Australian fitness franchise Strong Pilates brings its plans for Canada to fruition, with its first studio opening in November.
The Toronto studio will kickstart the brand development. Strong Pilates expects to open 60 venues over the next five years.
Strong Pilates co-founders Michael Ramsey and Mark Armstrong said the Canadian fitness industry is expected to grow by 171 per cent by 2028.
Market potential for boutique brands
“This market presents an exciting opportunity for Strong and with gym-goers looking at new fitness formats, we are certain there’ll be mass uptake.”
There has been an influx of boutique fitness brands into the region and more than 60 per cent of Canada’s population exercise each day.
An increased demand for functional and cardio combined classes has signalled a strong entry point for the franchise. Strong Pilates delivers part resistance Pilates, part rowing and/or biking in a high-intensity 45-minute class.
Global expansion plans for Strong Pilates
It has been a busy year for the business. It opened its first three studios in the UK, led by former Australian cricketer, John Hastings.
Strong Pilates also launched in Singapore and in partnership with Yoga Movement plans 11 new studios within three years.
In Australia it added three new studios in New South Wales including a flagship location in Sydney’s CBD and 11 studios in Western Australia.
In 2024 the business will focus on entering the US market.
Overall the business has more than 100 studios confirmed across the UK, Asia, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
