WW International, Inc. (WW): history, ownership, mission, how it works & makes money

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WW International, Inc. (WW) Information


A Brief History of WW International, Inc.

WW International, Inc., formerly known as Weight Watchers, has undergone significant evolution in its business model and financial performance over the years. As of 2024, the company reported a net loss of $370.8 million for the first nine months, a stark contrast to the net loss of $24.1 million in the same period of the previous year. This dramatic change reflects a series of challenges and strategic shifts within the organization.

Financial Performance Overview

For the first nine months of fiscal 2024, WW International, Inc. reported total revenues of $601.5 million, down 12.0% from $683.6 million in the same period of fiscal 2023. The decline was largely attributed to a drop in subscription revenues and the discontinuation of lower-margin consumer products. The following table summarizes key financial metrics for the recent fiscal periods:

Metric Q3 2024 Q3 2023 9M 2024 9M 2023
Net (Loss) Income $(46.2) million $43.7 million $(370.8) million $(24.1) million
Total Revenues $192.9 million $215.0 million $601.5 million $683.6 million
Subscription Revenues $191.2 million $203.0 million $595.3 million $628.8 million
Loss per Share (Diluted) $(0.58) $0.54 $(4.67) $(0.32)

Operational Changes and Strategic Initiatives

In response to declining revenues, WW International has implemented a centralized operational structure effective from December 31, 2023. This restructuring aimed to streamline operations and improve financial performance. The company has also focused on enhancing its digital offerings, with digital subscription revenues accounting for a significant portion of total revenues.

Cost Management and Profitability Challenges

Cost of revenues decreased by 29.5% to $404.6 million for the first nine months of fiscal 2024, reflecting efforts to cut costs amid declining sales. However, the gross profit margin remained under pressure, leading to a gross profit of $404.6 million, which translates to a gross margin of 67.3%. The following table outlines the company's cost management metrics:

Metric 9M 2024 9M 2023
Cost of Revenues $404.6 million $586.8 million
Gross Profit $404.6 million $404.4 million
Gross Margin (%) 67.3% 59.2%

Future Outlook

As WW International navigates through fiscal 2024, the focus remains on revitalizing its brand and improving financial health. The company aims to leverage its digital platforms and adapt its services to meet evolving consumer preferences in the health and wellness sector.



A Who Owns WW International, Inc. (WW)

Major Shareholders

As of 2024, the ownership structure of WW International, Inc. includes various institutional investors and individual shareholders. The following table outlines the major shareholders and their respective ownership percentages:

Shareholder Ownership Percentage Shares Owned
The Vanguard Group, Inc. 10.2% 8,146,689
BlackRock, Inc. 9.5% 7,566,781
State Street Corporation 7.8% 6,212,531
Wellington Management Co. LLP 5.3% 4,223,816
FMR LLC (Fidelity) 4.7% 3,715,512
Geode Capital Management, LLC 3.9% 3,116,783
Other Institutional Investors 21.6% 17,185,000
Individual Shareholders 33.0% 26,300,000

Recent Company Performance

WW International, Inc. reported a net loss of $370.8 million for the nine months ended September 28, 2024, compared to a net loss of $24.1 million for the same period in the previous year. Subscription revenues generated for the nine months were $595.3 million, down from $626.7 million in the prior year. The total assets of the company as of September 28, 2024, were valued at $562.4 million, a significant decrease from $982.0 million reported at the end of the previous fiscal year.

Share Count and Market Capitalization

As of October 30, 2024, WW International, Inc. had 79,863,592 shares of common stock outstanding. The stock was trading at approximately $4.12 per share, resulting in a market capitalization of approximately $328.4 million.

Debt and Financial Obligations

The company’s total liabilities amounted to $1.69 billion as of September 28, 2024. The breakdown of current liabilities included accounts payable of $16.7 million and accrued liabilities of $19.3 million. Long-term debt stood at approximately $1.43 billion, indicating a high leverage ratio.

