Press Releases

Skokie, Ill. – (January 15, 2013) - Retrofit Inc., the first weight loss program created for busy professionals, announces the addition of New York-based Lorenzo Valiente as Vice President of Business Development. Valiente's primary goal is to make weight loss a corporate priority for employers in New York, where Mayor Mike Bloomberg's ongoing effort to combat obesity has made headlines.

TechCrunch recently named Retrofit one of the "hottest health and fitness apps" of 2012. Many employers throughout the country have already joined Retrofit in its fight to turn the tide on obesity in the workplace; Valiente aims to add even more large corporations to the company's client roster.

"As obesity continues to pose one of our country's greatest public health challenges and adds $4 billion a year in healthcare costs, the New York area was a logical choice for Retrofit to expand its business," said Retrofit CEO and Founder Jeff Hyman. "Lorenzo brings an outstanding record of experience in the health and wellness industry. His strength in business development will allow Retrofit to build relationships with employers throughout the Northeast who are focused on revitalizing their staff and increasing productivity."

According to Mayor Bloomberg, 58% of New York City adults are overweight or obese. It is a main driver for the city Board of Health's recent controversial move to prohibit the sale of large sugary drinks.

"New York is a key market for Retrofit, as we aim to help busy professionals take control of their weight and their lives. From Wall Street business consultants to high-profile lawyers and bankers, there are many opportunities for corporate growth and expansion," said Valiente, who held a number of positions at New York Sports Club (NYSC).

As Corporate Sales Director for NYSC, Valiente successfully forged relationships with dozens of employers. His performance consistently placed him atop the organization's business development team.

"NYSC has a very similar sales model to Retrofit, and Lorenzo is committed to delivering the same results for Retrofit in New York," said Hyman.

Retrofit offers businesses nationwide a comprehensive program designed to deliver sustainable weight loss results. Clients receive wireless tracking devices along with private lessons from a registered dietitian, exercise physiologist and behavior coach via Skype™ videoconferencing.

"Retrofit offers private lessons in mindset, fitness and nutrition to clients who are stuck behind their desks all day. The program offers the support and accountability they need to successfully manage their weight," said Valiente. "As a busy professional myself, I understand the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and look forward to helping others achieve their personal weight loss goals."

Retrofit has also recruited seasoned VPs of Business Development in Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, and San Francisco.

"Our roster of high-profile individual clients and corporations demonstrates our commitment to the business professional," said Hyman. "Our relentless passion to drive unrivaled results with the latest technology and a personalized approach is what sets us apart in the weight loss industry."

Retrofit provides a turnkey solution for weight loss within the corporate environment. Current corporate clients include Salesforce.com, Walgreens, Dolby Labs, Oreck and the NFL Player's Association.

"Companies are getting hit hard as obesity and related diseases drive healthcare costs higher," said Hyman. "90% of our clients are losing weight. When employers do a cost-benefit analysis, they welcome the chance to offer the Retrofit program to employees."

About Retrofit

Retrofit, the first weight loss program created for busy professionals, is designed to deliver lasting results. Its innovative year-long program includes wireless monitoring of a client's weight, activity and sleep, as well as private lessons with a registered dietitian, exercise physiologist and behavior coach. Retrofit recently raised $8 million in a Series A financing led by Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ), bringing the total investment in Retrofit to $10.7 million.

Retrofit can be found on the Web at RetrofitMe.com and by calling 855-4-RETROFIT. Follow the company on Facebook and Twitter at @retrofitme.