SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Little Gym International, the world’s premier experiential learning and physical development center for kids 4 months to 12 years, today announced a master franchisee agreement with entrepreneurs in Australia that will expand the brand down under.
Operating as The Little Gym of Australia and New Zealand, Albert Labbad of Sydney is heading a master franchisee team with backgrounds in business, finance and service industry management. Labbad and his partners, Adam Labbad, Tim Fanous and Peter Saad, anticipate opening 16 or more locations in the next five years and are actively seeking sub-franchisees interested in opening gyms in the two countries. The first location in Sydney is expected to open in time for Australia’s winter/spring season of classes.
The Little Gym of Australia and New Zealand will feature the same gymnastics and music-based curriculum of “Serious Fun” that keeps more than 100,000 children active on five continents and in 28 countries worldwide. The Little Gym’s program of movement, games, listening and cooperation is designed to help children ages 4 months through 12 years develop healthy habits, and boost their self-confidence.
Entrepreneur Magazine has named kid-centered franchises as one of four franchise categories to watch in 2014, noting its continued success over the past several years. The Little Gym continues to expand with gym openings this past year in China, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, and Abu Dhabi. In addition to Australia, The Little Gym will also open new locations in India, Romania and Colombia in the coming year.
“The Little Gym curriculum has proven to translate well across all borders. We have been seeking the right partners to expand The Little Gym into Australia and New Zealand, and are excited to bring Albert Labbad and his team on board. The group shares our passion for teaching, training and helping parents instill a life-long love of activity in their children,” said Ruk Adams, President and CEO, The Little Gym International.
“Introducing The Little Gym to Australia and New Zealand and contributing to the greater community through the mental, physical and social stimulation and development of our children is an exciting and fulfilling adventure that my team and I are proud of and ready to embark upon,” said Albert Labbad, principal, The Little Gym of Australia and New Zealand. “It is time for Aussies and Kiwis to experience The Little Gym’s innovative ‘three-dimensional learning’ approach that encourages children to always try their best and helps them to become positive global citizens.”
The Little Gym has locations in 28 countries and is represented by more than 200 locations in the U.S. and nearly 300 total worldwide. For more information, visit www.TheLittleGym.com.
