ZAG Equity Partners Opens The Little Gym in Maplewood, Creating Local Jobs and Enrichment Opportunities
August 21st, 2025 9:20 PM
By: Newsworthy Staff
ZAG Equity Partners has launched The Little Gym of Maplewood, a children's enrichment center that will create 10 local jobs and provide movement-based developmental programs for Essex County families.

ZAG Equity Partners, a privately held investment firm focused on consumer, real estate, and fitness ventures, announced the grand opening of The Little Gym of Maplewood, a children's enrichment and physical development center opening September 15th. The new 4,000 square foot facility located at 1807 Springfield Avenue represents a significant community investment that will create 10 new local jobs while providing essential developmental programming for children across Essex County.
The importance of this opening extends beyond job creation to addressing critical childhood development needs in the community. The Little Gym's programs utilize movement-based learning, imaginative play, and hands-on instruction to help children build confidence, coordination, and social-emotional skills. These offerings include parent/child classes, enrichment programs for preschool and school-age children, and birthday party experiences featuring themed activities and music-led fun. The center serves as a springboard for life's adventures, providing structured physical and social development opportunities that research shows are crucial for childhood growth.
George Wilson of ZAG Equity Partners emphasized the firm's commitment to mission-driven businesses that create lasting value for families and communities. As Essex County residents and parents who witnessed The Little Gym's positive impact on their own child, the Wilsons recognized the opportunity to bring these benefits to Maplewood area families. The selection of Ashley Downey as General Manager, with her deep experience in early childhood programming and team leadership, ensures the location will maintain the brand's high standards of service, safety, and instruction.
This opening marks ZAG Equity Partners' first Little Gym location, with the firm actively evaluating opportunities to expand the brand's presence throughout the region. The investment demonstrates how private equity can drive community development through thoughtful, high-quality offerings that directly improve family lives. Families interested in programming details can visit https://www.thelittlegym.com/new-jersey-maplewood for class information, birthday party options, and membership details.
Source Statement
This news article relied primarily on a press release disributed by citybiz. You can read the source press release here,
