How Alyce Went From a stepz Manager TO an Owner
Meet Alyce
Alyce has always been willing to give everything a go, even if it was out of her comfort zone. She started out on the gym floor as an instructor and personal trainer, and after a few months moved into group fitness where she fell in love with teaching classes. Over the years she had done stints in management and thoroughly enjoyed that too because it challenged her. She knew that one day she would want to own her own gym.
Alyce’s Goal
Alyce always wanted to own her own gym but because of the sizeable investment, she thought it was almost impossible. However, after applying to become the manager at Stepz Fitness Lismore and talking with the Sam (the Franchisor and Owner), she realised he would help her make it happen. She accepted the role and built a successful gym. Now in 2022, she has bought the business and is living her dream.
How she Did It
Step 1 - Gym Manager
Alyce originally enquired about joining Stepz Fitness Lismore under a gym manager role. She wanted a Management role as she felt she wasn't given enough opportunities at her last business.
Step 2 - Ownership Journey Started
After 12 months of building Stepz Lismore Alyce spoke to the Franchisor about ownership. With the Franchisor they laid out a roadmap for her and set about achieving it. The business grew quickly, and was already profitable by this time.
Step 3- Financial Information & Loan
Once Alyce was ready she applied for finance to purchase the business. With the Franchisor they prepared financial forecast, spoke to finance brokers and prepared a business plan, then funding was approved.
Step 4 - Sign Agreements
Once finance was obtained, Alyce signed the Franchise Agreement. The Lease was assigned to Alyce and a date was set for her to take ownership. The excitement began…
Step 5 - Business Training
Alyce worked directly with the Franchisor and the support team from Stepz to conduct training and learn the business management skills to be successful.
Step 6 - Take Ownership
Alyce worked with the Stepz Marketing team to plan her strategy to ensure the business continues to grow. With the support of head office, Alyce can focus on her community whilst Stepz looks after her marketing and operations.
“Thank You.”
"Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to become an owner and for the trust you put in me to run Stepz Lismore from the start. I absolutely love my job and working for Stepz. You’re an awesome boss!"
— Alyce Benson
The Results
Stepz Fitness Lismore opened in September 2020. The gyms quickly became one of the best gyms is Lismore with Functional Group Fitness and 24/7 gym access. The gym is on track to reach 500 members before their second anniversary. Alyce Benson has achieved her dreams and bought the business in 2022.