Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE was an innovative thinker, change-maker and outstanding entrepreneur who transformed weight management in the UK. Her visionary approach changed the lives of millions of people for over half a century and taught the world how empathy, empowerment and good science can influence health outcomes, people’s life chances and the nation’s approach to health policy. Margaret founded Slimming World in 1969 at her kitchen table and the company is now the largest weight management organisation in the UK and Ireland. Her business has supported millions of people – and their families – to lead healthier lives. Margaret’s vision extended beyond weight loss. She developed a business model that offers opportunities to people facing the same challenges she once did, creating a network of 3,500 small businesses in local communities run by Consultants who have lost weight with Slimming World themselves. Margaret’s philanthropic efforts were equally remarkable. She established SMILES, her foundation, which supports Cancer Research UK and the Irish Cancer Society. In 2019, Margaret committed Slimming World to a charitable partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK, and she gave substantial financial contributions to fund groundbreaking cancer immunotherapy research.
Margaret sadly passed away in February 2025. She leaves the world a healthier, happier place.