Veterans to Receive Business Discounts Through GNC's New Veterans Franchising Opportunity

PITTSBURGH, May 29 /PRNewswire/ -- GNC wants to help honorably discharged veterans become small business owners through a new veterans franchising program.

The program is designed to help business-minded veterans start on the right path toward their next journey in life. Through Dec. 31, 2008, GNC will offer a 25 percent discount on the normal franchise fee. Service-disabled veterans receive additional benefits, including a 50 percent discount on the franchise fee and a $10,000 retail credit toward the opening inventory order. Additionally, GNC offers financing for new franchisees who qualify.

"GNC is thrilled to offer this franchise program to all qualified servicemen and women who have well-served our country," said Tom Dowd, Executive Vice President of Store Operations and Development at GNC's Pittsburgh headquarters.

"The members of the United States Armed Forces have always been fantastic and loyal GNC customers. The synergies of their military background with their interest in living fit, healthy lives are ideal for a business partnership with GNC," he said.

"Our servicemen and women are already trained in the critical requirements of running a successful franchise, from teamwork to communication to goal-driven initiatives; it's a perfect fit. This is just one way GNC can give back to our valued veterans who have so unselfishly served our great country."

GNC's franchise program strategically positions operators to reap the benefits of GNC's established brand name, loyal customer following and proven business practices. GNC is committed to providing the start-up assistance and support services needed to operate a thriving franchise.

Learn more at GNCfranchising.com.

About GNC:

GNC, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., is the largest global specialty retailer of nutritional products including vitamin, mineral, herbal and other specialty supplements and sports nutrition, diet and energy products. GNC has more than 5,000 retail locations throughout the United States (including more than 950 franchise and 1,400 Rite Aid store-within-a-store locations) and franchise operations in 43 international markets. The company -- which is dedicated to helping consumers Live Well -- also offers products and product information online at http://www.gnc.com/.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: General Nutrition Centers (GNC)

CONTACT: Bruce Pollock of GNC, +1-412-288-2078, bruce-pollock@gnchq.com

Web site: http://www.gnc.com/
http://www.gncfranchising.com/

2008-05-29 17:15:31 0373377 PRNEWSWIRE