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Anytime Fitness Named Global Franchise of the Year

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -fitness-named-global-franchise-of-the-year.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 14:49 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA, UNITED KINGDOM

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - February 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Anytime Fitness, the ubiquitous global fitness franchise, has today been awarded the coveted Franchise of the Year title by the Global Franchise Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores not only the company's impressive expansion and financial performance, but also its dedication to fostering a thriving network of franchisees and positively impacting communities worldwide. The award marks a significant milestone for the company, solidifying its position as a leader in the competitive fitness industry.

Chad Cooley, CEO of Anytime Fitness, expressed his elation at the announcement, stating, "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our franchisees, our corporate team, and all who are part of the Anytime Fitness family. We are incredibly proud of the support system we've created to empower our franchisees to thrive. This award validates the strength and value of that system."

But what exactly has propelled Anytime Fitness to the top, and what does this award signify for the future of the franchise?

Beyond the Brick and Mortar: The Anatomy of a Successful Franchise

Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness distinguished itself early on by addressing a crucial consumer need: convenient, 24/7 access to fitness facilities. Unlike traditional gyms with limited hours, Anytime Fitness offered a key differentiator - accessibility at any time, catering to busy lifestyles. This simple yet impactful concept proved to be remarkably successful, laying the foundation for rapid global expansion. Currently boasting over 5,000 locations across the globe, the franchise has meticulously built a reputation for quality and consistency.

The Global Franchise Awards aren't simply handed out for growth numbers. The judging criteria emphasize comprehensive franchise support, innovative practices, and demonstrable franchisee success. Anytime Fitness excels in these areas. Sources within the company point to a robust training program for new franchisees, ongoing operational support, and a strong marketing infrastructure as key elements of its success. Crucially, the franchise provides assistance with site selection, build-out, and ongoing marketing efforts, allowing franchisees to focus on member acquisition and retention.

Innovation as a Core Strategy

Anytime Fitness hasn't rested on its laurels. The company has actively embraced innovation to stay ahead of evolving fitness trends. This is evident in the diversification of offerings beyond traditional cardio and weightlifting equipment. Many locations now feature dedicated spaces for group fitness classes, personal training studios, and specialized workout zones like functional training areas. The integration of technology is also prominent, with many gyms offering mobile app integration for membership management, workout tracking, and virtual training options.

In recent years, Anytime Fitness has also responded to the growing demand for boutique fitness experiences. While maintaining its core accessibility model, the franchise has begun experimenting with smaller, more specialized studios within existing locations, offering classes like yoga, Pilates, and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training). This hybrid approach allows Anytime Fitness to cater to a wider range of fitness preferences and attract new demographics.

The Franchisee Advantage

The company's commitment to franchisee success is deeply ingrained in its culture. Anytime Fitness operates on the principle that when franchisees thrive, the entire system benefits. This translates to proactive communication, regular feedback sessions, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Furthermore, the franchise offers bulk purchasing power, allowing franchisees to secure competitive pricing on equipment and supplies.

Global Expansion and Community Impact

The award coincides with continued global expansion plans, with a particularly strong focus on emerging markets in Asia and Latin America. Anytime Fitness recognizes the growing middle class and increasing health consciousness in these regions, presenting significant opportunities for growth. However, the company is also committed to responsible expansion, prioritizing community engagement and local adaptation.

Beyond providing fitness facilities, Anytime Fitness actively participates in local initiatives and charitable events. This commitment to community involvement strengthens brand loyalty and reinforces the company's positive impact.

Looking Ahead

As the fitness industry continues to evolve, Anytime Fitness appears well-positioned to maintain its leadership position. The Franchise of the Year award is not simply a recognition of past achievements, but a testament to the company's commitment to innovation, franchisee support, and a long-term vision for growth. The company's dedication to convenience, accessibility, and a community-focused approach will continue to drive its success in the years to come.