HOTWORX congratulates franchisees, Mark and Patty Vernon, who were awarded 3 franchise licenses - 1 in the Wilmington, NC market, 1 in the Greenville-New Bern-Washington market, and 1 in the Charleston, SC market. They recently opened their Wilmington, NC (Monkey Junction) studio with their business partners David and Trina Starling!
What originally motivated you to consider a business opportunity?
Mark: I have looked into various business models to invest in for many years and usually am always looking for other avenues to invest in to generate other revenue. Over the past years, I have looked at both franchise and non-franchise opportunities. I have been in the mortgage business for 25 years in an origination capacity. I also flip real estate on the side and have done so for the past 6 or so years.
Patty: My husband and Trina both came to me and said they wanted to own a HOTWORX. I love the idea and said I am all in.
What led you to explore franchising rather than an independent business?
Mark: The structure and predictability. I do not have the time nor energy to reinvent the wheel. The turn key aspect is very appealing along with the defined systems to follow.
Patty: I also like the structure of the HOTWORX concept and the turn key operation of this business.
What was your initial impression of your first HOTWORX session?
Mark: Open minded and curious. I have participated in various other athletic venues like Orange Theory, Crossfit, hot yoga, etc so very open to try new challenges.
Patty: More workout, less time is key to me. Not being a gym person in the past, this really changed my perception.
How was your experience going through the HOTWORX Discovery Process?
Mark: Very interesting. Curiosity started the inquiry; excitement of the potential opportunity built through the Discovery Process; all questions were answered by Teresa or she found out the answers. Very open and honest process.
Patty: Mark, Trina, & David went through the Discovery Process and kept me updated. Their excitement and belief in the business kept me motivated.
How would you describe your Orientation Day and meeting the HOTWORX Executive Team?
Mark: Thought it was excellent. The deeper I am exposed to the HOTWORX staff and systems, the more impressed I am.
Patty: It was exciting! I loved the testimonies from the future franchisees and, of course, Teresa was great.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering the opportunity to franchise with HOTWORX?
Mark: At this point to not be hesitant to start the process and ask the questions. If you don't open the door, you can't walk through it!
Patty: Ask questions, make sure you know the territory restrictions, and know the business.
What are the top 3 reasons you chose to franchise with HOTWORX?
Mark:
1. We believe in the health benefits of the platform.
2. The model is cutting edge with society's health & fitness needs
3. The financial model is amazing (investment & potential return)
Patty:
1. The health benefits
2. The uniqueness of the business
3. The ease of the operation
What excites you the most in offering HOTWORX to your community?
Mark: It works! The health benefits; ease of use of facilities; ease of access; affordability.
Patty: The health benefits, scheduling flexibility, and affordability.
What goals do you plan to accomplish in your first year as a HOTWORX franchisee?
Mark: A) Have the initial location hit 1,000 members the first year B) be searching locations for the next location C) Still be friends with my partners and wife who are all investors!
Patty: I will copy my husband on this: 1000 members in the first year, work on the second location, and maintain great relations with our partners.
How will HOTWORX help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
Mark: The big one of course is the future financial security that these opportunities will bring. For me this is an investment that will partially fund my retirement. This is also a gate opener that will enhance my wife's professional opportunities to run a business. She has managed a bank and sold others' visions as an employee. Now she has an opportunity to create her own vision and share it with others in the community.
Patty: I am looking forward to operating my own business and owning a business that I am proud of.
