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How Much Does The Little Gym Franchise Cost?
The Little Gym franchise is popular for those interested in combining business with a passion for child development. It has more than 150 locations in the U.S. alone today. Should you invest in The Little Gym franchise? How much does it cost? Let’s dive into the various expenses of owning a Little Gym franchise and explore the potential returns on this investment.
The Little Gym Franchise Cost
Below you will find some critical figures that will give you a better picture before buying a Little Gym franchise. We’ve also included information from The Little Gym’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for additional insight into the children’s gym franchise.
- Initial Franchise Fee: $59,500
- Estimated Startup Costs: $465,250 – $637,000
You can also download the Franchise Guide here.
| Type of Expenditure | Cost |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $59,500 |
| Start-Up Equipment and Inventory Package | $58,000 – $75,000 |
| Exterior Signage | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Lease and Tenant Improvements | $223,650 – $270,000 |
| Furnishings, Computer Systems, Security Surveillance System, Other Equipment & Supplies | $8,400 – $22,500 |
| Architectural Fees | $16,700 – $22,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Security Deposits and Other Prepaid Expenses | $8,000 – $30,000 |
| Training Related Expenses | $17,500 – $22,500 |
| Insurance Premiums | $2,500 – $3,500 |
| Legal, Accounting and other Professional Fees | $4,000 – $11,000 |
| Legal, Accounting and other Professional Fees | $4,000 – $11,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $39,000 – $81,000 |
| Total | $465,250 – $637,000 |
About The Little Gym
At the core of The Little Gym’s philosophy is the belief that children should be able to learn and develop skills through play. The franchise aims to instill confidence, build self-esteem, and foster a love for physical activity in young children. The programs The Little Gym offers are designed to enhance motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social interaction in a non-competitive and supportive setting.
The Little Gym is a chain of infant and child-oriented fitness gyms based in Scottsdale, Arizona. It was established by Robin Wes in 1976 in Bellevue, Washington, and follows the USA Gymnastics guidelines.
Little Gym started franchising in 1992 and has over 400 locations in more than 30 countries.
Pros and Cons of The Little Gym Franchise
The Pros:
Quality training
The Little Gym offers its franchisees in-depth training to equip them with the business model. It will also prepare the company and the staff for a seamless grand opening. Likewise, the company provides online training for employees to ensure service quality and continuity.
Third-party financing scheme
The parent company guides its franchisees in terms of funding to finance their startup and operational expenses. Also, it equips them with financial management training and other analytical tools for smooth Little Gym operations.
Marketing and sales
The brand has a marketing team ready to assist franchisees in growing their Little Gym franchise.esses. It offers them efficient marketing strategies and tools, including email marketing, online marketing, email marketing, in-gym marketing, and other promotional campaigns.
Extensive corporate support
Through an experienced corporate team, the company helps franchisees easily set-up their own Little Gym. In addition, franchisees can avail of consultation services and assistance from established and successful franchisees.
Multiple income channels
The brand provides franchisees with various classes or sessions to deliver excellent services to their Little Gym members. Likewise, they provide additional service packages like birthday parties, camps, survival nights for parents to increase sales.
Site selection
The Little Gym real estate team helps franchisees in terms of site selection, design, and construction of local studios. This feature also guides future owners in lease negotiation and development.
The Cons:
Cannot operate as a home-based business
The franchise cannot thrive from home or a vehicle. Franchisees need an office space, a retail facility, or a warehouse.
Not a side hustle
The Little Gym franchise is not a side hustle or part-time/temporary business. For example, franchisees should operate according to the parent company’s operating hours.
Not a passive investment
The franchise does not support absentee ownership. It requires franchisees to participate in their studios’ daily management and decision-making fully.
No exclusive territory protection
The parent company does not give its franchisees a protected territory. Franchisees may face competition from franchises granted by the company or from competitive units it controls.
Conclusion
The Little Gym franchise is more than just a business opportunity. It’s a chance to positively impact children’s lives while running a potentially profitable venture. This is your opportunity to offer engaging and educational programs focusing on holistic development through a fitness studio franchise especially for children.
The Little Gym stands out in providing young children with essential skills that they can apply throughout their lives. As a franchisee, you can join this mission while building a successful business in the children’s enrichment industry.