Jo Buchanan and her partner Michael joined the Jetts brand in August 2009, when they opened a club in the Sydney suburb of Alexandria.
They invested in a second Sydney-based gym in December of the same year, this time in Miranda.
She says both clubs have very different demographics however they are equally successful.
“Alexandria is close to the Sydney CBD and located on a busy street, surrounded by businesses and apartments. It’s a very transient and colourful community.
“Miranda is located in the Sutherland Shire. It is a more stable community, full of families and people who don’t move very often,” Jo explains.
WHY JETTS?
“For many years we had been working closely with one of the original franchisors on a number of separate projects,” says Jo.
“We knew about the Jetts model, developed an interest in the concept and slowly grew to love the idea of owing our own franchises in Sydney.”
She explains the brand provides solutions to common problems typical of full service gyms. “The Jetts model includes a small staff infrastructure and the model has removed all of the frustrations members typically experience in what we call the ‘big box clubs.’
"These include lock-in contracts and members having to pay for facilities that they don’t use, such as saunas, crche facilities and classes.”
She adds Jetts offers a wealth of assistance. “Support office teams are very helpful and they maintain standards and consistency which helps the owners, our team and our members."
PREPARE TO WORK HARD
Jo and Michael spent much of their time in both clubs early on. “When we first opened, there was so much to do and learn. I spent around 30 hours a week in each club, while still managing another business.
“Now, I spend 10-15 hours per week per club (total 30 hours) and we have two other businesses.”
The pair work 100 hours per week each – Jo arrives at the office between 7-8am each day and typically leaves around 8.30pm-9pm.
“We both work very hard and couldn’t do what we do without each other. We communicate well and manage issues and tensions swiftly. We support each other and know when we need a break.”
While the pair have clearly defined responsibilities, they also work together on a number of aspects of the business.
“I answer e-mails, pay bills, process payroll, order stock, update the bookkeeping and chat with suppliers if required. I also update our Facebook pages, respond to member queries and requests, make phone calls, contact clubs and visit and meet with the team regularly,” Jo explains.
“Michael is a specialist in business strategy, finance, negotiations and legal aspects. He’s on top of business news and issues and understands all industries.
“We work together at managing and dealing with risk, compliance governance and planning,” she adds.
LOCAL AREA MARKETING
The pair are actively involved in the marketing of both gyms through:
- Advertising
- Flyers
- Open weeks
- Event Nights
- Bring a Buddy events
- Meeting with local businesses (HR managers and directors)
- Sponsoring local sporting teams and schools
- Supporting and sponsoring individuals in their efforts
- Facebook and Twitter
TIPS FOR RECRUITING THE RIGHT STAFF
After five years in business, Jo has developed an understanding of what does and doesn’t work when it comes to recruiting new employees.
“I’ve learned hiring a loyal and trustworthy manager is the most important aspect of running a successful club.
“I prefer referrals for the team positions and I have been promoting managers from personal trainers and they spend some time as assistant managers as well.”
The system seems to work on a managerial level in particular. “Fingers crossed, we have not had a high turnover of club managers or assistant managers. We do, however, have a high turnover of personal trainers,” Jo says.
IS A FRANCHISE INVESTMENT ON YOUR RADAR?
Jo encourages potential franchsiees to invest in Jetts, yet stresses that they understand what they are getting themselves into.
“Make sure you clearly understand the physical, financial, time and emotional pressures involved. Don’t expect other people to take responsibility for your club, your risks or your poor decisions,” she says.
Once their business is up-and-running, Jo advises new franchisees:
- Pay attention to what is going on
- Watch their cash flow
- Try to learn something new about Jetts or the fitness industry every day
- Respect the support office
- Treat their members well
- Look after their team