Dallas-based Natural Wellness USA recently launched Veria TV, Veria.com and Veria Wellness Centers, businesses aimed at informing consumers about natural and alternative foods and therapies. Subhash Chandra, Veria's CEO, said his hope is to serve a global audience. "I looked at what the Indian civilization has been nurturing over the last thousands of years in terms of living a chemical-free life, and I wanted to create a company that would address that."

Veria TV launched on the DISH network in October with original programming airing 24 hours, seven days a week. Veria Wellness Centers are retail locations that not only carry supplements and natural personal care products, but also include day spas where shoppers can make appointments for massage, acupressure and skin care. The company currently has one wellness center in Plano, Texas, and plans to open 50 new centers nationwide in 2008.

Veria.com incorporates information and products from both Veria TV and Veria Wellness Centers. It includes an online retail outlet for products and services featured on TV and in the centers. "I believe that there's going to be a lot of demand for this creation of a holistic approach to wellness," Chandra said.

Natural Foods Merchandiser volume XXVIII/number 11/p. 12