BASE Bangkok: How Online Payments Drive Success for Offline Businesses

The strength of online business lies in its ability to reach customers anytime, anywhere. This is precisely what BASE has harnessed to create new sales opportunities through online purchase options, even though their fitness business model centers primarily around in-studio purchases.

BASE Bangkok is a premium fitness studio offering group fitness classes, personalized training, and small group sessions. Their signature BASELINE® technology sets them apart, tracking clients' progress throughout their fitness journey. Whether privately or on leaderboards, this tech creates a measurable, motivating experience for members.

Founded in 2016, BASE quickly established itself as a leader in Bangkok’s fitness scene, winning multiple awards, including Best Gym in Asia (2018) and Bangkok’s Gym of the Year for three consecutive years. With its sights set on international expansion, BASE’s mission has grown beyond raising Bangkok’s fitness standards to elevate the entire region’s fitness landscape through technology, education, and outreach.

The Importance of Letting Your Customers Pay Anywhere, Anytime

As a business that operates mostly offline, BASE still recognizes the critical importance of offering online payment options. While many customers pay at the gym via cash, credit cards, or bank transfers, 20-30% of BASE’s transactions come through online channels. Credit cards account for 90% of these transactions, underscoring the demand for flexible payment methods beyond the gym’s physical location.

"Offering online payments gives our customers more flexibility, and that’s why it’s still so important for us to have this option. Many gyms don’t offer it, and they’re likely missing out on a lot of business," explains Jack Thomas, BASE’s Founder and CEO, emphasizing how online options not only enhance customer convenience but also boost business potential.

With Opn Payments, BASE can seamlessly integrate online payment options into its website and use payment links for a more personalized touch. These online options expand BASE’s reach and sales potential, with each channel offering unique use cases and benefits:

Online Payment Use Cases

• Sales and Promotions: One of the main advantages of online payments is the ability to capture last-minute sales. BASE often runs promotions that end at midnight, and online channels allow customers to secure their spot just before the deadline.

• Attracting New Customers: BASE has expanded its reach through online marketing, bringing in clients from outside the gym’s usual catchment area. Newcomers and travelers can sign up for group classes or personal training packages directly through BASE’s website, creating a seamless entry point into the studio.

• Email Marketing: Following up with potential customers via email is another way BASE converts interest into action. By offering easy online payment options through the website, prospective clients can quickly and easily complete their purchases.

Payment Links Use Cases

While online payments help boost sales on a broader scale, personalized payment links by Payment Links+ offer a more direct approach for individual clients. Once a customer inquires about a specific package, BASE sends a tailored payment link that includes their name and package details. This process simplifies the transaction and enhances the customer experience, giving clients confidence in their purchase.

“When going through a sale process, smoothness and efficiency are so important because if it’s not smooth, you lose customers. Even losing one or two percent can significantly impact the business,” Jack adds.

The design of the payment links by Opn Payments also contributes to brand credibility. A professional-looking checkout page reassures customers, making them more likely to complete their purchase without hesitation.

In a market where convenience and flexibility can make all the difference, BASE’s online payment channels, powered by Opn Payments, are invaluable in meeting customer expectations. These digital payment options enable BASE not only to improve service accessibility but also to attract new clients and drive more sales, amplifying success for a predominantly offline business.

Looking Ahead: BASE’s Vision for the Future

As BASE looks toward future growth, the company plans to open more locations and expand internationally. Payment flexibility will remain a key focus, with plans to offer installment payments and PromptPay QR codes, ensuring that customers can continue to pay anytime, anywhere.