Key Takeaways
- GNC is still franchising in 2025, but without a current FDD, transparency and trust remain major concerns.
- Startup costs are high, with an average investment between $187K–$500K+.
- 5 Star Nutrition offers a lower-cost, higher-margin alternative with a proven growth trajectory.
- Entrepreneurs prefer 5 Star Nutrition for its exclusive products, transparent financial model, and strong community-driven culture.
- For those exploring health and wellness franchise opportunities, 5 Star Nutrition represents the more modern, profitable path.
Can you still franchise a GNC in 2025? The short answer: Yes—but it’s complicated. While GNC continues to offer franchise opportunities in the U.S. and internationally, many potential owners are questioning whether it’s a smart investment today. Between missing financial disclosures, rising startup costs, and brand perception challenges, the GNC franchise model looks very different in 2025 than it did a decade ago.
If you’re researching GNC franchise opportunities or exploring alternatives like 5 Star Nutrition, this guide breaks down what you need to know—costs, requirements, risks, and why more entrepreneurs are turning to modern supplement franchise brands instead.
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 things get tricky—GNC has not released a 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Without an updated FDD, prospective franchisees lack critical information such as:
- Current royalty and marketing fees
- Updated startup cost estimates
- Recent revenue averages or franchise performance data
This lack of transparency makes it difficult to evaluate whether investing in a GNC franchise is financially sound in 2025.
So while you can franchise a GNC, you may be doing so with limited insight into the brand’s most current financial realities.
What a GNC Franchise Typically Looks Like
Even without the 2025 FDD, previous years’ data provides a general picture of what GNC franchise ownership entails.
Initial Investment
The total startup investment for a GNC franchise typically ranges between $187,000 and $500,000+, which 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.
FAQs About GNC Franchising in 2025
1. Can you still franchise a GNC store in 2025?
Yes, GNC continues to franchise both in the U.S. and internationally. However, the company has not published its 2025 FDD, making it difficult to evaluate the current investment.
2. How much does it cost to open a GNC franchise?
Based on prior data, GNC’s startup costs range from approximately $187,000 to $500,000+, depending on location and build-out costs.
3. Why hasn’t GNC released a 2025 FDD yet?
While the company has not made an official statement, the delay may be related to ongoing corporate restructuring or changes to its franchise model.
4. What is a better alternative to a GNC franchise?
Many entrepreneurs are turning to 5 Star Nutrition, a fast-growing supplement franchise that offers lower costs, transparent financials, and exclusive private-label products.
5. How can I learn more about 5 Star Nutrition franchising?
You can fill out a franchise inquiry form on the 5 Star Nutrition website to receive more information about available markets and ownership opportunities.