Sources inform ''Globes'' that Dr. Fischer (Fischer Pharmaceuticals Ltd.) is working on the establishment of a retail chain in the US. Dr. Fischer declined to comment on the report.
This will not be Dr. Fischer's first retail venture. In addition to its manufacturing business, the company operates the Israel Body Shop retail chain of 22 stores (no connection with Britain's The Body Shop International plc (LSE:BOS)). The Israeli Body Shop chain has not been a commercial success, and a number of commercial centers have replaced it with branches of competing chains, such as Laline Candles and Soaps Ltd.
Dr. Fischer was about to acquire retail chain General Nutrition Companies (GNC) Israel, which has 16 stores, from Michael (Mickey) Dorsman for $2 million two years ago, but withdrew from the deal at the last moment.
In late 2002, Dr. Fischer established a new food supplements unit, Biopharm, at an investment of $1.5 million. Dr. Fischer specializes in developing treatments for the eyes and skin, and preparations for infants and to prevent premature aging of the skin. The company's business is estimated at $50 million.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on May 26, 2005