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Name:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwaetzig/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-marketing-leaders-chad-waetzig-chief-marketing-officer-crunch-fitness-2731272" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chad Waetzig</a>Role:&nbsp;Chief Marketing OfficerBrand:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.crunch.com/franchise?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-marketing-leaders-chad-waetzig-chief-marketing-officer-crunch-fitness-2731272" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Crunch Fitness</a>With more than 450 locations worldwide and a brand known for making serious fitness fun, Crunch Fitness has built a loyal following. Leading that charge is Chief Marketing Officer Chad Waetzig, whose career spans iconic companies like Procter &amp; Gamble, Marriott International and Starwood Hotels &amp; Resorts. At Crunch, Waetzig brings a strategic yet lighthearted approach to franchise marketing that balances national consistency with local creativity.Waetzig believes the secret to great franchise marketing lies in collaboration. His team sets the vision, builds the brand and leads storytelling around Crunch’s “No Judgments” experience while empowering franchisees to bring that story to life in their own communities. By combining clear data-driven insights with humor and human connection, Waetzig has helped make Crunch’s marketing both highly effective and deeply relatable, proving that when franchisors and franchisees work together, the total is far greater than the sum of its parts.<h3>Q&amp;A With Chad Waetzig, Chief Marketing Officer, Crunch Fitness&nbsp;</h3>1851 Franchise: How did you find your way to franchising and franchise marketing?Chad Waetzig:&nbsp;After spending the first decade of my career at Procter &amp; Gamble, I shifted gears and took a brand strategy role with Marriott International. That was my first experience with franchising and franchise marketing. I couldn’t have had a better opportunity to learn about the power of franchising and the close relationship the franchisor and franchisees have to have to drive great marketing results. Those five years deeply involved in franchising certainly left a positive impact on future franchise company roles with Starwood Hotels &amp; Resorts and here at Crunch Fitness.1851 Franchise: What makes franchise marketing uniquely challenging (and rewarding) compared to corporate-only marketing?Waetzig:&nbsp;There is a real power in franchise marketing, where the total is far greater than the sum of its parts. Working closely with our franchise partners, who are in the best position to know each local market’s dynamics, allows us to collectively win at what is a very hyperlocal business.Our role is to set the vision, build the brand, generate demand and lead the storytelling that defines Crunch’s “No Judgments” experience, but we need our franchise partners to deliver tactical campaigns that resonate with their local consumers to capture that demand. The challenge is speaking as “One Crunch,” maintaining brand consistency while giving owners the freedom within a framework to connect with their communities. When done well, this approach builds authentic engagement and provides insights that strengthen the brand overall.1851 Franchise: What is the single most powerful lever a marketing team can pull to directly impact franchisees’ profitability at the unit level?Waetzig:&nbsp;We believe strongly that our role is to help our franchisees maximize their enterprise value. Giving franchisees the right data, tools and guidance on where, when and how much to spend to drive lifetime value is central to their profitability at a unit level. Without that, franchisees may suboptimize getting the right message to the right consumer at the right time. Marketing is an investment and providing clear data and strategic insights help owners understand the returns they should expect for those investments at each location.1851 Franchise: What is an untapped marketing opportunity you see for franchise brands?Waetzig:&nbsp;An untapped opportunity is turning everyday customer conversations into marketing ideas. Most brands push campaigns from the top down, but taking the time to listen to members and understand what they care about can inspire ideas for franchise brands and help them connect with their national audience and local communities through new ideas or events.Marketing at its most basic breaks down into three core components: You (consumer) have a problem or issue that we (the brand) understand. Our (product/service/offering) addresses this issue better than anyone else. And the reason why is “this.” We have found that leveraging humor to communicate our understanding of the consumers’ problem is a great way to breakthrough. We believe humor is relatable and draws audiences in. Over the last couple of years, our “Feel Good, Not Bad” and “Feel Good Here” marketing campaigns did just that, captured mindshare through humor.With the general worries many consumers have — like the economy, armed conflicts and political tensions — everyone looks for an outlet to feel good. One of the best ways to help consumers do that is by working out at Crunch, where we help them activate their endorphins and create a positive, fun and joyful space for them.Franchise brands can resonate with people through campaigns that are humorous, inspiring and deliver on their brand promise through both traditional and social media.1851 Franchise: What is one marketing fad or buzzword that you believe will actually deliver real results in the coming year?Waetzig:&nbsp;Of course, the easy answer is AI. But beyond that, I think that authenticity is the biggest advantage a brand can have right now. Consumers are feeling the weight of the world — with economic challenges, geopolitical strife and a culture focused on our divisions as opposed to what unites us. Brands that are true to their DNA and not ping-ponging to the latest fad or trend tell stories about their product or service that are truly relevant to the consumer. When they see messaging that matters to them, it has the potential to break through that negativity they are feeling, and it resonates, driving real results.Back to AI. The next few years, we will see dramatic evolution, with AI playing a bigger role in everything from extracting insights from first-party data to media planning, to content development, to agent-assisted commerce. I’m probably not smart enough to know what it will all exactly look like, but I can say with confidence that 2030 will look very different from 2025. The big key for me will be for brands, franchisees and agencies to avoid the temptation to create AI slop.1851 Franchise: What’s your boldest franchise marketing take? (A tactic used today that will be obsolete in the next five years? Something that almost no one is currently doing but will be revolutionary in the near future?)Waetzig:&nbsp;In a short amount of time, brands and competition will become better marketers as AI adoption and refinement take hold, as they leverage their first-party data in ever stronger ways and as current media targeting becomes more sophisticated. Those franchise brands that don’t speak with one voice, that don’t leverage the power of the brand — that the total is greater than the sum of their parts — will get left behind. The competition is more sophisticated than ever before. Franchisees who believe they should do it alone will find competing will be tough. The franchise brands that will win in the future are the ones that work, and market, in true partnership.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisors grow their franchises with confidence? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-marketing-leaders-chad-waetzig-chief-marketing-officer-crunch-fitness-2731272" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and see what we can do for you.

