Risk Score
Pending analysis
Investment Range
$130,549 - $390,300
Franchise Fee
$5,000
Total US Locations
279
Business Summary
9ROUND operates fitness centers that provide 24-hour access to members for a specialized program. This program is built around nine challenging circuit training stations that incorporate boxing and kickboxing exercises. The centers also offer personal trainer assistance and nutrition services.
Corporate History
9ROUND Franchising, LLC was formed as a South Carolina limited liability company in December 2008. The 9ROUND concept itself began in March 2008 with the opening of the first center. The company started offering 9ROUND franchises in April 2009. Over time, 9ROUND expanded internationally through subsidiaries like 9Round International, LLC for master franchises outside the US and Canada, and previously operated 9Round Franchising of Canada, Inc., which later amalgamated into 9RFranchising Canada, ULC. In February 2024, a subsidiary, 9Round Holding Company, LLC, acquired the I LOVE KICKBOXINGTM franchise system, expanding 9ROUND's brand portfolio.
Financial Overview
Investment Range
$130,549 - $390,300
Franchise Fee (Low)
$5,000
Franchise Fee (High)
$19,900
Marketing %
2%
Equipment Costs (Low)
$81,649
Equipment Costs (High)
$254,400
Working Capital
$43,000
Audited Financials
Yes
Offers Financing
No
Audit Opinion
Unqualified opinion
Financial Health Notes
9Round Franchising, LLC shows positive net income and increased cash and cash equivalents in 2023. The company's total assets and liabilities decreased, while members' equity saw a slight increase. The auditors issued an unqualified opinion, indicating the financial statements are presented fairly. There are no explicit concerns about 9Round Franchising, LLC's ability to continue as a going concern, although management notes the possibility of estimates being materially impacted by conditions, including inventory losses and asset impairment.
Financing Details
9Round Franchising, LLC does not offer direct or indirect financing to its franchisees and does not guarantee their notes, leases, or obligations. However, the company may help arrange financing with third-party companies or banks by referring franchisees to these sources. For example, if a franchisee uses Guidant Financial for a Rollover as Business Start-Up (ROBS) loan, 9Round Franchising, LLC receives a referral fee.
Performance Metrics
Total US Locations
279
Franchised Units
275
Corporate Units
4
Avg Square Footage
2,100
Franchising Since
2009
Legal & Compliance Analysis
Recent Litigation
Yes
Bankruptcy
No
Litigation Count
1
Litigation Summary
9Round Franchising, LLC initiated one lawsuit against a franchisee during fiscal year 2023. The case involves an American Arbitration Association proceeding against Scardino. No other litigation is required to be disclosed for 9Round Franchising, LLC.
Bankruptcy History
9Round Franchising, LLC has no bankruptcy information to report for itself or any of its management.
Agreement Terms
Initial Term
10 years
Renewal Term
10 years
Renewal Conditions
To renew, 9ROUND franchisees must meet the company's current qualifications for new franchisees, provide written notice 6 to 12 months before the current term expires, and pay a renewal fee equal to 25% of the then-current initial franchise fee. They must sign the then-current franchise agreement, which may have different terms, including fees and territory. Franchisees must also have modernized their center, be in good standing, provide proof of their ability to maintain the center premises throughout the renewal, comply with training requirements, and sign a general release.
Training & Support Program
Franchisor Assistance
Before a 9ROUND center opens, the company provides assistance with site selection, center design, and lists of approved suppliers. Franchisees receive initial training and grand opening support, including print materials and digital marketing services. After opening, 9ROUND offers ongoing support by evaluating the business, providing refresher training, and updating supplier lists. The company also supplies and supports a comprehensive technology system, offers ongoing digital marketing services, and provides training and support for personal training services.
Initial Training Hours
53
Training Location
Greenville, SC or as we otherwise specify
Ongoing Support
9ROUND provides ongoing support to its franchisees after opening, including updates to approved suppliers and products, business evaluations, and refresher training courses as needed. The company also offers continuous technology support, which covers online membership services, the 9ROUND app and website, PULSE Heart Rate Zone System technology, email marketing software, voice timer system, and daily workout screens. Franchisees are also transferred to mid-tier digital marketing services after their initial marketing period. Additionally, 9ROUND provides ongoing training and support for personal training services through a dedicated online database and requires attendance at an annual convention.
Franchise Requirements
Industry Experience Required
No
Management Experience Required
No
Sales Experience Required
No
Technical Skills Required
No
Operational Details
Location Type
Retail
Owner Participation
Supervisory
Territory Type
Protected
Territory Size Requirements
9ROUND territories, called Designated Areas, are not exclusive. The minimum size is one city block, and in suburban or rural areas, it can extend up to a three-mile driving distance from the center's location. The specific size and boundaries are determined by 9ROUND based on factors such as shared territory with other 9ROUND centers, population demographics (base, median age, income, density, growth trends), and geographical features.
Staffing Notes
9ROUND franchisees or their general managers must dedicate enough time and effort to manage the center and provide direct on-premises supervision. The general manager and at least two people from the franchisee's organization must complete the initial training program. Centers are required to be open 24 hours a day, year-round, including a minimum of 22 instructional staffed (trainer-led) hours per week from Monday to Saturday. Franchisees must maintain a competent and trained staff to properly service customers, adhere to daily opening and closing procedures, and comply with the company's dress code and customer relations standards.