Posted by Kenneth Schuckman | April 18, 2025
In a strategic acquisition announced this week, Kingswood Capital Management and Performance Investment Partners have reached a deal to acquire The Vitamin Shoppe from Franchise Group Inc., which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late 2024. The reported price tag? $193.5 million, according to Bloomberg Law. The deal is expected to close by the end of the second quarter.
The health and wellness retail space is undergoing a major shift — and The Vitamin Shoppe is right at the center of it.
A Staple Brand, 650+ Stores Strong
Based in Secaucus, NJ, The Vitamin Shoppe operates more than 650 stores across the U.S. under The Vitamin Shoppe and Super Supplements banners. It’s also a digital player, with a growing e-commerce platform. The product mix leans heavily into proprietary wellness brands — plus a wide assortment of vitamins, sports nutrition, and supplements.
This is more than a change in ownership — it’s a vote of confidence in the brand’s future.
“We plan to make significant investments in third-party brand relationships, proprietary R&D, store upgrades, and digital enhancements,” said Kingswood’s Michael Niegsch and PIP’s Mark Genender in a joint statement.
“The Vitamin Shoppe is the ideal partner for emerging wellness brands looking to scale across 650+ retail doors and tap into millions of loyalty customers.”
A Local Strategy with National Reach
The deal comes on the heels of the retailer’s latest concept: Hometown Stores — a model that partners each location with a locally rooted wellness brand. It’s smart retail real estate strategy: blending local engagement with national reach.
What This Means for Landlords
At Schuckman Realty, we view this as a positive development. The new ownership brings capital, clarity, and a growth roadmap. For landlords with Vitamin Shoppe in their tenant lineup, this could mean upgraded stores, stronger co-tenancy potential, and renewed lease stability.
That’s not something to ignore in today’s volatile retail climate.
Court Approval Still Pending
The Franchise Group’s reorganization plan is scheduled for court approval on May 12. While Vitamin Shoppe, Pet Supplies Plus, and Buddy’s Home Furnishings will continue operating, American Freight is being wound down as part of the restructuring.
Advisors on the deal include:
- Jefferies LLC (Financial Advisor to Kingswood & PIP)
- McDermott Will & Emery LLP and Sidley Austin LLP (Legal Counsel)
- Ducera Partners LLC and Kirkland & Ellis LLP (Advisors to Franchise Group)
Final Takeaway:
This isn’t just a change in ownership — it’s a reset for a national brand with staying power. At Schuckman Realty, we’re watching closely and advising property owners on what this could mean for their portfolios.
Questions about your Vitamin Shoppe lease?
Reach out to us — we’re ready to help you make the most of this transition.