Text: Stuart Anderson

A sizeable opportunity is being offered to UK entrepreneurs with the ambition and capability to tackle a national territory. Internationally established women's-only fitness studio franchisor Contours Express is seeking an individual or company to take over its Master Franchise rights for Great Britain, presenting an opportunity to become a franchisor recruiting and supporting a national network of sub-franchisees.

Contours Express is an international company that has launched over 700 franchised fitness studios worldwide, utilising a CardioFit exercise system with weight-based equipment designed especially for women. One of the fastest growing women's only gym franchises in the USA, the company is translating this domestic momentum into international expansion throughout Australia, Europe, Central and South America, Canada, South Africa and Asia.

With the groundwork completed, including established UK supplier relationships, registration of trademark, good standing with the Fitness Industry Association, a new website and a marketing library with regular updates, this business is set-up to enable the Master Franchisee to takeover and hit the ground running. Most importantly, the sub-franchisee network is already off the starting blocks, with three sub-franchisees generating a monthly income and a fourth preparing to open a fitness studio in April.

Central to the Contours Express concept is a focus on what women want from their local gym. Contours Express points to studies showing that the majority of women prefer to exercise and are more comfortable in an environment designed specifically for them. CEO Daren Carter explains: "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. 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 US and has universal appeal to women all over the world.

"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."

Fitness experience is not necessary as Contours Express provides complete training for franchisees. The Master Franchisee will receive full training, including setting up the business and the fitness aspect, plus a specialised one-on-one Master Franchisee training course covering sales and development, and providing support for sub-franchisees.

"The women's only fitness scene is new and previously untapped," says Carter. "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 US to achieve success."

KEY MASTER FRANCHISE  ASSETS:

• Rights to develop Great Britain 4 franchisees providing fixed regular month income
• Marketing library with regular updates
• New website & search engine
• optimisation programme
• 3 month consultation period with current director
• Established supplier relationships
• Exhibition display and furniture
• Good standing with the Fitness Industry Assoc