MLM dying in the UK?

1LifeLiveIt

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Mar 16, 2010
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Interesting post. I don't think MLM is on its way out, but I think the shabbier MLM companies are on their way out, which has to be a good thing?

I love the company I work with and all of the perks involved. I did the six fig income, working 80 hours a week thing, it wasn't for me. I like getting paid for what I do, and doing it when I like.

I still fail to find a single MLM distributor in any business that can prove they make any kind of money from selling products or helping their down line
Would you like to see my coaching bonus recap sheets?!

I do think it's a shame that there are so many dodgy MLM's out there that are basically operating as pyramid schemes, dragging down the reputation of all the credible MLM's. As far as I'm concerned, the quicker they disappear, the better.

The Investors In People award committee said our ethical business and training models were exactly what they wanted to promote. The support and training we receive is utterly incredible. My customers love the products and stick with me - a fair few of them have joined the business too!

Our company's UK sales increased last year by 4.5%, not bad in a recession, and at our European profit share rally at Wembley 2 weeks ago, distributors were given back over 6.2 million Euro in profit share. We own graded, listed buildings and parts of world heritage sites all over the world. So no, I wouldn't say we're in decline :)
 
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different mlms have expenses.
Most of the firms I have seen have a weekly to monthly meeting & if its someone new to business or mlm they will need these.
There are also training meetings, books, cds, voicemail, websites etc.

Just like any other business there will be some expenses & sadly the averge mlm agent in the UK does not make a profit after these expenses.

Last time I saw the DSA figures the average turnover of a mlm agent in the UK was £20 to £40 per month (OK many firms do more)
but if your buying into a club/discount system & buying £40 worth & your expenses are around the same its trading at a loss.

sadly most mlmers I have come across do this month after month.
Many of them like the idea that they "own a business" or like the meetings & the new friends. The collect the books & tapes, even spend thousands on high priced seminars but they just don't seem to move product & if they do recruit those ppl duplicate what they do.

Most businesses of any type don't succeed but there seems to be ahigher amount of "mlm junkies" who are just in it for the badge.

g

Well Gibby, what you are saying is completely different to the sort of
MLM organisation that I am in. No books, tapes, seminars, rallies, CD's,
DVD's. If we meet it is for a bar-b-que or some such social.

Everything else is on-line, supplied by the company and included in the
monthly subscription which includes the product.

So, maybe you are condemning the entire MLM industry based on an
incomplete sample - just a thought.:)

Cheers,

Gordon
 
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In 2009-2010 it would seem with the down turn in the economy, even MLM's were hit hard. The Monavie craze ran it's course of expensive items. But as discretionary money dried up, sports drinks, vita-drinks, even StarBucks took a hit.

MLM's are on their way back, in fact they are leading the economy in new start-ups.

I know this is an old post...but an update seemed appropriate.

Sean
 
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scentedserendipity

In 2009-2010 it would seem with the down turn in the economy, even MLM's were hit hard. The Monavie craze ran it's course of expensive items. But as discretionary money dried up, sports drinks, vita-drinks, even StarBucks took a hit.

MLM's are on their way back, in fact they are leading the economy in new start-ups.

I know this is an old post...but an update seemed appropriate.

Sean

I agree! more and more people are starting MLM so they can work from home. I love working for the company I work for! Make my own hours and do things with my family that I need to!!!
 
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I have been in and out of the MLM scene for years and have seen many 'junk' businesses. It's not that the products are bad, I think it's the mindset and intention of the company.

So many MLM companies are set up because the owners want to make fast money and they focus their attention on the business model. There was even one company where they didn't even have a product or service! (Many affiliates went through court and hand their hands seriously slapped!).

You paid your £2,500 which was divided up seven levels a month after it had been in the hands of the company and invested somewhere with all the other £2,500s. A business model with no product! It was made illegal.

The companies that stay strong with MLM are those that focus on the product/service and the customer. It's the same with any business model. If you don't look after the people that pay your wages, the customer, you won't be looking after your wages! If you don't look after your affiliates/staff they won't look after the customers.

I am an affiliate with an international company and anyone from any country in the world can join and it is completely web based as web sites are the product. The product is fantastic and you can have a free trial.
I'm not posting any more details as I don't think it's fair to use a thread to post links to gain affiliates, but if you want more details send me a message.

If you're thinking of MLM make sure the company is ethical. For me, that has to precede the earning potential. It can't just be about the money.

Sean
 
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deniser

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Jun 3, 2008
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London
Have read the whole thread and although I know what sort of businesses are under discussion, can't for the life of me work out what MLM stands for! Can anyone enlighten me please?

