When we published the DSN Global 100 ranking last year, it was the first time in the history of the industry that a comprehensive list of the top 100 revenue-generating direct selling companies ...

In this issue, we release the final ranking of the Direct Selling News Global 100 for 2010. The identification of the Top 100 direct selling companies in the world is the culmination of hours of research and the cooperation of dozens of individuals. We extend our acknowledgment and appreciation to all who were a part of this endeavor. The industry comprises many privately held companies that certainly could have chosen not to share any information; however, overall, we found the cooperative spirit that makes this industry so unique and so very different from most. Many readers will benefit from a better understanding of the magnitude of the social and economic contributions that this channel delivers to individuals and communities throughout the world. Transparency will always be an essential component to greater understanding and acceptance of direct selling as a way of doing business. We believe the DSN Global 100 listing contributes to both.

In addition to having loving parents who started me off with firm guidance and an excellent education, it has been my good fortune to have several important mentors in my life.

It’s easy to get into direct selling. It’s easy to get out. Too many do. This is what you can do about it.

About 60 years ago, two industries really began to flourish in the United States. Both industries contain a variety of products and services that we all use.

Achieving longevity requires that a company embrace change while remaining thoroughly committed to its core corporate principles. So maybe Vorwerk can school us.

In this month’s Executive Connection, Direct Selling News Publisher and Editor in Chief John Fleming speaks with Dr. Jorg Mittelsten Scheid, Chairman of Vorwerk’s Supervisory Board, about leadership, innovation and the power of interpersonal relationships.

Arbonne International LLC, Ampegy LLC, Agel Enterprises, Herbalife Ltd., LIMU

Over the past several years, natural disasters have struck every part of the world—from Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf of Mexico to the 2004 tsunami ...

What can we do to make the world a better place? I have talked to people around the world about this topic. I have discussed it with scholars, government officials, colleagues in the industry, Amway distributors and friends who come over for dinner.

There is much debate and discussion about technology and its impact on direct selling. There is much debate and discussion about technology and its impact on direct selling. The questions and discussions are endless, and the points of view are diverse. I have heard the direct selling industry described as the first industry to embrace social media, meaning direct selling has always been about the importance of personal relationships. While this may be true and agreed upon by most, it does not necessarily mean that all are clear on exactly what is happening today.

Technology is greatly impacting the direct selling experience—from how companies present their messages and products to how distributors employ new tools, to how consumers react to the speed of delivery on services.