2026 Growth Summit Brings Franchisees, Leadership, and Industry Partners Together to Build on a Strong Foundation and Shape What’s Next
What does it take to build a franchise organization positioned for long-term success?
At FIT Franchise Brands, parent company of MAX Fitness & Wellness and Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping (FXB), the answer starts with a strong foundation: committed franchise owners, well-equipped teams, exceptional member experiences, and a shared vision for the future.
That philosophy was at the center of FFB Ground Up 2026, the company’s annual Growth Summit, held October 15–16 in New Jersey.
Over two days, franchisees, corporate leadership, and industry partners came together for an experience focused on much more than exchanging ideas. The summit was an opportunity to align on strategic priorities, introduce new initiatives, celebrate achievements, and reinforce the investments being made to support the continued evolution of both brands.
The message throughout the event was clear: Sustainable growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built intentionally, from the ground up.
Building for What’s Next
The fitness industry continues to evolve, and so do the expectations of today’s consumers. For franchise organizations, remaining competitive means continuously evaluating not only what they offer, but how they operate, engage members, and support the people responsible for bringing their brands to life.
Throughout Ground Up 2026, FIT Franchise Brands leadership shared a forward-looking vision focused on strengthening the fundamentals of successful franchise operations while preparing both brands for future growth.
Presentations led by CEO Bryan Klein, Director of Franchise Operations Hayley Guerra, and Marketing Director, Nick Buongiovanni, and Director of Franchisee Support, Tony Ferrao highlighted initiatives designed to enhance the franchisee and member experience.
Among the priorities discussed were evolving membership strategies to better meet consumer needs, strengthening sales and operational training, improving consistency across locations, and continuing to invest in technology and infrastructure that give franchise owners greater visibility into their businesses.
These initiatives reflect a deliberate commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring that franchisees have the resources and support necessary to adapt to changing market conditions and pursue sustainable growth.
FIT Franchise Brands CEO Bryan Klein addresses franchisees and corporate team members during FFB Ground Up 2026, reinforcing the shared purpose behind both brands.
Investing in the People Behind the Brands
Strong franchise systems are built on more than business models and technology. They’re built on people who understand the mission, have confidence in their ability to execute, and feel supported in their efforts to succeed.
A central focus of Ground Up 2026 was equipping franchise owners and their teams with practical strategies they can bring back to their businesses.
Through leadership presentations, interactive training, and collaborative discussions, attendees explored ways to strengthen the prospective member experience, develop more effective teams, and establish operational practices that support both member satisfaction and business performance.
Representatives from industry partners ClubReady and 1st Phorm also participated, reinforcing the important role strategic partnerships play in supporting the broader franchise network.
Beyond the formal sessions, the summit created opportunities for owners to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and learn from one another’s experiences.
For FIT Franchise Brands, these connections are an important part of building a stronger franchise system. Every center operates within its own community, but no franchise owner should have to navigate the challenges of business ownership alone.
Celebrating Excellence Across Our Franchise Network
One of the highlights of Ground Up 2026 was an awards celebration recognizing franchise owners whose accomplishments reflect the values, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of FIT Franchise Brands.
From exceptional financial performance and business growth to community leadership and long-standing commitment to their brands, this year’s honorees demonstrated the many ways franchise owners can make a meaningful impact.
2026 Growth Summit Award Recipients:
- Growth Award | Carrie & Patrick Dyrness, MAX Cranford: Recognized for exceptional business growth, including more than 20% growth in top-line revenue and a more than 300% increase in net operating income during their first year of ownership.
- Milestone Award | Toby Bavli, MAX Montclair: Honored for celebrating 10 years of commitment to the MAX brand and the community it serves.
- Excellence Award | Melissa Kang, MAX Lacey: Recognized for outstanding business performance, a commitment to continuous improvement, and delivering an exceptional member experience.
- Community Impact Award | Staci & Jeff Force, MAX Old Bridge: Celebrated for strong business performance, engagement within the franchise network, and their extraordinary commitment to community impact, including raising $14,000 through their Day of Giving initiative.
- Legacy Award | Debra & Gary Mirabella, MAX Bay Ridge: Honored for building a lasting legacy of community, connection, and charitable impact as they transition ownership to the next generation of MAX franchisees.
Debra and Gary Mirabella receive the Legacy Award from FIT Franchise Brands CEO Bryan Klein, honoring their lasting contributions to community, connection, and charitable impact.
Together, these achievements represent something greater than individual business success. They reflect the strength of a franchise network built on entrepreneurial ownership, shared values, and a commitment to making a difference.
Stronger Together: Experiencing the Mission Firsthand
While much of the summit focused on business strategy and operational excellence, one of its most memorable moments happened outside the conference room.
On Friday morning, franchisees and corporate team members gathered at MAX Marlboro for a group workout led by Bryan Klein.
The experience brought the mission of both brands into focus.
Through encouragement, shared effort, and the energy of working toward a common goal, attendees experienced firsthand the sense of community that makes the member experience so important.
Franchisees and corporate team members come together for a workout led by Bryan at MAX Marlboro, experiencing the energy and connection they bring to members every day.
It was a reminder that behind every membership, business strategy, and operational initiative is a person looking to improve their life.
Whether through fitness, nutrition, accountability, or a supportive community, both MAX Fitness & Wellness and Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping share a commitment to helping people achieve meaningful, lasting change.
And delivering on that commitment starts with the people leading each center.
The Foundation for the Future
Ground Up 2026 was more than an annual gathering. It represented an important opportunity to bring the FIT Franchise Brands network together around a shared vision for the future.
As the organization continues to evolve its membership offerings, strengthen franchisee training, expand its operational capabilities, and invest in the infrastructure supporting both brands, one principle remains constant: The strength of the franchise system begins with the strength of its foundation.
That foundation is built through the dedication of franchise owners, the support of corporate leadership, the contributions of strategic partners, and the experiences delivered to members every day.
FIT Franchise Brands extends its appreciation to the franchisees, team members, and partners who contributed to Ground Up 2026 and continue to play a role in shaping the organization’s future.
With a clear vision, a committed network, and a continued focus on improvement, FIT Franchise Brands is building on its foundation and creating new opportunities for growth, together.
