Gold's Gym Expands Its Franchise Into Ecuador

Gold's Gym International announced that they have signed a Master franchise agreement for their expansion into the Ecuador market, choosing Ian A. Rondon's company, Fitness Franchising, as their partner. Mr. Rondon's company holds the master Franchising agreement for Puerto Rico and Central America as well.

"Ecuador fits into our company's long term strategy for developing gyms in Central America and the northern region of South America," said Ian A. Rondon, President, Fitness Franchising. "The Gold's Gym brand will rule in Ecuador; and we are very excited to be the company chosen to make this happen."

"Our alliance with Fitness Franchising will bring the leverage of the Gold's Gym brand to an area of South America that we wish to dominate," said Ben Amante, SVP Franchising, Gold's Gym International. "Mr. Rondon's successful experience in the fitness industry and his team's strong operational skills will ensure that his company will roll out a successful Franchise program in Ecuador."

According to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), even during the last few months of 2001, the health club industry grew by 1.5 percent. A total of 869 new clubs opened during the past year worldwide.

Gold's Gym International grew from 555 gyms to 607 gyms during 2001 - representing more than a 9% icrease. Gold's growth has continued to accelerate this year, adding another 26 more gyms during the first two months.

Gold's Gym is recognized as the largest gym chain in the world. Gold's Gym opened its first location in Venice, California in 1965 and with the notoriety of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno and the movie, Pumping Iron, Gold's Gym quickly became known as "The Mecca of Bodybuilding." Today, Gold's Gym International has an extensive worldwide presence, an experienced corporate staff and 36 years of experience in the fitness industry.

Gold's Gym includes more than 600 gyms in 46 states and 34 countries with more than two million members. In 1999, an independent brand awareness study by The Onyx Consulting Partnership ascertained that Gold's Gym is the most recognized health club in the industry. Gold's Gym International is the gym of preference for amateur and pro athletes, the entertainment industry and people in the mainstream who are dedicated to leading fit and healthy lives.