PITTSBURGH, September 2, 2024 – GNC, the leading global health and wellness brand, is thrilled to announce that Michael Costello has officially been named permanent Chief Executive Officer, removing the interim title and marking a significant step forward for the company. Michael’s leadership and dedication have been instrumental in navigating GNC through pivotal changes over the past year.
Last November, Costello joined GNC as interim CEO with an extensive 35-year career in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, spanning marketing, manufacturing, R&D, and General Management/CEO roles. He has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation across multiple sectors. Before his role at GNC, Michael dedicated 32 years to The Clorox Company, where he held key leadership positions, including Senior Vice President of Renew Life and Nutranext, and led Clorox’s international business, overseeing revenues exceeding $1 billion.
“Taking on the role of permanent CEO at GNC is a tremendous honor,” said Michael Costello. “I am incredibly excited about the future and the opportunities ahead. Our goal is to create a growth culture that is agile and responsive to the evolving needs of our customers around the world. We are refocusing on investing in our core products, enhancing flavor and performance, increasing our marketing efforts, and improving the overall store experience. Most importantly, we will continue to invest in our people, building a team that lives and breathes a growth mindset.”
Michael joined GNC with a vision to reclaim the company’s position as the leader in health and wellness. His strategic approach includes a strong emphasis on speed and adaptability, ensuring that GNC can quickly react to market trends and consumer demands. Under his leadership, GNC is committed to refocusing on key consumer demand spaces and driving innovation in product development and customer engagement.
“We have full confidence that Michael is the right person to lead GNC,” said Yichen Zhang, Chairman of GNC. “Michael’s extensive experience and proven track record make him ideally suited to lead GNC in our Live Well mission. We are excited about the direction he has taken the company and look forward to further growth in this next chapter for GNC.”
The global wellness industry is projected to reach $8.5 trillion by 2027, seeing substantial increase in demand with consumers becoming more health-conscious and seeking products that enhance their overall well-being. Under Michael’s leadership, GNC is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends and drive growth.
About GNC
GNC is a leading global health and wellness brand that provides customers with a wide variety of science-based products and solution services to Live Well. The brand touches consumers worldwide by providing its products and services through company-owned retail locations, domestic and international franchise locations, digital commerce and strong wholesale and retail partnerships across the globe. GNC’s diversified, multi-channel business model has worldwide reach and a well-recognized, trusted brand. By combining exceptional innovation, product development capabilities and an extensive global distribution network, GNC manages a best-in-class product portfolio. www.gnc.com.
Media Contact:
Nick Sero
Director of Public Relations
412-246-9901
