Mannatech Appoints New VP Of Global Regulatory Affairs

RTTNews :

"Mannatech, Inc. (MTEX) on Tuesday announced the hiring of Marika Berkley as vice president of global regulatory affairs and quality assurance.

Berkley's international experience includes Europe, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific Rim."

Focus on the Future Attracts Executives from Leading Companies

Natural Products Insider:

"The education program, co-sponsored by Lesaffre Group and Unigen Pharmaceuticals, expanded this year and eight more sessions were added to the two-day, two-track program. Market, sales and consumer trends took center stage over the two days. Additionally, speakers discussed quality, regulatory updates, nutrition and health care, cancer prevention, developing an organic line, and much more. Speakers were on hand from Center for Science in the Public Interest, ConsumerLab.com, Dairy Queen/Orange Julius, Datamonitor, Euromonitor, General Mills, HealthFocus International, Herbalife International, Kellogg Co., Mintel, Moskowitz Jacobs Inc., National Cancer Institute, Packaged Facts, Shaklee Corp., Sloan Trends, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, The Natural Marketing Institute, Thion Global, TonkinConsulting, Tufts University, The Hartman Group and Wellements."

Shaklee Corporation Gifts the Film Industry's Elite at Sundance 2008

Marketwire:

"Shaklee Corporation, the nation's number one natural nutrition company, premiered its first appearance at the Sundance Film Festival as a sponsor of The Green Lodge at King Rd. The Green Lodge served as a premier destination for celebrities and tastemakers at Sundance and housed a variety of eco-friendly brands and services."

Mannatech Says It Has Not Settled Any Shareholder Litigation

Trading Markets:

"Mannatech Inc. on Monday issued a correction regarding a statement made in a published article which stated that on January 9, 2008 the company had reached a settlement in a lawsuit filed by shareholders. In controversy, the joint court filing stated that negotiations are continuing but a final settlement has not been completed.

Accordingly, the company affirmed that it has not settled any shareholder litigation at this time, but its counsel is involved in ongoing settlement communications with plaintiffs' counsel in the various pending suits."

Herbalife appoints Gaba as director

bizjournals:

"Herbalife Ltd. has appointed Hal Gaba to its board of directors, filling a vacancy created by Peter Maslen's resignation from the company's board, Herbalife said Monday.

Gaba has been CEO and co-owner of Act III Communications since 1990, and serves as co-chairman of Village Roadshow Pictures, a co-production and co-financing partner of Warner Bros. and other studios, according to a release. He is also chairman of Concord Music Group and a board member of Hear Music, The Curtis School, and a former member of the board of Univision Communications Corp. He is a member of the National Association of Recording Arts & Sciences and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, according to a release."

U.K. nears decision on possible Amway expulsion

MLive.com:

"British officials are expected to rule within the next few weeks -- perhaps within days -- on a case that could result in Amway's expulsion from the United Kingdom.

The U.K. government sued Amway and several large distributor groups there last year, accusing the Ada company of misrepresenting its direct-selling business, downplaying the Amway name and making it sound as though distributors didn't need to sell products to make money.

In the wake of the allegations, the company said it launched a global review of its business practices, suspended registration of new distributors in the United Kingdom and banned the sale of distributor-produced motivational products in that country."

Party Gals Business Secrets!

24-7 Press Release:

"They have concerns like running out of prospects. Spending money on leads and going broke. Dealing with massive rejection talking to a prospect. Their is a more effective way to build any network marketing or direct sales business. Instead of going out and chasing down prospects looking to sell to them, why not put yourself in a position to have your prospects chase you down calling you looking to join your party gals business or use the services. Doing this puts you in a position as an expert so your prospects will more likely be more responsive, not to mention a more targeted business or customer prospect. The idea here really is to learn how to market your business and target the right group of people to market to."

XELR8 Holdings, Inc. Retains Wolfe Axelrod Weinberger Associates LLC

CNN Money:

"XELR8 Holdings, Inc. , a provider of functional foods, beverages and nutritional supplements, today announced that it has retained Wolfe Axelrod Weinberger Associates LLC as its investor relations counsel to communicate its strategic goals and business opportunities in order to increase investor awareness and thereby enhance shareholder value.

