Franchising USA recently sat down with UFC GYM to talk about this exciting franchise. Learn more about this fast growing leader of mixed martial arts and fitness training in the below Q&A.
Describe the organization. How long has it been in operation? When did you start franchising? How many franchisees do you currently have?
In 2008 Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta, owners of the UFC, reached out to Mark Mastrov with an idea of a new health and life fitness concept. UFC GYM combines the world of mixed martial arts and fitness together with UFC branded gyms that enable everyone to experience the training regimen of UFC athletes in a fun and energetic environment. As a result of member demand UFC GYM began franchising in 2013 and currently have over 120 fanchise locations
What is your main product/service? Why is there a need for this product/service?
UFC GYM offers a simple way to Train Different. Through our world-class trainers and coaches we offer unique innovative classes that fuse MMA and Group fitness programming together. To support the member experience UFC GYM offers best in class technology including a website, phone app, and a heavely followed social media platform. Every facility has been able to adopt a special fitness community that makes the workout experience unique and transformational. In addition to the special culture UFC GYM offers ehanced franchisee support and training allowing every parter the best tools and processes in the fitness industry
What type of person would fit your franchisee profile? Describe your ideal franchisee candidate?
We call our franchisees franchise partners for a reason, we’re in this together! Our ideal franchise partner has a hands-on approach to business management, a solid understanding of sales and a commitment to the community. Franchise industry experience and or a passion around fitness or mixed martial arts is certainly a plus.
What is the company’s franchising process?
Step 1 – THE PROCESS: Complete the contact form and a UFC GYM representative will contact you to discuss the opportunity and requirements.
Step 2 – APPLICATION AND DISCLOSURE: Complete a franchise application and we will provide you with the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Step 3 – EXPERIENCE UFC GYM: Meet key team members from UFC GYM, and experience the brand and its offerings firsthand with an in-person meeting.
Step 4 – APPROVAL: After learning about the opportunity and meeting all the qualifications we will create and sign an agreement for your franchise area.
Step 5 – OPENING: After your agreement is completed, our team will work with you on site selection, facility planning, and staff training to get your first club launched.
How do you look after your franchisees?
As a franchise partner, we provide the best support possible by staying on top of the fitness industry through technology and education. Each franchise partner receives support from every department at our corporate office including accounting, IT, HR, operations, retail, and marketing along with access to a marketing portal to produce and customize all items to promote and drive the business. Weekly and monthly marketing, operations, and sales training calls are provided to keep our franchise partners aligned. Every partner has access to our UFC GYM University for online education to understand all divisions of the UFC GYM business, as well as our management and coaching institutes taught in-person from our home office in Southern California.
Where are your current locations/territories? Where are locations/territories available? What areas are you looking to expand to in future?
Since debuting in 2009, UFC GYM has opened more than 135 locations across the world in the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Oman, Philippines, South America, Taiwan, Vietnam and the United Arab Emirates. The UFC GYM franchise division has continued to grow at a rapid pace with more than 50 locations opening in the past two years and over 50 gyms expected to open in the next year. With global interest and many conversations occurring, now is the time to become a UFC GYM franchise partner while territories are still available.
What sets you apart from your competition?
The UFC brand sets us apart from our competition. Mixed martial arts is the fastest growing sport in the world, and UFC is the global leader of MMA. With the power of the UFC behind us, UFC GYM allows everyone to train like the best MMA athletes. When we enter into a market, there is already tremendous brand awareness and immediate recognition and credibility. We offer quality classes and a great fitness experience as a cool, fun brand for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
Is there a particular area of the business you would like to hi-light? (new developments, new programs)
UFC GYM’s exclusive fitness training, which conditions internationally-acclaimed UFC® athletes, allow us to provide our members with a fun and energetic workout experience in a 60 minute class. UFC GYM helps people deliver their human potential through 3 distinct franchise packages that allow our partners to invest in their community and provide their members with an amazing new fitness experience that is full of energy and excitement. Training at UFC GYM helps people deliver their human potential.