Jun 12, 2019
Chris Rondeau is the CEO of Planet Fitness. As one of the most inspirational entrepreneurs and one of the most successful operators in the history of the fitness industry, he shares more about how he helped to pioneer the low-cost gym model by offering memberships at $10 a month and catering to the first-time health club goer. Today, Planet Fitness is one of the most well-known brands, with 13.6 million members and over 1,800 outlets.
How does a gym brand transition to become an industry sensation? Chris shares more about how he was inspired to revolutionize the fitness industry by lowering membership fees and creating gyms that were catered to the everyday individual who wanted to get fit, instead of top fitness enthusiasts. He reveals the streamlining of the Planet Fitness model to focus on very specific member experiences, as well as why it’s so important to always keep the customer front and center. Tune in to find out more about this incredible fitness brand and the man behind it.
Key Takeaways:
[:47] Kelly introduces her guest for this episode - Chris Rondeau.
[1:57] What is Chris' background and how has that contributed to the rise of Planet Fitness?
[4:12] How did Planet Fitness transition from a gym brand to an industry sensation?
[9:16] Planet Fitness became so successful with its low prices that they needed to expand. Chris explained how the services offered changed.
[11:32] Chris and Kelly discuss how the Planet Fitness model is very streamlined to focus on a specific member experience.
[12:29] What is important to get right when it comes to serving the first-time health club goer?
[14:07] Chris is breaking the rules in a way that enhances customer engagement and member experience.
[14:48] How does technology play a role in the ultimate customer experience?
[17:13] What are Chris' thoughts on experience changing as there is increased segmentation in the market among the different generations and changing perceptions of health and fitness?
[19:38] What are the symbiotic advantages between the partnership between Kohl's and Planet Fitness?
[20:26] What does the future look like for Planet Fitness?
[22:29] What is Chris' strategy when it comes to reaching out to teens and what does he hope to inspire?
[24:16] Where does Chris get his inspiration?