Direct Sales Companies in Trouble?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the recent advertising efforts of direct sales companies, particularly Mary Kay and Amway (now known as Quixtar), and the perceptions surrounding these companies. Participants share their thoughts on the implications of these advertisements and their personal experiences with the companies and their representatives.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes seeing commercials for both Mary Kay and Amway, suggesting that their direct sales may not be performing well.
  • Several participants express skepticism about Amway's efforts to clean up its image, with one stating they still do not trust the company.
  • One participant shares their experience of being hounded by a pushy Mary Kay representative, contrasting it with another participant's positive experience with a non-pushy consultant.
  • Another participant mentions that Mary Kay has been losing consultants and attributes this to the pushy behavior of some representatives.
  • One participant reflects on their negative experience with Quixtar, describing it as cultish and expressing skepticism about the company's practices.
  • Another participant mentions that they have not seen the commercials but find the situation odd.
  • One participant shares that they are helping a friend with Mary Kay orders but are struggling to get sales.
  • Another participant expresses a positive view of their Mary Kay consultant, highlighting her non-pushy approach and loyalty to customers.
  • One participant mentions the recent Chapter 11 filing of Home Interiors, indicating broader concerns about the stability of direct sales companies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the effectiveness and reputation of direct sales companies like Mary Kay and Amway. Some express skepticism and negative experiences, while others share positive interactions with individual consultants.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and perceptions of direct sales companies and their representatives, with a focus on the impact of advertising on public perception.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants and individuals interested in the dynamics of direct sales companies may find the shared experiences and opinions relevant to their understanding of the industry.

susanr613
susanr613
Gold Member
Messages
2,010
I was intrigued to see commercials for both Mary Kay and Amway tonight. Mary Kay was on network news and Amway (new name Quixtar) was on either Food Network or Travel Channel.

I can understand Avon advertising - they do the retail store thing as well as direct sales. But Mary Kay and Amway? The only thing I can think of is that their direct sales are not doing well so they need to reach out.

Have you seen these commercials? What do you think?
 
I've seen the Amway/Quixtar commercial. My thought was that they must be trying to clean up their image. I still don't trust them though!!
 
Stampaholic1961 said:
I've seen the Amway/Quixtar commercial. My thought was that they must be trying to clean up their image. I still don't trust them though!!
Click to expand...

Yep, have seen the Amway one lots of times around here.
 
Stampaholic1961 said:
I've seen the Amway/Quixtar commercial. My thought was that they must be trying to clean up their image. I still don't trust them though!!
Click to expand...

That's funny, because I was going to say I've never heard anything good about Quixtar, so I can see them getting desperate for sales.

Sarah
 
I haven't seen either, but sounds odd.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
yes, i bet they are trying to clean up their images...both are known for very pushy, almost cultish reps.

we all know WE'RE not cultish, right???????? LOLOLOL!!!!
 
susanr613 said:
yes, i bet they are trying to clean up their images...both are known for very pushy, almost cultish reps.

we all know WE'RE not cultish, right???????? LOLOLOL!!!!
Click to expand...

No, we're not cultish, cliquish maybe but not cultish... :p;):rolleyes:
 
Mary Kay's been advertising a lot on network daytime TV lately. They've been hemmoraging consultants, and the recent compact change hasn't helped any.
I think that so many MK consultants are so pushy that they give a bad name to the rest, and people would rather not deal with that. But that's just my theory - your mileage may vary.
 
At least not until we get you to join CS!
 
Stampaholic1961 said:
I've seen the Amway/Quixtar commercial. My thought was that they must be trying to clean up their image. I still don't trust them though!!
Click to expand...

No offense if anyone here does Amway, but the people I've encountered personally that talk about the business have been VERY pushy. One bugged my husband for 3 months! ...and trust me, DH said a firm no MANY times! We almost changed our phone number. (He was pushing Quixtar).
 
chefann said:
Mary Kay's been advertising a lot on network daytime TV lately. They've been hemmoraging consultants, and the recent compact change hasn't helped any.
I think that so many MK consultants are so pushy that they give a bad name to the rest, and people would rather not deal with that. But that's just my theory - your mileage may vary.
Click to expand...

Yeah, I can't picture the Kat Lady being pushy and obnoxious...patient yes, not pushy. ;)
 
You can see the MK commercial for their new compact on their website. And the website has a whole new look as well. None of it impressed me at all.
 
WOW!!! I have been HOUNDED for the last week and a half by a MK rep/director. She is BEYOND pushy!!! I have been more than firm with her and have resorted to just not answering her calls anymore!!! She is determined that I can do MK AND PC....and I told her no thanks...and she doesn't get the hint!!!
 
I have been VERY fortunate with my MK Lady! She is an acquaintenace from church and does MK mainly for the discount. She doesn't need the $$, so she isn't pushy at all. I get the newsletters from her and every once in awhile I might get a call or something, but that is it. And she doesn't do in-home shows either... She used to do shows at her home and invite people, but has enough loyal customers that order regularly that she doesn't even do that anymore. I know she is there if I need something and that is just fine with me!
 
I said I would help a friend and take up MK orders for her. I thought I was having trouble getting PC orders!!! I think I only have about $35 in orders. Man is she going to be way disappointed!
 
Fortunately for me, the MK lady that I deal with is a total gem! I do "love" her and right after I met her (at a vendor open house thing) I told her that if she ever decided that she wanted a change that I would soooo love to have her on my team because she is truly a fantastic person!!
As for Quixstar, we sort-of got rooked into it about 5 years ago and quickly, oh so quickly figured out what it was all about. Cultish is a really good way to sum it up. The folks that got us to sign were just so weird about everything. I'm so completely skeptical of things and they were always telling me to lighten up. HA! I was just not easy pawn. I try to tell everyone I know about their "ways". It really isn't good. Not at all.
 
I don't know if there has already been a thread on this but Home Interiors filed Chapter 11 at the beginning of June. They are supposedly streamlining their line. Plus their candles will be made through a different company. It will be interesting to see their new catalog.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some signs that a direct sales company is in trouble?

Signs that a direct sales company may be in trouble include declining sales figures, increased turnover rates among consultants, negative feedback from customers and consultants, lack of new product launches, and financial instability as indicated by delayed payments or reduced commissions.

How can I find out if a direct sales company is facing financial difficulties?

You can research a direct sales company's financial health by looking for news articles, press releases, and financial reports. Additionally, online forums and social media can provide insights from current and former consultants about their experiences with the company.

What should I do if I suspect my direct sales company is in trouble?

If you suspect your direct sales company is in trouble, it's important to assess your own involvement. Consider reaching out to your upline for information, reviewing your sales and earnings, and exploring alternative income opportunities. Staying informed and proactive can help you make the best decision for your financial future.

Are there any legal protections for consultants in troubled direct sales companies?

Consultants in direct sales companies may have limited legal protections, as many operate under independent contractor agreements. However, if a company is found to be engaging in fraudulent practices or violating consumer protection laws, consultants may have grounds for legal action. Consulting with a legal professional can provide specific guidance based on individual circumstances.

What are the potential consequences of a direct sales company going out of business?

If a direct sales company goes out of business, consultants may lose their income and any investment made in inventory or training. Additionally, customers may be left without support for products purchased. It's essential for consultants to have a contingency plan and consider diversifying their income sources to mitigate potential losses.

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