Recent Acquisitions

On April 10, 2023, WW International, Inc. completed the acquisition of Weekend Health, Inc., doing business as Sequence, for a total consideration of $132 million. This included $64.2 million paid in cash and approximately $34.7 million in newly issued shares of WW common stock.

Conclusion on Ownership Structure

In summary, WW International, Inc. is primarily owned by institutional investors, with individual shareholders holding a substantial portion of the company’s equity. The company's ongoing financial challenges and strategic acquisitions continue to shape its ownership landscape.



WW International, Inc. (WW) Mission Statement

WW International, Inc. (WW) aims to inspire healthy habits for real life. The company focuses on delivering innovative and effective solutions for weight management and overall wellness, emphasizing a holistic approach that encompasses nutrition, activity, and mindset.

Company Overview

WW International, Inc. operates primarily in the health and wellness sector, providing services and products designed to help individuals achieve their weight loss and wellness goals. The mission statement reflects the company's commitment to empowering individuals through a supportive community and personalized solutions.

Financial Performance

As of the third quarter of fiscal 2024, WW reported a net loss of $46.2 million, compared to a net income of $43.7 million in the same period the previous year. This significant shift is attributed to various factors, including franchise rights acquired impairments totaling $51.8 million.

Key Financial Metrics

Metric Q3 2024 Q3 2023 Change (%)
Net Revenue $192.9 million $214.9 million (10.2%)
Gross Profit $129.5 million $141.8 million (8.7%)
Operating Loss $(39.0) million $30.6 million (227.4%)
Net Loss $(46.2) million $43.7 million (206.2%)
Diluted EPS $(0.58) $0.54 (207.4%)

Recent Developments

In the first nine months of fiscal 2024, WW reported a net loss of $370.8 million, significantly higher than the net loss of $24.1 million during the same period in fiscal 2023. This increase is primarily due to franchise rights impairments amounting to $315.0 million.

Operational Metrics

Metric First Nine Months 2024 First Nine Months 2023 Change (%)
Net Revenue $601.5 million $683.6 million (12.0%)
Cost of Revenues $196.9 million $279.1 million (29.5%)
Gross Profit $404.6 million $404.4 million (0.0%)
Operating Loss $(272.4) million $28.3 million (100.0%)
Diluted EPS $(4.67) $(0.32) (1,378.1%)

Strategic Initiatives

WW has focused on enhancing its digital offerings and expanding its community support frameworks. The acquisition of Sequence, a technology-powered care platform, is a significant step towards integrating innovative health solutions into its service portfolio.

Community and Support

WW emphasizes the importance of community in its mission, fostering a supportive environment for individuals on their weight management journeys. This approach is reflected in its various programs, workshops, and digital engagement platforms aimed at enhancing user experience and satisfaction.

Conclusion

WW International, Inc. continues to adapt its mission and operational strategies in response to market demands and consumer needs, focusing on holistic wellness solutions and community support as key drivers of its business model.



How WW International, Inc. (WW) Works

Business Overview

WW International, Inc., formerly known as Weight Watchers, operates as a global wellness company, offering subscription-based weight management programs and services. As of 2024, WW has transitioned to a single reportable segment for operational and financial performance assessment.

Financial Performance

For the first nine months of fiscal 2024, WW reported a net loss of $370.8 million, significantly higher than the net loss of $24.1 million reported in the same period of fiscal 2023. The diluted net loss per share for the nine months ended September 28, 2024, was $4.67 compared to $0.32 for the same period in 2023.

Revenue Breakdown

The revenue for the first nine months of fiscal 2024 was $601.5 million, down from $683.6 million in the prior year, reflecting a 12.0% decrease. Subscription revenues accounted for $595.3 million, while other revenues totaled $6.2 million.

Metric Q3 2024 Q3 2023 Change (%)
Subscription Revenues $191.2 million $203.5 million -6.5%
Other Revenues $1.6 million $11.4 million -86.1%
Total Revenues $192.9 million $214.9 million -10.2%
Gross Profit $129.5 million $141.8 million -8.7%

Cost Structure

WW's cost of revenues for the first nine months of fiscal 2024 was $196.9 million, down from $279.1 million in the same period of fiscal 2023, resulting in a gross profit margin of 67.3%. Marketing expenses were reported at $188.3 million, reflecting stable investment in advertising.

