After spending years in the banking and tech world, Ajit Sidhu started looking for something more. The shift came during the pandemic, when remote work gave him time to rethink his career path. Like many professionals at the time, Sidhu realized he wanted to run his own business. But rather than start from scratch, he turned to franchising.

“In 2021, I opened my first UPS Store in the Bay Area,” Sidhu said. “I had family and friends in the system and saw them on top franchise lists. After the pandemic, I gave my notice at my corporate job and went full-time with UPS. A year later, I added a second location.”

But Sidhu wasn’t done building. When he saw a KidStrong center in his hometown of Livermore, California, something clicked.

“The main thing that sold me on the company is that it's science-based social-emotional, mental and physical training,” he said. “It’s unique in the sense that there are go-to sports like swimming, basketball, tennis, track and field — whatever it may be — but there was this gap in the industry. There wasn’t an overall development option for children. There were specific sports and activities, but not a full, well-rounded program. That’s what caught my attention.” 

Sidhu started exploring the brand in mid-2024 and eventually signed on to open four locations. His plan is to open at least one new center each year and potentially acquire existing locations along the way.

One of the reasons Sidhu is such a strong believer in the brand is because of his own experience with fitness, which didn’t start until high school and college. This is something the franchisee says he wishes he had found it earlier.

“Growing up, I was a lot more introverted, quiet and shy. I started working out toward the end of high school, maybe early college, and that’s when my self-confidence really grew,” he said. “I felt more confident walking around, talking to people and being myself. I wish I had that self-confidence earlier on. So if we can implement these strategies in children at a younger age, I really believe we’ll be able to give them a more meaningful and fulfilled life.” 

Now, with a 10-month-old son of his own, Sidhu’s passion for the business is even more personal. He plans to enroll his son in KidStrong once he’s old enough.

For aspiring business owners, Sidhu encourages franchising as a path worth considering.

“I talk to all my friends and family and encourage franchising because of the systems and processes in place,” he said. “You can’t beat it; it’s a proven model. You get to go through training, talk to current owners and multi-unit owners, and really learn from the network. The existing infrastructure and support are why I would absolutely recommend going with a franchise.” 

As Sidhu continues to grow both his UPS Store and KidStrong portfolio, he’s staying focused on the same goal that got him into business in the first place — creating something that matters.

“My goal is to continue scaling and growing with the company,” he said. “I know they’re growing substantially and doing really well, so I’d like to grow with them.”

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong.