Australia’s largest EMS (electronic muscle stimulation) personal training franchise company, SpeedFit will offer new franchise owners an opportunity to get into the market with a unique, part ownership model.

SpeedFit CEO and co-founder, Matej Varhalik (pictured) said the offer has been designed for those recently unemployed and facing difficulty returning to the workforce, as well as those who have not taken the opportunity to own their own business due to significant costs.

“We started SpeedFit in 2013 and have spent many years perfecting the business model, including our systems and processes. Despite lockdowns and border closures, we had the best year in 2020 with 76% year-on-year growth,” Varhalik said.

“We know our model works so we have decided to reduce the barriers to entry for those interested in running their own business in the health and wellness space, and will provide the necessary training and education to help them succeed.”

Prior to announcing the national offer, SpeedFit trialed the part-ownership model at their Kotara, New South Wales location, which has become the number one studio in Australia for the most sessions offered each week just six months after opening.

SpeedFit Kotara co-owner, Amy Hart was carrying some major injuries a few years back and found nothing worked for her rehabilitation until she tried SpeedFit.

“I was not only blown away by the results but the entire, personalised experience and soon became a studio manager. I soon realised that I wanted to own my own SpeedFit studio so I approached Matej and asked if there was any way we could make it happen. I was upfront about the fact that I couldn’t afford to buy a franchise on my own but instead of saying, ‘no’, he said, ‘let’s work something out.

“The part ownership model works perfectly for me and fits into my plan to not only one day have 100% ownership but also open a few more studios.

In addition to providing funding assistance, SpeedFit helps the franchise owner search for the best location, the studio fit out and offers full training and support.