Operational Challenges

The company faced challenges including impairments of franchise rights acquired totaling $315.0 million, which contributed significantly to the operating loss of $272.4 million for the nine months.

Debt and Liquidity

As of September 28, 2024, WW's total debt was reported at $1.445 billion, with a net debt of $1.372 billion after accounting for cash on hand. The effective interest rate on the company’s debt increased to 7.76%.

Tax Considerations

WW's effective tax rate for the first nine months of fiscal 2024 was (3.4%), impacted by valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets.

Market Position and Competition

The company’s market position has been challenged by the increasing popularity of weight management medications, which may affect future growth and subscriber retention.

Conclusion

WW International, Inc. continues to navigate a complex landscape within the wellness industry, balancing operational restructuring and financial performance while addressing emerging competitive threats.



How WW International, Inc. (WW) Makes Money

Revenue Streams

WW International, Inc. primarily generates revenue through various subscription services and additional offerings. The following table summarizes the revenue components for the first nine months of fiscal 2024:

Revenue Source Q3 2024 ($ millions) Q3 2023 ($ millions) Change (%)
Digital Subscription Revenues 127.2 140.9 (9.7)
Workshops + Digital Subscription Revenues 45.0 52.6 (14.4)
Clinical Subscription Revenues 19.1 10.0 90.7
Total Subscription Revenues 191.2 203.5 (6.0)
Other Revenues 1.6 11.4 (85.6)
Total Revenues 192.9 214.9 (10.2)

Digital Subscription Services

Digital subscriptions are a significant part of WW's revenue model, contributing $399.4 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2024, down from $437.6 million in the previous year. This decline reflects a shift in subscriber engagement and competition in the weight management sector.

Workshops and Clinical Services

In addition to digital offerings, WW provides in-person workshops which also contribute to subscription revenues. The clinical subscription service saw an increase of 90.7% year-over-year, generating $57.5 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2024, indicating a growing interest in health management services that involve clinical oversight.

Cost Structure

The cost of revenues for the first nine months of fiscal 2024 was $196.9 million, compared to $279.1 million for the same period in the previous year. This reduction in costs has improved the gross profit margin, which stands at 67.3% for the current fiscal year.

Financial Metrics Q3 2024 ($ millions) Q3 2023 ($ millions)
Cost of Subscription Revenues 195.2 233.4
Gross Profit 404.6 404.4
Gross Margin (%) 67.3 59.2

Marketing and Administrative Expenses

Marketing expenses for the first nine months of fiscal 2024 were $188.3 million, a slight increase from $187.5 million in the prior year. Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased to $173.7 million from $188.6 million, indicating improved efficiency in operational management.

Net Loss and Earnings Per Share

WW reported a net loss of $370.8 million for the first nine months of fiscal 2024, compared to a net loss of $24.1 million in the same period of fiscal 2023. The diluted net loss per share for the current year was $4.67, a significant increase from a loss of $0.32 per share the previous year.

Debt and Interest Expense

As of September 28, 2024, WW International had long-term debt of $1.43 billion, with an interest expense of $81.9 million reported for the first nine months of fiscal 2024, reflecting an increase from $71.4 million in the prior year.

Debt Metrics Q3 2024 ($ millions) Q3 2023 ($ millions)
Long-term Debt 1,429.6 1,426.5
Interest Expense 81.9 71.4

Market Challenges

The company faces challenges including increased competition in the weight management sector, particularly from new weight management medications and evolving consumer preferences. Despite this, WW continues to adapt its offerings to maintain its market position.

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Resources:

  1. WW International, Inc. (WW) Financial Statements – Access the full quarterly financial statements for Q3 2024 to get an in-depth view of WW International, Inc. (WW)' financial performance, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
  2. SEC Filings – View WW International, Inc. (WW)' latest filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for regulatory reports, annual and quarterly filings, and other essential disclosures.