Wondering If Franchising The Sports Bra Might Be for You? Let’s Talk.
Q&A with Lindsey Schalock, Director
of Franchise Development
You don't need to have deep knowledge of franchising before reaching out. In fact, most people don't! That's why we chatted with Lindsey Schalock, who leads franchise development for The Sports Bra. Her goal? To help you feel welcome and fully informed.
“I’m interested… but is franchising really for me?”
Lindsey: If you’re not sure, the best thing to do is just set up a quick call with me. It’s low-pressure—I promise. We’ll talk through your questions, your background, and see if this might be something worth exploring. Every single person gets a personal response from me, because this process is all about getting to know each other and building a relationship.
“What should I know before diving in?”
Lindsey: Get ready to create something powerful in your community. What Jenny built in Portland is more than a restaurant—it’s a space where people feel seen, supported, and connected. When you bring a Sports Bra to your hometown, you’re bringing that same energy to life for a new group of people.
“What if I live in a state where you aren’t registered yet?”
Lindsey: Great question! Some states require legal registration before we can talk with you about franchise opportunities. But don’t worry—we’re expanding into additional states all the time. If you reach out now, we’ll keep your contact info and follow up when we’re able to move forward in your area.
“What kind of people are you looking for as franchise partners?”
Lindsey: First and foremost, we’re looking for folks who really align with our mission: supporting women and girls in sports and beyond. If that lights you up, you're off to a great start.
We’re also looking for people with some food and beverage experience—especially in management. Running a restaurant is no small thing! And of course, you need the financial readiness to open a location. We share all the investment details on our website.
“Can I go in on this with friends or a team?”
Lindsey: Absolutely. In fact, some of our strongest candidates come in as teams. We don’t do official matchmaking, but we definitely encourage people to find partners in their own communities who share the same passion and complementary skill sets.
“Why is the cost estimate such a wide range?”
Lindsey: Because no two locations are the same! A space that’s already set up with a kitchen in a small city might cost a lot less than a brand-new building in a high-rent metro area. We show a range to give you a ballpark, and with some research you’ll be able to find out what’s typical for your area.
Read part two of this interview!
Think you're a good fit? Learn more at thesportsbrafranchise.com
This information is for information purposes only, and is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. We offer franchises only pursuant to our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). In addition, certain states regulate the offer and sale of franchises (California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin). If you are a resident of one of these states, are receiving this message in one of these states, or intend to operate a franchise in any of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with any applicable pre-sale registration and/or additional disclosure requirements in the applicable jurisdiction(s).
1 comment
Congratulations on the opening of the four new franchises. I am sure they will do as well as the original Portland location.
I submitted a franchise interest form previously for Montgomery County, MD, a suburban area neighboring Washington DC. This area has an established tradition or supporting and nurturing female athletes, in addition to being in the vicinity of the female sports franchises Washington Mystics and NWSL Spirit.
In regards to my personal background, I am a black queer woman currently employed as a federal civil servant. Sports had been integral to who I am as a person. Participation in team sports growing up gave me a sense of belonging during times when I felt utterly alone. I personally know how playing sports can contribute to the overall confidence and security of girls and women.
In regards to this region, we are a community of progressives with an established sense of service. We are populated with a large number of federal workers who are currently under attack by the far right. An establishment like the Sports Bra would be welcomed with open arms as it will continue the tradition of supporting female athletes, but also be another symbol of how those of us who value diversity, equity and inclusion will continue to hold the line and never give in to hate.