David Shakarian

David B. Shakarian (February 27, 1914 – September 11, 1984) was an American businessman. He was the founder, chief executive officer, and chairman of GNC.

Early life David B. Shakarian was born on February 27, 1914, to Armenian parents, the owner of a store where they sold "yogurt, buttermilk, and Bulgarian cultured milk." He had a brother, Bart Shakarian. However, by the time of his death, the project was only expected to be completed two decades later.

Shakarian died of cancer on September 11, 1984.

Dispute over will A year after Shakarian's death, his brother, who was also GNC's vice chairman, and GNC's former president Gary Daum, sued over the validity of the will. They argued that Shakarian "was not mentally competent to understand the nature and extent of his estate."