Lumin Fitness signed a 13-unit development deal with its first franchise partner, Verge Fit Holdings, which closely follows the brand’s launch in late 2023. The deal outlines expansion plans for key Texas markets over the next three years, including Austin, Houston and Dallas.
The company said the Houston, TX-based Verge brings extensive business acumen and franchising expertise to the Lumin network.
The investment group, founded by Raheel Suria, Syed Shah, Jawad Rawra, Malik Kheraj, and Ali Lakhany, operates nearly 200 franchise locations in the U.S. with Marriott, Hilton Hotels and T-Mobile.
“We were actively exploring opportunities to diversify our portfolio, seeking a concept that not only aligned with our investment criteria but also presented a substantial growth opportunity,” said Suria, “When we were introduced to Lumin Fitness, it immediately resonated with us. The uniqueness of the business model and technology, the experience of the team and the potential for scalability were exactly what we were looking for. This initial venture into Lumin Fitness is just the beginning. Our aspirations go far beyond just a handful of units; we have every intention of expanding our footprint to own and operate over 100 units.”
Lumin Fitness said it wants to “revolutionize the boutique fitness industry with an AI-infused fitness concept that uses the latest tech advances to deliver a gamified and hyper-personalized workout experience in a group fitness setting.”
In September 2023, Lumin opened its first studio in Irving-Las Colinas, TX, which includes wall-to-wall LED screens that “immerse members in an interactive fitness environment that blends AI, digital displays, motion tracking, and object detection for more efficient and engaging workouts.”
“Verge isn’t just our first franchise partner; they are a testament to our commitment to cultivating a network that values quality over quantity,” said Craig Sherwood, chief development Officer at Lumin Fitness. “Our goal is to create an exclusive club of strong multi-unit operators who are as invested in our success as we are in theirs.”
Image courtesy Lumin Fitness
