The Great Franchisee | After Being a Workout Anytime Member for 12 Years, Local Opens New Location in Dalton

Mirsad Berkolli moved to the U.S. when he was 15 years old. Since then, he has been working hard to achieve his American Dream. When Berkolli stepped into a Workout Anytime 12 years ago as a gym member, he knew he wanted to own his own location one day. 

After years of hard work, the Berkollis are achieving their dreams by opening not one Workout Anytime location — but three. Berkolli’s first gym location will be opening in Dalton in 2023. He is excited to bring the gym environment that he loves to his community.

1851 Franchise spoke with Berkolli to learn more about his franchising journey with Workout Anytime.

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Mirsad Berkolli: I was 15 years old when I came to the U.S. from Albania. I’ve been working ever since in different types of industries. I’m currently working at Whirlpool. I used to go to a Workout Anytime, and I always dreamed of owning my own one day. The gym was always so clean, and the staff was so friendly. Workout Anytime also offers so many things besides just a gym. They offer tanning, massages and more. My wife and I have been saving ever since. Recently, I thought it was time to begin my business ownership dream.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Berkolli: I didn’t really have a perception of franchising. When I started looking at other gyms, Workout Anytime seemed the best fit. I love it because it’s not too big, and the franchise fees are low. 

1851: What makes you stand out as business owners in your local community?

Berkolli: I’m going to try the absolute hardest that I can. I want the gym to be the best it can be. That means it needs to be a clean, friendly and welcoming environment.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Berkolli: I loved the sizes of the gyms, and the initial price was more affordable. I also was a member of a Workout Anytime before the pandemic for 12 years, so I know how it feels to be a member there. 

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth? 

Berkolli: I want to grow as much as I can. I just want to be successful in any way possible and give the gym members a great experience. Once I get the first location running smoothly, I will look into expanding.

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming a franchise owner?

Berkolli: Work hard and never give up. In order to achieve your goals, you have to be willing to put in the work.