Verdine Baker, StretchLab President, grows franchise to 500 units in 5 years

StretchLab, a global leader in assisted stretching and part of the Xponential Fitness portfolio, has grown significantly under CEO Verdine Baker, a former professional soccer player. Over five years, the franchise expanded to 500 locations, excelling in unit economics despite rapid growth.

In 2023, several U.S. locations reported revenues over US$1 million, with membership growth accelerating in 2024. Black Enterprise spoke with Baker to discuss the brand’s success and the importance of African American representation in franchise leadership and ownership.