BFT secures highest possible franchise rating

Australian-founded fitness franchise BFT has been awarded the highest possible business rating by franchise-focused research and advisory firm FRANdata.

FRANdata’s independent review scored a 5/5 star rating and a franchise credit score (FUND) of 750, demonstrating that that the chance of a BFT franchisee failing to repay their loans is minimal. Noting that “a franchise can only achieve this rating by being able to demonstrate a high level of transparency and a very high level of franchise performance”, a BFT spokesperson stated that “the results make it a lot easier for a franchisee to get a loan as the chances of them failing to repay is minimal (and that) many banks will now be willing to loan money for the entire business not just equipment.”

Commenting on BFT’s performance, FRANdata’s Australian Chief Executive, Darryn McAuliffe noted “the review evidenced a very successful franchise model across all categories measured.

“As expected, the strong trading performance across the network is delivering solid financial outcomes for individual franchisees.  In addition, feedback from the network reflected a high level of franchisee satisfaction, brand pride and positive forward sentiment”.

BFT APAC Chief Executive, David Aitchison added “BFT is thrilled with this result as it validates all of our hard work focusing on strong governance and our robust processes. It is also a brilliant reflection of the high quality franchisees within our network and the trust they have placed into the BFT product to bring a world class fitness experience to their local community”.

McAuliffe went on to say he expected “heightened interest in BFT from the lending community given the franchise system has made independent and detailed credit underwriting reports available to lenders reflecting a very sound risk profile”.

Rating assessment outcomes from the Australian Franchise Rating Scale™ are being delivered now to participating franchise systems and recorded The Australian Franchise Registry™.

Having just opened their 230th studio - including its second UK locations - and forecasting that it will open more than 100 studios in the next 12 months across the Asia-Pacific region, the spokesperson added “BFT (will) continue to go from strength to strength”.

With more than 50,000 members globally, BFT advise that the “average member number for studios over 12 months old has grown from 200 in 2021 to 220 in 2022”.

FRANdata is a franchise-focused research and advisory firm specialising in lead generation, target marketing and performance analysis.