Back

Atos Jiu-Jitsu

How Atos Jiu-Jitsu Created a Thriving Community in Zurich

Zürich
Listen

In this article

Get a free business consultation call today!
Book now

"In martial arts, discipline and structure create excellence. The same applies to business. With Kenko, we've built a system that helps us maintain the highest standards while growing our community." — Jonatas Eliaquim, Founder of Atos Jiu-Jitsu

A vision realized in numbers

  • Revenue doubled from $36,000 to $70,000 in just one year
  • Outstanding 99% client retention rate
  • Steady growth of 5-10 new members monthly
  • Expansion to premium 240 sq.m facility
  • Remarkable marketing ROI: Each $150 ad brings $1,800 in revenue

From Brazil to Zurich: A Story of Determination

"Jiu-Jitsu saved my life at 15," Jonatas Eliaquim shares, reflecting on his beginnings in Brazil. Twenty-five years and three continents later, he's built one of Zurich's most respected martial arts communities. But the path wasn't always smooth.

"When I first arrived in Zurich, I had nothing but my expertise and a vision," Jonatas recalls. "I knew the technical side of Jiu-Jitsu inside out, but building a business in Switzerland? That was a whole new challenge."

Conquering the Swiss market

Switzerland presented unique hurdles that tested Jonatas's entrepreneurial spirit:

Cultural Landscape

  • Swiss clients expect annual membership commitments
  • Conservative market demanding immediate trust
  • Strong preference for established business systems
  • Property owners who prioritize community impact

"Finding our first space took six months," Jonatas explains. "In Zurich, landlords don't just want rent—they want tenants who add value to the community. We started in a tiny, windowless room, but that humble beginning taught us invaluable lessons."

The transformation with Kenko

After struggling with inadequate systems, discovering Kenko changed everything.

Professional evolution

"Before Kenko, we looked like skilled practitioners running a hobby," Jonatas admits. "After implementing Kenko, we became a professional operation that happened to teach world-class Jiu-Jitsu."

Key improvements:

  1. Digital Excellence
    • Seamless online booking
    • Professional invoicing
    • Mobile-first experience
    • Automated check-ins
  2. Financial Clarity
    • Transparent accounting
    • Simplified tax compliance
    • Automated payment tracking
    • Clear financial reporting
  3. Enhanced Client Experience
    • Easy class registration
    • Secure data handling
    • Professional communications
    • Streamlined scheduling

Growth through numbers

The impact was immediate and measurable:

Financial success

  • First year: $36,000
  • Second year: $70,000
  • Next year target: $150,000

"These aren't just numbers," Jonatas emphasizes. "Each dollar represents a student committing to their journey, trusting us with their development."

Client growth & loyalty

  • Monthly new members: 5-10
  • Retention rate: 99%
  • Average commitment: $1,800 annually
  • Marketing efficiency: 12x return on ad spend

Smart marketing that works

Jonatas developed a precise approach to growth:

Digital strategy

"We tried everything at first," he shares. "Flyers, local ads, you name it. But we discovered that targeted social media campaigns consistently deliver the best results."

  • Platform focus: Instagram and Facebook
  • Investment per campaign: $150
  • Typical result: One committed new member
  • Member value: $1,800 annual revenue

Building for the future

With strong foundations in place, Jonatas has clear expansion plans:

Next 16 months

  • Target: 250 active members
  • Maintain exceptional retention rates
  • Continue steady growth
  • Expand class offerings

Long-term vision

  • Three locations across Zurich
  • Specialized training programs
  • Deeper community integration
  • Unwavering quality standards

Lessons from the mat

Jonatas's success principles reflect his martial arts background:

  1. Maintain High Standards
    • Clear pricing structure
    • Professional systems
    • Quality instruction
    • No compromises on excellence
  2. Focus on Community
    • Personal attention to every member
    • Building lasting trust
    • Cultural awareness
    • Strong relationships
  3. Grow Strategically
    • Data-driven decisions
    • Calculated expansion
    • Sustainable scaling
    • Professional operations

A partnership for growth

"In Jiu-Jitsu, the right training partner elevates your game," Jonatas reflects. "Kenko has been that partner for our business, helping us maintain excellence while we scale."

Ready to transform your studio?

Are you prepared to elevate your martial arts business with systems that support growth while maintaining the integrity of your training? Let's discuss how Kenko can help streamline your operations and support your vision.

Features that take your far

Deliver a world-class experience while saving time & effort

Get a demo