Direct debit billing technology helps fitness centres provide ‘WOW’ service for clients
17 November 2011
When you run the largest 24-hour gym in New Zealand, it takes organization and energy to stay on top of administration tasks as well as maintain an excellent relationship with clients. However, a Hamilton-based fitness centre is making it all look quite simple, even winning awards for their service, with help from a direct debit payment service company.
Ryan Johnston, owner and manager of First Place Fitness in Te Rapa, Hamilton, says that through using the services of Debitsuccess, they are able to offer clients the highest level of customer service, which they like to call ‘WOW’ service.
“When I first opened this gym five years ago, we tried doing our own payment administration, but it proved to be far too time consuming and costly,” says Mr. Johnston.
“We then dabbled with various direct debit companies, but to be honest, we had major headaches with all of them. Debitsuccess proved to be the best fit for us because their service is just so simple and straightforward. This means keeping track of membership payments is no fuss for us or our clients, which they love.”
Mr. Johnston says working with Debitsuccess meant First Place Fitness could focus on their objective of creating and maintaining an open, friendly environment where anyone, no matter what his or her body type or gym ability, would feel welcome.
Their success in providing an exceptional service has been recognized with nominations for the NZ Fitness Life ‘Fitness Centre of the Year’ award, which they have won several times over the past few years.
“Great service comes down to the simple things, like remembering people’s names and using them, remembering what they did for the weekend – basically being genuinely friendly,” says Mr. Johnston.
The ultimate goal for the First Place Fitness team is to make everything that much easier for members, says Mr. Johnston.
“This is why First Place Fitness is open 365 days a year, including Christmas. We even offer free access to over 150 gyms across New Zealand if our members are travelling out of town.”
Mr Johnston says the goal of making things easier is why First Place Fitness now utilises Debitsuccess’ Online Management Gateway technology (OMG), which he believes is one of the best online tools they have used by far.
“The ability to increase membership signings through online joining is invaluable. It cuts the time needed to sign up to the gym in half, which means less waiting time for potential members,” he says.
“Debitsuccess’ staff are also always willing to help out should the need arise. They work with us not only with our billing, but they also help us in other areas of our business, such as on strategies for client retention, which is really beneficial for us. Basically, when we need answers, we go to these guys.”
Debitsuccess has more than 17 years experience in providing full service billing solutions for businesses and organisations. They handle payments, customer service through a contact centre and credit control on any missed payments.
“In my view, Debitsuccess, hands down, gives the best service to our business and our members,” says Mr Johnston.
“We found other direct debit companies had hidden costs for our business, whereas Debitsuccess lay it all on the table and are always upfront and honest.”
For more information about how Debitsuccess can help your business succeed with customer payment solutions and administration, visit www.debitsuccess.co.nz or call 09 4810498.