Why Did Slim and Save Close Down?
In March 2023, Slim and Save, a company that had offered very low-calorie meal replacement diets since 2008, ceased trading and went out of business. This was a significant blow to its loyal customer base, which relied on the company's affordable and straightforward diet plans. The closure was attributed to a combination of economic and operational pressures, particularly the impacts of Brexit and a general increase in supply chain costs. These external factors made it challenging for the company to maintain its product stock levels and business viability. The UK's departure from the European Union led to more complex and expensive logistics for many businesses, and Slim and Save was no exception. Faced with these insurmountable difficulties, the company made the tough decision to close its doors permanently.
The Role of Brexit and Supply Chain Issues
- Increased Costs: Post-Brexit trade changes led to higher costs for importing and exporting goods. For a meal replacement company that relied on specific ingredients and manufacturing processes, this directly impacted its bottom line.
- Stock Maintenance: The new logistical challenges made it difficult to maintain a consistent and sufficient stock of products. For a company selling diet plans, reliable product availability is crucial.
- Financial Strain: The culmination of these issues placed significant financial strain on the business, leading to the ultimate decision to cease trading.
The New You Plan's Takeover
Following the closure, a new chapter began for Slim and Save's customers when competitor company The New You Plan acquired the remaining stock and took over the official support groups. This acquisition provided a vital lifeline for former Slim and Save dieters, ensuring they could continue their weight-loss journeys without major disruption.
Key Aspects of the Takeover
- Stock Acquisition: The New You Plan purchased Slim and Save's remaining inventory, making popular products available again to those who missed their favourite items.
- Community Integration: A beloved Slim and Save support agent with over 10 years of service, Joanne Jones, joined The New You Plan team, maintaining a familiar face for many customers. The official Slim and Save Facebook groups were also integrated into The New You Plan's community.
- Continued Support: The New You Plan committed to keeping the transition smooth, offering former Slim and Save customers special discount codes and information to continue their plans. They also pledged to replicate popular Slim and Save flavours that were not already in their product range.
Slim and Save Alternatives for Former Customers
For those who followed the Simplicity Plan or other Slim and Save regimes, several companies now offer similar meal replacement products. While The New You Plan is the direct successor, other providers also cater to very low-calorie diet (VLCD) customers.
Comparison of Meal Replacement Options
| Feature | The New You Plan | KeeDiet® | Shake That Weight® |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct S&S Integration | ✓ (Acquired S&S stock, support team) | ✓ (Welcomed S&S customers) | ✗ (Independent competitor) |
| Product Range | Extensive meal and snack options | Wide range of shakes, soups, and bars | Variety of shakes and meals |
| Support Community | Active Facebook groups | Website and social media support | Facebook support community |
| Typical Price Point | Varies; bundles and single items | Varies; bundles from £1.27 per meal | Varies; shakes from £1.75 |
Navigating the Shift to a New Diet Plan
For longtime Slim and Save customers, transitioning to a new meal replacement program can feel daunting. However, The New You Plan and other competitors like KeeDiet® have made concerted efforts to welcome these dieters and provide a seamless continuation of their weight-loss journeys. It is important to research the offerings of different brands to find the best fit for individual needs and preferences. Considerations should include:
- Product Availability: Check if your favourite flavours or product types are available from a new provider.
- Diet Plan Structure: Compare the VLCD or lifestyle plan options to ensure they align with your health goals and daily routine.
- Support System: Look into the community and customer support available from the new company, especially if the social aspect of Slim and Save's diet plans was important to you.
- Pricing: Compare the costs of various bundles and individual items to find the most economical option.
Conclusion
The closure of Slim and Save in March 2023 was a direct result of challenging economic conditions, primarily impacted by post-Brexit supply chain issues and rising costs. The company's legacy was carried forward by The New You Plan, which integrated Slim and Save's remaining stock and its customer support network into its own business. While the original brand is no longer trading, its loyal customers have multiple reputable options, such as The New You Plan and KeeDiet®, to continue their weight-loss efforts using familiar meal replacement products.
Authoritative Link To learn more about The New You Plan's acquisition and support for former Slim and Save customers, you can visit their official blog post: BIG NEWS: The New You Plan X Slim & Save.
