You have to appreciate what Meier Supply Co. Inc. is offering its employees. The HVACR wholesale distributor, headquartered in Johnson City, N.Y., has taken a vested interest in the health - yes, health - of its workers. On July 18 it launched its eight-week Biggest Loser competition.

OK, this might not be an original. They are copying the hit NBC reality show. For those not familiar with “The Biggest Loser,” severely overweight participants are given the opportunity to undergo a radical physical makeover without any kind of surgery.

Translation? Before millions of couch-potato television viewers, overweight contestants literally work their butts off - as well as waistline and other flabby areas of the body - via good ol’ fashion exercise and diet. There will be awards at the end of Meier’s exercise rainbow, which concludes Sept. 13.

It will be interesting to see which of the 14 teams and nearly 50 individuals who signed on takes home the cake (but may not eat it). Prizes include American Express gift cards and extra vacation days.

In the eyes of president and CEO Frank Meier Jr., healthy employees can mean a healthier bottom line. Being this proactive in a wellness program, no wonder the company has been in business for over 50 years.

The company is currently managed by the third generation of the Meier family and employs several members of the fourth generation.

I say let’s not stop here. More distributors, wholesalers, and contracting businesses should follow Meier’s lead. This is one company “perk” that benefits all parties involved.

Count me in - as soon as I finish this dish of who-knows-how-many-calories ice cream.