18/06/2026
We’re proud to celebrate our Franchisor, Sam Waller, on being recognised in the Top 30 Franchise Executives 2026 report, taking out the #11 spot.
This recognition reflects Sam’s leadership of the Stepz Fitness network and his relentless focus on the success of our franchisees, our members, and our team.
Over the journey, Sam has grown Stepz to 26 gyms across four states (NSW, QLD, ACT and SA), entirely bootstrapped, with no private equity. A pipeline of new clubs is on the way in Canterbury, Marrickville, Riverstone, Aitkenvale and Mickleham, alongside member retention that runs well above the industry average.
As the editors of the Top 30 Franchise Executives report noted, this year’s leaders were recognised for championing innovation, improving franchisee performance, driving commercial success, and making a meaningful impact on the communities they serve.
Those qualities are evident in Sam’s leadership every day. He took over as Franchisor at 24, on a path that wasn’t clearly laid out for him, and built something that now supports families and communities right across Australia. His belief that franchising should be a reputable and achievable career for any young person with the drive to pursue it is exactly what makes this recognition so well deserved.
Congratulations, Sam, on this well-earned recognition. The entire network is proud to stand behind you as we keep raising the bar for health, fitness and franchising in Australia.
Thinking about buying a gym franchise in Australia? Turn your passion into profit with Stepz, a top 10 fitness franchise.