BabyBallers scores big as it signs six new franchisees

Among new network members is football company’s franchise development manager

BabyBallers has welcomed six new franchisees to its network, as the demand for safe social activities for children sees a sharp increase.

With many children having little to no interaction with others during the past year, it’s no surprise that parents are desperate to enrol their children in safe social activities.

And with 1,170 children now on the BabyBallers waiting list, new franchise owners can potentially look forward to a busy year.

The six franchisees joining the multiskills football franchise are Nihar Vithlani and Devin Gohil, who are launching in Ruislip; Tanya and Liam O’Neill, who are opening in Bishop’s Stortford; and Tom Hopley, who takes on the Loughton territory.

All new to children’s services and franchising, they’ve completed their online training and are eager to get started as lockdown restrictions ease.

The sixth franchisee is Jo Middleton, BabyBaller’s franchise development manager (pictured).

A former franchisor with 20 years’ franchising experience, she already runs another children’s services business and is launching territories in Warminster, Wilton, Salisbury and Westbury in Wiltshire.

Jo says: “Working in the head office for BabyBallers and being in constant contact with franchisees has allowed me to see first-hand all the financials, the personal satisfaction and the huge potential this franchise has to offer.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t inspired to get involved by the success of our franchisees.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always had a passion for helping children maximise their potential, so getting involved as a franchisee was a no-brainer for me.

“BabyBallers provides children with the invaluable motor skills and social skills they need when they start primary school.

“Learning these skills now is so important because most children will have had their development stunted by the lack of interaction with others during the lockdown.”

Jo intends to open a further five clubs.

“I want to grow my network and bring BabyBallers to as many people as possible,” she explains.

“There’s unlimited support for all franchisees and when you join you become part of a network with a real community feel.”

Launched in 2015, BabyBallers has 50 clubs in the UK.

Business development director Chris Elms says: “It’s great to have so many new locations kicking off as pandemic restrictions ease.

“The fact that BabyBallers has been able to keep expanding despite a challenging economic climate is a real testament to our head office and team of franchisees.

“BabyBallers provides an excellent solution to the increasing number of parents looking for services that help their child learn through play.”