Pennsylvania-based GNC Holdings, Inc. announced that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it had to initiative several cost-saving measures, including furloughs and a hiring freeze.

Specifically, the company noted that there will be:

• A reduction in operating expenses including a hiring freeze, eliminating corporate merit increases and other cost-saving initiatives

• A decrease in the number of field leadership roles as the company continues to optimize the store fleet

• A reduction in costs across the business with the exception of digital capabilities

• Temporary furloughs for a significant portion of the store and corporate associates across all levels of the organization

Furloughed associates will maintain health benefits in GNC-sponsored plans with 100 percent of the premium funded by GNC throughout at least the month of April.

“These decisions were extremely difficult but necessary as we navigate the challenges ahead of us. We are focused on our people and our business, and because of that we had to take decisive action,” said Ken Martindale, chairman and CEO. “We expect these measures will give us the footing to continue to provide solutions to help others live well.”

For more information, visit https://www.gnc.com/.