What was your original vision for your company? How has that changed over time?
TruFusion remains true to its initial vision to provide a remarkable and inviting environment where people can go for health, happiness and community through unique group fitness.
What do you believe is the single most important factor when choosing a franchise?
The single most important factor when choosing a franchise is that it ‘fit’ the owner. The franchise investment must meet the professional, financial, personal and lifestyle objectives and goals of the franchise owner.
Why should someone choose your franchise over other similar franchises?
TruFusion is a proven concept with quick success and a strong earnings claim. The fitness industry continues to change, and millennials now make up a majority of the market, and they want something different than generations past. We believe we found the way forward. The proof is in our numbers. Our original location went from zero to 2,700 members in less than two year. The offering immediately meets a customer need with a high quality, trendy, yet affordable product (membership) that is relevant and fresh to the fitness industry. The TruFusion franchise system provides a myriad of training and tools to support success; these include business modeling and planning, site search, lease negotiation, site layout and design, construction and build-out assistance, equipment acquisition, national discounts, extensive manager and instructor training pre-opening marketing and advertising, grand opening assistance and ongoing support. TruFusion owners can actively participate in operations or work in a semi-passive or passive way. As a TruFusion franchise owner, you’ll change lives. You’ll make a lifelong impact. You’ll not just be apart of the TruTribe, you’ll lead one.
What makes your industry attractive?
Fitness is a $25.8 billion industry nationwide, and revenue continues to increase. Fitness memberships are soaring and industry associations anticipate future growth. Fitness franchises represented 16% of Entrepreneur magazine’s list of the 50 fastest growing companies in 2015, with increased activity in group and specialty fitness activities. A staggering number of nearly 70% of Americans are considered overweight, yet the focus on fitness and health is stronger than ever. There is no shortage of potential new consumers in the market.
What types of qualities do you look for in potential franchisees?
We’re looking for franchise owners who have a passion for fitness and creating community. Our TruTribe leaders are outgoing with sales, marketing, and/or management experience (preferred, not required); they are customer service and results oriented. We’re seeking leaders who can build relationships, lead a team, and who have the motivation to excel! You must have a minimum of $500k in liquid capital and have resources for the full investment amount. When you reach out to learn more about TruFusion, be ready to make a commitment and get rewarded!
How do territories work for your franchisees?
TruFusion territories include approximately 250,000 in population.
Why has your franchise model been successful?
The TruFusion franchise model provides significant and quick return on investment for the franchisee; hence, they continue to invest and the system is expanding rapidly. Trufusion meets an immediate customer need with a high quality, trendy, yet affordable product (membership) that is relevant and fresh to the fitness industry. TruFusion also engages the social media savvy generation with ongoing communications and promotion through celebrity participation such as Alex Rodriquez and Jennifer Lopez. Although TruFusion’s primary customers are women, men will relate to Rodriguez’s athleticism; is also an equity partner in the company.
Where do you see your franchise in 5 years and 10 years?
In a statement, Alex Rodriquez, said he wants to make TruFusion a nationally recognized brand in major U.S. cities. Locations are opening across the country, with the goal to have 500 TruFusions open around the globe in the next few years.
What is your favorite advice for new franchisees to help them succeed?
New franchisees should take full advantage of the owner network within their system. Get to know other franchisees, understand their experience – challenges, successes and more; ask for their advice and seek their mentorship.
What would you tell potential franchisees that may be nervous about the financial burdens of starting a franchise?
Being part of a franchise system minimizes risks and optimizes your potential for success. If you’ve researched and validated profitability of the franchise, the viability of your market, and you’ve planned accordingly, be confident in your decision. As the very successful, Mark Zuckerberg, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Facebook once said, “The biggest risk is not taking any risk.”
Can you explain your financial assistance?
There are more options available now than ever, to fund your new business. Both traditional and non-traditional sources are available to those who qualify. Programs include SBA loans, home equity lines of credit, unsecured business lines of credit and even retirement rollovers — which offer a tax-free option on the purchase of your business. We are pleased to partner with the most reputable funding sources in the marketplace. We’ll help you find the best option for your new business, and the most beneficial choice for your circumstances.
Do you have any franchisee testimonials or success stories that you would like to share?
Alex Rodriguez has gone from exercising on the baseball field to attending fitness classes in the 103-degree heat at TruFusion. He has partnered with TruFusion, to promote the brand, and has bought the rights to all TruFusion studios in his home state of Florida. “It was different from anything I’d experienced, and frankly, I wanted to be part of it,” Rodiguez said. “The partnership just seemed natural. Felt like being part of a great team again.”