Mr. John Pougnet, CEO, stated, 'XELR8 Holdings, Inc.'s Board of Directors believes that now is the appropriate time for XELR8 to more aggressively inform investors of the Company's powerful growth story as acceptance of the nutritional benefits of Bazi(TM), our powerful, antioxidant, all natural, eight-fruit drink, gains increased consumer recognition and greater sales. After an extended search we have selected Wolfe Axelrod Weinberger Associates LLC to assist us in expanding our investor relations activities. Wolfe Axelrod Weinberger Associates LLC, a focused, successful investor relations agency, has extensive experience working with emerging growth and microcap companies and a broad network of investment contacts who are seeking new attractive investment opportunities. We are looking forward to working with its team to gain increased investor support and market liquidity and, foremost, improvement of shareholder value.'"

Natural Health Trends Corp. President Chris Sharng Releases an Open Letter to Stakeholders

CNN Money:

"Natural Health Trends Corp., an international direct selling company, today released this open letter from its President to its stakeholders.

We at Natural Health Trends Corp. have been working on a plan to turn our Company around and are optimistic about our progress, which we wanted to share with you.

The Chinese New Year is rapidly approaching. Our most important, promising yet challenging market is the Hong Kong-based business. The regulatory uncertainty in China is outside of our control and will not go away quickly, but we have a meaningful operating history in the region, believe that there is great upside in our business, and anticipate this market will continue progressing toward a more normalized operating environment."

Company Profile: Gano Excel

Corporate Web -

In a part of the world where herbal wellness formulations are a normal part of an educated life and Network Marketing is not only understood but ingrained in the economic climate of every progressive nation, it has been a paragon of excellence since 1995. Today, Gano Excel is already a global wellness colossus. As part of its global expansion plan to be in 100 countries in 10 years, Gano Excel is already present in more than 40 countries throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and North America.

It has done so with a kind of compelling integrity that quickly becomes the stuff of industry legend.

Right now the numbers add up for what is certain to be the "next big thing" in the health and wellness industry. A successful track record, a very solid debt-free financial substructure, management that offers the perfect synergy of business acumen and product expertise, a product line that is both original and professionally respected, and a dynamic growth curve that spells WINNER in capital letters in all markets where it now exists - Gano Excel has, according to most industry experts, assembled all the right ingredients to become the next global direct sales juggernaut.

XanGo Receives Humanitarian Award from Virgo Publishing

XanGo News Center:

"Global nutritionals leader XanGo, LLC, received Virgo Publishing's inaugural 'Focus on the Future' Humanitarian Award for its support of XanGo Goodness. Since the company's founding in 2002, XanGo has contributed to global humanitarian causes that benefit children and families in need.

In presenting XanGo with its Humanitarian Award, Virgo Publishing recognized the company for making significant contributions to the betterment of the community through charitable and public service work. XanGo co-founder and President of Sales and Marketing Gordon Morton, who started XanGo's charitable giving by making a company donation before turning the first profit, thanked Virgo Publishing for recognizing what continues to be a major area of focus for the company and its distributors and employees."

Avon Shares Fall on Downgrade

Forbes.com:

"Shares of Avon Products Inc. fell on Wednesday after an analyst said the direct seller of beauty products could suffer if the global economy weakens, because of its significant international presence.

Buckingham Research Group analyst Alice Beebe Longley said in a note on Wednesday the New York-based company is particularly exposed to emerging markets as it derives 60 percent of sales and 70 percent of profit there outside of the U.S.

Furthermore, Longley said Avon might have to take larger inventory obsolescence charges than previously expected, because its product line simplification costs, which were characterized as nonrecurring, might actually recur."

Direct Sales company Chu's Pearls relocates to Lansing area!

MichiganMoms.com :

"Chu’s Pearls announced today that they have relocated their company headquarters to an 1,100 square foot office space in Delhi Township to better assist their independent distributors and customer base. The company was founded in 2004 by husband and wife team Samson and Elizabeth Chu and has experienced double-digit sales growth every year since the company was founded.

Chu’s Pearls sells a high-end line of freshwater pearls, mother-of-pearl, semi-precious stones and platinum over sterling silver jewelry directly to consumers through home-shows, festivals and expos through a pool of independent distributors throughout the state of Michigan and Ohio . As of January 2008, the company has carried over 3,500 unique products, served thousands of customers, and added 16 amazing men and women to the Chu’s Pearls team."

