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4Life Manufacturing Facilities Receive NSF Certification

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4Life manufacturing facilities have been officially NSF certified. The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) is a product testing, inspection and third-party certification organization that audits for the highest standards of excellence and cGMP (current Good manufacturing Practices), and is relied on to facilitate public health standards that organizations, regulators, businesses and customers can rely on.

The NSF International mark is recognized globally as a symbol of quality, integrity and commitment to excellence in all areas of manufacturing and compliance. Through NSF cGMP audits, 4Life regularly has a multi-tiered inspection, including in-depth process observation and a detailed accounting of quality and production system records for verification of compliance.

“Our quality and purity are unparalleled,” said Steve Pederson 4Life Senior Vice President of Quality. “We guarantee it. Period.”

inGroup CEO Receives Humanitarian Leadership Award

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inGroup CEO and Co-Founder Michael Hutchison was honored with the Honorary Award of the Kyiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry in recognition of his significant personal contributions, extraordinary humanitarian leadership and unwavering support for Ukraine, Ukraine inCruises Partners and Members, and the charitable foundation Stand with Ukraine.

Established under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ukraine, Stand with Ukraine provides critical psychological and physical rehabilitation services for children affected by the ongoing war. Children helped through this program are evacuated from frontline regions or returned from occupied territories, many of whom have lost their homes and, in some case, one or both parents.

“On behalf of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the leadership of the Stand with Ukraine Charitable Foundation, and our friends in Ukraine, we would like to thank Michael for his continued support and humanitarian efforts over the last few years,” said Valeriy Korol, Vice President for International Relations of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “His assistance has directly helped more than 800 Ukrainian children who have been deeply affected by the war. Together with the families of these children, we recognize Michael’s civic commitment and the humanist principles he upholds.”

Hutchison visited Ukraine twice to spend time at the children’s rehabilitation camp, participating in therapeutic activities, workshops and recreational programs designed to foster healing, hope and resilience.

“Receiving this honor from the Kyiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry is humbling and meaningful,” said Michael Hutchison, inGroup CEO and Co-Founder. “The courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people, especially the children who have endured so much, continue to inspire me every day. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support the Stand with Ukraine foundation and work alongside so many dedicated individuals helping restore hope, healing and a sense of possibility for these children.”

Mary Kay Named #2 on Forbes 2026 Best Customer Service List

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Mary Kay Inc. was recognized for its commitment to responsiveness, empathy and excellence in service delivery by Forbes. Earning a #2 ranking on the Forbes Best Customer Service list, Mary Kay stated that this honor reflects their “enduring commitment to putting the customer at the heart of everything it does, from seamless digital support to personalized beauty advice.”

The Forbes Best Customer Service list relies on 3.8 million customer ratings each year to capture how real users rate thousands of brands and products. This year, more than 3,500 different brands were reviewed.

“Every interaction with our customers is an opportunity to make someone feel seen, supported and valued,” said Ryan Rogers, Mary Kay Inc. CEO. “Climbing to the No. 2 spot in the Forbes ranking is a strong validation of our people-powered culture and demonstrates the significance of what we can accomplish together. It speaks to the second-to-none reputation of our Independent Beauty Consultants, the passion of our customer service teams, and company values built on service and making time for others. That foundation is what inspires us to consistently deliver unforgettable customer experiences through our tried-and-true products.”

Coway Issues Statement in Response to Align Partners Proposal

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Coway Co., Ltd. released an official response statement to the second shareholder proposal from Align Partners Capital Management Inc. The response outlined the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance corporate and shareholder value. Since announcing its Corporate Value-Up Plan last year, Coway has been auditing its implementation progress and reassessing strategic consistency, and has introduced what it called “supplementary measures in response to evolving market conditions.”

Coway addressed shareholder concern about potential conflicts of interest and emphasized that its transformation and long-term growth strategies are “underpinned by tangible operational milestones.” Its current core strategy includes the IT-driven rental innovation roadmap, established by Chairman Junhyu Bang, who is also spearheading the company’s digital transformation, product innovation and global strategies. Coway CEO Jangwon Seo oversees overall business operation, organizational management and operational efficiency.

