Arthur Murray Dance Studios Marks Most Successful Development Period in Brand History, Opening 26 Studios in First Half of 2026

CORAL GABLES, Fla., July 8, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Arthur Murray Dance Studios (Arthur Murray) today announced it has opened 26 studios in the first half of 2026, marking a record for a six-month period in the company's history. The milestone – more studio openings in six months than in any prior full calendar year – reflects the strength of the franchise model and the activity of its studio owner network.

"What we've accomplished in the first half of 2026 is something this brand has never seen before," said Tony Padulo, Chief Development Officer of Arthur Murray Dance Studios. "We have existing owners who believe in the model and are growing their portfolios, independent operators who are recognizing the power of joining a global system and new franchisees ready to enter for the first time. We're building on a century-long legacy while transforming how we expand our network, making it easier than ever for new and existing franchisees to grow with a system that has been leading social and ballroom dance for more than 100 years."

Arthur Murray's growth in the first half of 2026 followed 32 franchise agreements signed with existing franchisees in Q4 2025, with many having opened. A number of studios have opened across the U.S. and internationally in Canada, Italy and Peru, among other markets. That momentum reflects the performance of the franchise network and the strength of the system in supporting franchisees to openings.

"Arthur Murray has been part of people's lives for more than a century – weddings, anniversaries, competitions and moments that families pass down through generations," said Gary Edwards, Chief Executive Officer of Arthur Murray Dance Studios. "What makes this moment so meaningful is that the best chapter of this brand's story is still being written. The growth we're seeing in the first half of 2026 isn't just a record – it's a proof point of where Arthur Murray is headed. More communities around the world will have access to what our students have always known – that learning to dance with Arthur Murray changes your life, and we intend to make that possible everywhere."

Since opening its first franchised studio in 1938, Arthur Murray has grown to more than 325 locations across 19 countries, teaching millions of students to dance for everyday enjoyment, special occasions and competition. The brand has a record first half of 2026 and a growing pipeline of opportunities; the organization continues to operate globally.

SOURCE Arthur Murray Dance Studios

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