YTB International, Inc. to Hold Kick-Off Meetings in Canada

PR Newswire:

"YTB International, Inc., a leading provider of Internet-based travel affiliate websites and home-based independent representatives in the United States and the Bahamas, announced today that it will hold two kick-off meetings in Canada to commence the Company's international expansion initiatives.

'YTB International is thrilled to be welcomed into Canada,' said YTB Founder Lloyd 'Coach' Tomer. 'Being able to conduct business in Canada provides a valuable opportunity for YTB Reps and Referring Travel Affiliates (RTAs). We couldn't be happier to add Canada to the YTB international family, and we look forward to expanding our global business even further.'

Kick-off meetings will be held in Vancouver, British Columbia, on Saturday, February 9, 2008 at 2:00 pm at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre and in Toronto, Ontario, on Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 2:00 pm at the Pearson Convention Center."

Mannatech CEO handles a company of extremes

Dallas Business News:

"Even as Mannatech Inc. battles a Texas attorney general lawsuit charging it with fraud, management says it is aggressively growing the company and promoting its nutritional supplements worldwide.

The Coppell-based firm's new chief executive, Terry Persinger, is the former executive vice president and chief operating officer and has worked at Mannatech for eight years.

He was appointed in August, a month after Attorney General Greg Abbott filed a lawsuit alleging that Mannatech exaggerated the therapeutic benefits of its supplements for people with cancer, Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis and other serious conditions."

Company Profile: Freedom Rocks

Looking for something a little different?

Corporate Web -

Because of the power of the FreedomRocks Investment Strategy and some unique characteristics of our compensation plan, we have developed a business opportunity structured for success. Some of the other unique features include:

* An extremely high customer retention rate due to the success of our revolutionary Investment Strategy product
* You cannot buy your way into a higher representative level within FreedomRocks
* No back-end requirements to prevent you from getting paid
* FreedomRocks is a completely computer-based company and therefore can grow by a factor of 10 or even 100, almost overnight
* We feature a virtual product, so geographic boundaries are a thing of the past
* And finally, since we don’t need to pay for the development, manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, or shipping of products; our compensation plan pays out up to an unprecedented 90% of the income we receive each month back to our representatives. No other program even comes close.

Quixtar: A Message from the Chairman of the IBOAI Board of Directors

Crazy World:

"A quick reminder; the IBOAI Board and staff work for all IBOs in the Field. We will do our very best to make sure you hear from us regularly. We will keep the lines of communication open with the various LOS and LOA leaders. The fantastic IBOAI staff is always available to assist in any way they can.

When Quixtar announced the upcoming name change in June 2007, they titled the announcement: Brand New Day. I believe it accurately describes where we are going. This transformed new business model is not 'our Daddy’s Oldsmobile.' We are not going back to Amway. We are moving forward to 'Amway Global,' a business model that will make the world sit up and take notice. Together we will transform this business, partner with the Corporation with even greater enthusiasm, and establish a template for decades to come!

Working together, the best is yet to come,"

Max International: About The Founders

Max International

Steve is well known in the infomercial marketplace as a primary mover of some of the most successful products ever sold on television. Steve, co-founded American Telecast and is personally responsible for over $2.5 billion in revenue. Most recently, Steve is known as the creator of the Total Gym television campaign featuring Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkley, which has resulted in over $1 billion in sales. Steve was named one of the 25 most influential people by Direct Response Television, the industry trade journal. The author of six international best sellers on the subject of personal achievement, Steve brings to Max the ability to create successful national and international marketing campaigns.

Herbalife Named One of Fittest Companies by Men's Fitness Magazine

HispanicBusiness.com:

"Herbalife Ltd., a global nutrition and direct selling company, was named one of the 15 fittest companies in America by Men's Fitness magazine. Men's Fitness selected these companies based on access to state-of-the-art gym and fitness facilities, cafeterias with health- and nutrition-minded menus, preventative medical care, and programs for losing weight and quitting smoking, and rewards for staying in shape.

'We are a company that 'walks the talk,' said Michael O. Johnson, Herbalife's chairman and CEO. 'We're extremely proud of our employees'efforts in changing their lives and we will continue to do our best to support healthy, active lifestyles.'

