Texas company acquires Premier Martial Arts; no changes expected
Premier Martial Arts, 135 Brooklawn St., has new ownership — but no functional changes.
Unleashed Brands of Dallas acquired PMA, a prominent franchised company specializing in teaching karate, krav maga and kickboxing to children and adults, Tuesday, Jan. 4.
“The Premier Martial Arts location in Farragut will remain open and continue to operate as it has in the past,” UB vice president Michelle Portillo said. “You should expect the same stellar customer service you have always experienced.
“The Premier Martial Arts brand is poised to revolutionize the $4 billion martial arts industry and aligns with Unleashed Brands’ culture of wanting to help prepare kids socially, emotionally and physically for life ahead,” she added.
Barry Van Over, PMA’s CEO, founded the company, which grew to more than 70 locations in the United States, Canada and Great Britain.
Upon franchising PMA in 2018, “the franchise has quickly grown to 564 franchises sold to 228 owners, with 468 remaining to be open in the next few years, making Premier Martial Arts one of the fastest-growing franchises in the world,” Portillo said.
“Premier Martial Arts has seen enormous growth, and I knew I was going to need help to continue that growth and do it right,” Van Over said. “We found a great partner and resource in Unleashed Brands as our missions and visions align perfectly.”
“I’m excited to remain in my role as CEO and continue leading the overall vision for the brand,” he added.
