Oprah Winfrey, a prominent figure in the wellness industry, has announced her departure from the Weight Watchers board of directors. This departure signifies a change in the company's strategy, as it grapples with the growing popularity of anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy and Saxenda.
Despite stepping down from the board, Winfrey has emphasized her continued support for Weight Watchers' mission of recognizing obesity as a chronic condition. She will donate her shares in the company to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Her decision to leave the board coincides with a significant shift in the weight-loss landscape, with the introduction of prescription drugs offering more effective results. Weight Watchers' financial performance has also been negatively affected by this shift, as evidenced by its recent net loss of $88.1 million.
In an effort to adapt to the changing landscape, Weight Watchers acquired Sequence, a company that provides a combination of digital health services and prescription drugs. This acquisition reflects the company's recognition that a multifaceted approach, including both lifestyle changes and medical interventions, may be necessary to effectively address obesity.