GNC Holdings Inc. (NYSE: GNC), a leading global specialty health, wellness and performance retailer, today announced that its board of directors has commenced a review of a wide range of strategic and financial alternatives to increase shareholder value. The review will include a thorough evaluation of the GNC's current operating plan, as well as potential value maximizing alternatives such as accelerated refranchising strategies, capital structure optimization, partnerships and other value-creating collaborations or a potential sale of the company. The board is working with Goldman, Sachs & Co. as financial advisor and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz as legal advisor to assist in the process.

"The board is committed to increasing shareholder value. After careful consideration, including discussions with a range of shareholders, we believe it is an appropriate time to undertake a comprehensive review of the company's strategic and financial alternatives," said Michael F. Hines, GNC's chairman. "We are in the early stages of a broad review and will take the time we need to thoroughly evaluate our opportunities to achieve the best result for our shareholders, business partners, and associates. While the review is ongoing, GNC will continue to act with the necessary urgency to deliver improved financial performance by addressing our near-term challenges and continuing to execute our strategic initiatives."

There can be no assurance that this review will result in any specific action, or any assurance as to its outcome or timing. The company does not intend to discuss or disclose further developments related to its review unless and until the board has approved a specific action or otherwise determined that further disclosure is appropriate.