About Direct Selling
Direct selling is a $35 billion retail channel in the United States used by some of the world’s most recognizable brands to market products and services to consumers. Instead of traditional retail outlets or online marketplaces, direct selling maintains a salesforce of millions of committed independent entrepreneurs.
These small business owners affiliate with a direct selling company and receive commissions on sales, but work for themselves. Independent direct sellers set their own hours and create their own marketing plans. They determine whether to build a sales team and how to mentor those within it and serve their customers in their homes, online or at parties with family or friends.
On Ethics
DSA is committed to ethical business practices and consumer protection. The cornerstone of that commitment is the Code of Ethics. Every DSA member company pledges to abide by the Code’s standards and procedures as a condition of admission to and continuing membership with the Association. The Code ensures that member companies do not make statements or promises that might mislead consumers or salespeople. The Code is enforced by an independent administrator who has authority that all companies agree to abide by.
DSA member companies and their independent salespeople must ensure product claims are documented and substantiated by competent and reliable evidence and earnings claims are clearly defined and documented with truthful and accurate evidence.
False, misleading or deceptive recruiting practices, including requiring a salesperson to purchase unreasonable amounts of inventory or sales aides, are prohibited.
The modifications require member companies to publicize the process for filing a Code complaint, in addition to the Code.
Prospective salespeople must be given sufficient information to promote products in accordance with company marketing materials in a truthful, accurate manner; understand that earnings may vary significantly; conduct a reasonable evaluation of the opportunity to earn income
The Code Administrator is empowered to employ any appropriate remedy to ensure that salespeople do not incur significant financial loss, including requiring DSA member companies to repurchase inventory or materials.
The Code Administrator is empowered to issue periodic compliance reports, including public reports.
The best business is an ethical business. Our Code of Ethics Enhancements, effective January 1, 2016, aim to create the most successful experience for both direct sellers and consumers.
Resources
Visit http://www.1800member.com/dsa and take advantage of products and services that will help you cut-costs and improve your bottom line. This is an exclusive benefit only the DSA can provide because of the direct selling field members it… Read More
Questions? Read the Frequently Asked Questions to better understand direct selling and the Direct Selling Association’s role in self-regulating the industry. What types of products can be purchased through the direct sales channel? The direct selling product… Read More
Connect & Engage