I used to work for Cabouchon selling costume jewellery. Does anyone remember them from the late 80's? Wonder what happened to them.
 
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Billmccallum

Have read the whole thread and although I know what sort of businesses are under discussion, can't for the life of me work out what MLM stands for! Can anyone enlighten me please?

I used to work for Cabouchon selling costume jewellery. Does anyone remember them from the late 80's? Wonder what happened to them.

MLM = Multi Level Marketing

The Kleeneze model seems to be the tried and tested programme that can work, but the key to success is recruiting a team.

I worked with Kleeneze a few years ago and recently decided to join again.
 
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I've looked at a couple of MLM businesses in the past, but the approach to me was always on how I could make lots of money and never about the actual product/s. When I asked about the product and what it could do etc and the benefits to the customers I just got blank glazed expressions as though I'd grown a pair of antlers....

I'd have no problem with MLM if the product (or service) is good.
 
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I've looked at a couple of MLM businesses in the past, but the approach to me was always on how I could make lots of money and never about the actual product/s. When I asked about the product and what it could do etc and the benefits to the customers I just got blank glazed expressions as though I'd grown a pair of antlers....

I'd have no problem with MLM if the product (or service) is good.

Absolutely!

There are many people who have had a bad experience with Multi Level Marketing/Duplication/Network Marketing etc (all different names for pretty much the same thing).
The thing is, it's not always the company! There a number of great companies that have been unfortunate enough to have bad representatives. The deregulation of the telephones was a prime example. There were many companies springing up all over the place and most of them have gone now, but even some of the big names had a bad start because of bad representatives. And this isn't just limited to MLM. Sky had bad press in the early days from using commission only reps.

Every business has multi levels (MLM), every business relies on duplication for growth (Managers take on staff who become managers who take on staff) and all business relies on relationships (Networks) at some level.

It's the self employed/commission/accountability issue that is the problem, not MLM companies.

Get a good product, do a good job promoting it and you'll be fine.

Sean
 
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deniser

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Jun 3, 2008
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London
I wonder how easy these businesses are to set up?

I think I have the perfect product - everyone in the target market who sees it wants one - and the quality is excellent as is value for money. It is not yet well known in the UK so no saturation problems or competition yet.

This thread has got me thinking that this may be a fantastic way to sell the product. Mmmmmmmm.
 
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I wonder how easy these businesses are to set up?

I think I have the perfect product - everyone in the target market who sees it wants one - and the quality is excellent as is value for money. It is not yet well known in the UK so no saturation problems or competition yet.

This thread has got me thinking that this may be a fantastic way to sell the product. Mmmmmmmm.

You would need software to manage commission payments, affiliate log in and management and email responder stuff. There are a few companies out there if you Google but I bet they're not cheap.

The other business model that may be better if you are more likely to be supplying the UK is franchising, if you have sole distribution rights. You have a bit more control over your franchisees and you may be able to factor in a MLM style commission structure. Not sure of the legalities of that.

Just thinking off the top of my head really. I suppose it depends on the product and whether or not you would be better going for B2B sales in larger quantities rather than the headache of lots of B2C affiliates.

What is the product?
What is the target market?
And if they all want one, how many have you, or could you have, sold?

Sean
 
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rbilling

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Feb 28, 2013
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There is something Big coming to the UK within the MLM industry. This company has grown at a rapid pace in the states which is mainly due to its great realistically priced products and the fact that it is promoted to the mases.....We currently require experinced people to get involved now ready for launch in the next couple of months...Exceptionally good remuneration etc...
 
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I have only just joined this site, having been searching for good networking forums and sources to advertise our company. I have read much of this thread with great interest.
Most companies are formed because the owners believe they have something new or game-changing to offer. This should not be discouraged, especially in this business climate.

Of course, not all MLM companies have the correct motives or structure and extreme caution should always be applied when considering joining and of these programs. The company I am involved with adds something unique to the MLM genre. It is fundamentally MLM, with a reward program built in, but it doesn't come with all the usual restraints and rules that hinder most MLMs. Our Members have a choice on whether they partake in team building at all. The reason this works is because we run a standalone drop shipping program, where Members can advertise our products on eBay (or anywhere they choose but we provide eBay listings) so they can "sell before they buy". The only upfront risk is a joining fee (£165) but to promote this we are have an offer waiving the joining fee for the next 50 new Members. A real "try before you buy" deal especially if you are already using eBay.

If anyone has any informed suggestions as to suitable forums or websites where we can advertise I would very much appreciate them and if anyone is interested in looking at our company then by all means contact me.
 
