Edgard Corona’s 2025 Vision What’s Next for Smart Fit’s Growth
Edgard Corona projects continued aggressive expansion through 2025 as Smart Fit capitalizes on rising fitness demand across Latin America. The dono da Smart Fit plans hundreds of additional gym openings, boutique studio network development reaching 500 locations, technology enhancements including AI integration, and potential entry into underserved markets.
The company’s 2024 performance—305 new gyms representing 21% network growth—demonstrates Smart Fit’s capacity for sustained expansion. Corona sees no reason to moderate pace given Latin America’s low gym penetration rates relative to developed markets.
Geographic Expansion Priorities
Smart Fit identifies substantial opportunity expanding into secondary cities and underserved neighborhoods within existing markets. While the company established presence in major metropolitan areas like São Paulo, Mexico City, and Bogotá, thousands of smaller communities throughout Latin America could support Smart Fit locations.
The company also evaluates entering additional Latin American countries where Smart Fit currently lacks presence. While 15-country operations provide substantial geographic diversification, several markets remain unaddressed.
Density increases in established cities remain priority alongside new market entry. Smart Fit can open additional locations in neighborhoods underserved by current facilities, capturing members who might choose competitors due to convenience factors.
The dono da Smart Fit balances corporate expansion with franchise development to optimize capital efficiency. Corporate resources focus on highest-potential markets where Smart Fit wants direct control, while franchise partnerships accelerate growth in markets where local operators bring valuable capabilities.
Boutique Studio Network Development
Smart Fit’s studio portfolio expansion represents major strategic initiative for 2025 and beyond. The company projects growing from current boutique locations to approximately 500 studios throughout Brazil. This ambitious target reflects Corona’s conviction that specialized fitness concepts will capture increasing market share from traditional gyms (https://medium.com/@edgardcorona/about).
Velocity spinning studios anchor the expansion following Smart Fit’s R$183 million acquisition. Corona projects growing Velocity from 82 to roughly 140 locations, establishing the brand as dominant indoor cycling operator across Brazil’s major cities.
Race Bootcamp, Vidya, Jab House, and One Pilates collectively target 300+ additional studio locations. Each brand addresses specific fitness segments—HIIT training, yoga, boxing, and Pilates respectively—that complement Smart Fit’s core offering.
Studio economics differ from traditional gyms through higher revenue per square foot despite smaller facilities. Class-based models with premium pricing generate strong margins once studios reach capacity.
Technology and AI Integration
Smart Fit continues investing in technology that enhances member experience while improving operational efficiency. The company’s exploration of artificial intelligence applications represents potentially transformative innovation that could redefine how millions train.
AI-powered form correction using computer vision could provide real-time feedback on exercise technique without requiring personal trainer observation. This technology would dramatically improve workout safety and effectiveness across Smart Fit’s member base.
Personalized training recommendations driven by machine learning could analyze member workout history, progress metrics, and goals to suggest optimal exercises and programming.
Enhanced mobile app features will expand Smart Fit’s digital footprint beyond physical facilities. The company plans improved at-home workout content, nutrition guidance integration, and social features that connect members virtually.
Financial Performance Expectations
Analysts project Smart Fit’s 2025 revenue growth continuing in the 25-30% range based on new gym openings and same-store sales increases. The company’s trailing 12-month revenue reached R$5.17 billion through Q3 2024, suggesting 2025 revenue could approach R$7 billion if growth rates maintain.
Profitability improvements should accompany revenue growth as newer facilities mature and reach optimal operating leverage. Smart Fit locations typically achieve peak profitability 18-24 months after opening once member bases stabilize.
Studio acquisitions and development require substantial capital investment that may pressure near-term margins. However, Edgard Corona takes long-term perspective on studio portfolio development, accepting temporary profitability impacts for strategic positioning benefits.
Long-Term Strategic Vision
Looking beyond 2025, Edgard Corona envisions Smart Fit as comprehensive fitness platform serving members through multiple touchpoints rather than just gym locations. Traditional facilities remain core, yet studios, digital platforms, corporate wellness programs, and potential future concepts collectively address diverse consumer needs.
The dono da Smart Fit also sees opportunity exporting Smart Fit’s model beyond Latin America to other emerging markets. While near-term focus remains regional, successful execution in Latin America could validate replication in Asia, Africa, or other developing regions.
From hundreds of planned gym openings to 500-studio vision to AI integration ambitions, Edgard Corona’s 2025 outlook demonstrates Smart Fit’s continued growth momentum. The dono da Smart Fit positions the company to capitalize on rising Latin American fitness demand while diversifying revenue sources and enhancing competitive differentiation.