Franchise Deep Dive: The Bar Method Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: October 3, 2023 
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://franchise.barmethod.com/
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 75+
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $386,522 to $537,264
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

The Bar Method is an industry-leading fitness concept that combines elements of ballet, Pilates, yoga and orthopedic exercises. Founded in 2001 by Burr Leonard, the brand focuses on low-impact, high-intensity exercises that are designed to sculpt and tone muscles while improving flexibility and posture.

According to the brand’s consumer-facing website, The Bar Method is backed by physical therapists and the sciences of anatomy and kinesthetics. Its classes and services are available for all ages and body types at any level, and its franchise studios are 100% female-owned.

The Bar Method was acquired in 2019 by Self Esteem Brands, which is the parent company to several best-in-category wellness brands, including Anytime Fitness, Basecamp Fitness and Waxing the City.

How Many Bar Method Locations Are There?

As of October 2023, there are more than 75 Bar Method studios located throughout the U.S. and Canada. The brand is actively offering new franchise opportunities across the country.

What Is The Bar Method’s Business Model?

The core of Bar Method’s business model is offering barre-based workout classes to a diverse clientele, catering to individuals of all fitness levels and backgrounds. For prospective franchisees, the brand does not require its owners to have any previous fitness industry experience. However, they do prefer franchisees to have an entrepreneurial spirit, a hands-on work mentality and a passion for empowering people through effective fitness methods.

To prepare new owners, The Bar Method provides all the necessary training required to get new franchisees up and running. This training encompasses everything from studio management, staff hiring, teaching its exclusive fitness technique and marketing assistance.

Additionally, the brand has adaptable build-outs for just about everyone’s needs. On average, a Bar Method studio is about 1,700 square feet, and has fully stocked stations and locker rooms. There are also customizable footprints for different real estate options.

The Bar Method lists the following benefits for becoming a franchisee:

• Versatile workout sessions for everybody
• Expert Barre instructors who guide and support
• Flexible footprints and aesthetic studio designs
• Inviting spaces with a strong support system
• Two decades of experience
• Complete library of online workout classes

How Much Can Bar Method Franchise Owners Make?

The Bar Method does not have a publicly available Item 19. To learn more, contact the team about reading the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which will state the total earnings of any company or franchise-owned unit as a reference.

How Much Does It Cost To Open a Bar Method Franchise?

The estimated initial investment required to open a Bar Method franchise ranges from $386,522 to $537,264. Interested candidates must also have a minimum net worth of $350K and at least $150K in liquid assets.

What Is the Franchise Fee for The Bar Method?

The Bar Method does not make its franchise fee publicly available. However, according to third-party sources, the brand requires an initial franchise fee of $42,500.

Who’s On The Bar Method’s Leadership Team?

• Burr Leonard — Founder
• Chuck Runyun — CEO and Co-Founder at Self Esteem Brands  
• Dave Mortensen — Co-Founder and President at Self Esteem Brands
• Stephanie Schon — Brand President at The Bar Method

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About The Bar Method?

• The Bar Method Franchise is Perfect for Women Entrepreneurs
• Anytime Fitness’ Parent Company Acquires The Bar Method – With Plans to Franchise Worldwide
• New Concepts, Franchisees Powering Growth at Self Esteem Brands
• In Her Own Words: Stephanie Schon raises the ‘Bar’ for women in franchising

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