Shaklee Corp., Rodan + Fields Dermatologists, Regal Ware Inc., Avon Products Inc., LifeVantage Corp.

The story of direct selling in 2009 and 2010 is much the same as it was worldwide for all industries. Developing nations continued to rise, and China and India were standouts for significant growth. More people were clamoring for additional income opportunities, but overall direct sales numbers were generally lower than they were a few years ago. In short, less was more around the world.

Premier Designs Co-Founder Joan Horner Dies at 85, CieAura, Beachbody

One hundred years in the making, the 2010 Direct Selling Association’s (DSA) Annual Meeting commenced June 5 with board and committee meetings, ending June 8 with a red-carpet gala celebrating this achievement and the industry.

Yes, we are ambitious. Direct Selling News and all of the companies in this industry, that is. No challenge is too great. To illustrate this point, DSN created the Global 100, the top direct selling companies in the world, based on 2009 year-end wholesale revenue (in U.S. dollars).

Direct sellers, especially those with nutritional products, have long counted athletes as some of their biggest fans. By landing high-profile sponsorships with Major League Soccer teams, Olympic gold medalists and IndyCar drivers, direct selling companies are enhancing both their businesses and their brands.