For some franchisees, becoming a successful multi-unit owner can be several years in the making. However, for Sam Aujla it only took two. Now operating three Snap Fitness locations in Christchurch, Cross Hands and now Melksham – with three more to come in Ireland – and already servicing close to 4,000 members, Sam believes that hard work and a great franchisor-franchisee relationship are the key ingredients to his franchising success. 

How I got started in franchising

After graduating from Nottingham University in 2018 with an accounting degree, Sam found himself exploring career options. He initially stepped into an accounting role in Canary Wharf. However, due to the work-life balance, he soon realised it was not for him. He then teamed up with his dad working in property development and, after a successful year, the pair started looking for franchises to invest in. 

“Dad and I decided that franchising would be a great route for us to go down. We noticed how well the fitness industry was performing and decided we wanted to get involved. And after looking into a range of huge fitness franchises, only one really stood out to us – Snap Fitness,” explained Sam.

Why I chose Snap Fitness

“It was clear from the get-go that the brand shared our ambitions - as soon as we met the team, we knew it was the business opportunity for us. In our initial meetings with other brands, it felt like they were more interested in our investment capital. However, the team at Snap Fitness created a great atmosphere and made us feel like they wanted us to succeed. Neither Dad nor I had prior experience in the fitness industry, but they assured us that they would be able to assist us in finding a location, training staff and getting us up to speed with the day-to-day operations. 

My experience so far

“It’s been just over two years since we opened our first gym in Christchurch. The team came through on their promises - the support has been amazing. Each department is there to help whenever I have a question or new challenge. The operational support has also been fantastic, as has the help we received in marketing our locations. Over time, I’ve developed my skill set and can confidently say I now understand what it takes to run a franchise – or three.”

“My favourite thing about franchising with Snap Fitness is that we are helping people better themselves. We create a community feel at our gyms, which really makes a difference to our clients. Watching our members become happier, more confident and reach their goals is amazing to see. 

“Snap Fitness is different to other gyms on the market because we offer the convenience of training with top-quality equipment and technology – like treadmills and exercise bikes - but at affordable prices, which is something the market has been crying out for. The only evidence you need for this is that the network keeps going from strength to strength and we keep opening new studios. Looking forward, my Dad will be stepping away from the business shortly and my brother I plan on continuing to develop our network of gyms.”

My advice to prospective Snap Fitness franchisees

“My advice for anyone interested in investing with the Snap Fitness brand is that you just need to trust the process. Once you join, you become part of a team full of industry-leading experts. They have been there, done it and got the t-shirt. So, you know you’re in safe hands,” said Sam. 

If you’re ready to join one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, why not get in touch now and take the first step on your new path to changing lives?