NEW YORK (S&P Global Ratings) May 5, 2016--S&P Global Ratings noted today that Weight Watchers International Inc. reported strong recruitment growth in the winter sign-up period ended April 2, 2016. Subscriptions increased 4.8%, led by 11.8% growth in North America that offset declines in the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. This is the first year-over-year increase of subscriptions since 2012. Winter subscriber growth has in the past been a good barometer for operating results for the balance of the year. The company attributed the improved membership to its new food program and its effective marketing from its relationship with Oprah Winfrey. Also during the quarter, the company repaid in full its $144 million B-1 term loan using cash on hand.
