If you’re considering a GNC franchise opportunity, you’re not alone. GNC has been a household name in nutrition and supplements for decades, and many entrepreneurs still look at it as their first step into the health and wellness retail industry. But in 2025, the big question remains: Can you still franchise a GNC, and is it a smart investment?
Let’s dive into what we know.
Can You Still Franchise a GNC in 2025?
The Short Answer: Yes
Yes, GNC is still offering franchises in 2025. Interested candidates can apply, and the company continues to work with franchisees in both U.S. and international markets.
The Caveat: Missing Transparency
Here’s where it gets tricky. GNC has not released a 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). This leaves prospective owners without critical information, like updated royalties, fees, and startup costs. Without an FDD, it’s nearly impossible to do the proper due diligence before making such a large investment.
So, while franchising is technically available, there’s a lot of missing clarity around the financials and overall expectations.
What a GNC Franchise Typically Looks Like
Even without the current FDD, past versions give us a good idea of what to expect.
Initial Investment
Startup costs for a GNC franchise often range between $187,000 and $500,000+. That includes:
- Franchise fee ($20,000)
- Store build-out, signage, and fixtures
- Initial inventory
- Working capital for the first few months
Financial Requirements
To qualify, GNC generally requires:
- Liquid assets around $240,000
- Credit Score minimum of 670
Ongoing Fees
Based on historical information, GNC franchisees can expect recurring royalties of around 6% of gross sales, plus a 3% marketing contribution.
Challenges Facing GNC Franchisees
If you’re researching GNC as a franchise option in 2025, you’ll want to weigh some realities:
- Lack of Current Disclosure – Without an up-to-date FDD, you’re making decisions without full visibility.
- High Financial Barriers – The capital requirements can be a stretch for many first-time franchise owners.
- Shrinking Footprint – Over the past several years, GNC has faced store closures, restructuring, and slowed expansion.
- Brand Perception – While still known, many consumers view GNC as a legacy brand, not necessarily a forward-thinking one.
Why More Entrepreneurs Are Choosing 5 Star Nutrition Instead
For business owners passionate about health and wellness, 5 Star Nutrition has become a top alternative to the traditional GNC franchise. Here’s why:
Lower Startup Costs
5 Star Nutrition offers a more accessible investment model. With leaner overhead and a retail-only setup, owners can get their stores open and running faster without the heavy capital burden of a GNC.
Transparent Financial Model
Unlike GNC’s missing 2025 FDD, 5 Star Nutrition provides clear and current numbers up front. This gives franchisees confidence in what they’re committing to before signing on.
Growth-Oriented Brand
Where GNC has been consolidating, 5 Star Nutrition is actively expanding nationwide. Available markets span across high-growth states like Texas, Florida, Arizona, Colorado, and more.
Exclusive Products & Higher Margins
5 Star Nutrition stores carry private-label products not found anywhere else, giving franchisees stronger margins and a competitive advantage over mass-market retailers.
Community-Driven Customer Experience
Instead of transactional sales, 5 Star Nutrition focuses on building relationships. Customers benefit from in-store body composition scans, tailored supplement plans, and a supportive community environment that drives loyalty.
Available Markets with 5 Star Nutrition
5 Star Nutrition is expanding into multiple high-demand territories across the country, including:
- Texas (Lubbock, McAllen, San Angelo, Round Rock, Brownsville)
- Florida (Jacksonville, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Ocala, St. Petersburg, The Villages)
- Arizona (Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert)
- Colorado (Fort Collins)
- Alabama (Huntsville)
- North Carolina (Charlotte, Hickory)
- Tennessee (Knoxville)
- Nevada (Las Vegas)
- New Mexico (Albuquerque, Santa Fe)
- Oklahoma (Tulsa)
For entrepreneurs, this means plenty of opportunities to get in early and build market presence in a fast-growing segment.
| Feature | GNC Franchise (2025) | 5 Star Nutrition Franchise |
| Franchising Available | Yes, but missing 2025 FDD | Yes, with transparent model |
| Startup Investment | $187K–$500K+ | $150K–$290K (typical range) |
| Financial Barriers | High net worth & liquidity | More accessible entry point |
| Brand Momentum | Shrinking footprint | Expanding nationwide |
| Customer Experience | Transactional retail focus | Personalized, results-driven |
| Product Strategy | Multi-brand, commoditized | Exclusive private-label |
So, Can You Franchise a GNC in 2025?
Yes, it’s still possible to become a GNC franchisee, but the lack of current disclosure and high financial barriers leave many entrepreneurs hesitant. If your goal is to join a forward-thinking brand that’s expanding, profitable, and community-driven, then 5 Star Nutrition may be the better opportunity.
If you’re in the early stages of researching a GNC franchise opportunity, take the time to weigh the risks and compare alternatives. In 2025, GNC is still franchising, but questions about transparency, growth, and costs make it less appealing for many entrepreneurs.
Meanwhile, 5 Star Nutrition is actively expanding with a modern model designed for today’s health-conscious consumer. It offers transparency, lower barriers to entry, and a mission-focused experience that resonates with franchisees and customers alike.
For driven entrepreneurs who want to turn their passion for health and fitness into a profitable business, 5 Star Nutrition stands out as the smarter franchise choice.