Franchise Deep Dive: The Gravity Vault's Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: January 2024

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://gravityvault.com/franchising 

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 12

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $1,747,150 - $3,304,300

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

The Gravity Vault is a franchise of indoor rock climbing gyms that offers various climbing walls and routes for climbers of all skill levels, as well as classes, events, and programs for both individuals and groups. 

How Many Gravity Vault Locations Are There?

The Gravity Vault was founded in 2005 by Lucas Kovalcik and Tim Walsh, with its first location opening in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. The brand expanded its offerings to include memberships, private sessions, parties, camps, competitive teams and belay classes. After four years, The Gravity Vault opened a second location in Chatham, New Jersey. In 2013, the brand began franchising, with the first franchisee-owned facility opening in Middletown, New Jersey. 

The Gravity Vault is now working on opening facilities across the East Coast to make rock climbing accessible to local communities. Today, there are 12 locations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York and California, with more in development. 

What Is The Gravity Vault’s Business Model?

The business model of The Gravity Vault revolves around the franchising of indoor rock climbing gyms. The Gravity Vault offers a comprehensive support system for franchisees, including training, guidance in location selection, financing assistance, ongoing operational support and marketing materials. The franchise fee grants access to industry discounts, business plans, training, and ongoing support. 

The Gravity Vault emphasizes inclusivity by welcoming climbers of all skill levels and ages. The franchise model allows for scalability and expansion into new communities, with a focus on providing a welcoming environment and diverse programming to introduce rock climbing to a wider audience.

The Gravity Vault opens facilities in buildings with at least 12,000 square feet and 35-40 foot ceiling height covering a portion of the space. Locating the ideal site is crucial for the success of a rock-climbing facility, and the Gravity Vault team provides comprehensive support throughout the location search process.

How Much Can Gravity Vault Owners Make?

Earnings for The Gravity Vault franchise owners are not publicly available. The franchisor notes on its website that the potential profitability of each franchise is influenced by its location and the effectiveness of owners in implementing the company's system. The Franchise Disclosure Document includes financial performance representations in Item 19, providing qualified candidates with guidance and benchmarks regarding the performance of Gravity Vault facilities.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Gravity Vault Franchise?

The initial startup costs range from $1,747,150 - $3,304,300, which includes the initial franchise fee for a ten-year term. Additionally, there is an ongoing royalty fee of 6.5% and a brand development fund contribution of 1%, both of which are calculated from gross sales and are paid weekly to the franchisor. 

The Gravity Vault seeks candidates with a minimum of $350,000 in liquid capital and a net worth of at least $750,000 for investment. While most franchisees finance a portion of the initial startup costs, meeting these financial criteria is essential for potential franchise ownership.

What Is the Franchise Fee for The Gravity Vault?

The franchise fee is $79,500 and gives franchisees access to industry leading discounts, business plans and pro-forma estimates for financing. It also covers the initial training and guidance from the Gravity Vault team. 

Who Are the Leaders of The Gravity Vault?

• Tim Walsh - Founder
• Lucas Kovalcik - Founder
• Jamie Harpster - Chief Operating Officer

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More?

• Start a The Gravity Vault Franchise in 2024
• How The Gravity Vault Can Help You Succeed in Business
• Franchising With The Gravity Vault – A Unique Approach to Climbing Gym Ownership

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Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.

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