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Weight-loss jabs trigger 680% surge in belt-hole requests at Timpson shops across Britain

From the Newshound archive · first published 23 September 2026 · last updated 24 September 2026.

Around 2.4 million people in the UK are now prescribed weight-loss medications, with most funding jabs privately as NHS access remains tightly restricted.
Around 2.4 million people in the UK are now prescribed weight-loss medications, with most funding jabs privately as NHS access remains tightly restricted.

Lord James Timpson says his high street chain has seen a near-700% jump in customers asking for extra holes drilled in their belts, which he attributes directly to the booming uptake of Ozempic and Mounjaro. Around 2.4 million people in the UK are now prescribed weight-loss medications, though the vast majority pay privately because NHS access remains tightly restricted. Timpson adds holes in exchange for a £1 donation to the Alex Timpson Trust, meaning the jab boom has also filled the charity box.

National Pharmacy Association chairman Olivier Picard called the belt-hole surge 'encouraging' but warned the NHS rollout of weight-loss drugs 'remains extremely slow.'

Picard accused the government of presiding over a 'postcode lottery' for weight management, and urged ministers to let community pharmacies handle prescriptions.

Timpson said the charity donations spike was 'a double win' — slimmer customers and more cash for good causes.

MoreDaily MailTimpson drilling extra belt holes as fat jabs slim down customersThe TimesTimpson says fat jabs mean customers are asking for extra holes in beltsThe IndependentWeight-loss jabs cause 680% rise in people needing extra belt holes, Timpsons boss says
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