Chad Waetzig on Leading Franchise Marketing at Crunch Fitness

1851 Franchise

Waetzig blends data, humor and authenticity to strengthen the brand’s “No Judgments” message while helping franchisees connect with their communities.

Top Franchise Marketing Leaders: Chad Waetzig — Chief Marketing Officer, Crunch Fitness

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Mosquito Squad Plus

 Mosquito Squad Plus Named a Top 100 Franchise for Veterans by Franchise Business Review

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HomeTeam Inspection Service

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HomeTeam Inspection Service 2026 Annual Conference Highlights Franchise Support, Innovation and Momentum

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CapitalSpring

Franchise Times: Alloy Personal Training Backed by CapitalSpring to Fuel Franchise Growth

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Onigilly Japanese Kitchen

How Focused Menus Improve Franchisee Performance at Onigilly

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Extraordinary Brands

NEIGHBORHOOD barre Expands Through Franchising Nationwide With a Model Built for Local Communities

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Private Equity Fuels Jiffy Lube’s Next Chapter as Monomoy Strikes $1.3 Billion Deal

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McDonald’s and Burger King Take the QSR Burger Wars to Social Media

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Yum! Brands Pizza Hut Sale - 1851 Franchise

Possible Pizza Hut Sale Signals Shift in Yum! Brands’ Franchise Strategy

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Restaurants Stand Out in 2025 Hiring as Consumers Look for Simple Treats

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Photo of SONIC franchise logo against blue sky backdrop

KBP Brands Acquires 78 SONIC Locations Across Five States

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Ellianos Coffee Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A drive-thru specialty coffee franchise focused on speed, quality and Southern hospitality.

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Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A fast-casual restaurant brand serving made-from-scratch sandwiches, salads, soups and pizzas rooted in Southern hospitality.


Newk’s Eatery Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

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Window Genie Franchise - Deep Dive 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Window Genie is an owner-led, multi-service exterior cleaning brand with recurring demand and Neighborly backing that simplifies operations and supports growth.

Window Genie Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

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No-H2O Franchise Deep Dive - Costs, Fees, Profit and Data - 1851 Franchise

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: No-H2O is a waterless, app-driven car-care model with mobile, pop-up or static formats, low infrastructure, quick ramp-up, matched marketing and systemwide accounts.

No-H2O Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

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How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How much can franchisees make? This guide explains what drives franchise earnings and how to manage costs, with expert tips from multi-unit owner Mangesh Patel on maximizing your franchise income.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

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<a href="https://hardeesfranchising.com/">Hardee’s</a>, a 65-year-old burger chain best known for its Thickburgers and breakfast biscuits, is facing a fast-moving round of closures driven by a franchise dispute rather than a bankruptcy filing.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/hardees-shutting-dozens-restaurants/91282586">Inc. recently reported that</a> 77&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hardees-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721286">Hardee’s</a> restaurants are expected to close within two weeks as one of the brand’s largest franchisees exits the system.&nbsp;According to the report, Hardee’s is suing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.arcburger.com/">ARC Burger</a> — a franchise operator owned by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.highbluffcap.com/">High Bluff Capital Partners</a> — alleging the company fell behind on required payments and other contract obligations. Twenty-eight locations had already gone dark as of late December, with remaining sites scheduled to shutter across eight states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, Montana, South Carolina and Wyoming.&nbsp;At the center of the complaint is the franchising “stack” of ongoing fees and pass-through costs that keep a system running. ARC Burger allegedly owes more than $6.5 million, including royalties, advertising fund contributions, technology and training fees, rent and taxes, and that payments stopped in December 2024. Hardee’s also argued in the lawsuit that the franchisee’s cash flow was not being used to bring accounts current.&nbsp;Hardee’s, for its part, is framing the shutdowns as a contractual enforcement issue, not a brand-wide retrenchment. “These closures are a result of ARC Burger’s failure to cure its defaults under its franchise agreements, despite solid sales,” a Hardee’s spokesperson said.&nbsp;The situation highlights a familiar franchising pressure point: unit economics. Inc. reported that Hardee’s operates more than 1,800 U.S. restaurants and that average annual sales per location are less than $1.2 million, well below averages cited for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-wendys-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722520">Wendy’s</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-buy-a-mcdonalds-franchise-2724654#stories">McDonald’s</a>. Lower volumes can leave franchisees with less room to absorb higher labor, food and occupancy costs while staying current on fees.&nbsp;Hardee’s said it is working to limit fallout for workers and communities and is looking for ways to reopen closed restaurants. For franchising, the next chapter will likely involve finding replacement operators, transferring sites and rebuilding compliance — a reminder that franchise growth depends as much on franchisee solvency and execution as it does on consumer demand.Read the original article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/hardees-shutting-dozens-restaurants/91282586">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

