How to Open Your Studio Pilates Franchise With a Waitlist
When it comes to opening a business, the single most important asset you can have is clients, something our Coolum Beach franchisee Loren Penissi definitely wasn’t short of when she opened her studio in November 2022 with a huge waitlist! Loren is a former Studio Pilates Client whose passion for the premium product led her to purchase her very own studio, which not only booked out 2 weeks prior to even opening, but also saw a staggering 634 client visits and generated $71,700 revenue in her opening week. Loren is proof that passion is the key ingredient that will help you open your Studio Pilates Franchise with a waitlist…
What was the catalyst that inspired you to buy your first franchise?
I was interested almost immediately once I became a Studio Pilates client. After trying so many different things and other reformer studios, Studio Pilates was the one that gave me consistent results, so I simply knew they had the right formula for me. If it was right for me, it must be right for so many others so when I started looking for another business, I just couldn't go past it.
What was your previous professional history prior to purchasing a franchise?
Professional Dance for 20 years overseas and in Australia and dance teacher for 25+ years. I’m also the owner/operator of a performing arts school in Paddington Brisbane and owner/operator of a Cafe/Bar in Noosa Heads.
What do you love about the franchise model?
The consistency & heavier springs.
What was it about the SP franchise model that stood out against other Pilates franchises?
I wasn't really interested in other franchises to be honest as I was that raving SP fan. Also, it was my personal experience with the brand and the instructors and owner at Ashgrove, who were just so lovely and nurturing while challenging at the same time. You just can't compare the model to anything else out there.
Do you have a passion for Pilates or was it something you saw more as a business investment?
Absolute passion no question there. I want to help people and there’s no better way than making them look and feel better about themselves, which is what SP has done for me!
How have you found the process of opening a Studio Pilates Studio?
Interesting and rewarding. Of course, there is always more to opening a business than what you first think but there was more leg work on my end with discovering what needed to be done when and who was responsible for what than I thought. I would do a few things differently next time but all in all it has been a good experience. I have learnt a lot more about SP and myself through the process. I would love to do it again and open a second studio!
What's your day-to-day involvement with SP like?
The first thing I do every day when I wake up is check Mindbody messenger & Mindbody online and the last thing I do before going to bed is check Mindbody online & Mindbody messenger. Basically, I live, eat and breathe it everyday. Day to day I am in the studio instructing and managing the studio.
What would you say to anyone who is on the fence about buying a Studio Pilates studio?
Do it, you won’t regret it - in fact, you will regret not doing it!
If you're interested in starting your franchisee journey, email or call one of our friendly and helpful team:
AUS, NZ, Canada, Europe: John L. Scott - joinus@studiopilates.com or call +61 43 117 8272
USA: January Swiderski - usajoinus@studiopilates.com or call 09173103883
UK: Alison Day - ukjoinus@studiopilates.com or call 02032891442.
