Could you run your own Pilates studio? Many of our regular customers share with us that they would love to make Pilates a bigger part of their lives, and that they’ve thought about running their own studio. But it’s a big step to leave a job and go down a completely different route – they’re nervous about the process and don’t know what it involves.

So we thought we’d share this advice from our Franchise team, taken from their blog which you can read in full here.

Step 1: Choose your area

Step 1 is reserving your preferred territory with a fully refundable deposit (AU$2,000 in Australia) which gives you 60 days to do your research and check the opportunity, and for us to get to know you and talk in more depth.

Step 2: Do your research

As well as getting your own legal and financial advice you’ll be given access to a free 2 hour Griffith University course on franchising, before beginning the Franchise Agreement signing process for your chosen territory. During the research and due diligence process you’ll need to fill in your online application form to provide us with information about yourself, and join us for a 1 hour assessment interview online. 

At this stage we’ll also supply you with a business planning tool which will enable you to work out the potential viability and profitability of your Studio. It covers everything from calculating sales to inputting rent, rates, operating costs, royalties and marketing. This helps you to put together a business plan, which you’ll need if you plan to get funding through a bank. 

Step 3: Find the ideal property

Although you reserve your territory at the very start of your franchise journey, the property and location search only starts once you’re approved as a Franchisee, when you or your property agent will look for the ideal space, which is around 120 – 140 sqm, which is visible, accessible and offers parking, located near our key demographic of 25 – 45 year old females.

Step 4: Fit Out your Studio 

We will  supply all the specifications and plans you need to fit out your studio, with the aim of  maximising the workout space while still creating a welcoming space for clients to enter and one that is easy to move about. 

Step 5: Do the training

As part of your agreement we provide you with all the info and training you need to run your studio. You will receive: Operations and Administration Training; Business Training; Marketing Training; Management Training; Instructor Training & Anatomy.

Step 6: Launch your Studio

The minute you sign your lease, the marketing of your location begins. Our expert central team delivers your bespoke digital Launch campaign, and ongoing digital campaigns for your studio.  You also receive training, materials and ongoing advice to help you to promote the business in your local area. 

Hopefully that gives you an overview of the main steps involved.  You could also take a look at our FAQs about becoming a studio owner. Or, if you’d like to get some different perspectives,  take a look at our franchisee interviews and videos. 

Once you’re ready to dig a little deeper why not have a chat with our Franchise team? They’ll be able to answer any questions you have, and can put you in touch with current franchisees who will be happy to give you their personal unvarnished views. Or have a browse in the blog section of our Franchise Website, where you’ll find plenty of information and food for thought.