1976
200
$150,000
$45,000
$350,000
No
Gymboree Play & Music is one of America’s most trusted and recognized names in early childhood development. With a legacy spanning over four decades, the brand has become a global leader in providing play-based learning experiences for children aged 0 to 5 years. Founded on the belief that play is an essential part of learning, Gymboree’s programs are designed to nurture creativity, confidence, and social skills in a safe and stimulating environment.
Operating in more than 30 countries with hundreds of centers across the United States, Gymboree Play & Music has built a strong reputation among parents for its research-backed curriculum and warm, community-focused approach. From sensory play to art, music, and movement classes, Gymboree delivers an enriching experience that supports every stage of a child’s early development.
As a franchise opportunity, Gymboree offers entrepreneurs the chance to be part of a proven business model within one of the fastest-growing sectors — early childhood education and enrichment. With a recognized global brand name, comprehensive training, and strong operational support, owning a Gymboree Play & Music franchise is both a rewarding and profitable business venture.
Investing in a Gymboree Play & Music franchise means aligning with a trusted brand that has been shaping young minds for generations. The demand for high-quality early learning programs in the U.S. continues to grow as more parents seek structured, safe, and creative environments for their children’s development.
Key reasons to invest:
Proven Concept: Over 45 years of success in the children’s education and enrichment industry.
Strong Brand Recognition: A globally respected name synonymous with play-based learning.
Growing Market: The U.S. early childhood education sector exceeds $60 billion annually and continues to expand.
Emotional Fulfillment: Make a lasting impact on families and communities while building a profitable business.
Scalable Model: Options for single-unit, multi-unit, or area development ownership.
Comprehensive Support: From training to ongoing marketing assistance, franchisees receive complete guidance at every stage.
Gymboree Play & Music was founded in 1976 in San Francisco, California by Joan Barnes, a mother who recognized the lack of developmental play opportunities for young children and their parents. Her vision was to create a nurturing space where children could learn through play — fostering creativity, confidence, and connection.
Over the years, the concept evolved into a global franchise with more than 700 locations worldwide, including over 200 centers in the United States. Gymboree’s programs are built on research from early childhood development experts and educators, emphasizing experiential learning through music, movement, art, and social interaction.
Today, the brand operates under Play & Music International, maintaining its position as one of the world’s premier early learning franchises. Gymboree continues to innovate by introducing new curriculum updates, digital engagement tools, and modernized centers that appeal to today’s parents while maintaining its trusted legacy.
Industry Category: Early Childhood Education, Kids Activities & Enrichment, Play-Based Learning
Gymboree Play & Music ensures that every franchisee is equipped with the tools, training, and guidance needed to run a successful operation.
Pre-Launch Support:
Site Selection & Build-Out Assistance: Guidance on choosing the right location, layout, and design to optimize space for play and learning.
Initial Training Program: A comprehensive multi-week training covering classroom operations, customer service, marketing, and financial management.
Curriculum & Program Training: Detailed instruction on Gymboree’s play, art, and music programs to maintain consistency and quality.
Operational Support:
Dedicated operations manager support during the first year of business.
Ongoing performance evaluations and improvement recommendations.
Access to digital platforms for scheduling, payments, and member management.
Marketing & Brand Support:
National and local marketing campaigns targeting parents and caregivers.
Social media assets, website support, and local PR guidance.
Seasonal promotions, event marketing, and community engagement strategies.
Ongoing Assistance:
Regular curriculum updates aligned with the latest early childhood education research.
Access to Gymboree’s proprietary online training resources and franchisee network.
Regional conferences and webinars to share best practices.
Gymboree Play & Music franchisees are passionate about children’s development, community engagement, and making a difference. While a background in education or child care is helpful, it is not required — the brand provides complete operational training and ongoing support.
Ideal Candidates Possess:
A passion for early learning, parenting, or community impact.
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
Commitment to hands-on management and maintaining quality standards.
Business or management experience (helpful but not mandatory).
Financial capability to invest in and operate a growing business.
Preferred Franchisee Profiles:
Entrepreneurs seeking a purpose-driven business.
Parents or educators wanting to combine passion with profit.
Investors looking for a recession-resistant and scalable opportunity.
Individuals located in family-oriented or suburban communities with strong demographics of young families.
Investing in a Gymboree Play & Music franchise involves a clear, structured investment plan with transparent costs and strong earning potential.
Estimated Total Investment: $180,000 – $350,000
Minimum Investment Required: $150,000
Franchise Fee: $45,000
Royalty Fee: 7% of gross sales
Marketing Fee: 2% of gross sales
Working Capital: $20,000 – $40,000
Expected ROI: Typically within 24–36 months of operation
Break-Even Period: 12–18 months (depending on location and market)
Franchise Units (USA): Over 200 active centers
Infrastructure Requirements: 2,000–3,500 sq. ft. facility with classroom partitions, play structures, and safe flooring
Revenue Streams:
Monthly memberships
Play & Music class packages
Birthday parties and events
Retail product sales (toys, educational kits, branded merchandise)
Gymboree Play & Music offers a financially sustainable business model backed by a time-tested concept, strong parent loyalty, and continuous innovation.
