High street fury as independent shop owner blames NHS ‘fat jabs’ | UK | News
An independent shop owner has blamed the increased use of NHS-funded weight loss injections for a recent slump in sales, claiming the policy has led to unintended consequences for specialist retailers.
Mark Simonelli, who recently took over the Big Menswear business on Chelmsford’s Moulsham Street, said trading conditions were becoming increasingly difficult. The plus-size clothing store is among a group of independent retailers, but Mr Simonelli says footfall and demand have fallen sharply in recent weeks.
Mr Simonelli I told i-paper We are now seeing weight loss injections as a major factor behind the slowdown. “It’s been absolute nonsense the last few weeks,” he said.
“I think there are a lot of things going on, but one of them is that the NHS and anti-obesity vaccines are encouraging these guys to shrink. Don’t get me wrong, it’s great for them and the right thing to do, but it’s not particularly good news for my line of work.”
The comments come as the NHS expands access to prescription weight management injections as part of its Prevention Programme, which aims to tackle obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.
The two main medicines currently approved for NHS use are tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro, and semaglutide, marketed under the brand name Wegovy.
Both are injected once a week and work by reducing appetite and helping patients feel full for longer.
It is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) only for eligible adults living with obesity who also have weight-related health problems.
To qualify, patients must meet strict criteria based on body mass index (BMI) and existing health conditions, and must also adhere to dietary changes and regular physical activity, as well as medication.
The NHS says the injections are not a “quick fix” and are provided with comprehensive care, including support from dietitians and other healthcare professionals. The medications are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or those with certain medical conditions, and patients are monitored closely for side effects.
Supporters argue the program could transform public health outcomes and reduce long-term pressure on the NHS.
But Mr. Simonelli said the rapid cultural shift around weight loss had caught some niche retailers off guard. Businesses like his, especially those that cater to larger sizes, rely on a stable customer base that is currently shrinking.
