Lumin Fitness Begins Franchise Expansion With Texas Deal
The “world’s smartest fitness studio” uses a low-labor model where fitness classes can profitably run all day
Lumin Fitness, an interactive AI-powered gamified boutique fitness studio concept, has just signed its first franchise agreement, with Verge Fit Holdings, a group that plans to open 13 Lumin locations across key markets in Texas such as Dallas, Austin and Houston over the next three years.
Dallas-based Lumin Fitness opened its first studio in Irving-Las Colinas, Texas, last September.
Verge’s multi-brand franchise group currently operates nearly 200 franchise locations in the U.S. and noted it has been looking for ways to diversify its portfolio, searching for a model that presented a significant growth opportunity.
Enter Lumin Fitness.
“When we were introduced to Lumin Fitness, it immediately resonated with us,” said Raheel Suria, partner at Verge. “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.”
Suria added that the 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.”
High Tech, High Intensity
Leaning into its self-appointed title as “The World’s Smartest Fitness Studio,” Lumin is adorned with interactive wall-to-wall LED displays. Beyond the futuristic aesthetic is a proprietary ecosystem that uses artificial intelligence, motion tracking, and object detection — all developed by fitness, franchising and gaming experts.
Clients can select their music of choice and training style in the Lumin Fitness app before embarking on a 40-minute full-body, high-intensity functional training workout with interactive elements that make working up a sweat an engaging and entertaining experience. During their workout, participants receive real-time guidance and feedback from trainers.
Behind Lumin’s unique boutique fitness concept is Brandon Bean, formerly Gold’s Gym CEO, and Omeed Shams, former CEO of social discovery app Kwest.
Bean, who serves as CEO, sees the fitness landscape shifting towards a more dynamic and personalized model.
“Lumin is at the forefront of this evolution, introducing subtle gamification elements such as mini-interactions, class challenges and a game economy into our experience,” he tells Athletech News. “This fosters a sense of progress and accomplishment, motivating members to engage more deeply with their fitness journey.”
Bold Franchising Ambitions
Bean believes Lumin’s approach is particularly resonating with a new generation of wellness enthusiasts who value engagement, data-driven insights and a sense of ownership over their health.
“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.”
Aside from its innovative group workout concept, Lumin Fitness is looking to disrupt the franchise market with a model that requires minimal staffing and the ability to offer classes all day.
Lumin Fitness is hosting a live webinar on Tuesday, January 30, at 7 p.m. CT for those interested in the fitness concept’s growth opportunities. Lumin’s development team will lead the online event and offer an overview of the brand’s franchise model, studio tour, and qualifications to become a Lumin Fitness Franchisee.
The boutique fitness concept lists an investment range of $505,792 – $997,475, franchising requirements of $250,000+ in liquid capital and a net worth of $750,000+.
