Health Supplement Stores Industry Overview

Excerpt from Health Supplement Stores Report

Companies in this industry primarily sell vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements. Major companies include GNC, Vitamin World, and Vitamin Shoppe (formerly VS Holdings).

Competitive Landscape

Health and nutrition trends and consumer spending drive demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on product innovation, effective merchandising, and competitive pricing. Large companies have advantages in purchasing, distribution, finance, and marketing. Small companies can compete effectively by providing superior customer service, offering unique products, serving a local market, or leveraging online sales. The industry is fragmented: the top 50 companies generate less than half of sales.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major products sold in health supplement stores include vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements (75 percent of industry sales) and grocery items. The vitamin, mineral, and health supplement (VMHS) category includes "alphabet" vitamins, multi-vitamins, aromatherapy, herbal extracts, and macrobiotic, homeopathic, herbal and botanical remedies. Sports nutrition products include protein and weight gain supplements, sports drinks and bars, and high-potency vitamins. Weight loss products include diet pills, shakes, bars, and teas; meal replacements; and low-carb items. Other categories include beauty care, pet care, books, and magazines.