Across Europe, direct selling continues to have a positive impact on economies that have been hit hard by the global recession. More than 11 million people are now engaged in direct selling—26,000 permanently employed in direct selling corporate offices. Last year saw a continuation of the sales growth experienced by the industry over the past five years, with 2011 sales topping 17 billion euros.
In the UK, the direct selling industry is the largest provider of part-time independent earning, with more than 400,000 people now actively selling for such companies as Kleeneze, Avon and The Pampered Chef. However, the contribution these direct sellers make to the economy has gone mostly unnoticed.
The UK DSA wants to change that.
Paul Southworth, Director General of the DSA, is determined to secure greater awareness and recognition of the direct selling industry, which not only has the ability to support people back to work and inspire entrepreneurs, but which also generates approximately (pounds symbol) 2 billion in sales each year.
Recently, Southworth and other DSA members attended a reception hosted by Conservative MP Brian Binley at the House of Commons.
“The event was extremely useful in enabling us to discuss the DSA’s priorities with key Members of Parliament, and to plan for the future of the industry—an industry which is closely aligned to the government’s current agenda around encouraging new business and entrepreneurialism,” said Southworth.
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