The closures stem from alleged unpaid royalties and missed franchise obligations by a major operator, not a broader chainwide collapse for the Hardee’s system.

Hardee’s Lawsuit Targets Franchisee as 77 Restaurants Prepare to Shut Down

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As the health and wellness business in America continues to fill out, the fitness industry is growing alongside it. The industry now generates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/gym-fitness-franchises/5599/">over $7 billion</a> in annual revenue, with a revenue increase of nearly 3% in 2023 alone.Rebounding since COVID, both big box and boutique franchises have shown&nbsp;<a href="https://athletechnews.com/fitness-franchising-by-the-numbers-10-key-stats/">membership growth</a>, with premium establishments up 21% compared to a whopping enrollment bump of almost 70% on the budget gym side.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>The Pros And Cons Of Big Box Gyms</h3>When it comes to choosing the right fitness franchise, there are pros and cons to each.Big box gyms are able to cast a wider net, attracting a clientele ranging anywhere from newbie to seasoned veteran, with a lower cost of entry potentially attracting even the marginally curious to the idea of a well-established, properly marketed brand.&nbsp;Big box and other low-cost fitness franchises are also able to capitalize on services like personal training and retail amenities, increasing revenue.Driven by recurring membership fees, big box gyms generally cost less. However, the wider net cast in terms of building a clientele, tends to require more equipment in a bigger space, increasing costs like rent. And with a wider array of workout machines to both service and maintain, additional costs tend to follow.<h3>The Pros And Cons Of Boutique Fitness Concepts</h3>On the boutique side, franchises are typically able to offer a more personalized fitness experience, catering to niche markets with an eye on community, quality and loyalty. However, a more hands on approach to management and day-to-day operations may also be necessary to deliver the more customized, immersive experience often demanded of the more boutique environment.As a result, boutique fitness concepts are typically able to capitalize on a more premium pricing model driven by the idea of exclusivity.But, while less equipment in a smaller space can help rein in expenses, it can also be difficult to build the more specific clientele required by the boutique experience, rendering selection of proper location crucial.<h3>Finding The Right Fit</h3>As potential franchisees assess the available opportunities in the fitness franchise realm, it’s important to ponder a number of factors which can impact the bottom line.In terms of budgeting, a full understanding of both initial investment and ongoing operational costs is crucial.&nbsp;Getting to know the customer and surrounding area can help franchisees assess just how much the consumer is looking to pay for a gym membership, helping clarify the big box versus boutique decision when it comes to the question of how to buy a franchise.There’s also market saturation, with big box gyms in particular becoming an increasingly crowded marketplace.On the management side, it’s important for franchisees to seize upon a specific approach, whether it’s applying a more hands on style to the level of personal interaction required on the boutique side or focusing on the moving parts in play in the larger, more complex big box environment.&nbsp;When it comes to buying a fitness franchise, an understanding of the consumer, proper assessment of the marketplace and specific approach to management can go a long way towards avoiding potential risk, helping franchisees find success as they ponder entrepreneurship via fitness franchises.For more info on fitness franchises, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/fitness-franchises-2025-trends-opportunities-2729600">The Rise of Fitness Franchises in 2025: Trends, Opportunities and What to Expect</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-health-and-wellness-franchises-2729821">Top 15 Health and Wellness Franchises Opportunities for 2025</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/fitness-wellness-franchise-guide-2729443">How To Choose the Right Fitness or Wellness Franchise for You</a></li></ul>

Buying a fitness franchise, people exercising

As the fitness industry continues to grow fast, the decision for potential franchisees lies in whether to invest in big box or boutique gym franchise opportunities.

Top Franchise Marketing Leaders: Chad Waetzig — Chief Marketing Officer, Crunch Fitness

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