QC Kinetix began its franchise journey with no locations in 2020, yet by the end of 2021, the regenerative medicine concept had grown exponentially, opening 59 franchise clinics alongside 11 corporate units.
This rapid growth reflects a rising demand for non-surgical pain relief options among consumers, coupled with significant interest from franchise investors in the medical sector. According to CEO Justin Crowell, “We use natural biologics from them,” referring to patients. He explained, “We are taking either blood or stem cells from the patient and distilling the cells … and injecting it into the joint.”
Natural Biologics and the QC Kinetix Approach
QC Kinetix, represented by Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, treats musculoskeletal and joint pain caused by injuries, arthritis, or chronic conditions. Their approach emphasizes non-invasive solutions like platelet-rich plasma injections and other biologic therapies. Crowell mentioned the company’s effort to popularize the term “natural biologics” to encompass their diverse regenerative medicine treatments beyond just stem cell therapy.
The concept aligns with advancements in regenerative medicine over the past decade. The Mayo Clinic’s Center for Regenerative Medicine describes the field as focusing on therapies that enable the body to repair, regenerate, and restore itself to wellness.
Origins and Franchise Growth
Founded in 2017 by Justin Crowell, Tyler Vail, and Dr. Richard Schaffer in Charleston, South Carolina, QC Kinetix began franchising in 2020. Vail, now the company’s president, and Schaffer, the chief medical officer, envisioned a business model centered on cash-based regenerative medicine, bypassing traditional insurance frameworks.
Crowell shared that the average patient spends $10,000 per treatment plan, which may not suit everyone due to cost or personal beliefs. However, the model’s profitability is undeniable, with systemwide sales growing from $8 million in 2020 to $27 million in 2021, bolstered by the addition of franchise locations.
Franchisee Success Stories
Franchisees like Shane Fay, who operates three clinics in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and plans to open 17 total, have found great success. “We are absolutely just crushing it in this market,” said Fay, who was drawn to QC Kinetix’s innovative approach and reputation. His clinics set sales records, and one location achieved unprecedented monthly revenue in December 2021.
Fay highlighted the brand’s personalized, concierge-style medical approach, which includes a full-time medical director and physician assistants. “Patients are blown away by the access they have to a full team of medical professionals,” he said.
Financial and Operational Insights
QC Kinetix clinics typically operate one day a week, with franchisees determining schedules based on market demand. Despite this limited operating time, Crowell noted, “A busy day for us is to see 10 new patients … At $10,000 a pop, that’s a good day.”
Franchisees, most of whom lack medical backgrounds, hire licensed professionals to deliver care. Crowell advised prospective franchisees to conduct thorough research and consult legal experts familiar with medical regulations.
The initial investment for a QC Kinetix franchise ranges from $159,030 to $300,230, with clinics occupying 1,700 to 2,500 square feet in Class A office or medical spaces.
Future of QC Kinetix
As QC Kinetix continues its expansion, its innovative approach to regenerative medicine and focus on “natural biologics” positions it as a leader in the non-surgical pain management sector. The model’s blend of patient-focused care and franchisee support underscores its appeal in the growing field of regenerative therapies.
