Weigh Watchers starts bankruptcy process
Membership services will not be affected, it says
By: Gabe Hauari
USA Today
..... Weight Watchers announced it has filed for bankruptcy in an effort to "bolster its financial position" and "better serve its millions of members around the world."
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The company, now called WW International, said May 6 [2025] that the bankruptcy will eliminate just over $1 billion in debt from the company's balance sheet and "position WeightWatchers for long-term growth and success.
..... WW International said it expects to emerge from the process in approximately 45 days and intends to remain a publicly traded company.
..... The company also said that WeightWatchers operations will continue "with no impact to its more than three million members worldwide."
..... A WW International spokesperson confirmed the bankruptcy filing in an emailed statement to USA Today on May 7, [2025] adding that the company is looking to move forward with the resources to expand its model of care and continue its digital transformation.
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"The decisive actions we're taking today, [05/07/2025] with the overwhelming support of our leaders and note-holders, will give us the flexibility to accelerate innovation, reinvest in our members, and lead with authority in a rapidly evolving weight management landscape,: WeightWatchers CEO Tara Comonte said in a statement.
..... Reuters reported in April [2025] that WeightWatchers' stock, which traded as high as $100 in 2018, lost most of its value last year [2024] as the company faced revenue declines, liquidity concerns and celebrity shareholder Oprah Winfrey's decision to exit its board.
..... According to Reuters, WeightWatchers has struggled to stay relevant as effective weight-loss drugs, such as Ozempic, have soared in popularity. The company acquired subscription-based telehealth platform Sequence in 203 in order to expand into obesity drug prescriptions.
..... A company spokesperson confirmed there will be no disruptions to membership plans, prescription or pricing.
..... According to WW International, its weight-loss program telehealth offering, and virtual and in-person workshops will remain available.