Contours Express
At a Glance
Products & Services: Women's fitness center
Number of Locations: 424
Total Investment: $65K - 95K
Founded: 1998
Began Franchising: 1998
Private Owned
About Contours Express
Contours Express is an internationally franchised system of women's gyms that uses only weight-bearing equipment specially designed and sized for women.Members follow a 29-minute cue tape that moves them through aerobic stations and strength-training machines. A fitness trainer--the franchisee or an employee--assists the members during their workouts, providing motivation and other services. Gyms range between 1,200 square feet and 1,500 square feet in size.
The company began its first run of newly branded national TV advertising in 2006. The franchisor is also forming regional marketing cooperatives. Franchisees are offered extensive training and ongoing marketing support.
Franchise Units
| Year | U.S. | Canadian | International | Company Owned |
| 2009 | 86 | 9 | 328 | 1 |
| 2008 | 166 | 10 | 284 | 0 |
Where Seeking Franchisees: Franchisor is seeking new units internationally.
Startup Costs, Ongoing Fees and Financing
Total Investment: $65,000 - $95,000
Franchise Fee: $18,000
Ongoing Royalty Fee: $395/mo.
Term of Franchise Agreement: 10 years, renewable
Franchise Fee: $18,000
Ongoing Royalty Fee: $395/mo.
Term of Franchise Agreement: 10 years, renewable
Financial Requirements
Net Worth: $100,000
Liquid Cash Available: $25,000
Operations
25% of all franchisees own more than one unit. Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 2. Absentee ownership of franchise is allowed. (70% of current franchisees are owner/operators).| Financing Type | In-House | Third Party |
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How This Franchise Supports Franchisees
Training: Available at headquarters: 5 days. At franchisee's location: 3 days. Ongoing training seminars
Ongoing Support: Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Grand opening, Internet, Security/safety procedures, Field operations/evaluations, Purchasing cooperatives,
Marketing Support: Ad slicks, National media, Regional advertising,
Franchise Ranking History
America's Top Global: #94 (2008),