After Operational Upgrades, the Fitness Brand Returns to FastLane’s Full-Service Franchise Development Program
- The SPENGA fitness franchise has partnered with Franchise FastLane for the third time in its 11-year history.
- SPENGA combines spin, strength and yoga in its 60-minute workouts.
- The boutique fitness brand prioritizes franchisee support and success. It recently added three revenue streams and a cost-efficient, compact site model.
- FastLane, a franchise sales organization, supports its partner brands with a full-service program; with CarPool, a coaching and administrative support program; and with MasterMind, which brings together founders for discussions of business strategies and solutions.
Following two years of guidance from Franchise FastLane’s CarPool program, SPENGA has strengthened its operations and franchisee support to maximize future growth. The boutique fitness brand – now positioned for major expansion – has signed on to Franchise FastLane’s full-service development program a second time.
SPENGA, which combines 20 minutes each of spin, strength and yoga in its hour-long classes, first became a full-service partner with Franchise FastLane in 2018. That collaboration led to the awarding of more than 250 SPENGA units to franchisees.
Then in 2023, the fitness brand’s priorities changed, with efforts concentrated on improving its internal systems, operations and communications with franchisees. Franchise FastLane’s CarPool program was a better fit for SPENGA at that time, so the brand pivoted. SPENGA handled expansion in-house but still relied on FastLane’s CarPool program for its expertise in coaching and administrative support.
The SPENGA-Franchise FastLane relationship has remained both warm and mutually beneficial over the years. “We really consider FastLane to be a team member at this point,” says SPENGA CEO Roger McGreal. “Their guidance has been invaluable, and we wouldn’t be in this position without them. With great markets available and a stronger system than ever, we are excited to accelerate growth once again. Our passion for fitness hasn’t changed. This next chapter is all about where we are going.”
SPENGA During the Pandemic
McGreal was one of the six SPENGA founders who saw a gap in the fitness market for an effective, efficient workout providing cardio, strength and flexibility training while minimizing the strain on participants’ bodies. They launched the brand in 2015.
Not surprisingly, SPENGA had to weather huge challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The franchise’s leaders doubled down on support that included creating an internal committee tasked with providing consistent assistance and guidance to franchisees dealing with government-mandated shutdowns.
Tito Garcia, a multi-unit owner, praised the franchisor’s efforts during those hard days. “Joining SPENGA just before the pandemic was incredibly challenging, but the support I received made all the difference,” Garcia says. “The communication, tools and willingness to help demonstrated how committed SPENGA is to its owners.”
Recent Changes at SPENGA
With SPENGA’s return to Franchise FastLane’s full-service program, leaders of the fitness brand say potential franchisees will appreciate the following enhancements:
- Upgraded technology that improves operations and customer experience.
- Expanded revenue potential through nutrition, supplements and red-light therapy offerings.
- A new 3,000-square-foot studio model designed for cost efficiency and strong unit economics.
SPENGA’s plan to accelerate growth appears to be well-timed as Americans emphasize healthy living. Last year, U.S. fitness industry revenues grew to $45.7 billion, as noted by the marketing research firm IBISWorld.com. And according to MMCGinvest.com, a financial forecasting firm, “analysts project steady growth through 2030. … While exact forecasts vary, the consensus is that U.S. gym and health club revenues will expand at a mid-single-digit annual rate in the coming five years [through 2030].”
FastLane’s Outlook
Tim Koch, Franchise FastLane’s president and chief operating officer, has great expectations for the fitness brand. “SPENGA has shown tremendous resilience, innovation and commitment to franchisees. Its refined model with strong validation from franchise owners, experienced leadership team and proven approach to boutique fitness make them exactly the type of partner we’re proud to support as they scale.”
Franchise FastLane is known for choosing its partner brands carefully. The vetting process involves evaluating factors such as value proposition, key differentiators, unit economics and marketplace conditions. “SPENGA clearly aligned with our partnership criteria. SPENGA has proven systems, recurring revenue streams, strong validation and a leadership team with ample experience in the fitness industry,” Koch says.
About Franchise FastLane
Under its full-service program, Franchise FastLane provides comprehensive franchise development support. This includes territory checks, lead registration, marketing, compliance oversight, operational support and collaboration with franchise consultants. FastLane’s suite of services ensures that franchisors possess the tools, systems and strategies required for successful expansion.
All Franchise FastLane partners, whether full-service or CarPool participants, have access to FastLane’s MasterMind program. Within MasterMind, the founders of FastLane’s varied partner brands engage in in-depth discussions to exchange ideas, solve problems and brainstorm tactics for improving their businesses.
Founded in 2017, Omaha, Neb.-based Franchise FastLane has helped emerging brands award 9,600-plus franchise units. At present, FastLane has two dozen franchisors participating in its full-service program and works with 14 additional brands via CarPool.
To Learn More
Visit the Franchise FastLane website for further information about its services. SPENGA’s website contains details about the fitness brand and its franchise opportunities.
