Ian McClure Becomes First New Planet Fitness Franchisee in Over A Decade
For over ten years, new franchisees could only enter the Planet Fitness system by purchasing existing gyms. This changed recently when Ian McClure became the first outside operator to sign a brand-new development deal with Planet Fitness since 2015. McClure's company, Gulf Coast Hotel Management, is known for managing extended-stay hotels and currently operates over 40 properties across 14 states. McClure secured three area development agreements to open more than a dozen Planet Fitness gyms along Florida’s west coast. The investment required ranges from $1.3 million to $5.4 million per location, depending on equipment financing—a significant commitment for a brand that offers memberships at just $10 per month. McClure cited his hospitality expertise and the strength of the Planet Fitness brand as key reasons for choosing it over other options.

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