Direct Selling, with 6 million European entrepreneurs involved in the sector and 28,5 billion € generated in Europe in 2022, brings multiple benefits for individuals that decide to become sellers, consumers and society and economy at large.
Benefits for Sellers:
- Flexibility: Direct Selling adapts to direct sellers, whether full-time or part-time; virtual or face-to-face; from home or anywhere in the world, allowing individuals to fit it into their schedules, lifestyles and goals.
- Around 60% of direct sellers spend no more than 8 hours a week.Around 20% spend between 9 and 16 hours a week.
- Around 20% spend a minimum of 17 hour a week.
- Safety: Direct Selling provides an entrepreneurial path with no or low costs of entry and support, including:
- Access to digital tools and training.
- Being part of supportive communities that comes together to connect, share, celebrate, train, and mentor not only in person but also online.
- Supplemental Income: Direct Selling offers a legitimate and simple way to earn additional income. 68% of direct sellers do it in addition to another job.
- Skills Development: Direct Selling serves as a platform for learning, enabling individuals to develop various skills in areas such as, sales and marketing, communication and networking, business management, leadership and team building, and digital competence.
- Direct sellers consider that Direct Selling has helped them to improve:
- Interpersonal skills (77%).
- Self-esteem and confidence (74%).
- Business skills (72%).
- Direct sellers consider that Direct Selling has helped them to improve:
The above benefits lead to high satisfaction within the sector. Over 70% of direct sellers say they are satisfied with their overall experience.
Benefits for Consumers:
- Personal Connection: Consumers get personalised services and high-quality products through a direct, personal and trusted relationship with an independent seller.
- Consumer Protection: Seldia’s members must adopt our Code of Conduct, which exceeds legal requirements, ensuring a comprehensive protection to not only direct sellers but also consumers.
Benefits for Society and Economy:
- Inclusion: Direct Selling provides flexible economic opportunities for all, irrespective of age, gender, qualifications, or experience.
- Women Empowerment: With around 80% of direct sellers being women, Direct Selling significantly impacts women’s occupation and entrepreneurship.
- Access to Products and Services: Direct Selling has been vital to rural communities and minority groups granting access to products and services.
- Community Building: Direct Selling fosters friendships and communities, particularly in areas like wellness, and cosmetics and personal care.
- Transferable Skills: The skills acquired in Direct Selling are transferable to other business and employment opportunities, benefiting not only individuals but also the broader economy.
For more insights into Direct Selling and Seldia’s advocacy in the sector, visit our website.
