Powerhouse gym launched its Indian operations in 2005 and ever since there has been no looking back. Today, it has seven branches and has recently signed up its eighth location, in Mumbai. In an interview with Abha Garyali, Ankush Gupta, Director and CEO, Powerhouse Fitness Limited and master franchisee, SAARC Countries shares the success story
Abha Garyali (AG): How did Powerhouse gym India come into being?
Ankush Gupta (AG): The Gupta family was into the gym business since 1999 with a small presence in Santacruz (W), Mumbai by the name of Q’s. It was in 2005 that we realised that what difference an International brand would make to the fitness industry. This is how Powerhouse gyms India happened. Powerhouse gym launched its first Indian outlet in 2005 in an area of 6,000 sq ft at Concorde Co-op Housing Society, Juhu.
AG: How is ‘Powerhouse gym India’ different from other fitness centers in India?
AG: Powerhouse gym India is a Ltd Company concern of Powerhouse Fitness Ltd. It has a state of art facilities, be it equipments, technology and fitness programs required to get the desired results for the members. The gym provides all kind of services related to health and fitness.
AG: What led to your company’s foray into franchising?
AG: We believe that aspiring entrepreneurs in India can add more value to the success of Powerhouse gym brand by contributing their individual achievements. This thought made us to think about our foray into franchising.
AG: How many fitness centers do you have at present? Which are the target locations for your expansion?
AG: Powerhouse gym India currently runs eight fitness centers in Mumbai. It plans to open two corporate centers and five franchised outlets every year. Our target areas are basically southern and western India. Our vision is to serve 300000 members over the next 5 years.
AG: What kind of training and support do you offer to your franchisee?
AG: A prospective franchisee shall get complete knowledge regarding the running of a gym business. We share the technology with the franchisees and make sure that the model of the club fits the market, defining services and amenities and ensure the best pricing for the equipments.
AG: Is fitness background necessary to secure a franchise of Powerhouse gym India’?
AG: No, the only thing that is needed by our prospective franchisee is a positive and healthy attitude.
