Insights into Asia's big box and boutique fitness scenes with Rich Hutson of Chi Fitness and FIRE [Part 1 of 2]

Fitness Business Asia Podcast

Jack talks to Rich Hutson, CEO of Malaysia’s Chi Fitness and boutique offering FIRE in KL, about his long and eventful journey through Asia’s fitness industry. 

With Rich’s vast experience in both bigbox and boutique fitness in Asia, he’s the perfect person to speak to regarding what’s happening in all areas of the region’s industry.

In this episode we discuss:

  1. Did Rick see much change between 2003-2008 in Asia’s fitness industry?
  2. The last decade – BigBox vs Budget vs Boutique
  3. The importance of understanding local culture in Asia
  4. Contactual and legal differences from country to country
  5. Are attitudes towards a career in fitness shifting in Asia?
  6. The importance of location
  7. Be an anchor to get a good deal from a landlord
  8. Lesson’s learned from FIRE opening in Singapore
  9. Can BigBox recreate the boutique experience?
  10. Rich’s tips for starting a fitness business in Asia
  11. The importance of finding the right business partners

RESOURCES

JACK THOMAS ON LINKEDI

FITNESS BUSINESS ASIA WEBSITE

FITNESS BUSINESS ASIA INSTAGRAM

EPISODE WEBPAGE

GUEST RESOURCES 

RICH HUTSON ON LINKEDIN

CHI FITNESS

FIRE FITNESS

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