F.Y.I.

Weight loss brand WW introduces virtual workshops

WW, formerly known as Weight Watchers, has transitioned from face to face meetings to virtual workshops in order to keep members connected.

The announcement:

In just four days following the implementation of global lockdown measures and social distancing advice, global wellness company, WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers) transitioned its entire schedule of Australian and New Zealand-based face-to-face meetings and 1:1 coaching sessions to virtual workshops or phone support, keeping thousands of members connected at a time when they may need it most.

Adapted to help members maintain their overall health and wellbeing during this period at home, 3,120 virtual workshops have taken place across Australia and New Zealand since 19th March via Zoom, for WW ‘studio’ members who would have normally attended an in-person session; over a third of WW’s Australian members. The company runs some 30,000 workshops per week globally, all of which transitioned on the same day.

WW also created ‘Virtual Groups’ on the WW app’s private social network, Connect, specifically for workshop locations, meaning those members can now engage virtually with people they used to meet with weekly – including coaches – 24/7 as they work to maintain their health.

WW’s Director – Marketing & Commercial, Nicole McInnes comments, said: “At WW, we know how important it is for our members to feel connected and to have that one-on-one support to maintain healthy habits – even more so at a time like this. 64 percent of WW’s Australian and New Zealand members are already solely digital, but it was so important for us to be agile and transition quickly for those members who are used to the face-to-face format and make sure we provided continuity, connection and routine in such an unsettling time.”

The company has pivoted to deliver weekly content online to members, rather than face-to-face, and daily content and wellness challenges are being shared via the WW app to encourage people to stay engaged and on-track with their health and wellness goals. The new virtual format has already been leveraged to deliver special events, such as the ‘Cooking @ home’ demonstrations last weekend that were attended by over 1200 members, with live fitness and app tools sessions planned in the coming weeks.

In addition, WW has increased their Headspace meditations and Aaptiv and FitOn workout sessions provided within the app, giving members more choice and further holistic wellness support.

Feedback from members to date has been incredibly positive, with 96% of those surveyed saying they are satisfied or extremely satisfied with this new experience.

WW member, Gabrielle Rickard said: “I am someone who needs to be kept accountable, so joining the virtual workshops keeps me focused.”

Sue Riddell, another member of the WW community, added: “I love that I can still connect with my WW buddies as it gives me something to look forward to each week,” while another, Sue Kendrick, said: “I love virtual meetings. Meetings have always been important but they are now more so than ever. Great ideas for creative ways to keep on track.”

Source: WW press release

ADVERTISEMENT

Get the latest media and marketing industry news (and views) direct to your inbox.

Sign up to the free Mumbrella newsletter now.

 

SUBSCRIBE

Sign up to our free daily update to get the latest in media and marketing.