Xponential Fitness, Inc. (NYSE: XPOF), a leading global franchisor of boutique health and wellness brands, has announced a significant leadership change. The company's Board of Directors has unanimously appointed Mark King as Chief Executive Officer, effective June 17, 2024. In addition to his new role, Mr. King will also join the company's Board of Directors. Concurrently, Brenda Morris will step down from her position as Interim CEO but will remain an active member of the Board.
Mark King is a seasoned leader renowned for his innovative approach and ability to scale iconic global consumer brands. His recent tenure as CEO of Taco Bell showcased his prowess, with the franchise experiencing positive same-store sales growth in nearly every quarter under his leadership. He was instrumental in opening over 1,400 new franchise locations and driving Taco Bell’s international expansion. King’s efforts were pivotal in establishing a robust domestic franchise system for the fast-food giant.
Before his achievements at Taco Bell, King served as President of Adidas North America. During his four-year tenure, he remarkably doubled the company’s market share and tripled sales, reinforcing Adidas’s market position. King’s leadership journey began at TaylorMade, where he progressed from a territory sales representative to CEO. Under his guidance, TaylorMade emerged as the leading and most profitable golf company globally.
Mark King’s extensive experience and success in scaling franchises make him an ideal fit for Xponential Fitness. Currently, he also serves on the Board of Directors for Party City and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
Mark Grabowski, Chairman of Xponential Fitness, expressed his confidence in King's ability to drive the company forward.
The appointment of Mark King marks a strategic move for Xponential Fitness as it seeks to bolster its position in the health and wellness sector. The company, known for its diverse portfolio of boutique fitness brands, including Pure Barre, Club Pilates, and CycleBar, aims to leverage King’s expertise to enhance its global footprint and franchise model.
King's appointment comes at a time when the health and wellness industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased consumer focus on fitness and well-being. With his proven track record, King is well-positioned to lead Xponential Fitness through its next phase of expansion and innovation. His leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies that will not only strengthen the company’s existing operations but also explore new opportunities for growth.
As Xponential Fitness prepares for this leadership transition, the company remains committed to its mission of empowering individuals to lead healthier lives through its array of fitness offerings. The board’s decision to appoint Mark King underscores their dedication to sustaining and enhancing the company’s success and impact in the health and wellness industry.
With Mark King at the helm, Xponential Fitness is poised for a future of continued growth, innovation, and strengthened franchise relationships, promising exciting times ahead for the company and its stakeholders.