Great Earth Makes American Dream Come True in North Carolina

Are you tired of your current job? Do you dream of being your own boss? Contemplating a change in your life but not sure what to pursue? If this sounds like you, then the owners of the Great Earth Vitamin Store Franchise want to hear from you. Beginning on September 25th, Great Earth Vitamin Stores in the Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham areas will be accepting applications for the "Great Earth Vitamin Store Give-Away." The grand-prize winner of the contest will be awarded a fully stocked Great Earth Vitamin Store and the keys to a brand new life.

With the announcement, Great Earth continues its emphasis on entrepreneurial excellence throughout its network of franchises. The company has conducted extensive real estate research in North Carolina, concluding that a certain number of new stores in the area will stimulate current franchisees and the company as a whole. The $150,000 property value represents a significant investment in Great Earth's future, and also promises to attract more potential franchisee owners.

"We are extremely excited to announce this contest, which, to our knowledge, marks the first time a franchise has ever been awarded in this manner," said Mel Rich, co-owner and President of Great Earth Companies. "The economy is constantly changing and we believe it's time again for the small business owner."

The Great Earth Store Give-Away begins September 25th and runs through November 15th, 2002. All contest applications can be picked up at Great Earth Stores located at Cary Town Center, Northgate Mall, Mallard Creek area, Birkdale Commons, Hanes Mall at Winston-Salem and in the Gastonia area. The application process requires background information and all submissions must include an essay or VHS tape stating why the candidate would be a "GREAT" Great Earth Store owner.

To be eligible to win the grand prize, contestants must be a current resident of North Carolina, or become a resident within 90 days from the completion of the contest. Drop boxes for the entries have been setup at Great Earth store locations in North Carolina. Entries will be judged on creativity, passion and sensibility. The Finalists and winner of the contest will be announced in December 2002.

"Additional Great Earth stores in North Carolina will give the franchise more brand awareness and advertising buying power, which in turn will reach more consumers," said National Development Director for Great Earth Chris Barr. "In addition to giving away a Great Earth Store, we are also encouraging residents to learn more about the Great Earth Company and its products."

Further encouraging North Carolina residents to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, Great Earth will offer half-off franchise fees ($15,000) for a limited time and the five Finalists of the Great Earth Give-Away will also receive 100% of all franchise fees, a $30,000 value.

Great Earth Vitamins was founded in 1970 by two registered pharmacists who wanted to give people a natural nutritional alternative to synthetic drugs and medicines. Out of their vision and commitment, a superior line of vitamin supplements was developed under the name Great Earth. Today, Great Earth is one of the largest vitamin retail chains in the USA with over 125 franchises. All of the stores are owned by franchisees except for the flagship store in Southern California, which serves as the corporate training center. The company brings a unique shopping experience to thousands of health conscious consumers by extensively training franchisees in nutritional education. All Great Earth proprietary herbs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements are guaranteed to have 100% ptency through expiration, well above the FDA's required 90% a time of production.