The Little Gym Group was founded in the United States 48 years ago and has since established an international franchise.
Joan Brown Nelson and Jody Nelson now hope to expand and open many more stores across the North West, starting with Widnes.
To make this happen, the sisters secured a £245,000 loan from NatWest Bank to help buy and refurbish the space needed to set up Widnes Gym, which opened on Earl Road last month.
Aimed at boosting children's self-esteem and confidence and developing their gymnastic and gross motor skills, Little Gym Group offers a range of group classes for children aged 4 months to 12 years.
“The Little Gym environment is fun, but our purpose is serious,” Joan said.
“We want to make skill-building fun for students and parents alike and are delighted to be able to offer our service to Cheshire residents.
“NatWest has been a great help in realising our vision. Their business advice and support, as well as financial assistance, have been extremely helpful in setting up our Cheshire site.”
“We are very excited about our future and potential expansion as we continue to work collaboratively with NatWest.”
The six-figure loan from NatWest was used to purchase the premises and complete a full refurbishment of the previously vacant building.
The gym currently employs nine staff at its Cheshire branch and hopes to create a total of 20 new jobs over the next five years.
“NatWest is always looking to support businesses that are keen to make a difference and impact in society, which is why we jumped at the chance to work with Little Gym Group,” said Sarah Johnson, NatWest Group Relationship Manager.
“The Little Gym Group has clearly been a success internationally and we are very pleased to be bringing this service to the North West.
“We wish them every success following this initial opening and hope that they can continue to grow with more facilities in future, making a positive difference to the lives of children across the North West.”
