NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) August 27,2001--Standard&Poor's today raised its ratings on Weight Watchers International Inc. (See list of ratings below.) The outlook is stable. About $487 million of total debt was outstanding on June 30, 2001. The upgrade reflects the company's improving operating performance and gains in profitability and cash flow measures. Weight Watchers has been able to increase revenues, profitability, and cash flow significantly despite the current depressed economic climate. Furthermore, integration of the December 2000 acquisition of its largest franchisee, Weighco Enterprises Inc., Weighco of Northwest Inc., and Weighco of Southwest Inc. (jointly referred to as Weighco) has exceeded Standard&Poor's expectations. Revenues from classroom attendance at Weighco has increased by about 34%
