Multi-Unit Franchisees Explain Why They Continually Invest in Fitness Premier 24/7 Clubs

A common thread with some of the top leaders within Fitness Premier 24/7 Clubs is that they start in some capacity with the company and grow with the business. Many of the 18-unit franchise’s executives began working in the gyms or in the corporate office and went on to purchase locations themselves. 

This is true for Emily Janssen and Kathy Mecklenburg, who co-own the Champaign, Mahomet and Monticello gyms, as well as an upcoming satellite location at the University of Champaign-Urbana. Janssen joined the brand as marketing director in 2016 and has since also assumed the role of real estate director and multi-unit owner. Mecklenburg has been with Fitness Premier 24/7 Clubs for almost 20 years, starting out as an attendant at the Kid’s Club in Bourbonnais and now serving as multi-unit franchisee and vice president of finance and HR. 

The women worked together in the corporate office, and as franchising opportunities came up over the last few years, they seized the opportunity to “build a network of gyms in that area,” said Janssen.  

“I wasn't necessarily looking to become a franchisee, but it just became really evident the kind of opportunity this was, seeing other people have a lot of success with it. I knew that the support was going to be there from the corporate office, so it made it less scary,” said Janssen. “As long as you follow the playbook and you put the time and effort in, it's really kind of a no brainer.”

“The support that the franchise has given us has been amazing. They guide us in the right directions and give us all the tools to continue what we’re doing,” Mecklenburg agreed.

The two are eager to continue to grow on the success of their locations, and are “constantly looking out for more locations - whether it be an acquisition of another club or looking for the perfect piece of real estate to open a club,” Mecklenburg added. 

One of the best parts of growing their system of co-owned local gyms with Fitness Premier 24/7 clubs is the helpful brand recognition that’s been established in the area. Janssen said they are known as the best fitness club in the region and want to duplicate that in any town they can. 

The total initial investment necessary to begin the operation of a Fitness Premier Club Model is $279,849 to $575,499 per unit. This includes a $39,999 franchise fee.

About Fitness Premier 24/7 Clubs:

Fitness Premier 24/7 Clubs is a fast-growing, 18-location, fitness concept that creates a community with its staff and guests. At Fitness Premier 24/7 clubs, some of the amenities include 24/7 Access, Hydromassage, Group exercise classes, supervised kids club, and training & nutrition programs. Backed by franchise executive Jason Markowicz and his franchisee-focused corporate team, Fitness Premier differentiates itself with great people, culture, and systems compounded by a growth focus in strategic markets. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit https://1851franchise.com/fitforyoufranchising.