One Lindsey Street business in Norman stands out from the nearly two dozen stores and restaurants that have closed since the $28.4 million construction project began 16 months ago.
Located just off of the corner of Lindsey Street and McGee Drive, Koda CrossFit Norman has continually been in the heart of the construction. Despite inconveniences, the gym hasn’t skipped a beat.
“We’ve been lucky. I haven’t even really noticed that it has affected business besides when we literally had our entrance closed off for a few days. It really hasn’t affected us in any noticeable way but just for our customers convenience,” said owner Kevin Schuetz.
Koda CrossFit Norman has not only stayed above water, but has grown in size since the construction project began, according to Schuetz.
“If I had to put a number on it, I would say we grew 20 percent, maybe more like 25 percent. Last year, we had anywhere from over 50 to 100 percent growth, but that was in the beginning stages of our business,” Schuetz said.
That stands in stark contrast to other businesses along Lindsey Street, according to Kristen McCall at the International Pantry. McCall who is a part of the Lindsey Street Merchants Association, said 21 stores and restaurants have closed since the project began in July 2016.
At a constant growth since Koda CrossFit Norman opened the doors, Schuetz claims referrals are to thank for the strengthening in numbers.
“We work best from referrals. Our best marketing are just people marketing for us, to be honest. You know, if we do a really good job here and people have a good experience, they’re our best marketers,” said Schuetz.
Koda CrossFit Norman is unique in its style of operation, making it different than other gyms and drawing customers to something new and exciting.
“We’re between a Globo Gym, like a Gold’s Gym and personal training. We have the individualized attention of a coach, but it’s in a small group setting so you get that fun group workout atmosphere but we’re also that in-between price point,” Schuetz said.
In attempt to keep up with the growth of the business, Schuetz and his team have had to make adjustments in order to stay ahead of the game and ensure customer satisfaction.
“I started going to Koda a couple of months after they opened. They offered four classes everyday, two in the morning and two at night. Shoot, now they have them literally all day long. It’s so nice. I can go on my lunch break if I want to,” said Paige Canty.
As listed on kodacrossfitnorman.com, the gym offers classes from 5 A.M. to 7 P.M Monday through Thursday, 5 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. on Fridays, 6:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. on Saturdays, and offers open gym from 10:30 to 3:00 on Sundays.
With a busy class schedule, Schuetz isn’t exactly sure of ways to grow from here, but is excited for the what the future brings.
“I’m excited for the growth of the future. I think that this area is going to be really nice, it’s a big deal for us. So owning this building in the future is a big thing when it’s a nice area and you know we’re just kind of weathering the storm in the mean time,” Schuetz said.
