Fred Astaire Dance Studios Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

Fred Astaire Dance Studios is a renowned chain of ballroom dance studios co-founded in 1947 by the legendary dancer Fred Astaire, along with Charles and Chester Casanave. The company is headquartered in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Astaire divested his interest in the chain in 1966, while agreeing to the continued use of his name by the franchise.

The studios offer a comprehensive range of dance instruction, including ballroom, Latin, swing, and various dance fitness classes, catering to students of all ages and skill levels.

What sets Fred Astaire Dance Studios apart is their exclusive curriculum, developed by Fred Astaire himself, ensuring that his distinctive techniques and teaching methods are preserved and passed on to students.

Initial Investment

How much does it cost to start a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise? It costs on average between $301,000 – $670,000 to start a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchised center.

This includes costs for studio construction, dance floor installation, equipment, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the size and location of the studio, lease or property purchase decisions, and the specific services and programs offered.

Type of ExpenditureAmount
Franchise Fee$30,000 – $55,000
Initial Training Fee$0 – $5,000
Travel Expenses to Training$1,000 – $3,500
Security Deposits for Leasehold and/or Utilities$8,500 – $25,500
Rent for 3 Months$25,500 – $76,500
Construction Management$0 – $15,000
Construction Due Diligence$1,000 – $5,000
Design, Architecture, Engineering$7,000 – $25,000
Construction Permits and Permit Management$1,000 – $10,000
Net Leasehold Improvements$100,000 – $250,000
Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment$10,000 – $30,000
Studio Management and Technology System Components$15,000 – $20,000
Signage and Graphics$10,000 – $15,000
Supplies and Accessories$4,000 – $14,000
Supplies and Marketing Materials$1,000 – $1,000
Business Licenses$500 – $2,500
Technology Fee for 3 Months$600 – $600
Professional Fees$2,500 – $10,000
Insurance$3,000 – $5,500
Captive Market Insurance$25,600 – $25,600
Grand Opening Marketing Budget$5,000 – $5,000
Working Capital for 3 Months$50,000 – $70,000
TOTAL$301,200 – $669,700

Average Revenue (AUV)

How much revenue can you make with a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise? A Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchised location makes on average $588,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.

Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:

Fred Astaire Dance Studios fdd item 19 extract

This compares to $422,000 yearly revenue for similar fitness studio franchises. Below are a few Fred Astaire Dance Studios competitors as a comparison:

Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise competitors

Fred Astaire Dance Studios Franchise Disclosure Document

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Fred Astaire Dance Studios locations are there?

As of the latest data, Fred Astaire Dance Studios operates 246 franchise-owned locations across the United States. The franchise has also expanded internationally, with studios in countries such as Lebanon and South Africa.

What is the total investment required to open a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise?

The total investment required to open a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise ranges from $301,000 to $670,000.

What are the ongoing fees for a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise?

Fred Astaire Dance Studios requires franchisees to pay an ongoing royalty fee of 7% of their weekly gross revenue, excluding sales tax.

Additionally, franchisees contribute to marketing efforts through an advertising fee, which is currently set at $150. These fees support the continuous development and promotion of the brand, as well as the provision of resources and support to franchise owners.

What are the financial requirements to become a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchisee?

To qualify as a franchisee for Fred Astaire Dance Studios, candidates are typically required to have a minimum net worth of $300,000 and liquid capital of at least $150,000. These financial prerequisites ensure that potential franchise owners possess the necessary resources to establish and operate a studio successfully

How much can a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise owner expect to earn?

The average gross sales for a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise are approximately $0.59 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.59 million yearly revenue can result in $89,000 EBITDA annually.

Who owns Fred Astaire Dance Studios?

Fred Astaire Dance Studios is owned by FADS USA, Inc., a private company headquartered in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The organization is led by President and CEO Luann Pulliam. Each Fred Astaire Dance Studio operates as an independently owned and operated franchise under the umbrella of FADS USA, Inc.

Disclaimer

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