HOTWORX congratulates franchisees, Abby and Aron Matsuyama, who were awarded 1 franchise license in the Huntsville-Decatur (Florence) market and recently opened their Huntsville, AL (Piedmont) studio!
What originally motivated you to consider a business opportunity?
Aron and I have always considered owning our own businesses at one point. We knew that this would provide a unique experience to connect with our community, an exciting new challenge to us professionally and personally, and the creativity and flexibility of ownership was desirable. Aron's career in the financial industry has given him the experience of building and managing his own business through his branch with Edward Jones. The success of his branch depends on his direct execution of sales, marketing, leadership, problem-solving, and customer service, while meeting the ever-changing needs of his clients. He enjoys helping others realize their financial and personal life goals, so he was eager to employ this strategy with his own business venture. My career in property management has given me the opportunity to refine my sales, marketing, customer service, and operations management skills. Working at the HQ level now, I have seen both the on-site and corporate level management required for a variety of asset classes in the multifamily apartment industry. As we both have an interest in sales, management, and client relationships, we have been eager to find a new opportunity that allows us to utilize these skills.
What led you to explore franchising rather than an independent business?
We believe that aligning yourself with an established system, a proven culture, and a team of support is key to any successful business. Franchising allows us the opportunity to do what we do best - learn and implement the systems that work. It also provides us a more balanced approach to pursuing our first personal business, as we will continue on in our respective careers.
What was your initial impression of your first HOTWORX session?
Sharp. Clean. Professional. Welcoming. The atmosphere of the studio was energizing without being overbearing. The quality of every detail within the facility was obvious and really leveled up your experience. The sauna was awesome! It is intense but having the ability to go at your own pace with your Virtual Instructor makes it accessible for a variety of clients. I felt awesome after my workout - less joint pain, more energy, and my mood was boosted. Most workouts leave me feeling depleted so this was an incredible change to experience.
How was your experience going through the HOTWORX Discovery Process?
We truly enjoyed our time with Patricia! Each call was exciting, very informative, and always had such a personal touch. We felt comfortable even though this was our first time as franchisees and Patricia made sure that all of our questions and concerns were addressed. She was honest and easy to work with, which helped us thoroughly evaluate this opportunity before we committed.
How would you describe your Orientation Day and meeting the HOTWORX Executive Team?
It was exciting and refreshing to spend time with senior execs and hear from them, face-to-face, about their journey with HOTWORX. It gave the business such a family feel, knowing that so many have been working together in this industry for years. After learning many of the items in the Discovery Process, it was great to tie it all together during the presentations that day. We learned more, heard from the experts in their field, and had the opportunity to share questions and thoughts on each topic. Though I'm sure the execs meet several new groups each week, they were welcoming, genuine, and passionate about their work. It further reinforced our decision to join the HOTWORX family!
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering the opportunity to franchise with HOTWORX?
Utilize your Franchise Recruiter as much as possible - ask all the questions you can think of and soak in the information they have to share! They have a wealth of knowledge and experience not only with HOTWORX but this industry in general. Be ready to take in a lot of information and make sure to check out your local HOTWORX during this time!
What are the top 3 reasons you chose to franchise with HOTWORX?
1. The unique business model design. We see the benefits of Virtual Instructors, individual saunas, and 24/7 access.
2. The science of infrared. We believe in the health and wellness benefits that infrared heat can provide.
3. The accessibility. This is something that everyone could benefit from, regardless of their level of fitness or experience. We believe that a wide range of individuals would be interested in promoting wellness through the combination of infrared heat therapy and exercise.
What excites you the most in offering HOTWORX to your community?
The opportunity to introduce thousands of people to the benefits of infrared heat. As someone with chronic pain myself, I know that so many people can experience relief and even achieve their fitness goals through this exercise therapy. Living in such a fast paced society now, people have less and less time to spare. The 24/7 access combined with efficient workouts make this an even more appealing option to busy professionals.
What goals do you plan to accomplish in your first year as a HOTWORX franchisee?
Within our first year, we plan to successfully open our location ahead of the deadline, strive to gain 300 memberships in pre-sale, and to hit our 500 mark within the first 2 months of operations. By the end of the first operating year, our goal is to have 1,000 members at our location!
How will HOTWORX help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
HOTWORX has given us the platform to utilize the skills we have in a way that helps people achieve total wellness. The support and structure of the business itself allow us to enter the franchise world and have promising financial gains. The benefits that this can provide for an individual are priceless, and it would be an honor to help others explore their inner warrior through our HOTWORX location!
