"Every business venture has its risks and challenges. It’s comforting to know that we are working with a group of pioneers who have seen a lot, and overcome a lot to be credited with so many small business successes."
Three and a half years ago, I had a meeting that would change my life forever. That meeting was with Jerome Kern, and I was inquiring about purchasing a Massage Envy franchise.
Jerome walked me through the business concept and eventually helped me acquire three Massage Envy locations. All three of my locations are very successful, which I attribute directlyto the advice, support, and business acumen of Jerome and David Long. They both have taken a caring, hands-on approach to my success. As the Regional VP of Massage Envy, David was ready and willing to provide any assistance that I needed along the way.
As a testament to Jerome and David’s leadership, I have also gone on to build European Wax Centers in Boca Raton, FL and in Atlanta, GA. I am also the Regional Director for European Wax Center in the state of Georgia. The sole reason I chose to get involved with European Wax Center on such a large scale is because David and Jerome lead the way, helping me realize those opportunities.
- Mark Sturman, Massage Envy Franchisee, European Wax Center Developer
Big Dreams Require the Right Team
Prior to opening my first Orangetheory Fitness studio, I spent 20 years owning and operating small, personal-touch fitness centers in the South Miami area. My wife Christina and I always made ends meet, but we struggled to grow and expand. We were bogged down with operations, marketing, and managing; but we dreamed of owning multiple centers for group fitness – an industry that we knew and loved so much. By chance, in 2011, I overheard my equipment company discussing a new fitness concept sweeping South Florida called Orangetheory Fitness. Of course, I immediately went home and Googled it! I saw a highly recognized name in the industry, Ellen Latham, whom I had followed for years. I also recognized the Ascente Group, who owns the South Florida region for Massage Envy. That same day, I made a call to Orangetheory Fitness corporate that would eventually change my life!
I was extremely reluctant to become involved with a franchise, because I had always made all of my own business decisions. I was, however, impressed when I called Orangetheory and one of the actual owners took my phone call. It was Jerome Kern. I credit Jerome for giving me the guidance and insight to finally take the plunge, and I signed on with OTF in 2012. At first glance, I was only focused on how great the fitness concept was. I did not know how great the business model was as well – and that is where I credit Dave Long. Every great company has great leadership, and Dave is that leader. His vision and experience in the industry has been critical to our overall success. Fast forward to 2015: I now have three open Orangetheory Fitness locations with two more in development. Ellen, Jerome, and Dave have built a corporate team that has far surpassed my wildest expectations. The support structure they have created has been outstanding and has allowed myself and my family to succeed in ways we never dreamed.
Mike Singer, Orangetheory Fitness Franchisee
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