Franchisee Spotlight: Paul Jackson and Randy Clevenger

Paul Jackson and his wife Lynn were members of the Workout Anytime club for four years. So when the club closed for financial reasons, as good stewards of a local business and because of their love of the concept, the couple saw the potential in keeping it open and decided to explore the option of making it their own.  The Jacksons were able to do so, and after two months, they took the club out of bankruptcy in April 2010. Three years later, their experience with Workout Anytime has them slated for a second location to open in August in Alpharetta, GA. Paul, who is a commercial airline pilot, will maintain that profession while helping operate the clubs.

Randy Clevenger, who had been a member of Paul’s club, had no background in fitness prior to his plans of partnering with the Jacksons for the second Workout Anytime location, but saw the business’s potential.  Having owned several other businesses over the past 21 years, Randy believes the fitness industry, and Workout Anytime in particular, represent one of the best franchise opportunities you’ll find.  Unlike other industries, the Fitness industry is still in a growth phase and WOAT has found a distinctive niche within the industry.  The business model is sound & the corporate support is outstanding.  It’s a great brand, and we just felt the concept was a winner.  With our experience & background running other small businesses, we believe we can grow our organization quickly to a multi-unit, multi-state operation.

Randy’s experience in all facets of starting a business from scratch & growing it into a multi-million dollar organization, uniquely qualifies him as a WOAT owner / operator.  Combined with Paul’s acute business acumen, in tandem with their drive and passion for the project, all positioned the pair to run a well-organized business. Their experience in running tight financials, marketing and customer relations will certainly help take their vision for the brand to growth.  WOAT is a concept that you can really get excited about.  I feel passionate about the brand, the opportunity and what this business is all about.

How did you learn about the brand?

We were originally looking for an economical club without a contract. So, we went online to explore the possibilities of joining the organization.

Why did you choose an opportunity with Workout Anytime?

I thought the business model is superior to all the other business models in the industry.

Randy: I almost pulled the trigger with a fitness competitor about 18 months ago, but backed off because I didn't feel they had the level of passion and interest in developing a relationship with me. I also liked the idea of being part of a franchise for help with growing not only in our area, but into other territories. After doing more research, I was determined that these guys “get it,” and it feels right.  

Are you involved with any charities or do any community outreach with your business?

We work with the Fraternal Order of Police, area schools and No Longer Bound, which is a men’s substance abuse recovery program. We support largely through monetary donations.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?

When the first club originally closed, we inherited 1,100 potentially unhappy members because they either had no place to work out or had seemingly lost money. Lynn and I made calls to everyone and decided to honor all full memberships to gain the trust of these folks.

Also, the new location in August will be completely different. The original was a salvaged location so we are getting into something brand new.

Do you have any superstar employees? What is their story?

Chris Maier is our lead marketing professional, beginning with us last year as a member of the club. Chris quickly became the manager of the club and has done a great job. He’s very business savvy and is the face of our business.

The way we’re set up is Lynn and Chris manage for much of the time to account for my pilot position, so I’ll do whatever I can when I’m here. Lynn is managing partner and Chris is the store manager.

What are your expansion or development plans? What is your end goal with Workout Anytime?

Randy and I would like to open 10 total in the next several years and three more within the next three years. We are currently looking at Flowery Branch and Dawsonville as next locations.

Do you have any other interesting hobbies or passions?

We like going to church and fishing when we can.