INNISFAIL - Many small businesses across Alberta are facing challenges in these tough economic times.
That isn't stopping one new business, Fit Body Boot Camp, that's set to open in Innisfail in mid-November.
“The number 1 concern we started to see with consumers this year was an increasing fear of job security and making that commitment to something long-term,” said Cabel McElderry, owner of Fit Body Boot Camp. “We adapted and responded by making it easier for people to terminate their memberships, knowing that there was a way to relieve themselves of those commitments.”
The private indoor boutique fitness centre has three franchises, including two in Edmonton and one franchise in Innisfail that will provide group fitness classes entirely through instruction.
“It's by appointment and membership only,” he said, noting it's not just about the exercise. “We sell empowerment and the ability to become the best version of yourself. The tools that we use just happen to be fitness and nutrition.”
Despite all the talk of doom and gloom in the Alberta economy this year, McElderry said it's been a productive year for the company.
“From a consumer perspective with what we've seen in our businesses, outside of those concerns of job security and commitment, we actually had substantial and sustained growth throughout this year,” explained McElderry, adding with the downturn in the economy and the job market, many are focusing on themselves.
“I think people find these (challenging) times are times to invest in themselves,” he said. “People feel like if they are struggling in the job market they can at least invest in themselves, take care of themselves and hopefully feel better about themselves.”
The recent increase in the minimum wage, although not directly impacting his business, is still an important factor to keep in mind.
“I think minimum wage earners at this point still fall into that category of worrying about finances on a day-to-day basis. We know that we can't operate our business with employees with that kind of feeling or concern,” said McElderry. “We've always paid above minimum wage. It hasn't directly impacted us that way but at the end of the day these things are also passed on to the consumer.”
He doesn't see the upcoming carbon tax having a direct impact on his business either.
McElderry grew up in Central Alberta and currently lives with his wife in Red Deer. He said they look forward to joining the Innisfail business community.
“The responsiveness (on social media) from the Innisfail community has been so welcoming,” said McElderry. “We're really excited to be there.”
Cabel McElderry
"We adapted and responded by making it easier for people to terminate their memberships, knowing that there was a way to relieve themselves of those commitments."
