Mannatech Incorporated, Coppell, TX, was founded in 1993 as an R&D company, putting out its first product through the multi-level marketing channel in January 1994. From its inception, the company has focused on formulating and marketing a line of proprietary nutritional supplements to be distributed through its independent associates.

Among its first product offerings Mannatech introduced "Plus," which provides nutrients to help support the endocrine system's natural production and balance of hormones, "MVP," which is designed to help the body's thermogenic response to food, "Firm," which is designed to support the metabolism of fat layers directly below the skin and "Sport," which helps support the body's natural recovery process and lean tissue development.

In the beginning Mannatech was headquartered at a modest 20,000 square foot facility; however, fueled by its own discoveries in carbohydrate technology and by the 1994 passage of DSHEA, the company expanded quickly. Mannatech made the determination to sell products through a network marketing channel because it was the easiest way to explain what the company does.

Currently the company has in excess of 550,000 independent associates, 275,000 of which are active. On the new product front Mannatech is touting its weight management system known as "Glycolean." The purpose of the new system, which includes various products, is to trigger the release of stored fat during exercise, help manage the daily utilization of fat for energy and eliminate excessive fat by following a low-glycemic food guide.

So what is the company's secret? The "Ambrotose" complex, which is put into every single one of Mannatech's 27 products. Introduced in 1996, the Ambrotose complex is a proprietary blend of monosaccharides known to play an important role in cell-to-cell communication. To date Mannatech has applied for over 100 patents in 26 different countries, most recently receiving a patent in South Africa.

In terms of expansion, the company is set on a path of opening international markets and will continue to do so. Most recently, the company commenced operations in Tokyo, Japan last month. Other international markets for Mannatech include Australia, Canada and the U.K. In relation to the company's future growth, Mannatech will continue to research products to stay in the forefront of nutraceuticals.

-R.M.