Protect the direct selling industry from potentially restrictive legislation, says director general
Speaking at the association’s annual conference, attended by over 200 delegates from some of the largest direct selling companies in the world, Paul Southworth said: “Over 400,000 people are employed in direct sales in the UK and it provides earning opportunities for a wide range of people, which in the current climate can surely only be a positive thing. The face of direct selling is changing, and it’s vital that the government recognises the importance of the industry.”
Southworth’s comments come as European reforms to the Consumer Rights Directive are being redrafted that could mean extensive and largely unread information would have to be provided with each sale, putting direct selling at a disadvantage compared to other sales channels, which would not be affected by the proposed change in the law, expected to come into force in 2013.
Also at the conference, the Direct Selling Association celebrated some of the best companies and individuals in the sector, unveiling the winners of the eight awards categories at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire.
Arbonne, the skin care company, scooped the Excellence Award in recognition of the impressive growth it has experienced since entering the UK market in 2007, while global cosmetics giant Avon won the Environmental category.
Craig White from Kleeneze, a company that sells a range of home, beauty, garden and gift products, was named 2011 Direct Seller of the Year.
The judging panel consisted of five members of the DSA Hall of Fame, all of whom have held director level positions within direct selling organisations and have a wide understanding of the industry. The panel were impressed by the volume and quality of entries this year, reflecting the thriving state of the direct selling industry.
The awards also saw the election of Ric Hobby, managing director of Herbalife UK, to the DSA’s Hall of Fame. This prestigious accolade recognises outstanding contribution to the industry.