The Phenomenal Growth of Stretch Zone: A Conversation with Tony Zaccario

Tony Zaccario’s journey with Stretch Zone began in 2016 when he joined the company, which had only four locations. Fast forward to today, and Stretch Zone is thriving with over 400 locations and no store failures—a remarkable achievement in the franchise world. This article explores Zaccario’s insights on the stretching brand’s evolution, the challenges faced in scaling the business, and the future ahead.

Early Career and Joining Stretch Zone

Zaccario hails from Tampa, Florida, and earned his degree from the University of Florida. Having always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit, he began his career at a startup timber company in Alabama. The experience came with its challenges, but Zaccario seized the opportunity to learn.

During visits to South Florida to see his then-girlfriend, Zaccario first encountered Stretch Zone. Intrigued by its unique concept, he recognized it as an opportunity worth pursuing. “I thought, ‘If I’m wrong about this, I’ll learn a lot and find something different,’” he recalls. Thankfully, his instincts paid off, leading to the franchise’s exponential growth.

The Allure of Assisted Stretching

Zaccario found the concept of assisted stretching compelling. He explained that while stretching has always been integrated into fitness routines, what set Stretch Zone apart was its protocol-based stretching methodology created by founder Jorden Gold. This unique approach is not only beneficial for weekend warriors but also significantly aids the elderly and inactive populations.

He reminisces about seeing the change in an elderly gentleman who could finally put on his shoes without assistance; it was moments like these that solidified Zaccario’s commitment to the brand.

Scaling the Business

In the beginning, Stretch Zone operated with a startup mentality that could be described as “dysfunctional.” With only four locations, Zaccario faced the challenge of systematizing the business processes. “We had to figure out how to sell, market, and price our services effectively,” he explains.

Zaccario focused on creating a replicable model that could be easily franchised. It was a strenuous task, but the vision paid off; in 2017, the company began franchising, rapidly expanding its footprint across the United States.

Choosing Franchising as a Growth Strategy

Initially, Zaccario and the team considered expanding through corporate locations. However, once they discovered the advantages of franchising, they shifted their strategy. This move allowed them to tap into a wider pool of potential franchisees, ranging from newcomers to experienced business owners.

“Franchising opened up incredible growth opportunities for us because of the intellectual property behind our service,” he shares. This transition has been successful; the model is simple and effective, enabling Stretch Zone to operate without any store failures.

Evolving Growth Strategies

As Stretch Zone continues to expand, Zaccario has recognized that strategies that worked in the past may not suffice for future growth. “What got us from point A to point B won’t necessarily get us from point B to point C,” he says. To adapt, the company has strengthened its leadership team by bringing in experienced professionals from health and wellness franchises.

With a new COO and additional leaders in franchise development and operations, Zaccario is committed to ensuring Stretch Zone remains at the forefront of the industry.

Partnership with Drew Brees

A notable partnership that has raised the brand’s profile is with NFL legend Drew Brees. Surprisingly, this collaboration came about organically rather than through a formal ambassador search. Brees attended a Stretch Zone event while advising former roommates interested in franchising. He was impressed with the brand’s service and vision, leading him to express a desire to join the team.

Zaccario emphasizes the character and core values Brees brings to Stretch Zone, which deeply resonates with the company’s philosophy. The partnership has since proven advantageous in attracting new customers to the franchise.

Future Expansion Goals

Looking ahead, Zaccario’s enthusiasm remains undisputed. “I’m as excited at 400 locations as I was at four. I see this as just the beginning,” he states. With ample growth opportunities still available in the U.S. market—particularly in areas like workers’ compensation and national accounts—the intrinsic value of Stretch Zone is increasingly evident.

Internationally, the franchise has recently made its debut in Canada. Zaccario notes the universal need for stretching services, emphasizing that human anatomy is constant, regardless of geographical boundaries. The scope for further international expansion is promising, adding to Stretch Zone’s already impressive trajectory.

Through Tony Zaccario’s leadership, Stretch Zone is not just a brand; it is a growing phenomenon in the wellness industry, demonstrating the power of stretching to improve lives across demographics.