Weight Watchers Brings Healthy Weight Management Solutions to China

Weight Watchers has helped millions of people around the world lose weight through sensible and sustainable food plans, exercise, behavior modification and group support.

12/09/08 Weight Watchers Danone (China) Weight Loss Consultation Co., Ltd., a company owned by a joint venture between Weight Watchers International, Inc., the leading global provider of weight management services, and Groupe DANONE, one of the most successful healthy food companies in the world, successfully launched its first ever weight management services pilot center in the heart of Shanghai, China today. Weight Watchers has helped millions of people around the world lose weight through sensible and sustainable food plans, exercise, behavior modification and group support. Weight Watchers' scientifically-based weight management approach helps its members understand the importance of adopting a healthier lifestyle.

David Kirchhoff, President and Chief Executive Officer of Weight Watchers International and Jacques Vincent, Vice President of the Board of Groupe DANONE, were joined by special guests including government representatives from the Huangpu District of Shanghai, US and French Consulate officials, invited guests and VIPs. A traditional lion dance and ribbon cutting formalized the opening, bringing Weight Watchers weight management approach firmly to the China market.

"We could not be more excited to officially bring our weight management approach into the Chinese marketplace within the same year we signed our joint venture agreement with Groupe DANONE. These pilot centers will be an invaluable source of learning as we build a world class weight management solution in China, providing a customized weight management program tailored to the Chinese lifestyle and eating habits," said Mr. Kirchhoff.

Mr Kirchhoff continued, "With Groupe Danone we found a partner that not only shares our core values of bringing health and nutrition to consumers world-wide through the promotion of healthy lifestyles, but also contributed an outstanding team of talented managers who have been able to quickly adapt and start our business model in China."

Explained Matthew Mouw, CEO, Weight Watchers Danone (China) Weight Loss Consultation Co., Ltd., "Weight Watchers educates people that successful weight loss is about changing behavior - making small changes that can make a big difference. While weight-loss goals may be different in China than in other countries, for those whose weight exceeds healthy levels, studies have shown that even a 5 -10 percent weight loss sustained over six months or longer may reduce health risks associated with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and high cholesterol."

Weight Watchers is currently open in Hong Yi Plaza and Hong Kong New World Tower. Phased center openings will continue to be implemented throughout China on a national basis.