On June 15, 2005, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its ratings on commercial weight-loss service provider Weight Watchers International Inc. (WWI), including its 'BB' corporate credit rating. The outlook is stable. Woodbury, N.Y.-based WWI had about $391 million of total debt outstanding at April 2, 2005, excluding operating leases. The affirmation follows WWI's recent announcement that it will acquire the remaining portion of WeightWatchers.com (WW.com), a licensee that is currently 20%-owned (38% on a fully-diluted basis), pending board approval of WWI and WW.com. In July 2005, WWI will acquire majority control of WW.com for $83 million, which will be financed using cash and the revolving credit facility. At the end of 2005, WWI will redeem financial sponsor Artal's remaining
