Crunch Highlights International Expansion and New Club Concepts at Global Franchise Convention
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Crunch Fitness used its 2026 Global Franchise Convention to outline the next phase of its growth strategy, with international expansion, new club concepts and franchise development taking center stage.
More than 700 franchisees, partners and team members attended the event in San Antonio, making it the largest franchise convention in the company's history. The gathering also marked the first convention since Leonard Green & Partners made a strategic investment in the company and the first under newly appointed CEO Chequan Lewis.
Crunch currently operates more than 550 gyms serving approximately 3.5 million members worldwide. The company expects to open approximately 100 locations this year as it continues expanding both domestically and internationally.
Among the international developments highlighted at the convention was Crunch's recent entry into India, where the company opened its first club in Noida and plans to develop 75 locations. The brand also announced its expansion into Mexico through a master franchise agreement that calls for at least 50 gyms, marking Crunch's entry into the Latin American market.
In New Zealand, Crunch plans to open at least 10 clubs over the next five years, with the first location expected to open in early 2027.
The convention also provided franchisees with a preview of the company's evolving club formats.
Crunch showcased its next-generation "Crunch 3.0" prototype, which expands on the traditional club model with dedicated boutique-style training spaces for Pilates, strength training, boxing and abs and glutes programming. The concept also introduces expanded recovery amenities, including contrast therapy and red-light therapy.
The company also shared updates on Crunch Select, its premium club concept designed for select markets. The next-generation model will feature boutique-style studios, upgraded amenities and enhanced recovery offerings. The first location built under the updated concept is expected to open later this year in Long Beach, New York.
"Crunch has never been stronger, and that strength reflects years of close collaboration with our franchise partners and teams across the brand," said Chequan Lewis, CEO of Crunch Fitness. "I'm honored to step into the CEO role and continue that partnership, building on the foundation we've created together."
The convention also included the inaugural James P. Rowley Award for Frontline Leadership, recognizing club, district and regional leaders across the Crunch system. Franchise groups were also recognized for achievements in areas including revenue growth, operational performance and brand development.
As part of the event, attendees participated in a community service initiative supporting active-duty military personnel and veterans. More than 350 volunteers assembled over 500 care packages, created 150 fleece blankets and wrote letters for service members and veterans through a partnership with Soldiers' Angels.
The convention comes as Crunch continues to expand within the high-value, low-price segment of the fitness industry, with franchise growth and international development remaining key priorities under the company's new leadership.
