New Partnership Brings WeightWatchers GLP-1 Program to UK
WeightWatchers and CheqUp join forces to tap into the U.K.’s growing GLP-1 market, offering integrated support
WeightWatchers is expanding its GLP-1 strategy through a new partnership with U.K.-based CheqUp, a GLP-1-based weight loss service provider.
The collaboration combines CheqUp’s clinician-led medication support and one-on-one health coaching with WeightWatchers’ science-backed GLP-1 Companion Program, which focuses on behavioral and nutritional guidance. The companies say the integrated approach is designed to improve long-term outcomes for weight loss medication users by addressing both the medical and lifestyle components of weight management.
Just as the U.S. experiences a surge in demand for weight loss drugs, the U.K. is facing its own wave of interest, with an estimated 12 million people eligible for GLP-1 prescriptions.
“We are delighted that WeightWatchers chose CheqUp to be its strategic partner when it comes to holistic healthcare in the GLP-1 category,” CheqUp Deputy CEO James Hunt said. “We are seeing exponential growth in the number of people who are choosing CheqUp to help them through what is a sometimes difficult but incredibly rewarding journey of weight loss. There is no doubt that the addition of WeightWatchers’ breakthrough GLP-1 companion program will add enormously to our patients’ ability to achieve sustainable weight loss through its science-backed and proven programs together with their global community of like-minded individuals.”
As part of the partnership, CheqUp members prescribed GLP-1 medications will now have free access to WeightWatchers’ GLP-1 Companion Program, which includes nutritional guidance aimed at minimizing side effects and promoting sustainable weight loss. The program features food recommendations tailored for those on the medications, a simplified tracking system focused on protein, fruits and vegetables and hydration, and a members-only online community offering peer support.
Scott Honken, chief commercial officer at WeightWatchers, said that in the U.S., members taking weight loss medications who also follow the company’s nutritional and behavioral program lose an average of 11% more weight than those relying on medication alone.
“When medication is part of the journey, it’s the combination with behavioral support that leads to more sustainable, superior results,” Honken said. “At WeightWatchers, we recognize the demand for GLP-1 medications in the U.K. is growing as more people seek effective weight management solutions. That’s why we’re proud to partner with CheqUp to deliver our GLP-1 Companion Program to meet this growing need. Our behavioral program provides a structured, science-backed and supportive approach for those using GLP-1 medications to manage their weight safely, effectively and sustainably.”
Earlier this month, WeightWatchers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, aiming to shed $1.5 billion in debt as part of a broader strategy to reposition the brand for long-term growth. The company, known for its points system, said the restructuring will give it greater financial flexibility to invest in innovation and expand its model of care.