Founded in 2009, Big Blue Swim School is one of the fastest-growing emerging brands in franchising, with 16 units open and 227 units sold in 25 states, and it has become well positioned to become the leader of the booming $3 billion learn-to-swim segment. Continuing a hot growth streak, the franchise is aiming for a total of 240 total commitments by the end of 2022. Next up, the brand is hoping to make a splash in the Pacific Northwest by partnering with another qualified franchise candidate in Seattle to close out the market

While the concept began in Chicago, Big Blue has thrived in regions across the U.S., including the Atlanta, Denver, and Northern Virginia markets, and more than 50% of all territories nationwide have been awarded. Now, with a recent 5-unit deal in Seattle, the brand’s goal is to open its first location in the Emerald City by 2024, and in the meantime award the remaining eight territories still available in the area.

Big Blue’s real estate team uses a data-driven strategy to find the right locations for families, and Seattle is the perfect next stop, considering its boom in growth over the last 10 years. Its population has grown by more than 100,000 since 2010, with nearly 5% of its population representing children under the age of five. For a brand that teaches the essential life skill of swimming to young children, Seattle offers ample opportunity.

“Seattle is the perfect home for us,” said Chris Kenny, Big Blue board chairman. “With the lack of pools to teach children how to swim in the market, parents will see Big Blue as a vital resource to learn to swim and understand water safety. Big Blue’s mission is to show kids they can do anything by unlocking their full potential in the water, and we are looking forward to making a difference in the lives of families throughout the Seattle area.”

In addition to Seattle, Big Blue is establishing a growing footprint with signed franchise agreements in strategic markets including Chicago, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Detroit, Raleigh, Austin, and many other major cities across the U.S. With more than 200 locations sold in nearly four years of franchising, time is limited for the right franchise partner to take advantage of the prime Seattle market.

Multi-unit franchise opportunities are available for qualified candidates looking for their next big opportunity, and veterans can receive a 10 percent discount on the $80,000 franchise fee. The total investment necessary to begin operation of a new Big Blue is $2,475,200 to $3,966,700 (refer to item 7 in FDD) To learn more or inquire about Big Blue, visit https://www.bigblueswimschool.com/franchising/.

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Helen Harris

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Helen Harris

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