The Vitamin Shoppe announced the signing of its first-ever franchise agreement for the operation of independently owned stores. The multi-unit agreement will see three franchise stores open in Texas in the communities of East Austin, New Braunfels, and Harlingen. The stores are expected to open within nine months. This is the first time in its 44-year history that The Vitamin Shoppe has partnered with independent operators for franchise locations. The franchisees for this pioneering agreement are Joey and Marcy Zayas, who also own a Texas-based land development and management company. Franchise partners have the opportunity to leverage the trusted quality of The Vitamin Shoppe brand and its unparalleled expertise in the fast-growing health and wellness sector when they open new locations. Since launching in 1977, The Vitamin Shoppe has grown into the premiere global destination for health and wellness solutions, supporting millions of customers annually on their journeys of lifelong wellness. The company continues to modernize its business with a digital-first mindset that meets consumers where and when they prefer to shop in today's evolving retail landscape.