Slimming World
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Slimming World is a British company which runs over 5,500 weight loss classes a week across the UK. Adults who are seven or more pounds overweight may join a local Slimming World class and pay a weekly fee to attend classes. In 2007 the cost on joining was £10 and the weekly charge £4.50. Slimming World calls its diet plan "Food Optimising."
Classes are led by self-employed consultants. In October 2007 there were over 2,500 "Slimming World trained consultants" running groups across the UK. At each class members are weighed and the loss or gain is shared with the group. At no time is a member's actual weight mentioned. During classes members also share tips, experiences, and ask for advice. Prizes are given for the "slimmer of the week" and "slimmer of the month."
Consultants do not have quotas to meet for total weight loss among their membership, but do with class attendance, and there are financial incentives for achieving targets.
Slimming World was founded in 1969 by Margaret Miles-Bramwell, who serves as chairman. Caryl Richards has been managing director of the company since 2001. Slimming World has 215 employees in its head office.
