General Nutrition Center SBA Loan

An SBA Success Story

General Nutrition Center Story
General Nutrition Center
Marsha Gladfelder & Terri L. Meeks

Birmingham, Alabama - Marsha Gladfelder and Terri Meeks began their careers with General Nutrition Center (GNC) in the late 1970s.  Meeks was located near Birmingham, Alabama, while Gladfelder maintained a region in West Georgia.  For almost twenty years, these two worked diligently and faithfully for GNC. In 1996, they were presented an opportunity to operate their own franchise.  Both Meeks and Gladfelder decided that together they would step away from the corporate aspects of the industry into a more entrepreneurial focus.  After two years of dedicated developmental processes, the store opened to the public in Opelika, Alabama, in the spring of 1998.

For the two partners, this meant long days and nights of continuous struggles to make operations successful.  They hired no employees in their first six months.  Ms. Meeks had an additional job which added to their already time-consuming efforts.  They managed to maintain continuous improvement during this period through a more concentrated marketing approach.  These efforts included advertising through radio, television, newspapers, and billboards.  The perpetual hard work led to a successful first year and enabled them to prepare the groundwork for a growing business.

The company exceeded expectations and denied many statistics concerning small business development by reaching a successful goal of five years of profitable operations.  However, in 2002 Meeks and Gladfelder both sensed that a better opportunity was available for the growth of their business.  This is what led Meeks and Gladfelder to consider the SBA loan program. The SBA became a working partner through each facet of their business activity. 

The successful results specifically occurred when Meeks and Gladfelder were given the opportunity to relocate into a newly created area of commerce.  The SBA assisted in relocation efforts and the staff was present for the ribbon cutting ceremony held at the grand re-opening.  The event was full of excitement and opportunity, and the partners greatly appreciated the assistance that was provided by the Center.

The relocation strengthened the business so much that the demand from the community required Meeks and Gladfelder to lengthen their operating hours.  This also required additional labor.  The store now operates with two full-time and five part-time employees.  Both partners are able to dedicate their full careers to the day-to-day operations of the franchise.  The dream that Meeks and Gladfelder had in 1996, is now a profitable working entity. 

The owners have no intentions of becoming complacent with their business activity.  Last year, they received confirmation for their request for an additional SBA loan, which was requested in order to begin the workings of a new franchise in the area.

The two women opened a Marble Slab Creamery in Opelika on March 2, 2006.  This new store is located in the county’s newest retail development area.  They are optimistic in their expectations for the new business and the opportunities it will generate. 

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