Coffee shops make a killing off luxurious coffee. Do the same for healthy protein shakes for your gym.

According to Starbucks’ own menu, the typical customer order for one of their fancy coffees costs between five and seven dollars. How many people do you know who stop by Starbucks or some similar coffee shop every day and get the same drink over and over? Based on the analyses, the coffee itself probably only costs 75 cents to a dollar to make. A 500 percent profit is not to be ignored. In fact, you should be trying to duplicate this success at your gym. And you can do so by starting your own protein shake bar.

Why Protein Shakes Matter For Your Members

Protein shakes are perhaps the simplest way to ingest a bunch of grams of protein in a short amount of time. Almost everybody who goes to a gym realizes protein is essential for building muscle (when it is combined with strength training). In turn, this calorie-burning muscle will decrease fat percentage and shrink up inches around your waist.

While many people insist on drinking a protein shake right after a workout so they fall into that 30 to 60 minute post-exercise “anabolic window” where consuming protein and carbohydrates maximizes muscle growth and recovery, the truth is that studies have shown the benefits are there even if drinking a shake before the workout or even during (although my tummy might not agree with a hard workout right after a 250 calorie shake).

In any case, posting research studies around your health club promoting how protein shakes are beneficial before, during, or after, will provide more interest and opportunities for your new protein station.

Gym Insight Already Provides the Technology

If you are using Gym Insight software, and possibly hardware, at your business currently, you are all set to make adding an extremely profitable protein shake line a real thing at your gym. The software is all set up with a point of sale (POS) system with the ability to charge members for protein shakes or any type of merchandise.

Even better, your members can purchase these protein shakes with their credit card on file with the Gym Insight software, which you use every month for their membership fees. Because if you are like me, I don’t like carrying my wallet into the gym. I come in with my keys and sometimes my phone. I will pass by the merchandise on sale simply because I don’t like having my wallet with me when training. But if I knew I could order a protein shake right after my workout by just instructing the employee to use my card on file, I would do that at least a couple of times a week.

Pre-Packaged Protein Shakes and Powders

There are certain rules that should be followed in relation to selling protein shakes at your gym. However, don’t let them discourage you as there are not many hoops to jump through.

The easiest option is to sell pre-packaged protein shakes and powders as there is no need then for an FDA license or approval. While the FDA has these listed under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), there is no special approval required. You already have a general business license if you are operating as a retail seller. (However, it is always wise to double-check with the state or local municipalities.)

Fresh Protein Shakes On-Site

Starbucks would not make the profit they do if it just sold pre-packaged coffee in a can. By offering protein shakes, made in real time in front of the member, there will be better profits. Although, this will require having an employee ready to create these masterpieces. (Only offering fresh protein shakes during the busiest times could be something to consider so it won’t always have to be staffed.)

It is a bit more involved to be able to serve protein shake creations to your members on-site. By contacting your local health department, they will be able to guide you through the process. You may likely need a food service establishment permit or just a retail food permit. They may come and inspect your prep areas and ensure everything is properly handled. It all depends on what your local government (or state) requires. Do everything by the book to save yourself any potential headaches later on.

More and more health clubs and fitness centers are adding protein shake stations. Ask your members if this is something they would be interested in. If it is successful, you can add more products later on. Focusing a bit on alternate revenue streams for your gym will allow you to grow beyond what you originally thought was possible.

Gym Insight

Gym Insight’s customer service is second to none. If you are on the fence and would like to brainstorm how Gym Insight can take your gym to the next level and make things easier on yourself, just reach out.

We work with gyms of all sizes. And we will never take percentages or include hidden fees. We offer per-month pricing plans that will never increase over time. Gym Insight wants you to succeed. And if you already have gym software in place that you are not quite happy with, we can transfer the data over and you can start fresh with us.

Phone: 1-855-FOR-GYMS
Email: [email protected]