At the 2026 Multi-Unit Franchise Conference, Greg Flynn, Founder and CEO of Flynn Group, took the main stage for a fireside chat that resonated deeply with the multi-unit, multi-brand audience.
He shared candid insights on franchising, scaling operations, and his evolving perspective on expanding beyond the restaurant industry into fitness franchising.
Throughout the discussion, Greg reflected on lessons learned over decades in franchising and highlighted how leading franchise systems have matured. He emphasized the importance of aligning with the best-in-class brands built on strong fundamentals: proven operating systems, established vendor and real estate relationships, and the ability to execute marketing at scale.
A key theme of his message was portfolio diversification. He credited a “grow-first, then diversify” approach as the foundation that enabled his expansion beyond restaurants. Looking ahead, he described what he called his “third chapter,” which includes entering the fitness space.
One statement that stood out: “I’ve just come to appreciate what a great business subscription fitness is.” He pointed to the High-Value, Low-Price fitness segment as particularly compelling – driven by scale, resilience, and strong long-term demand.
The broader takeaway was clear. Consumers aren’t just purchasing services – they’re investing in experiences. At the same time, more generations are prioritizing both physical and mental wellbeing, with an increasing desire for connection and community.
For operators and investors thinking about future growth and diversification, Greg’s perspective offers a compelling lens. It reinforces the opportunity within the High-Value, Low-Price fitness sector – and positions Retro Fitness as a brand built for scale, long-term stability, and franchisee success. From onboarding and real estate to marketing, construction, and ongoing business support, it is designed to help franchisees grow at every stage.
Source: International Franchise Association