At GNC, we believe in your future as a franchise operator and—as we work to help you succeed—we pledge to maintain franchising’s highest standards and purposes.

At the same time, we recognize that you represent the single most important factor in your own success. You must be prepared to make the sacrifices successful business people have made throughout the ages. If you’re committed to your success, we invite you to join our program and share our goals for continued growth and success.

Q.	How do I learn more about the GNC franchise opportunity?
A.	Fill out and submit the Confidential Get Acquainted Form. To expedite your process, complete and submit this form along with your Franchise Application. If you qualify, we can begin the process leading to opening your GNC franchise store.

Q.	How much is the total investment needed to secure a GNC Franchise?
A.	For a new store, you will need approximately $132,681 to $182,031.* The major portion of your investment breaks down as follows:

Initial Franchise Fee: $30,000  -  $40,000 Equipment: $5,400 Signage: $4,000   -   $5,900 Fixtures: $20,000  -  $47,000 Other Construction Costs: $10,000  -  $60,000 Opening Inventory: $46,500 Initial Promotional Materials: $0   -   $1,250 * If you take over an already established store, your investment would be greater.

Q.	Does GNC offer direct financing?
A.	GNC has financing options available to Qualified candidates on select locations.

Q.	Do I purchase inventory from GNC?
A.	There are certain brand names and product requirements for your store inventory that may be purchased from GNC or other manufacturers and distributors. However, specific items can only be purchased from GNC. Whenever possible, we use the combined purchasing strength of our global chain to affect purchasing economies that will benefit your store and the entire operation.

Q.	What is the term of the franchise agreement?
A.	The initial term is ten years, after which the agreement may be renewed twice for additional five-year terms. Renewal is subject to our approval and will be at the then current franchise terms, conditions and renewal fees.

Q.	What’s the charge for ongoing royalty fees?
A.	The royalty fee is six percent of your gross sales, and is exclusive of any sales tax and documented refunds.

Q.	Am I given any territorial protection?
A.	You will be awarded an approved location and may be awarded a protected territory under the terms of your franchise agreement.

Q.	Do I receive training from GNC?
A.	Yes. Franchise operators must attend and successfully complete a three-phase training program provided by GNC. The program includes local in-store training, classroom training in Pittsburgh, and on-site support in your store during the opening week. The cost of training is included in the initial franchise fee. Franchise operators pay the cost of transportation, lodging and some meals.

Q.	Do I receive field assistance in opening my GNC store?
A.	Yes. In addition to our comprehensive training program, our Directors of Franchise Operations will work with you in your store during the first week of operation.

Q.

What form of continuing operational guidance will I receive?

A.

You will receive the GNC Franchise Operations Manual to help you with day-to-day operations; field support from a dedicated franchise field representative; ongoing purchasing services; inventory management; financial services; technical assistance; as well as guidance and resources for your promotional, operational and other business needs. Plus, you can access a variety of on-line resources through our franchise intranet-support system.

Q.	What about advertising?
A.	GNC invests millions in national advertising campaigns designed to help drive traffic into stores around the country. Franchisees contribute three percent of their gross sales in support of these campaigns. In addition, GNC designs and provides franchisees a comprehensive line up of information and tools to help them execute local marketing campaigns throughout their markets.

Q.	Is it possible to secure a franchise agreement for more than one store?
A.	Yes. We can offer multi-unit operations as long as you meet our financial, operational and management qualifications.

Q.	Can I sell my GNC franchise?
A.	Yes. Like any other business, you can sell your store to a buyer approved by the company. There is a transfer fee for administrative, legal and training expenses to affect the transfer.

Q.

How much can I expect to earn?

A.

Your earnings capability will depend on a number of factors—such as your location, the amount of time you spend in your store, your business and retail acumen, as well as market conditions. Naturally, as in any business venture there is no guarantee of your success or profitability. We do, however, give you the benefit of a well-organized system and a concept refined by our many years of experience. Item 19 in our Uniform Franchise Offering Circular (UFOC) provides the only earnings claim we are allowed by law to make.

Q.	I would like to study your franchise agreement. Will you send me one?
A.	Our franchise agreement is a valued document which we do not indiscriminately distribute. However, once you have a personal meeting with a member of our franchising team, we will be happy to provide you with a copy of our UFOC which is the only document upon which you may rely in deciding whether to accept our offer.

Q.	I’m ready to go! What do I do?
A.	Fill out and submit the Confidential Get Acquainted Form. To expedite your process, complete and submit this form along with your Franchise Application. If you qualify, we can begin the process leading to opening your GNC franchise store. Click Here to receive updated information from GNC on franchising!