GNC Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: GNC), a leading global retailer of health, wellness and sports nutrition products, today announced that it is expanding its retail presence in China by opening the first stand-alone GNC store in Shanghai. The move complements GNC's existing marketing footprint in the world's largest consumer market. GNC plans on opening an additional 25 locations in China within the next 12 months.
Joseph Fortunato, GNC's Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer, said, "In only two years, the GNC brand has developed strong acceptance among Chinese consumers. GNC will continue to expand our retail store presence in this dynamic and fast-growing market, and we are excited about finding new opportunities to address the needs of China's many health & wellness consumers with new and innovative products."
The first stand-alone location will open on July 23rd in Raffles City, one of Shanghai's prime retail and office space locations. Strategically located opposite the historic People's Square and within walking distance of Nanjing Road and the Shanghai Municipal Government Office, it is home to leading international fashion brands and a fitness center along with upscale dining and entertainment venues.
GNC has been selling its Made in the USA products in China since 2011 when it opened its Shanghai-based office and distribution center. GNC currently has over 60 store within a store locations within 8 different major grocery, convenience and health and wellness chains in China, including Ole, City Super, Sam's Club and Watson's. GNC brand products are also sold on the internet through GNC licensed partners on e-commerce sites that include Tmall, Amazon and 360buy. GNC is a highly recognized and sought after US brand online and to date is ranked #1 in supplement sales on Amazon and #3 on 360buy.
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