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Direct selling options can lead to lucrative operations.

Article Excerpt
For many women, Avon and Tupperware are synonymous with direct sales and home parties. Today, 200 companies are members of the Direct Selling Association (DSA), which is the national trade association of the leading firms that manufacture and distribute goods and services sold directly to consumers.

According to DSA statistics, sales in the U.S. have more than doubled in the last decade to more than $30 billion, and are now more than $100 billion worldwide. More than 13.6 million people participated in direct selling in 2004 in the United States alone, and 75% of those working in direct sales are women. Many people start part-time, and later leave their other careers when direct selling becomes more lucrative.

Prior to becoming a consultant for Southern Living at HOME, Debbie Ferrill of Hattiesburg had never been to a party, let alone seen the merchandise up close. "I saw a catalog in the teacher's lounge at school and fell in love with the products. I decided to host a party so I could get some items free. In working with the consultant, I decided I'd be better off to become a consultant myself." That was five years ago, and her first party was her own launch party. Now a director for the company, Ferrill has been tops in sales and recruiting in her group.

Southern Living at...

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