With a total of 26 locations in seven states, Somersault Holdings is officially the brand’s largest multi-location franchisee.
Little Gym has been serving children ages 4 months to 12 years and their families for nearly 50 years, and now it’s growing faster than ever.
Somersault Holdings, the largest franchisee of The Little Gym International, has announced expansion plans in the United States amid massive company growth.
Founded in 1976 by educator Robin Wes, The Little Gym launched its franchise concept in 1992 and now has nearly 400 locations in 31 countries. Wes’ goal was to create a place where children could build confidence and develop important life skills while having fun.
With gymnastics classes like “Bugs” for children ages 4 to 10 months and “Flips/Hot Shots/Twisters” for children ages 6 to 12, The Little Gym offers members countless class options, soon to be available in the Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina and Eastern New Jersey markets.
“The Somersault Group’s business acumen and passion for highlighting The Little Gym’s mission and brand in each of these communities over the past year has been incredible,” said Nancy Bigley, President of Little Gym Brand. “Their continued growth within the system is a testament to their commitment and strategic efforts.”
Somersault Holdings became The Little Gym’s largest franchisee after it was founded by Unleashed Brands in 2023. In less than a year, the private equity-backed franchise has tripled in size and now employs nearly 300 people. The group initially acquired 20 Little Gym studios and has since opened one new location, with plans to open five more in North Carolina and New Jersey.
Griffin Gordon of Taurus Capital Partners, who leads Somersault Holdings’ investment in The Little Gym, says the franchise partnership and resulting investments have been successful.
“We are thrilled to be able to continue to expand this powerful child development brand nationwide, as we have already seen tremendous success in the gyms we have acquired,” said Gordon.
“The professional support we have received from Unleashed Brands over the past year has exceeded our expectations. With the significant investment in infrastructure, technology and marketing going into the franchise system, we are excited about the future of Unleashed Brands and The Little Gym.”
Somersault Holdings is owned by Unleashed Brands and has a portfolio that currently includes Urban Air, The Little Gym, Sylvan Learning, Snapology, XP League, Class 101 and Premier Martial Arts. The company has more than 2,000 active franchise locations and those in development.