Among the many components of the company's Wellness for Life program are two weight loss challenges held every year - 'Maintain, Don't Gain' during the holiday season and 'Summer Shape-Up.' The challenges include weigh-ins, weekly tips and handouts, and support sessions."

Company Profile: My Power Mall

Corporate web -

The idea for MPM came during a massive 90 mph windstorm in Bellingham, WA in November of 2006. Holed up in a restaurant until the wind died down, Ginny Dye, our Founder & CEO, sketched out a new way to utilize the $500,000 computer system she and a team of 60 dedicated people have been developing and utilizing for almost five years. Her new plan filled the back of 4 paper placemats before she was done!

When she was done writing, she stared down at the sheets of paper and realized she was looking at a way to harness the power of online spending to change the lives of average Americans looking for financial freedom. She knew that 97% of people who try to find financial freedom through a home-based business fail. MY POWER MALL would be different! There were certain “Givens.”

*
It had to be FREE so every person who wanted to change their lives would have a chance.
*
It had to be simple.
*
It had to take away all the “business games” that kept most people from succeeding in a home-based business.

Cauthen named COO of YTB International

MSN Money:

"Online travel services company YTB International Inc., headquartered in Wood River, Ill., named Andrew Cauthen its chief operating officer, the company said Friday.

Cauthen was previously the president and CEO of YourTravelBiz.com Inc., the marketing arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of YTB. His appointment as chief operating officer is effective immediately."

Makers of ViaViente Address Industry Problems and Trends

Hot tap pharma actions:

"Consumer awareness has fueled a growing trend towards herbal and alternative medicine that bodes well for dietary supplements and whole food products.

“Since the dawn of recorded history, plants have been the primary source of medicine for people throughout the world,” said Dr. Mark Pedersen, author of “Nutritional Herbology” and creator of the VaVient whole food formula. “Even today, plants are the major source of medicine in most countries.”

Use of complementary and alternative medicine in the U.S. has grown rapidly in recent years. More than one-third of adults reported pursuing some form of alternative treatments such as herbal remedies or dietary supplements, according to the Institute of Medicine's 2005 report on Healing alternative medicine and Alternative Medicine."

USANA Health Sciences Recognized as a Founding Reporter of The Climate Registry

Business Wire:

"USANA Health Sciences, Inc. announced today that it has become a Founding Reporter of The Climate Registry. The Climate Registry is a non-profit organization established to measure and publicly report greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in a common, accurate and transparent manner consistent across industry sectors and borders. Thirty-nine U.S. states, including Utah, five Canadian provinces, three Native American tribes, two Mexican states, and the District of Columbia are the founders of the organization.

A forerunner in the health and wellness industry, USANA has demonstrated environmental stewardship on several fronts by voluntarily committing to measure, independently verify and publicly report their GHG emissions on an annual basis. USANA has also committed to implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) that is a model for the industry. They promote energy efficiency in the design and operation of their facilities, manufacturing systems, and shipping operations. The corporate headquarters is xeriscaped and there have been and they are continuing to add many environmentally friendly updates to their buildings including solar panels."

Jennifer and Sylvester Stallone on the media tour

living the good life:

"Rambo comes out January 25th so that means you'll be seeing a lot of Sly! David Letterman, the Today Show and The View were all mentioned as programs you'll be seeing Sly and/or Jennifer on next week. Jennifer also did a segment for Insider and Entertainment Tonight as well. People will be talking about them and that gives you the perfect opportunity to mention your business.

You know Sly drank the Amla Rush in the jungle while filming Rambo and he said it gave him a lot of energy and kept him from getting sick during the long hours filming!"

Reliv International Schedule 4th Qtr Call

dBusinessNews :

"Reliv International, Inc. today announced that it will release financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2007 and hold a conference call with investors on Wednesday, February 27, 2008. The Company plans to hold the investor conference call, hosted by Robert L. Montgomery, chairman, president and chief executive officer, and Steven D. Albright, vice president and chief financial officer, to discuss its fourth quarter and year-end 2007 financial results. The call will be held on Wednesday, February 27, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. (Eastern)."

