US-based wellness franchise StretchLab is landing in Australia and it has attracted the attention of former AFL player Tory Dickson and professional cricketer James Pattinson.
The two athletes have partnered with Boutique Fitness Studios, the master franchise group that brought indoor fitness chain CycleBar to Australia.
The concept offers customised, one-on-one assisted stretch sessions with fully trained staff .
Matt Gordin, CEO of Boutique Fitness Studios, believes the model taps into the growing wellness trend and provides Aussies with an affordable entry into business ownership.
“The unique beauty of this concept is that it complements almost every other fitness brand out there. It’s adding value rather than creating competition. The franchise opportunity is an affordable, scalable way for entrepreneurs of all types to bring a proven and sustainable business model to their market.”
As investors and brand ambassadors James Pattinson and Tory Dickson are keen to tap into the buzz around personal wellness.
James said “Throughout my sporting career, I’ve experienced first-hand the role stretching can play to mitigate and recover from injury. It is no surprise this concept has taken off overseas. I’m looking forward to it succeeding here as a business and as a tool to help achieve or maintain individual well-being.”
Tory too is backing the model’s diverse appeal.
“The relevance and appeal of stretching are so widespread, making it a great investment. From elite sportspeople and amateur athletes to ageing bodies and people who understand the benefits of maintaining positive, fluid movement, StretchLab caters to all,” he said.
StretchLab is a sibling brand to CycleBar, owned by portfolio business Xponential Fitness, and has become one of its fastest-growing brands over the last three years. There are now more than 300 studio franchises awarded and 100 locations open.
Matt Gordin has plans to expand the franchise concept across Australia with a minimum of 50 studios.
The first StretchLab opens in Currambine, Western Australia, mid 2021, with the involvement of so-called ‘Stretch Coach’ Brad Walker, the original course creator and training advisor for the StretchLab program.