Firm News

PRESS RELEASE

Feb 7 2009

Tricia set to launch Curves franchise number 3

Tricia East is about to set up her third Curves franchise in South Wales, such is the popularity of the women-only fitness clubs.

She already owns Curves studios in Bridgend and Baglan, which have almost 1,000 members, and is planning to set up a Porthcawl operation later this year with the help of accountants BPU.

“Women love the Curves concept, and I have found that the businesses have gone from strength to strength since I opened the first in 2005.”

Tricia believes too, that the franchising route, which allows expansion by adopting an existing business model, is perfect in the present economic downturn. “It eliminates a large part of the risk of starting a new business,” she explained.

“You have a template to work to, and the customers will already have knowledge of what the business is offering.”

Wales has 32 Curves, and worldwide there are 10,000 clubs in 60 countries. The idea was launched in 1995 by Americans Gary and Diane Heavin, who still run the business.

“I have found franchising to be a good experience. You are provided with equipment and training, and the organisation still has the personal touch – I have Gary’s e mail address and can get in touch with him easily,” said Tricia.

The opening of the Porthcawl Curves will bring Tricia’s total investments to £200,000, and she will have created 16 jobs in the process.

The Llantwit Major office of South Wales accountants BPU has played an important part in helping Tricia achieve her success. “They have been there for us from the start offering advice and support,” said Tricia. “This was particularly helpful when we took on the first franchise and were becoming involved in a new legal agreement.”

Leah King of BPU is delighted that the step towards the third Curves operation is being taken. “Tricia has been very successful in setting up the Curves businesses, and we are looking forward to the next step. Tricia has been very good at adapting the concept to the local market, demonstrating high standards and giving attention to detail.”

Tricia says Curves has proved popular due to its two underlying principles – that women wanted single-sex gyms, and the concept of the 30 minute workout.

The 30-minute workout targets the burning of fat, says Tricia. “We work at a lower heart rate, and concentrate on burning fat. In more strenuous cardio-vascular activity, more lean tissue is burnt along with fat.

“We aim to preserve lean tissue and remove fat. Also the 30 minute workout exercises all parts of the body,” said Tricia.

“Women think they have to work really hard and sweat to make an impact, but this is not really true. It has been estimated half an hour with us is worth 90 minutes of normal gym-time.”

She is also investing in Curves Smart, an upgraded exercise system which gives full readouts of progress.

She says she sees her lady clients making enormous strides in fitness and health. “They like the atmosphere, and the community spirit we have fostered. The 30 minute concept means that a trip to the gym can be done quickly and fitted in with a busy lifestyle.

“For all these reasons women keep coming and are more likely to reach their targets in fitness and weight.”

Ends