Agel - EXO Overview

Zrii - Business Intro

Univera Life Sciences - Xperia promo

Seriesse International - Promo

The new Rambo film also opens in a couple of weeks.

Max International - About Max GXL

Rachael Ray Promotes MonaVie

I found quite a few site using this video.



I'll buy in when Anthony Bourdain gets on board.

FDA Announces Plan to Eliminate Vitamin Companies

News Target.com:

"The FDA, emboldened by its transformation into a drug company, has embarked upon an anti-American plan of interfering with business and intentionally eliminating various dietary supplement companies from the market. The FDA announcement came on Friday, June 22, 2007 under the guise of a final rule for dietary supplement good manufacturing practices (CGMPs). Within this 800 page rule the FDA states, 'We find that this final rule will have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities... Establishments with above average costs, and even establishments with average costs, could be hard pressed to continue to operate. Some of these may decide it is too costly and either change product lines or go out of business... 140 very small [less than 20 employees] and 32 small dietary supplement manufacturers [less than 500 employees] will be at risk of going out of business... costs per establishment are proportionally higher for very small than for large establishments... The regulatory costs of this final rule will also discourage new small businesses from entering the industry.'"

ForeverGreen unveils new natural energy drink

Trading Markets.com:

"ForeverGreen Worldwide Corporation, a manufacturer and distributor of all natural whole foods, has entered the energy drink market with the introduction of AmpliFire, an all-natural energy drink.

ForeverGreen said that the new AmpliFire contains no artificial sugars or synthetic caffeine. AmpliFire utilizes ForeverGreen's patent-pending AMP technology to take natural plant concentrates and render them water-soluble, making whole-plant benefits instantly available to the body."

The Pampered Chef MLM Opportunity

MLM and Network Marketing Guide:

"History was in the making when Doris Christopher founded The Pampered Chef out of her Chicago basement in 1980. Hoping to preserve her family meals with two growing daughters she wanted to be able to serve the needs of her children whilst being able to be there for them whenever they were home.

Her experience as a home economics teacher and her passion for entertaining friends led her to the idea of building a business with kitchen tools. Doris was inspired by her friends demands on wanting to know ere she got the “groovy” kitchen utensils from, whenever she would entertain and this resulted in The Pampered Chef being born.

After a relative slow start in the early years of the business the company snowballed to the extend of having to freeze new consultant recruitment in the early 1990’s due to logistic and back end problems. After a seven month freeze, the company snowballed and soon enough there were consultants in every state of the USA."

American Direct Seller Enters China Via Shanghai

BizChinaUpdate:

"U.S.-based Melaleuca, Inc, a global wellness direct selling company headquartered in the United States, has obtained a license and service centre approval to conduct direct selling activities in 12 districts in Shanghai from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

“We are committed to complying with the China Direct Selling Law and maintaining the highest standards of integrity in the direct selling industry,” said Paul Haacke, Vice President of Melaleuca International."

Ex-Fruit of the Loom CEO promoting fruit drink

Trading Markets.com:

"Bill Farley celebrated his 65th birthday in November by inviting about 100 friends to dinner at Terragusto, a North Side Italian restaurant.

At the end of the night, he had an unusual parting gift for his guests: a sample of a fruit-juice drink he has launched that claims to promote health and nutrition.

Such a marketing ploy was vintage Farley. The former chief executive of Fruit of the Loom once donned underwear in a television commercial to advertise the brand. Eight years after he was forced out of the underwear company after its bankruptcy, Farley, who resides in Chicago, is back in the public eye with a new business venture."

CAbi Clothing Adding Retail Locations

Portland Business Journal::

"Carol Anderson, or CAbi, is adding bricks-and-mortar locations to its business model, which has focused on selling women's clothing at in-home parties. It will move to a 3,102-square-foot store in early February. Woodburn is its second retail outlet."

Utah index has worst year ever, down 14.8 percent

Salt Lake Tribune:

"Nature's Sunshine Products, once one of the leading multi-level marketing enterprises in the state, saw its stock fall 18 percent. In November, a judge overseeing a Securities and Exchange Commission administrative proceeding recommended the registration of the company's shares be revoked because it hasn't filed current financial statements with the government.
The company plans to ask for a review of that decision."

