Jordan Meinster, CEO, PickUp USA Fitness, path to leadership commenced well in advance of his establishment of PickUp USA Franchise Company. Prior to venturing into entrepreneurship, Jordan accumulated experience in finance and banking, which equipped him with a profound comprehension of business strategy, financial planning, and operational execution.
Jordan had always envisioned creating something of his own, aimed at addressing a genuine issue within the market. This issue pertained to the disorganization of PickUp basketball. As a dedicated basketball player throughout his life, Jordan experienced the frustrations of waiting for extended periods for games, engaging in disputes over calls, and encountering varying levels of competition.
In 2012, Jordan established PickUp USA with the aim of enhancing the basketball experience by providing a gym that featured organized, officiated PickUp games within a professional environment. This initial idea gradually transformed into a comprehensive basketball gym franchise. Currently, PickUp USA stands as the largest basketball gym chain in the nation, operating under a business model that emphasizes the success of its franchisees.
Jordan Meinster’s leadership role has transitioned from managing a single gym to developing a scalable franchise system that enables entrepreneurs to establish thriving businesses within their communities. His main duties now involve designing the franchisor framework, coordinating resources, assessing outcomes, and enhancing processes to guarantee the profitability of franchisees.
The Inception Story
The concept for PickUp USA was derived from Jordan’s personal journey as a basketball player. Recognizing a demand for organized and high-quality basketball he took the initiative to establish a gym that addressed this need. In 2012, he inaugurated the first location in Irwindale, CA, implementing a straightforward idea that included officiated PickUp basketball games, a structured queueing system to resolve conflicts, and a professional, well-maintained environment for basketball enthusiasts.
It quickly became apparent that PickUp USA was poised for something greater than merely operating a single gym. The players appreciated the experience, leading to a demand that exceeded the capacity of one location. It was at this moment that Jordan recognized the potential for a franchise model rather than just a standalone gym.
In 2016, PickUp USA commenced its franchising operations and has since achieved nationwide expansion. The foundation of the PickUp USA franchise system rests on a singular principle i.e. prioritizing the success of franchisees. Every corporate decision is strategically crafted to assist franchisees in establishing profitable and sustainable enterprises.
Beating the Odd
One of the primary obstacles encountered by PickUp USA was persuading landlords of the viability of a basketball gym as a tenant. At the inception of PickUp USA, numerous commercial landlords were skeptical about the financial stability of gyms, particularly those centered around basketball.
Initially, Jordan encountered numerous rejections while attempting to lease a facility, as landlords were skeptical of the concept. It required determination, innovative thinking, and a compelling business proposal to ultimately obtain the first location.
Years later, this challenge has evolved into one of the company’s greatest assets. Currently, PickUp USA is a highly desirable tenant in the commercial real estate market. Landlords actively pursue PickUp USA, recognizing that the company possesses a validated franchise model that yields substantial revenue and reliable customer traffic.
The Services
PickUp USA is a full-service basketball gym franchise that offers officiated PickUp basketball Structured, 10-minute games with professional referees, Youth Development League (YDL) – Training and league play for young athletes, and Private & group basketball training – Skill development programs for players of all levels. Additionally, Basketball tournaments & leagues – Competitive play options for both youth and adults and full-service fitness centers – Strength and cardio training facilities inside every club is also provided.
The Differentiating Factor
“What sets us apart is our commitment to franchisee success. We do not just provide the business model we provide the resources, support, and training necessary for franchisees to succeed,” added Jordan. From real estate selection and lease negotiation to marketing and operations training, the team is fully invested in making each franchise owner successful.
Achievements
Launched PickUp USA’s franchise system in 2016 and have since grown to multiple locations nationwide. Established the Youth Development League (YDL), now one of the most successful services. Simultaneously, also created an industry-leading real estate and site selection program that helps franchisees secure premium locations.
Advice to the Aspiring Leaders
Jordan advices leaders tobe relentless as success comes from perseverance and sticking with the vision when challenges arise. Secondly, he urges aspiring leaders to surround themselves with the right people which will make or break success. Thirdly, he advices future leaders to focus on unit-level success whether in franchising or any business, individual success leads to long-term brand growth.
The Road Ahead
PickUp USA’s is planning to focus on growing to 100+ locations in the next few years. The firm will also continue to refine their franchisee support systems to maximize profitability. The expansion of service offerings to enhance the basketball experience at every location is also on the cards.
“Our mission remains the same such as providing a better way to play basketball while ensuring every franchisee has the tools and support to run a thriving business,” concluded Jordan.
- 📌 Visit Jordan Meinster 👉 – LinkedIn Profile
- 🌐 Explore PickUp USA Fitness 👉 – Company Website
