Are 'big box' gyms considered 'Non-Traditional Sites' for Bft?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisor may designate, to distribute Approved Products and/or Approved Services through alternate channels of distribution, including without limitation, via the Internet and other e-commerce channels, catalog sales, direct mail or wholesale, anywhere either within or outside the Designated Territory; (d) acquire, or be acquired by, or merge with, any company, including a company operating or licensing one or more businesses offering products or services similar to those offered by any BFT Studio located within or outside the Designated Territory, and subsequently operate (or license a third-party the right to operate) these businesses and allow them to incorporate certain elements of the System (excluding the Marks and Trade Dress) regardless of location; (e) develop or become associated with and engage in other businesses, including other fitness concepts and systems, and/or award franchises under such other concepts for locations anywhere, including inside and outside of the Designated Territory; (f) use the Marks and System, and license others to use the Marks and System, to engage in any other activities not expressly prohibited by this Agreement; and (g) open and operate, or license third-parties the right to open or operate, BFT Studios at "Non-Traditional Sites" both within and outside the Designated Territory. A "Non-Traditional Site" is any location that is situated within or as part of a larger venue or facility and, as a result, is likely to draw the predominance of its customers from those persons who are using or attending events in the larger venue or facility (for example, "big box" gyms and/or fitness facilities, cruise ships, military bases, shopping malls, airports, sports facilities and stadiums, industrial or office complexes, hotels, train stations and other transportation facilities, travel plazas, casinos, hospitals, theme parks, convention centers, colleges/universities, multi-unit residential properties, and other similar captive market locations).
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 79–265)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, "big box" gyms and/or fitness facilities are considered "Non-Traditional Sites". Bft defines a "Non-Traditional Site" as a location within a larger venue or facility that primarily draws customers from that venue.
This classification impacts where a franchisee can establish a Bft studio. Bft retains the right to open or license Bft studios at Non-Traditional Sites, both within and outside a franchisee's designated territory. This means Bft could potentially establish a corporate-owned or another franchised location inside a big box gym even if it is within your territory.
For a prospective franchisee, this is an important consideration during site selection. While a non-traditional site may offer benefits like built-in customer traffic, it also carries the risk of competition from the host venue and reduced control over the customer experience. Franchisees should carefully evaluate the pros and cons of non-traditional locations and discuss any potential restrictions or requirements with Bft before committing to a site.