Mannatech to Open Centralized-Management Office in Switzerland

CNN Money:

"Mannatech, Incorporated , a leading developer and provider of dietary supplements and skin care solutions, announced today it will open a management office in Switzerland to assist in maximizing international growth initiatives.

Scheduled to open during the first quarter of 2008, Mannatech Swiss International will help Mannatech strengthen its competitive position in Europe, Asia and other non-North American markets. Once fully developed, this centralized management team will be capable of responding more quickly to operational needs of Mannatech's burgeoning global markets in Asia and Europe.

'Global expansion is integral to Mannatech's strategic growth,' said Terry Persinger, Mannatech's president and CEO. 'Ultimately, Mannatech Swiss International will manage the day-to-day business needs of our growing non-North American markets and coordinate and oversee further global expansion.'"

Usana Shares Jump on SEC Inquiry Closure

Houston Chronicle:

"Usana Health Sciences shares soared Friday after the nutritional and skin care products company said the Securities and Exchange Commission had closed its inquiry into the company's marketing model.

Shares jumped $13.91, or 39.1 percent, to $49.48 Friday.

In addition to closing its inquiry, Usana said the SEC didn't take any action against the company. The investigation began after a San Diego-based investigator, Barry Minkow, accused Usana of fraud and said its direct-marketing business model was a pyramid scheme.

Goldman Sachs analyst Simeon Gutman said the closure of the SEC inquiry 'should further put to rest any remaining concerns about the integrity of Usana's business model.'"

Agel Adds New Directors

Deseret Morning News:

"Hong Li, Rodd Steuart and Mike McClellan have joined Agel Enterprises. Li was hired as the company's manager for the Southeast Asia market, helping manage operations in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. Prior to Agel, Li was the regional manager of the Southeast Asia market for another company. Steuart is Agel's new finance director and will oversee all aspects of international finance for the company. Prior to Agel, Steuart was the director of technological accounting at a high-tech company. McClellan is Agel's new managing director of supply chain and will manage logistics, warehousing and purchase planning for the company. McClellan brings more than 20 years of experience in supply-chain management to Agel."

Apple names Avon's Andrea Jung to board

CNET News.com:

"Avon Products CEO Andrea Jung will become Apple's eighth member of its board of directors, the company announced Monday.

Jung gives Apple an expert on direct sales strategies and the buying habits of women--at least a certain demographic of women--which could be enormously helpful to the company in helping grow its various businesses. She has been with Avon since 1996, and before that was executive vice president of high-end retailer Nieman-Marcus."

Nu Skin Enterprises Restructures Debt

Erman's Blog:

"Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc. announced today that it converted 0 million of existing U.S. dollar denominated debt bearing a coupon rate of 6.14 percent into 0 million of yen denominated debt with a coupon rate of 3.28 percent. The conversion was executed using an exchange rate of 108.5 yen to the dollar.

'We continue to execute on initiatives which are helping improve shareholder value,' said Ritch Wood, Nu Skin Enterprises chief financial officer. 'We were able to capitalize on the recent strengthening of the Japanese yen in a continuing effort to improve the profitability of the company. With this recent conversion, we currently have approximately 50 percent of our outstanding debt in yen denominated notes with an average coupon rate of 2.50 percent. In addition to the attractive interest rate, the yen denominated liabilities provide a natural exchange rate hedge for our business in Japan.'"

Reliv International Introduces Slimplicity Weight Loss System in the European Union

Reuters:

"Reliv International, Inc., a creator of proprietary nutritional supplements, is launching its Slimplicity(r) Weight Loss System in the European Union.

Reliv introduced its successful weight-loss product at the company's United Kingdom national conference over the weekend, and it will launch Slimplicity in the Netherlands, Austria and Germany this week.

Last February, Reliv launched the Slimplicity Weight Loss System to great success in the United States. The company hopes to replicate that success in the EU this year, and it is working on plans to roll out Slimplicity to its other international markets in the future."

Shareholder Lawsuit Dropped against USANA

Fox Business:

"USANA Health Sciences Inc. announced today that a Utah State court has dismissed the shareholder derivative action Larson vs. Wentz brought against USANA and several of its directors and executives in September 2007.

The Plaintiff agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice after USANA and the other defendants filed a motion to dismiss."

