World Gym Signs Brazil Franchise Deal, Plans 50 Locations in Country
The legacy fitness brand is entering a new era of global growth, targeting 500 gyms worldwide with Brazil set to become a key market
World Gym International, the franchise arm of Taiwan-based World Gym Corporation, has signed a master franchise agreement with Flag Holding LTDA to open 50 gyms across Brazil over the next five years.
The deal grants Flag Holding exclusive rights to expand the brand into Brazil’s 25 states, positioning the country to become World Gym’s third-largest market globally, behind Taiwan and Australia. Flag Holding is led by CEO Flavia Almeida, who already operates 17 World Gym locations in Goiás and the Federal District. Since opening the first location in Brasília in 2012, Almeida has built a strong regional presence for the brand.
“We have received strong interest from potential franchisees across Brazil who desire to operate the iconic World Gym brand with its proven systems and IT support,” Almeida said. “We have several franchise agreements pending completion at this time.”
The agreement marks the latest step in World Gym Corporation’s international push, part of its broader goal to grow to 500 gyms worldwide.
Last fall, the company acquired World Gym International, securing global operating rights to the brand in a deal worth a reported $9 million, securing global operating rights to the brand and a franchise network spanning 10 countries and more than 270 locations. The deal marked a new chapter for the legacy brand, which was founded in 1976 in Southern California by Joe Gold, also the founder of Gold’s Gym.
“We are thrilled to partner with Flag Holding LTDA and Flavia Almeida, whose vision and proven success in Goiás make them the ideal partner to drive World Gym’s growth across Brazil,” World Gym International CEO John Caraccio said. “This agreement marks a significant milestone in our global expansion strategy, bringing our world-class fitness offerings to more communities in South America.”
Within its facilities, World Gym has begun to emphasize member-focused, tech-driven solutions such as tailored workout recommendations, nutrition guidance, promotional offers and access to digital fitness tools, including body composition tracking and interactive workout apps. The fitness brand has also invested in offerings geared toward female fitness consumers interested in strength training.