US kids fitness franchise Rolly Pollies has recently established Asia-Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong, and it is on the lookout for franchisees in Australia.
A member of the company’s Hong Kong team told Franchising, “Rolly Pollies originated in the US and they have 10 franchises there along with one in Hong Kong.
“They don’t have any in Australia, but are looking for franchisees there.”
Founded by US Naval Academy graduates John Mann and Joe Dondero in 2003, Rolly Pollies offers three different programs.
“We have a motor skills program, music program and also a fine arts program for children from six months to six years old,” the spokesperson said.
The motor skills program is divided into five nine-week sessions. Each week focuses on a new major skill and these vary according to age.
“Lessons for children aged six months to three years focus on the basic gym skills such as tumbling and balancing, and there is more of a focus on gymnastic skills in the classes for children aged three years and above. They may cover anything from different posture on the beams to different flips on the bars.”
The music program sees children take part in 45 minutes classes that introduce them to different musical sounds, styles and tonalities.
The creative arts program is designed to foster creativity in children and it touches on a range of different art mediums and textures, all of which vary according to age.
The spokesperson said franchisees can choose whether they would like to work in, or on, the business. “They may choose to be in a managerial role, or they could also be the instructor.
“It is a meaningful business, they get to interact with kids and their parents and form relationships with members of their local community.”
The company is looking for franchisees with a number of desirable traits. “They need to have a passion for kids and an education or coaching background, particularly in the areas of sport or gymnastics are desirable.”
The spokesperson said initial franchisee training can vary between two weeks and two months. “The franchisee will fly to either the US or Hong Kong for onsite training, where they will learn about safety, the exercises required for the different programs and age groups and how to deliver them.
“Normally our instructors only need around two to three weeks for the basic training, however it would take longer if they wanted in depth training that covered things like marketing and administration,” the spokersperson said.
Franchisees can also expect to receive ongoing support, particularly in the areas of training, marketing and operations.
If you are interested in becoming a Rolly Pollies franchisee, visit the company’s website and complete a franchise form.