Coway stated that its accountability-driven management structure delivered strong growth between 2020 and 2025, achieving an annual compound growth rate of 8.6% in revenue, 11.5% in operating profit and 10.8% in net income.

To enhance board independence and transparency, the company reiterated its commitment to advancing corporate governance standards through a systematic, multi-phase roadmap that includes a CEO Succession Policy to ensure long-term stability; an increase from 57% to 67% in independent board members; the introduction of a Lead Independent Director system to secure checks and balances within the board; the removal of all executive positions between Coway and its parent company Netmarble; and the launch of an Internal Transaction Committee comprised entirely of independent directors.

In 2025, Coway total shareholder return rate was 40%, achieved through a balanced mix of cash dividends and treasury stock acquisitions.

“Management and the board remain steadfast in our commitment to listening to our shareholders and delivering consistent, sustainable growth,” a Coway official stated. “Through disciplined strategic execution and transparent governance, Coway will continue to work to maximize long-term value for all our shareholders.”

January/February 2026: Otterly.AI, The Futur and more!

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For You Type Graphic

Everything we think you (and your field) should be reading, listening to and utilizing in order to stay engaged, informed and one step ahead.

Report / 2026 Global Consumer Predictions
by Mintel

As a global market-intelligence leader, Mintel analyzes consumer behavior, market trends and innovation across industries using unique and complex processes that AI alone cannot replicate. Their 2026 Global Consumer Predictions Report highlights key trends, including “The New Young,” “Affection Deficit” and “Anti-Algorithm”—revealing how identity, emotional connection and trust will redefine purchasing decisions through 2030.

AI Tool / Otterly.AI

Otterly.AI helps companies understand how their brand appears in today’s rapidly changing world of AI-powered search tools, like ChatGPT and Google’s AI results. This emerging field, known as AI SEO or GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), goes beyond traditional search rankings by focusing on how brands show up in AI-generated answers, where consumers increasingly get their information.

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Audio Book / The Science of Scaling: Grow Your Business Bigger and Faster Than You Think Possible
by Dr. Benjamin Hardy & Blake Erickson

Companies that don’t scale quickly often fail to survive—not because they lack talent or vision, but because most leaders focus on the wrong priorities, operate from false assumptions and set misaligned goals. In The Science of Scaling, the authors break scaling into clear, actionable stages, showing leaders how to align people, processes and performance.

For Your Field Type Graphic
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Youtube Channel / The Futur
with Chris Do

Chris Do knows branding. In fact, The Futur is Do’s masterclass on the topic. His videos meld creativity with business mastery, delivering high-caliber insights into branding, as well as other facets of marketing. Content includes proven strategies to craft compelling stories around products, communicating value in a crowded marketplace and establishing a powerful personal brand.

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Podcast / The Marketing Millennials
hosted by Daniel Murray

This podcast cuts through buzzwords to deliver actionable insights on modern marketing. With deep experience in brand growth, digital strategy and audience building, Featuring leading brands like Shopify and Infiniti, The Marketing Millennials covers everything from leveraging social media to utilizing AI to turning content into community.

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Book / Direct Sales Done Right
by Katy Ursta

For entrepreneurs seeking insight about the industry, Direct Sales Done Right offers an experience-based approach. With over twelve years in network marketing, Ursta shares strategies to develop a strong mindset, establish effective routines and create an engaging brand through social media. The book also covers having meaningful conversations with prospects and managing a sustainable sales pipeline.

MAKE A RECOMMENDATION! Personal and professional development is the cornerstone of direct selling. We’d love to hear from
you about your essential books, podcasts and other media that keep you and your teams on track! Fill out this google form to make your recommendation. We’ll select one each issue to feature on these pages.

From the January/February 2026 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

Mary Kay Celebrates Six Decades of Women Empowerment

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Since 1963, Mary Kay’s beauty brand has been built with the purpose of transforming lives and igniting self-growth. Today, the company sees itself as “a beacon of women’s empowerment.”

