What Can We Expect From The Major Weight Loss Players in 2014?
By David Cameron Google+
For the most part, 2013 was a pretty uneventful year in the world of the big diet brands. When I say this, I am talking about the really big names like Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig. These companies have become household names and most of us are at least somewhat aware that they exist. Some of us are even past or present members. With this kind of market penetration, you might wonder where these companies can go next. What is next big thing in dieting and who will be the first to bring it to market?
Within their own spheres, the big names in weight loss have done their best to appear to be moving forward in the development of new diet innovations. These advancements are not always what you would expect. Weight Watchers has been through three different spokespersons in the past two years, Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig have both revamped their WebPages and added online eTools. All three companies applaud these simple adjustments to their brands as major achievements. After all, the diet industry is cutthroat and you can only nudge your brand a little here and little there before you risk being unrecognisable in the ever-growing weight loss landscape. So if too much change it too risky, logically, where can we expect the big brands to focus their energy and dollars in the year to come?
Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig all have one thing in common. That thing is brand recognition. These companies are very well known and they are not going to do anything that will dilute or cheapen their brands - and they are definitely not going to risk injuring their brand in any way. So, you can bet your last dollar that in 2014, we are not going to see any major advances in the science of weight loss. What we are going to see is more sizzle (and the same old steak). In 2014, safety for these companies will most likely translate into bigger and glossier marketing campaigns. Look for things like more celebrity endorsements, increased brand placement in mainstream entertainment like movies and video games. Alongside these smoke and mirrors we will also see a much greater emphasis on building-out online programs and much stiffer competition when it comes to mobile device applications
Yes, all three companies have embraced online and mobile apps. The clear winner in this race though is Weight Watchers where you can follow their entire program from the comfort of your home computer or smart phone. They have been the best of class for several years now. Unfortunately, Weight Watchers members in the United States enjoy a significantly better choice of mobile apps than their counterparts in countries like Canada and France. Having said this, in 2014 this is sure to change and not just for Weight Watchers. Mobile App creation is a very inexpensive way to deliver an added value for existing members while providing an incentive to join for new (and younger) users.
My two cents is that all of these companies should be looking to build-out their membership base by catering more to men and provide better online services to countries like Canada, Mexico and others located in the Caribbean.
So, as we say good bye to 2013 and hello to 2014, there really won't be much in the way of changes in the weight loss industry but what changes we do see will be dressed-up in some very impressive technology and introduced by some of our favorite stars. Enjoy the show!
Canadians have many diet systems and programs to choose from but don't believe everything you read. Many advertisements that you read are for American programs that do not serve Canada.
Eating right can still be tasty and enjoyable. Depending on which weight loss program you follow, you would be surprised what you are allowed to eat. Sticking to a diet may be easier than you think!
You may never look like one of those ripped guys who spend all their time at the gym but with a little work you can look and feel better. Plus, you can do most of that work at home without a gym membership.
We have all heard about crazy ways to lose weight. Some of us have even considered trying them! Do not risk your health for some kooky weight loss fad. You could end up doing yourself real long-term harm.