Established
2005
Franchise Units
150
Minimum Investment
$1,200,000
Franchise Fee
$60,000
Total Investment Range
$2,500,000
Home Based
No
Description
The RetroFitness franchise is built around one powerful idea: make high-quality fitness affordable, accessible, and welcoming for everyday Americans. In a market often dominated by high-end boutique studios and expensive monthly memberships, RetroFitness carved out a strong middle-market position by offering full-service gyms at a value price point without compromising on equipment, cleanliness, or member experience.
RetroFitness clubs are designed to attract a broad demographic, from first-time gym members and casual fitness users to committed strength trainers and cardio enthusiasts. Each location combines modern cardio equipment, strength training zones, free weights, functional training areas, group fitness classes, and personal training services under one roof. The brand’s bright, energetic club design and community-focused atmosphere help drive consistent foot traffic and long-term member retention.
What truly sets RetroFitness apart is its scalable business model. Membership-driven recurring revenue, strong unit economics, and proven systems allow franchisees to operate efficiently while building predictable cash flow. With fitness and wellness continuing to be a priority across the U.S., RetroFitness remains well positioned to benefit from long-term industry growth, particularly in suburban and secondary markets where demand for affordable gyms remains strong.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
RetroFitness offers a compelling investment opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking entry into the resilient and growing fitness industry.
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Proven Brand Recognition
RetroFitness has spent years building a recognizable name in the value-based fitness segment, earning trust from members who want quality without premium pricing. -
Recurring Revenue Model
Monthly memberships create predictable, subscription-based income, helping smooth cash flow and reduce seasonality risks. -
Broad Target Market
The brand appeals to a wide age and income range, expanding the potential member base compared to niche fitness concepts. -
Operational Systems in Place
From site selection to grand opening and daily operations, franchisees benefit from refined processes that reduce startup mistakes. -
Scalable Growth Potential
Multi-unit ownership opportunities allow experienced operators to expand within a region and leverage shared management resources. -
Industry Resilience
Health and fitness spending continues to grow as consumers prioritize wellness, preventative health, and lifestyle improvement.
Background
Established Year
RetroFitness was founded in 2005.
Founders
The brand was founded by Eric Casaburi, an entrepreneur with a vision to bring affordable, high-quality fitness facilities to local communities.
Brand Journey and Company History
RetroFitness began as a single gym concept focused on delivering premium equipment and services at a reasonable cost. Over time, the brand refined its operating systems, membership pricing strategies, and club layouts to support franchising. As demand grew, RetroFitness expanded across multiple U.S. states, establishing itself as a recognizable name in the value fitness segment.
Ownership and Structure
RetroFitness operates as a franchised fitness brand, supporting independent owners with centralized systems, branding, and ongoing operational guidance.
Market Presence in the USA
The franchise has over 150+ active units across the United States, with additional locations in various stages of development. Clubs are commonly found in suburban retail centers, mixed-use developments, and high-traffic community locations.
Industry Category
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Fitness and Wellness
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Gym and Health Club Franchises
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Membership-Based Service Businesses
Support Training
RetroFitness provides comprehensive support designed to help franchisees succeed from day one and beyond.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and territory analysis
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Lease review support and space planning recommendations
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Club layout design and equipment planning
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Vendor coordination and procurement assistance
Training Programs
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Initial franchisee training covering operations, staffing, sales, and financial management
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In-club operational training prior to opening
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Sales process training focused on membership acquisition and retention
Marketing & Branding Support
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Pre-opening marketing campaigns to build early membership momentum
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National brand marketing initiatives
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Local marketing playbooks for digital and community outreach
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Ongoing promotional strategies to support seasonal sales cycles
Operational & Ongoing Support
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Dedicated franchise support team
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Performance benchmarking and KPI tracking
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Software systems for member management, billing, and reporting
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Continued education and operational updates as the brand evolves
Ideal Candidate
The RetroFitness franchise is well suited for motivated entrepreneurs who value structured systems and community-based business ownership.
Background & Experience
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Business ownership or management experience preferred
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Sales, hospitality, or service-based industry experience is beneficial
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Fitness industry experience is helpful but not required
Personal Traits
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Strong leadership and people management skills
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Customer-service mindset with a passion for health and wellness
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Willingness to follow a proven system while executing locally
Investment Capability
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Ability to meet minimum investment and liquidity requirements
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Comfortable managing recurring operational expenses
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Interest in long-term, scalable business growth
Location Preference
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Suburban or high-density residential areas
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Retail centers with strong visibility and parking
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Markets with limited affordable full-service gym options
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Initial Investment | $1,200,000 – $2,500,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $500,000+ |
| Net Worth Requirement (Estimated) | $1.5M+ |
| Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | $400,000 – $900,000 |
| Fitness Equipment & Fixtures | $350,000 – $700,000 |
| Technology & Software Systems | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing & Advertising | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Initial Training & Travel Costs | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| Royalty Fee | Ongoing percentage of gross revenue |
| National / Brand Marketing Fee | Ongoing contribution required |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Memberships, personal training, classes, retail |
| Growth Potential | Single-unit and multi-unit ownership |