“We believe every woman deserves the chance to build something of her own – on her own terms,” the company wrote in a statement. “Through direct selling, we are proud to foster a low-risk pathway to independent entrepreneurship that evolves with the needs of women and consumers at every stage of their lives.” 

Of the 6.2 million Americans actively engaged in direct selling, 73% of those direct sellers are women. At Mary Kay, 30% of the distributor sales force are under the age of 35, making it an opportunity-driver for the younger generation.

“Our community of Independent Beauty Consultants (IBCs) around the world is as diverse as the goals that fuel it,” the company wrote in a statement. “They know that with the Mary Kay opportunity they are ‘in business for themselves, but not by themselves.’ We equip them with education, mentorship and digital tools to meet customers where they are, while keeping the human touch that defines us. Our commitment to their personal and professional growth has changed the trajectory for millions of women who, in turn, have made a profound impact on their families and communities around the world.”

Zinzino Releases Preliminary January 2026 Sales Report

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Zinzino AB announced its preliminary sales results for the month of January 2026. Revenue during the month for Zinzino’s markets grew by 20%, totaling $30 million. The Faun Pharma external sales segment also experienced growth, totaling $786,000. Overall, group revenue reached $31 million.

South America, which includes Peru and Colombia, saw the strongest growth (344%). North America, which includes Canada, US and Mexico, grew by 94%. All other markets, with the exception of East Europe (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland, Romania) saw positive growth rates.

Cambridge Nutritional Foods Launches PortionIQ

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Cambridge Nutritional Foods announced the launch of its new PortionIQ, a portion-controlled range designed for people using GLP-1 medications for weight loss. As appetite-suppression weight management medications become more commonplace, it can be difficult for GLP-1 users to meet their nutrition needs. With PortionIQ, Cambridge hopes to bridge that nutritional gap by offering shakes, soups, bites and electrolyte drinks formulated with balanced protein, fiber and vitamins and minerals.

These convenient, balanced, pre-portioned servings make on-the-go nutrition feasible, even for people whose appetite has been reduced.

PortionIQ products include Vegetable Soup with Croutons, Mixed Berry Shake, Very Berry Bites and St. Clements Electrolytes, products designed to nourish the body and support energy, metabolism, immune function and cognitive wellbeing.

“Cambridge Nutritional Foods has more than four decades of experience turning nutritional science into practical solutions that support people throughout their weight management journey,” said Mark Gilbert, PortionIQ Nutritionist. “PortionIQ provides a straightforward, controlled approach to meeting protein, fiber and vitamin requirements. With an ‘every bite counts’ philosophy, precision portioning and science-led balance, every shake, soup or snack delivers maximum nourishment and satiety in every calorie in minimal volume, supporting sustained energy, appetite control and confident daily progress. When appetite changes, people shouldn’t have to worry about whether they’re getting the right nutrition – and that’s exactly the problem this range is designed to solve.”

Coway Reports Q4 and Full Year 2025 Financial Results

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Coway Co., Ltd. announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2025. Fourth quarter revenue reached $871 million, a 13% increase year-over-year. Operating profit during the quarter was down one percent year-over-year to $124 million.

Full year 2025 revenue was $3.3 billion, a 15.2% year-over-year increase. Operating profit was up 10.5% year-over-year to $600 million.

Coway’s domestic business reported an annual revenue of $1.9 billion in 2025, representing an 11% year-over-year increase. The company stated that this performance was bolstered by strong sales in the ice water purifier category, as well as the BEREX lineup of beds and massage chairs. Annual rental gross adds increased 7.7% year-over-year.

Coway’s overseas subsidiaries contributed $1.2 billion in annual revenue in 2025. The company’s Malaysian subsidiary added $963 million in revenue, a 21.7% year-over-year increase. The company’s subsidiary in the US saw a 10.5% year-over-year increase in annual revenue, totaling $161 million.

Coway’s Thailand and Indonesia subsidiaries saw rapid growth with year-over-year revenue increases of 38.8% and 67.5% respectively.

