Originally founded in the USA, Contours Express is a women-only gym that provides a safe, comfortable and fun environment where women can exercise. The company has successfully franchised its business model worldwide and has over 700 franchises globally including fitness studios in Australia, Central and South America, South Africa and the UK. Contours Express is currently looking for an individual or a company to take over its Master Franchise for Great Britain.

"Many women do believe in the benefits of participating in exercise and would like to be involved, but are prohibited by such factors as cost, lack of time, commitment and feeling uncomfortable," reveals Daren Carter, Contours Express Founder and CEO. "At Contours Express we eliminate these reasons by providing a comfortable environment; a non-intimidating fun, and enjoyable atmosphere; and a fast and effective 29-minute exercise programme. This is a phenomenal business model that has exploded in the USA and has universal appeal to women all over the world."

The Contours Express UK Master Franchisee's role will involve continuing the company's nationwide expansion and supporting sub-franchisees. The Master Franchisee will be able to hit the ground running as Contours Express has already established UK supplier relationships, registration of trademark, good standing with the Fitness Industry Association, a new website and a marketing library with regular updates. Additionally Contours Express will provide its Master Franchisee with full training, which will include setting up the business and the fitness aspect, as well as a specialised one-on-one Master Franchisee training course covering sales and development and providing support to sub-franchisees.

Daren adds: "The Master Franchisee earns a percentage on the turnover generated by their network in return for providing training and support to their franchisees. The fitness studios generate income from membership fees, monthly dues and pro shop sales."

Contours Express is dedicated to providing women with the best possible workout and its gyms utilise a CardioFit exercise system with weight-based equipment that is designed especially for women. Carter explains: "The women's only fitness scene is new and previously untapped. It is a fast growing industry around the world with global applicability to women. Contours Express offers a low-cost franchise allowing a larger number of prospective franchisees an easier way to start their own business. The UK business in its pioneer phase will receive significant support from the USA to achieve success."

Text: Derin Ibrahim