The VoicE 2019 Q4 | Seite 28

“Epsilon has been sponsoring the Owners’ Conference this entire decade and we keep returning because of the immense value. Even though it is located in the biggest city in the country, the intimacy of the OC allows us not only to build relationships and create new ones, but also the opportunity to hear some of the challenges that owners are having and offer up solutions and strategies. We feel it is a great event for our business and look forward to it every year.” Greg Dowd & Ryan Popek Epsilon “On behalf of Dave Lee, Tonya, & myself we would like to thank each of you for what you all have contributed to our business and our families. There is no other group we enjoy working with more than you. For over 10 years now we have had the privilege to be a part of the OC. This single event has opened new doors, strengthened relationships, & has added to the firm foundation we have with many of you. With zero hesitation we look forward to next year and are internally aligned to work even harder for each of you as your success is our passion. Thank you for all you do and the loyalty you display, each and every day.” Justin Weeks, Dave Lee & Tonya Tarlton Europa Sports Products “It is a true pleasure to a part of the Gold’s Gym family! The OC gives me the op- portunity to strengthen old relationships and build new ones. Each OC opens the door for new ideas and gives everyone a chance to come together collectively to solve any issues they may face.” Patty Daugherty Power Systems “Throughout our long-standing partnership, Matrix has always been impressed by the GGFA’s vision for the future and ongoing support of the Gold’s Gym franchise network. We look forward to attending the GGFA’s premier event in New York each year and cherish the ability to connect with those who continue to build on Gold’s Gym’s storied history.” Seth Robinson Matrix Fitness “The Power Of Partnership As I completed my 10th year of attending the GGFA Owners’ Conference in NYC, I wanted to share a few thoughts. The GGFA OC is a very powerful organization. Started by and lead by a group of passionate 28 Gold’s Gym owners who care about the brand and support their fellow members, so they all succeed in their respective markets. Precor and I love to give back to the Gold’s Gym franchisees who have supported our products and services over the years. We know the GGFA is the one constant that the owners can depend upon for guidance and support in a competitive industry. We understand that the Owners’ Conference is the perfect time to close-out various sales opportunities and help the franchisee plan for the busy season ahead. I can tell my fellow vendors that there is a significant Return on Investment that can be attained if you support this group.” Sal Pellegrino Precor Thank You Founders! At Club Industry East in April 2001, a few franchisees were riding around in a limo and talking about the future of the Gold’s Gym brand and their investments in the brand. With their concern for the future, this little rendezvous produced the now esteemed and invaluable GGFA which was incorporated on August 8th, 2001. The very first meeting of the franchisees took place at Club Industry in October 2001. The rest is GGFA history! We express our infinite gratitude to Angel Banos and Jeremy Lowell for being part of that rogue group of franchisees making it happen! Between the two of them, they have 57 years in the Gold’s Gym brand! “From the moment that we, the franchisees, felt that there was a need to align ourselves to be able to have discourse with GGI, it has been a pleasure to have been with the Board of the GGFA, in the mix with GGI on various levels, and to be an attendant at the Owners’ Conference. It offers all of us the opportunity, first, to see each other in an intimate environment as opposed to large conventions or not at all. At the same time, to share best practices, frustrations, intellect, game planning, and education with the group is so incredibly valuable, and from the beginning until this most recent convention it validates why we stick together. The one on one time with vendors is something that over and over they share with me how appreciative they are and we feel the same way about them. Sharing problem solving at round table discussions between vendors and franchisees is one of the most valuable aspects of this last OC. It is with sincere appreciation and gratitude that I bow my head to all of the wonderful ladies who work tirelessly within the GGFA support team to make the OC the event that it is.” Jeremy Lowell, Owner Gold’s Gym Virginia and Wisconsin GGFA Founder “The GGFA has been an invaluable resource and support for Franchisees for many years. The relationships that have been cultivated between franchisees, industry leaders and vendors at the Owners’ Conference are due to the dedication and focus of the GGFA and team. I am inspired every year at the OC and look forward to the future.” Angel Banos, Owner Golds’ Gym SoCal GGFA Founder