Mary Kay Ash Foundation Grant Supports Revolutionary Breast Cancer Research

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Mary Kay Inc., through its Mary Kay Ash Foundation, is supporting a groundbreaking initiative that aims to revolutionize early detection and intervention strategies for breast cancer. The foundation’s generous grant is funding the TRIM-EBC Trial (Tirzepatide weight loss in patients with MRD and Early Breast Cancer) in alignment with Baylor Scott & White Health and the Texas Cancer Interception Institute (TCII). Led by Joyce O’Shaughnessy, MD, the study investigates whether weight loss through tirzepatide could reduce breast cancer occurrence by lowering or eliminating circulating tumor DNA.

Dr. O’Shaughnessy

The Mary Kay Ash Foundation’s donations to these efforts are part of its long-term commitment to advance the critical work of reducing the risk of breast cancer and finding cures for cancers affecting women, and reflects its dedication to shaping the future of cancer interception and prevention strategies.  

Dr. O’Shaughnessy is a key player in the TRIM-EBC Trial and was honored as one of the nation’s leading breast oncologists at the 2025 Celebrating Women Luncheon, where the Mary Kay Ash Foundation was also honored with the prestigious Circle of Care Award.

“When I started more than 35 years ago, there were no senior women faculty at my institution – none,” Dr. O’Shaughnessy said. “The opportunities just weren’t there. That has changed dramatically. Once women began moving into leadership roles and succeeding, it created a snowball effect. Seeing women in those positions makes others realize it’s possible. That visibility is critical – not just for women in general, but also for minority women. You need to see someone like yourself doing the job to believe you can do it too.”

Partner.Co Launches Wellness Academy

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Partner.Co announced the launch of its new Wellness Academy, a one-year intensive program that covers product science, compliance and regulatory best practices and effective communication strategies. Designed for Brand Partners, who will be known as Fellows within the program, the Academy will be led by members of the Scientific Advisory Board. Fellows will learn from these experts as they complete structured, hands-on training and graduate as Alumni who will be empowered to educate Brand Partners within their markets and beyond.

Scientific Advisory Board members participating in the Academy will teach within their specialties and Fellows will regularly attend classes to enhance their knowledge across a range of topics. Upon graduation, Alumni will be invited to speak at Partner.Co events, participate in a graduation ceremony on stage at PXP | The Partner.Co Experience and receive an official Wellness Academy jacket and patch.

This year’s Fellows have already been selected, but applications will open annually to be vetted by a team of Partner.Co executives and Scientific Advisory Board members.

“Successful candidates are already established in their respective fields and may include medical doctors, registered nurses, pharmacists, nutritionists, physical therapists and high-performance or professional athletes,” the company wrote in a statement. “By inviting future Fellows from different disciplines, we aim to build a diverse and dynamic learning community dedicated to elevating wellness, performance and holistic health worldwide.”

Natural Health Trends Reports 2025 Financial Results

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Natural Health Trends Corp. announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2025. Revenue during the fourth quarter grew by 3% sequentially to $9.7 million, but declined 10% year-over-year. Fourth quarter operating loss was $635,000 with a net loss of $588,000. Active Member numbers were 26,650, compared to 30,870 in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Full year 2025 revenue was $39.8 million, down 7% year-over-year, with an operating loss of $1.8 million. Full year 2025 net loss was $882,000, or $0.08 per diluted share.

“In the fourth quarter we managed to achieve a 3% sequential increase in revenue despite the difficult macroeconomic environment and continued pressure on consumer sentiment,” said Chris Sharng, Natural Health Trends Corp. President. “We have substantially completed the major restructuring initiatives announced last quarter and expect to realize most of the associated $1.5 million annualized cost savings in the coming year. We also relocated about 40% of our total product sourcing base from America to East Asia, much closer to our main markets, to reduce tariff uncertainty and streamline logistics. Looking ahead, 2026 marks our 25th anniversary, a significant milestone for the company. We have prepared an exciting program, including a big celebration in Hong Kong where we anticipate 1,500 attendees from around the world, signature products and incentives to leverage these moments effectively, and we are focused on making this anniversary a catalyst for renewed momentum.”

The company ended the year with cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $28.9 million.