How Marcelle Went From Studio Pilates Client to Franchise Owner
We sat down with our inspiring Studio Pilates franchisee Marcelle McLaughlin to talk about her journey into studio ownership and what it’s really like to run a Studio Pilates studio.
Born and raised in Melbourne, Marcelle has lived in Sydney for the past 13 years, where she first fell in love with reformer Pilates as a client at Studio Pilates. Fast forward to today, and Marcelle is the proud owner of two thriving Studio Pilates studios — Mosman in Sydney, which she purchased from an existing franchisee, and Essendon in Melbourne, where she brought Studio Pilates to her hometown with a new studio.
With a background in paediatric nursing and hospital design, Marcelle’s time in the studio sparked a deeper curiosity of a new career path. “I started doing 3 classes a week, 4 classes a week, and then 7 classes a week. I remember saying to my husband one day, I just have to do more,” she said.
And that was the moment the penny dropped for Marcelle — she wanted to own her own studio!
Having tried other Pilates studios in the past, Marcelle appreciated that Studio Pilates classes were accessible for all fitness levels, with physio-designed programming and custom spring resistance allowing one class to suit beginners through to advanced clients. Supported by SPTV visual and audio cues, alongside instructors guiding clients throughout the class, Marcelle saw a premium Pilates experience that delivered results and kept people coming back.
When weighing up opening independently versus franchising, Marcelle chose Studio Pilates for the structure, systems and unrivalled support. With the backing of the Global Support Team and world-class instructor training through the Studio Pilates Training Academy, she stepped into a tried-and-tested turnkey business with clear processes across business operations, marketing and day-to-day studio management.
Just as importantly, Studio Pilates has allowed Marcelle to build a business she can grow alongside her husband and daughter — as well as her family members aged from 14 to 80 who are all big fans of Studio Pilates — creating balance while owning something she truly believes in.
Marcelle’s story highlights the diversity of Studio Pilates franchisees, from healthcare and corporate backgrounds to fitness lovers and first-time business owners. If you’re considering opening your own studio with the support of a globally recognised Reformer Pilates brand, Marcelle’s journey is one worth watching.
Watch Marcelle’s story in the video below!
To learn more about joining our thriving network of 135+ studios across the globe, visit studiopilates.com/franchising
Inspired by Marcelle’s story and ready to speak to our team? Simply book an obligation-free franchise discovery call here
