GNC Live Well Franchise Information

GNC is the largest global specialty retailer of nutritional supplements, which includes vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements, sports nutrition products, diet and energy products and specialty supplements. GNC has more than 4,800 retail locations throughout the United States, including more than 1,300 domestic franchise locations, more than 1,000 store-within-a-store locations under its strategic alliance with Rite Aid and more than 800 locations in more than 35 foreign markets including Canada and Mexico.

The Self-Care Economy
Today's consumers take charge of their health. They strive to feel better, look better and perform at their optimum potential. And highly publicized research reveals that balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyles can help consumers achieve their goals.

Fueled by extraordinary demand, the booming retail supplement market now exceeds $17.8 billion in annual sales - and GNC, General Nutrition Centers, commands the lion's share of the industry's specialty-retail market.

Yet the market still hasn't fulfilled its potential. Experts predict consumer demand will continue to grow at a dramatic pace - and with good reason. Three out of every four vitamin users are over age 35.

Take advantage of this growing self-care economy now. Franchise with GNC and command your share of the accelerating nutritional supplement market.

Franchising with GNC
When you franchise a GNC, our name becomes your name. And our reputation becomes yours as well.

Since 1935, GNC has been building a global reputation as the largest specialty retailer of high-quality vitamin and mineral supplements, sports-nutrition and herbal products. Our expertise, experience and innovative approach to health management distinguish GNC throughout the world.

As a GNC franchise operator, you are strategically positioned to reap the benefits of GNC's established brand name, loyal customer following and proven business practices. Plus, GNC:

• Maintains a contemporary retail format that offers growth into new product categories.
• Ensures quality service, provided by well-trained, knowledgeable personnel.
• Built a reputation among consumers as a credible source of self-care information.

Most of all, the GNC franchise opportunity offers you the knowledge and skills we've acquired throughout our 70 year history.

Opening Support
As the industry's global leader, GNC is committed to providing the start-up assistance and support services you need to operate a thriving franchise.

• Start-up Assistance
• Financial. Direct financing and low down payment.
• Real Estate. Site selection and lease negotiation.
• Construction. Computer-aided drafting and store design; sourcing of high-quality, low-cost fixtures.
• Point-of-Sale Cash Register System. Inventory tracking, sales records, reordering and day-to-day accounting assistance.
• Opening Support
• Grand Opening. Partial company match on your grand-opening investment for new stores.
• Training. Comprehensive three-phase training program, including in-store and classroom training.
• Field Support. A field representative works with you in your store throughout opening week.

Even after your GNC becomes established, you can continue to count on us for the continuing business support you need to grow your market share in your particular location.

Continuing Support
GNC franchise operators capitalize on the company's resources to deepen their own market penetration and retain valuable customers. You'll enjoy the benefits of being an entrepreneur while receiving unparalleled, expert guidance in developing your operation.

• Accessible Resources. Business specialists in our five Franchise Support Centers can be reached through the company's franchisee-exclusive intranet system and/or toll-free telephone lines; other resources include regular in-store field consultations.
• Training. Regularly updated, comprehensive operations manual; quarterly provision of product, sales and customer-service training materials; interactive in-store training.
• Communications. Franchise operator meetings with GNC management throughout the country; franchisee-elected National Advisory Council with division representatives; company-subsidized annual franchise convention; regular distribution of GNC franchise publications.
• Electronic Communications. Access to a unique electronic support information system designed exclusively for GNC franchisees. This intranet offers online access to breaking corporate news, operations information, wholesale promotions, product information, camera-ready local marketing ads that can be customized and printed, and online communication with GNC franchise-support personnel.
• Marketing. Company-sponsored multi-million dollar national advertising and public relations campaigns; local marketing, advertising and promotion materials; and local market print-fulfillment program with full-service direct mail capabilities.
• Discount Business Programs. Business insurance, unemployment tax consultation, health insurance, retirement plans, long-distance and communications services, business and office supplies, and General Nutrition Financial Services