Direct selling business seen posting robust growth

MANILA, Philippines - The multilevel marketing (MLM) industry continues to grow globally, keeping markets vibrant and millions employed, particularly in countries where direct selling business has become part of economic activity.

Direct selling contributes significantly to the economy as companies involved in this business make capital investments, spend for research and development, and pay their taxes.

In the Philippines MLM businesses are growing strongly, thanks to their simple yet effective marketing pitch – limitless profits and opportunities.

Global nutrition company Herbalife, however, is different as the company relies on the sales performance of its products. “There are two marketing pitches the MLM companies use. There are MLMs that capitalize merely on huge pay checks without products. The other is banking on the quality of its products. Herbalife is the one banking on the strength of products,” says William M. Rahn, senior vice president and managing director, Herbalife APAC.

Herbalife is one of the world’s best known “multi-level marketing companies, along with Avon and Amway.

“We are committed to not only bringing you the complete solution for overall well-being but we are here to support you in reaching your goals,” says Rahn.

Herbalife is a global company registered in the New York Stock Exchange. It is committed to its mission of spreading the good news of nutrition. At the same time, it has dedicated its products to help users and the community to bring not just good nutrition but provide business opportunity for more Filipinos.

Lina Jacob, Herbalife country manager, said the local operations of Herbalife rank 25th in terms of profitability and growth. “We are excited about this. We are growing in the Philippines with the help of our sub-region head, Younghee Chung, who have shared with us the secrets of the success of Herbalife in Korea,” she says.

According to Rahn, Herbalife’s shake is still the company’s biggest profit driver and is the leading meal replacement shake globally with about 33 percent market share.

While the economic contributions of jobs, personal income, investment, and taxes can be quantified, Herbalife stresses on the importance of recognizing the company’s social contributions to individual families’ lives and well-being.

Rahn who used to occupy high ranking positions from various multi-national companies arrived recently in the country to fete the company’s loyal distributors. The event is said to be the biggest annual gathering of their independent distributors in the country.

The event gathered thousands of the company’s top sellers to give them recognition and at the same provide necessary training and deepen their knowledge of the products.