Photo credit: Emilie Sandy Photography
No matter how you slice it, being named the best international franchise in the world is impressive. Claiming the title for a second year in a row, well that’s simply amazing. That’s the situation Anytime Fitness has found itself in, after Entrepreneur has once again awarded it the top spot in the Top Global Franchise category in its annual Franchise 500.
Seeing off giants like Subway and Papa John’s, this is the second time the fitness franchise has been recognised as the premier international franchise in as many years, having first received the title in 2015. However, anyone familiar with Anytime Fitness’ success story shouldn’t be at all surprised.
After launching their first franchise in Cambridge, Minnesota in 2012, Chuck Runyon, CEO of Anytime Fitness, and his co-founders have since opened clubs in over 20 countries. Opening on average 300 franchises annually over the past eight years, the fitness franchise is set to open its 3,000th club later this summer. And, given Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 is graded based on criteria such as system size, growth, financial strength and stability, it certainly seems like the decision to recognise Anytime Fitness as the top global franchise was a no-brainer.
“This designation as the number one Top Global Franchise is a credit to our international development team and our fabulous group of international master franchisees,” said Chuck Runyon, CEO and co-founder of Anytime Fitness.
With the award and the meteoric rise of the company, is safe to say that Anytime Fitness has only started to flex its muscles.”
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