Avon comes knocking with health care food

china.org.cn:

"Avon Products (China) Co Ltd expanded its direct selling business scope by introducing health care food in China.

A health care products manufacturing facility in Guangzhou will go into production in the first quarter of this year and the first batch of products will hit the market in the coming few months, the world's largest door-to-door cosmetics seller announced in Guangzhou yesterday.

'This strategic investment not only enriches our product categories in China's direct selling channel, but also enables consumers to enjoy Avon's high-quality products and services from all aspects,' said Andrea Jung, Chairman of Avon Products."

Nu Skin Gets Broader Selling OK in China

Forbes.com:

"Personal care marketer Nu Skin Enterprises Inc. said Tuesday it was approved to begin direct selling activities throughout the 18 districts of Beijing and 12 districts of Shanghai."

“But I Could Never Sell!...”

American Chronicle:

"I told her I had been conducting a seminar for a direct selling organization. She wrinkled her nose. “Oh,” she pronounced, “I could never sell.”

This wasn’t the first time I’d heard this. In fact, most people not actually in sales seem to feel this way. I asked her, if she didn’t mind, how would she define “selling”? I was curious as to what it was she felt she could never do.

She frowned in thought. “I don’t know,” she said after a moment. “I guess, maybe, ‘pushing things on other people.’ ”"

Company Profile: Max International

Corporate web -

They also know the best way to help people get the benefits of MaxGXL is through Network Marketing. When you have a life changing product you want to get the word out and get it out fast. They knew this product didn’t belong on a shelf in a pharmacy. They also recognized Network Marketing allows individuals to change their lives financially.

The Founders have expertise in marketing, research and development, business management and much more, which is why Max is unbeatable. They know potential when they see it, and they know how to achieve success, making it no surprise that MaxGXL is the brightest rising star in new Network Marketing Industry.

Max International is dedicated to improving both the physical and financial lives of individuals all over the world.

Avon To Cut 2,400 Jobs

iWon News -

Avon Products Inc. on Tuesday said it will cut 2,400 jobs as part of its multiyear restructuring plan, which will cost more than originally expected and ultimately save the beauty-products maker $430 million annually.

The restructuring plan will cost $530 million, up from a previous estimate of $500 million, of which $460 million will have been taken through the fourth quarter of 2007. The remainder will be recognized by the end of 2009.

In the fourth quarter, the company will take a charge of $120 million for restructuring some international direct selling operations, realigning supply-chain operations in Western Europe and Latin America, outsourcing call centers and other initiatives. It will also take a $110 million charge for inventory write-offs.

About 4,000 jobs will be affected by the restructuring and a total of 2,400 jobs will be cut in total.

Five Reasons to Join a Network Marketing Company Like YTB

YTB Travel Blog:

"Recently I was asked why I got involved in Network Marketing. I had my reasons but it got me thinking about some of the underlying reasons for why I've stayed in the game for the past two years.

Here is a summary of my answer.

Time Freedom - Are you looking for a way to create more free time to spend with loved ones, travel or just do more of the things you've always wanted to do? Network Marketing has the potential do help you in that endeavor.

YOU determine lifestyle, income and direction of your life - This one is one of my favorites. I tell my story from time to time and if you've heard it, you know I reached a point in my life where I was tired of always being tired. I realized I lacked any kind of direction OR joy in my life and I knew I needed to make changes."

Tahitian Noni International Expands HIRO(TM) Beverage Line with New HIRO(TM) Thermo

Business Wire:

"Tahitian Noni International today launched HIRO™ Thermo, the newest addition to its popular HIRO™ ready-to-drink noni-based beverage line. Combined with the natural heath and proven benefits of noni, HIRO Thermo harnesses the demonstrated science of EGCG and caffeine to help the body burn calories.

The HIRO line now features four distinct beverages: Energy, Mobility, Vitality and Thermo. Each drink offers superior antioxidants and a variety of benefits including joint support, immune support, increased energy, and now metabolism support by burning calories and increasing thermogenesis. All four HIRO beverages have no added sugars and are less than ten calories per can.

HIRO, named after a Tahitian god, builds on the known benefits of the noni fruit. The beverage line focuses on combining noni with healthy ingredients that are widely accepted by the health food industry."

