Elite supps: Gym owner Christian Sutton expands business brand to Toowoomba

From a teen fitness fanatic to young gym owner, this budding entrepeneur is now expanding a supplement empire into the Garden City. Here’s how he did it.

While some teenagers are still figuring out the career path they want to follow, Christian Sutton knew his future would be in the health and fitness industry by the time he was 15.

Five years after gaining his qualifications and building experience in the industry, Mr Sutton opened his gym Conquer Fitness in Kingaroy.

After purchasing an Elite Supps franchise early last year, he has now secured his second location for the health and fitness supplement business in Toowoomba.

Elite Supplements areas manager Amber Oliver and store manager Bailey Arthur as the shop opens in Grand Central. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Filling the former space of Australian souvenir shop Skinny’s in Grand Central Shopping Centre’s Market Room, Elite Supps will now host a grand opening event on Saturday to celebrate.

“Christian’s family lives in Toowoomba and I used to live here so the location was a logical move for the business,” Toowoomba area manager Amber Oliver said.

“(The success and ability to expand) comes down to our team and having such a strong culture.

“I love that we don’t just help people who go to the gym but so many others looking to improve their health.”

Elite Supplements store manager Bailey Arthur and areas manager Amber Oliver as the shop opens in Grand Central. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Specialising in vitamins, minerals, protein powder, pre-workout drinks and snacks, the Toowoomba franchise currently employs three staff members, as well as 13 at the Kingaroy store and gym.

The new franchise is one of about 100 across the country with Mr Sutton set to open a third store in Carindale, in Brisbane.

Elite Supps Toowoomba will hold its open day event instore on Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm, and will distribute goodie bags to the first 50 customers.