Fitness Franchise Opportunity
Turn your passion for fitness into an exciting career opportunity through our nationally accredited Certificate in Fitness courses. Graduates enjoy a great lifestyle with flexible working hours and can work anywhere in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not surprisingly many people have the same questions when they first start to investigate whether to become a Fernwood franchise partner, so we’ve pulled together answers to your most common questions below. If the answer to your question isn’t below go to Let’s Talk and submit your question.
Fernwood's Frequently asked questions
1. How can Fernwood be female only?
Fernwood has obtained a letter of comfort from the Federal Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission as well as an exemption from the State Equal Opportunities Commission.
2. Are there ongoing fees?
Yes, there is a franchise royalty which is 7% of gross revenue, to be paid on a weekly basis. In addition, you will contribute 5% of your gross revenue to the National Marketing Fund.
3. Do I need experience in the industry?
No. Many of our franchisees have had no experience in the fitness industry and come from many diverse backgrounds. We will train you and your staff in every aspect of the business.
4. Are all applicants accepted as franchisees?
No. Each is assessed on their suitability to being a Fernwood franchisee.
5. Am I able to choose my own location or are there designated territories?
Fernwood has designated Primary Marketing Areas (PMAs) in each of the capital cities. These were designed by a demographic analysis company that mapped the capital cities based on the criteria established by Fernwood.
6. How long is the franchise agreement? Are there options for renewal or sale?
The agreements run for five years with an additional option of five years if you meet our franchise renewal criteria. Should you decide you want to sell your franchise, there is a method in place for this.
7. Can I own more than one club?
Yes. A number of our franchisees are multiple club owners. You can too if you meet our multiple club criteria.
8. Can men become franchisees?
Yes. Fernwood has a number of husband and wife franchisees in addition to some single male operators. However, they work behind the scenes and cannot be visible in the day-to-day life of the clubs.
9. What level of training does Fernwood provide to franchisees?
An initial training program covering all aspects of the business takes place at Fernwood headquarters in Melbourne. The training is free but franchisees must pay their own travel and accommodation costs.
10. What type of continuing operations support will I receive?
A Business Development Manager (BDM) will visit you regularly to provide you with ongoing advice and business support. You will also receive our Operations Manuals as well as other relevant materials.
11. What sort of training is available to staff?
Before your club opens, Fernwood will train your staff on all aspects of delivery of services and products. In addition to the regular visits by BDMs, we also provide online e-learning that is always available.
12. What does Fernwood typically look for in a site?
We select sites based on the following criteria:
- Approximately 700-1100 square metres in size;
- Centrally located within the Primary Marketing Area;
- Prominence and good exposure on main road;
- Street presence for signage;
- Ground floor location;
- Parking to accommodate a minimum of between 30-40 cars (depending on local council requirements);
- Concrete floors;
- Minimum ceiling height of 2700mm;
- 3-phase power;
- Accessibility;
- Good air-conditioning and natural ventilation;
- Natural and artificial lighting.
Fernwood secures the head lease on all properties and grants the franchisee a Licence Agreement to operate from the premises under the same terms and conditions as the lease.