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Steve Wyer

Free Member
Feb 12, 2010
21
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64
Coventry
After 20 years of several entrepreneurial excursions from my core business, I think that I may have found the "Golden Goose".
5 weeks ago on a Sunday night, an old mate called to say "I've just emailed you an invite to Rippln, It launched globally yesterday and i think it's going to be huge!"
Since then my Ripple has spread into 11 countries with a good crowd or 144 people ready to download the Rippln app/social media platform/game/communicator in a few weeks time, when it will go viral fast.
Rippln has gone from a standing start to 600'000 subscribers in just over a month and the 1 million target is 15th June. Faster than Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.
Is it an MLM? It's hard to put the right label on it. But if it is then it's certainly alive and well in the UK and most other places too...
 
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After 20 years of several entrepreneurial excursions from my core business, I think that I may have found the "Golden Goose".
5 weeks ago on a Sunday night, an old mate called to say "I've just emailed you an invite to Rippln, It launched globally yesterday and i think it's going to be huge!"
Since then my Ripple has spread into 11 countries with a good crowd or 144 people ready to download the Rippln app/social media platform/game/communicator in a few weeks time, when it will go viral fast.
Rippln has gone from a standing start to 600'000 subscribers in just over a month and the 1 million target is 15th June. Faster than Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.
Is it an MLM? It's hard to put the right label on it. But if it is then it's certainly alive and well in the UK and most other places too...

SaltyDroid is a well respected site which posts about all of the make money online scammers and they have absolutely nothing positive to say about Rippin - http://saltydroid.info/rippln-ripple-rippln-rip/
 
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Billmccallum

After 20 years of several entrepreneurial excursions from my core business, I think that I may have found the "Golden Goose".
5 weeks ago on a Sunday night, an old mate called to say "I've just emailed you an invite to Rippln, It launched globally yesterday and i think it's going to be huge!"
Since then my Ripple has spread into 11 countries with a good crowd or 144 people ready to download the Rippln app/social media platform/game/communicator in a few weeks time, when it will go viral fast.
Rippln has gone from a standing start to 600'000 subscribers in just over a month and the 1 million target is 15th June. Faster than Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.
Is it an MLM? It's hard to put the right label on it. But if it is then it's certainly alive and well in the UK and most other places too...

Usually, the right label is SCAM!!!!

google Rippln Scam and enjoy the reading.
 
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Steve Wyer

Free Member
Feb 12, 2010
21
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Coventry
Yes, i've seen that and a whole lot more over the past few weeks. The fact is, as soon as anything starts to make a big noise, the snipers come out to play.
It's a very interesting conversation...Is it a scam? Is it a Pyramid? Will it be bigger than Facebook? It's certainly got a chance. I think that the Gameification model will be a big driver.
Anyway i'm certainly enjoying the ride and can't wait to see how it all rolls out...
 
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SourChocolate

Free Member
Jul 31, 2008
226
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Yes, i've seen that and a whole lot more over the past few weeks. The fact is, as soon as anything starts to make a big noise, the snipers come out to play.
It's a very interesting conversation...Is it a scam? Is it a Pyramid? Will it be bigger than Facebook? It's certainly got a chance. I think that the Gameification model will be a big driver.
Anyway i'm certainly enjoying the ride and can't wait to see how it all rolls out...

Keep us updated on the progress of milking that goose and how much money is landing in your bank account.
 
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garyk

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Jun 14, 2006
5,992
1,019
Bedfordshire
These schemes can grow big but equally fail fast.

There was one doing the rounds last year, can't remember what it was called but some shopping comparison firefox add-in (which was shite and buggy as hell) but raked in alot of cash from punters stumping up £30 a month just to use it! Someone tried to get me involved in it but I couldn't see the value in it.

This is always the problem as I see it, getting people to spend money for the sake of the scheme, not for spending it on something that actually adds value or is something that person actually *wants*


Gary
 
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Billmccallum

Yes, i've seen that and a whole lot more over the past few weeks. The fact is, as soon as anything starts to make a big noise, the snipers come out to play.
It's a very interesting conversation...Is it a scam? Is it a Pyramid? Will it be bigger than Facebook? It's certainly got a chance. I think that the Gameification model will be a big driver.
Anyway i'm certainly enjoying the ride and can't wait to see how it all rolls out...

The original compensation plan issued by Rippln showed payment for recruiting other distributors which is a pyramid payment structure, pyramid schemes are illegal.
 
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Steve Wyer

Free Member
Feb 12, 2010
21
2
64
Coventry
Keep us updated on the progress of milking that goose and how much money is landing in your bank account.

