North American Breweries' employees lose 2,093 pounds in Weight Loss Challenge

May 29 2010

In January, North American Breweries launched a company-wide Weight Loss Challenge for employees. Teams of four surfaced and weighed in. During the next three months, the teams dieted, exercised and adopted healthy habits -- competing for prizes -- and bragging rights.

Employees lost 2,093 pounds -- more than a ton of weight. Team: Weapons of Mass Reduction lost 15.2 percent of their total body weight, securing a first place finish. The Flab-Tastic Four and Binge and Purge teams took second and third places, respectively. Another 11 teams won prizes, and 31 additional individuals lost more than six percent of their body weight, making them eligible for smaller prizes.

Among the winners is the American Red Cross. The organization was chosen by employees to receive a cash donation of $11,404.50 representing $5 for every pound lost, plus employee contributions. The money will help provide relief funds for Haiti.

According to a slimmer North American Breweries Vice President of People and Management Systems Bill Neilson, the Weight Loss Challenge is a great way to encourage healthy living, while promoting team work and collaboration among employees. "We want the best for our employees. Working together to improve our health has helped to boost morale and healthy competition among employees," said Neilson.

The Weight Loss Challenge is part of an overall wellness initiative that also includes: a smoking cessation program; stress management workshop; nutrition education; and a health fair.

"Dozens of employees lost a significant amount of weight. It was great to see," said Neilson. "Our employees worked hard, and we're recognizing their efforts though a donation to our local chapter of the American Red Cross. The money will help provide relief for the people in Haiti."

"What took minutes to destroy will take many years to rebuild," said John Buttrill, CEO of the Greater Rochester Red Cross. "Thanks to the support from the Genesee Brewing Company and events like this, the Red Cross will continue to restore homes, and offer programs in health, preparedness, disaster prevention and response to the people in Haiti."

SOURCE North American Breweries