In 1987, Bioenergy Nutrients was founded in Gunbarrel by Henry and Mark S. Crossen to market nutritional supplements.

That company, now called Amrion, has expanded to six divisions, employing 450 people. Today, Amrion develops, manufactures and markets nutriceuticals and nutritional supplement products in the United States and in 26 countries worldwide. In 1997, the last year figures were made public, sales totaled 68 million dollars. The company is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of WholeFoods Market, Inc.

Exceptional customer service is one reason for Amrion’s overwhelming success. Its mission statement reads, "Helping people lead healthier lives." The company delivers an extraordinary customer experience by developing a relationship through listening, understanding and exceeding expectations.

"It is gratifying to work for a company whose products make such a difference in people’s lives," said Customer Care Manager Audi Mink.

Amrion has six divisions. They are: 

• Bioenergy Nutrients and HealthSmart Vitamins- Both marketed directly to consumers via catalogue, direct mail, and telemarketing.
• BioDynamax - Marketed through health food retail stores.
• Physiologics - Marketed to nutritionally conscious health care professionals who resell the products to their patients as a value-added service.
• Natrix International - Sells directly to mass market and grocery stores.
• Brand Partners - Provides private labels and joint venture opportunities with clients such as WholeFoods Market Stores and Jamba Juice. 

WholeFood’s customers may enjoy a healthful boost from the "Jamba Juice" bar. Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs and other nutrients are blended with juices to create delicious smoothies. A wonderful alternative to low-nutrient fast food, the drinks are popular with those seeking a healthy life-style. Amrion is the exclusive nutrient supplier of these drinks.

"Amrion is also a great place to work," Audi said. The company strives to encourage growth through respect, trust and understanding, supporting each other through open and honest communication. 

"The company is always looking for good team players," she added. "We currently have openings in many areas."

Amrion was recently awarded third place for medium-size Colorado companies that support working parents. The award was presented by Colorado Parents Magazine and Colorado Bright Beginnings for Working Parents. One example of Amrion’s innovation is its Choice Time, which allows parents to combine sick days and vacation time for greater flexibility. 

Since its beginning 12 years ago, the company has gradually expanded to six different buildings in Gunbarrel. Unfortunately, the company found it difficult to find adequate space in Boulder County. This fall, Amrion will re-locate to a 400,000 square feet building on 43 acres in Thornton. 

Amrion’s products meet or exceed scientific standards. "The company sets the standards for research and development," Audi said. "When the raw materials come in, we make sure they are up to our standards. We determine the standards."

Amrion is known as an energetic, entrepreneurial company that is committed to excellence and innovation. The company leads the industry with bold, cutting edge ideas, products and technologies. It is exciting to know that such an exemplary company originated in Gunbarrel. 

Amrion currently maintains a small retail center at its corporate headquarters, 6565 O’Dell Place, off Lookout Road. Hours are: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

To obtain catalogs, call 1-800-627-7775 for Bioenergy Nutrients, and 1-800-492-3003 for HealthSmart Vitamins.

Customer Mary Townsend is pleased with her Amrion products.  
Photo by Helen Johnson