Retro Fitness Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

Established in 2004 by Eric Casaburi, Retro Fitness is a gym franchise capitalizing on a unique approach to health and wellness.  The company, headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, began offering franchise opportunities two years later in 2006.

Retro Fitness positions itself as a high-value, low-price alternative in the fitness industry.  Their gyms provide a comprehensive fitness experience, including cardio and strength training equipment, group fitness classes, and personal training options. 

Retro Fitness differentiates itself from competitors by fostering a fun and welcoming atmosphere,  often incorporating a 70s and 80s theme into their facilities. This creates a distinct appeal for budget-minded gym-goers who seek a less intimidating workout environment.

Initial Investment

How much does it cost to start a Retro Fitness franchise? It costs on average between $1,483,000 – $2,273,000 to start a Retro Fitness franchised business.

This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of facility you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.

Type of ExpenditureAmount
Initial Franchise Fee$29,000
Opening Advertising Pre-sales$30,000 – $90,000
Marketing Kit$12,000 – $15,000
Trailer Rental (if needed)$0 – $30,000
Office Supplies$1,000 – $2,000
Computer Equipment$5,000 – $7,000
Branded Key Tags$216
Opening Inventory$10,000 – $15,000
Insurance and Bond$6,000 – $24,000
Signage$35,000 – $45,000
Equipment and Furnishings$100,000 – $150,000
Prepaid Rent and Security Deposit$0 – $75,000
Lease Review Fee$2,500
Turnkey Build-Out Service Fee$15,000 – $45,000
Architectural fees$35,000 – $50,000
Leasehold Improvements/Fit out$1,000,000 – $1,300,000
Utility Deposits$0 – $3,500
Licenses and Permits$500 – $30,000
Fictitious Name Registration and/or Incorporation and Legal Review$250 – $1,500
Travel, Lodging, Meals Etc. for Initial Training$0 – $3,500
Miscellaneous Start-up Costs$2,000 – $5,000
Additional Funds$200,000 – $350,000
Total$1,483,000 – $2,273,000

Average Revenue (AUV)

How much revenue can you make with a Retro Fitness franchise? A Retro Fitness franchised business makes on average $1,098,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.

Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:

Retro Fitness fdd item 19 extract

This compares to $401,000 yearly revenue for similar fitness franchises. Below are 10 Retro Fitness competitors as a comparison:

Retro Fitness Franchise Disclosure Document

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Retro Fitness locations are there?

As of the latest data, Retro Fitness operates 89 franchised locations, all based in the United States. There are no company-owned locations; the entire network consists solely of franchise-operated gyms.

Retro Fitness is focused on expanding through franchise partnerships, with initiatives targeting underserved communities to further grow its presence.

What is the total investment required to open a Retro Fitness franchise?

The total investment required to open a Retro Fitness franchise ranges from $1,483,000 to $2,273,000.

What are the ongoing fees for a Retro Fitness franchise?

For a Retro Fitness franchise, the ongoing fees include a royalty fee of 5% to 7% of gross sales. This fee is charged to support the overall brand, its operations, and services provided by the franchisor. In addition to the royalty fee, franchisees are required to contribute 2% of their gross sales towards marketing fees.

What are the financial requirements to become a Retro Fitness franchisee?

To become a Retro Fitness franchisee, you need a minimum net worth of $1.5 million and at least $500,000 in liquid capital. These financial requirements help ensure that franchisees are well-prepared to manage the investment and operational costs of the business.

How much can a Retro Fitness franchise owner expect to earn?

The average gross sales for a Retro Fitness franchise are approximately $1.1 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.1 million yearly revenue can result in $165,000 EBITDA annually.

Who owns Retro Fitness?

Retro Fitness is owned by Eric Casaburi, who founded the company in 2004. Casaburi has been instrumental in growing the franchise into a popular chain of fitness centers across the United States, focusing on providing affordable gym memberships and personalized fitness experiences.

Disclaimer

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