GNC Franchising, a subsidiary of General Nutrition Companies, the dietary supplement retailer, has announced a number of new initiatives designed to revamp its outlets and drive growth.
GNC has more than 1,360 franchises in the US and in 26 international markets, and has built its franchise business substantially over the last year. The new marketing and brand-building initiatives introduced this week are designed to help the company strengthen its international position as a leading supplement retailer.
Among the new initiatives planned are a total redesign of all GNC's stores, giving them "a more vibrant personality and softer feel", as well as the introduction of a smoothie bar in select stores designed to tap into the growing popularity of these healthy but tasty drinks.
There will also be more support for GNC franchises, as well as a new advertising programme.
GNC already offers a comprehensive franchise support programme, including site-selection, a three-phase training programme, and a global intranet that provides GNC franchisees with online training, product information and local marketing tools.
General Nutrition Companies is a wholly owned subsidiary of Royal Numico, the Dutch specialised nutrition company that includes infant and clinical nutrition and nutritional supplements.