly snowballed and I launched my franchise last November. I signed 45 members up in my first month, and after a Christmas lull the business has grown from strength to strength. Altogether we have had 200 members come through and the business is now breaking even with five staff."

Adds Jason: "Sue is performing great. She's making a profit and membership levels are rising. We are now looking to expand and have already launched our next two franchisees this Summer in High Wycombe and Ilford. We plan to launch a further 10 franchisees over the next 12 months as we roll out Contours Express nationwide."

Sue is also enthusiastic about her future growth potential. "I'm hoping to sign up another 100 members through ongoing initiatives such as our recent campaign in July which brought in 43 new members in four weeks," she reflects. "Then I'll probably be looking to expand by purchasing a second franchise territory and opening another gym."