Additional gym location - same name or different?

[moriniuk]

I'd just like to get a few views on the following.

I've been running a martial arts gym for a few years in one particular area.

I'm about to open another teaching the same style in another area about 7 miles away from the first one.

My question is, should I keep the same gym name or should I use a completely different one?

Regarding branding etc., I'm not exactly on a par with McDonald's or Coca Cola so it's no big deal for me to have the same name.

Also, I've got a great idea for a name that I'm itching to use.

Thanks in advance.

[Wastelander]

The same name in multiple places builds name recognition in the area, which could be beneficial.

[Dobie1979]

I agree with Wastlander. You may not be looking to franchise (yet) , it will look good to see the same name of a school across town. I'd tend to think that this guys has his stuff together. But that is just my opinion. As for the cool name, change the old name.

[Dobbersky]

Definately the same name, pm me you gym location I'll pop in to say hi

[ps1]

Same name for sure. The only thing you may want to add is north, south, east, or west in order to differentiate the schools.

[DWx]

Yeah same name but maybe with a bit added on to differentiate from the original school. If you've already built up a good rep with your current school people will be familiar with the name and it'll suggest that the new school is good quality too etc. etc.

[sensei8]

I concur with many ideas found here...keep your original school name but add a variety to it to differ one from another. Business 101 states that the build up of any positive "good will" will drive the bottom line.

Good luck!

[bushido_man96]

I agree with the others as well. Building your name recognition will be a good thing.

[moriniuk]

Thanks for the replies.

The general concensus of opinion to retain the original name is what, deep down, I always thought was the best way to go.

I am going to shoe horn in the additional name though.