The East Midlands-based business has officially stepped into the franchise world, offering its proven concept to aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide – as the only British Franchise Association (BFA) accredited martial arts franchise in the industry.
For Proaction, a team built on discipline, confidence and community, this milestone is less about breaking boards and more about breaking new ground as the brand continues to expand its reach.
Founded in 2002 by chief instructor and director Tom Nicholson, the business started with a simple ambition – to create a martial arts community that stood for more than just punches and kicks. Fast forward to today, and that vision has evolved into 15 thriving clubs across Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire and the East Midlands, welcoming thousands of members each week. At its core, Proaction’s purpose has remained constant: to nurture confidence, resilience and personal development in a positive, inclusive setting. From beginners to black belts, every class is designed to help people grow both on and off the mats.
Now, with the launch of its franchise opportunity, Proaction is inviting martial arts enthusiasts and business-minded individuals to join a fast-growing success story. Building on a strong reputation in the regions surrounding its Northamptonshire headquarters, the company operates six additional sites across the Midlands, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire – all united by the same energy, ethos and community spirit that have made Proaction a trusted local name for over two decades.
For Tom, the timing couldn’t be better: “We’ve seen an incredible demand for martial arts. Families are looking for activities that bring real value, and that’s exactly what we deliver. Expanding through franchising means we can reach more communities, while giving passionate people the chance to run their own successful business.”
That dedication to ethical franchising has already attracted attention. As Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA, explained, “We’re delighted to welcome Proaction Martial Arts & Fitness to the BFA as ‘Emerging’ members.
“The BFA has been the country’s self-regulatory body for franchising since 1977, and in choosing to become members, they are joining more than 330 of the most professional franchise operations in the country, each pledging to uphold the association’s Code of Ethical Conduct and to run their franchises in a responsible and professional manner. We look forward to supporting Proaction on their franchising journey and seeing their continued growth in the fitness sector.”
To support its expansion journey, the team has partnered with Platinum Wave – one of the UK’s top franchise consultancies. With founder and CEO Suzie McCafferty QFP and her expert team by their side, new franchise partners benefit from the knowledge, systems and hands-on guidance needed to build a thriving business from day one. It’s a collaboration that combines franchise expertise with martial arts passion – the perfect formula for long-term success.
“I wish every brand took building their franchise model as seriously as Proaction have! We really enjoy working with them and see so much potential for them to grow all over the country – maybe even beyond. It’s a huge milestone for them to have been awarded BFA membership and accreditation, which further endorses all their hard work and dedication – and gives them undeniable credibility in their sector,” said Suzie.
“Being recognised by the BFA in this way is a huge moment of pride for us,” added co-director Jas Nicholson. “It shows the quality we’ve built and gives us the expertise and resources to grow. Now, we’re on the hunt for passionate candidates who are ready to kickstart a new business!”