I'm actually hoping that the Goose will be laying golden eggs, I certainly won't be milking it (that would be disgusting!), puts me in mind of a friend who worked for Heinz, in the Cream of Chicken Soup section...he told me how they extract the cream from the Chicken...believe me, you don't want to know!

Yes, they had a few issues with the comp plan...more to do with setting up a structure which complies across many countries, so i understand. Going global from day 1 is bound to have it's challenges.
 
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cjd

Business Member
  • Nov 23, 2005
    15,986
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    www.voipfone.co.uk
    Why do people keep falling for this sh1t? For god's sake do something that you're mother would understand and be proud of.
     
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    cjd

    Business Member
  • Nov 23, 2005
    15,986
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    www.voipfone.co.uk
    Such as?? Telecommunications??

    Yes, such as telecommunications. My mum knows what a telephone is and thinks it's quite useful.

    Of course, you do have to do something a bit more than sell someone else's scammy product to your family and friends for a percentage.

    You know, something that might be original and worthy enough to win a Queen's Award for Enterprise?
     
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    Billmccallum

    Yes, such as telecommunications. My mum knows what a telephone is and thinks it's quite useful.

    Of course, you do have to do something a bit more than sell someone else's scammy product to your family and friends for a percentage.

    You know, something that might be original and worthy enough to win a Queen's Award for Enterprise?

    Its a waste of your time trying to get through to him, he's been converted to the cult of MLM and until he's lost his cash, he wont have a nasty word said about Rippln.
     
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    Steve Wyer

    Free Member
    Feb 12, 2010
    21
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    Coventry
    Why would you want to "Get through to me" anyway?

    I have an opinion, so do you...

    It's just a business venture... If it succeeds...Great! If it fails...Never mind, nobody's going to die! What's the problem?

    I does amuse me though...as soon as you mention MLM / Network Marketing some people just get so upset and start swearing and shouting like you've just announced that you're starting a Jimmy Savile fan club.

    Was there some MLM massacre that happened somewhere long ago that no one told me about but deeply disturbed a lot of people???
     
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    Steve Wyer

    Free Member
    Feb 12, 2010
    21
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    64
    Coventry
    This was quite interesting
    G

    I think you have to read between the lines here...

    That link, like many others is to some guys site who is marketing his own thing.

    Some bloggers/marketers find a popular keyword relevant to their niche...write or just simply copy/paste something negative about it...The Result...lots of traffic to their own site...It's a marketing Tactic.
     
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    Billmccallum

    Why would you want to "Get through to me" anyway?

    I have an opinion, so do you...

    It's just a business venture... If it succeeds...Great! If it fails...Never mind, nobody's going to die! What's the problem?

    I does amuse me though...as soon as you mention MLM / Network Marketing some people just get so upset and start swearing and shouting like you've just announced that you're starting a Jimmy Savile fan club.

    Was there some MLM massacre that happened somewhere long ago that no one told me about but deeply disturbed a lot of people???

    For the record, I have nothing against MLM, but I am very much aware that too many people wrap up a pyramid scheme to look like an MLM package, and when I see it I try to warn anyone so they dont get taken in.

    If you do the basic research on Rippln and those involved in it, you would be very wary, or anyone with common sense would be.

    But, if you get warned off and dont take heed, thats your choice and I will respect your right to choose, if it all goes T*Ts up you onl have yourself to blame. :D:D:D:D
     
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    Steve Wyer

    Free Member
    Feb 12, 2010
    21
    2
    64
    Coventry
    For the record, I have nothing against MLM, but I am very much aware that too many people wrap up a pyramid scheme to look like an MLM package, and when I see it I try to warn anyone so they dont get taken in.

    If you do the basic research on Rippln and those involved in it, you would be very wary, or anyone with common sense would be.

    But, if you get warned off and dont take heed, thats your choice and I will respect your right to choose, if it all goes T*Ts up you onl have yourself to blame. :D:D:D:D

    Illegal Pyramid schemes are pretty easy to spot and there are lots around but they don't usually go making a big noise about it around the world.

    I did all the research I needed to do on RippLn when I had an invite from a very well respected friend who has been in the industry (network marketing for 25+ years), he knows the score, gets pitched with all sorts just about every day. What I didn't do, certainly as research was to type RippLn into the great and truthful Google and start there.

    I,m a big boy now (51) and if I make the wrong move (believe me I've Made a few of them before and hopefully will again, because actually it's the best and only way to Learn) ,I'll shrug my shoulders and move on...but this one is going to be an exciting trip whatever the outcome and I'd rather be in the game than watching from the sidelines. But thanks for your concern anyway...;)
     
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