Reliv signs one-year contracts for top execs

St. Louis Business Journal::

"Reliv International Inc. signed some of its top management team to one-year contracts automatically renewable for successive one-year terms, the company said in a regulatory filing Friday with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Reliv entered into the employee agreements with R. Scott Montgomery, executive vice president and chief operating officer; Ryan Montgomery, executive vice president of worldwide sales; Steven Albright, vice president of finance and chief financial officer; Steven Hastings, senior vice president of North American sales; and Brett Hastings, vice president of legal.

Each agreement provides a base salary, participation in the company's incentive compensation plan and certain other benefits. If one of the aforementioned employees is fired, Reliv will pay severance payments of six months salary, according to the filing."

Avon Products, Inc. Partners with Suze Orman

Fox Business:

"Avon Products, Inc. announced today a special partnership with Suze Orman, renowned personal finance expert, award winning television host and best-selling author. Ms. Orman will work with Avon to advance their shared missions to provide financial empowerment to women around the world. In this capacity, she will serve as a Special Personal Finance Advisor to the Avon Representatives to offer money management advice and strategies for success. A first of its kind in the direct selling industry, the program will launch this month to the company's nearly 500,000 Avon Representatives in the U.S., with plans to expand globally in the future.

"At Avon, we truly believe that the single most effective way to create positive change in the world is by helping to improve the lives of women everywhere," said Andrea Jung, Avon's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "For over a century -- thirty-four years before women won the right to vote -- Avon has been providing women the opportunity to earn money and achieve economic independence. Suze shares our deep commitment to empower women, and working together, we can form a powerful partnership to continue to advance this important agenda."

Agel Enterprises CEO Glen Jensen Joins The CEO Council For The WFDSA

openPR.com :

"Recognized as a world leader in suspension gel technology for nutritional supplements, Utah-based Agel Enterprises announced CEO and Founder Glen Jensen joined the CEO Council for the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations.

Jensen accepted the invitation to join the CEO council and will join the ranks of CEOs from established direct selling companies such as Avon, NuSkin and Mary Kay. The council consists of CEOs from the leading multinational direct selling companies and is the main governing body of the WFDSA.

“It really is a great honor to be asked to join the CEO Council only after two years of operation and rub shoulders with the leading CEOs in our industry,” said Jensen. “I am privileged to represent Agel employees, team members and those associated with Agel at these council meetings.”"

Direct Sales

Coach You To Success.com:

"This is a multi million dollar industry that is growing by leaps and bounds in America. Direct sales encourage companies to start home based businesses as this doesn’t need much in the name of infrastructure. Flexible timings and freedom to do what you wish to do are some of the reasons for starting home based business.

This culture of direct sales started in U.S and has now spread all around the world. In Germany there are direct sales associations that have given themselves codes of conduct which lead to a fair partnership both with customers and salesmen. Most of the national direct selling associations are represented in the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA).

There are prominent people in the society who started their careers with direct sales. Zig Ziglar, the famous American author and motivational speaker started his illustrious career by direct selling cookware. The founders of Amway were actually direct sellers of Nutrilite before revolutionizing the sales market. Brian Tracy, the author of many self help books, who also runs a human resource company all around the globe also claims experience in direct selling. There is a management institute on the internet run by him for entrepreneurs and business men."

Ada Township debates rules for heliports

MLive.com:

"The issue stems from an inquiry to the township from Walker civil engineering and architectural design firm Paradigm Design on behalf of an unnamed resident for a site in the vicinity of Ada Christian School.

Township Planner Jim Ferro said Amway Corp. headquarters on East Fulton Street already uses helicopters, and other areas in the township have been host to helicopter take-offs and landings.

He said Amway helicopters likely would be grandfathered into any rules established.

'You could make the case that it's legal now because our zoning ordinance is silent on it,' he said.

It is expected the proposed regulations would allow heliports by special permit in certain districts, and would include minimum acreage and mandatory distances from occupied structures on adjacent properties. Hours-of-use restrictions are also expected."

Lightyear Alliance is Leading the Way

WebWire:

"Lightyear Alliance, a Louisville, KY based company founded in October 2003 by the dynamic father-son team Sherm and Josh Henderson is taking the Direct Sales industry by storm. With a simple philosophy of allowing people to turn their monthly expenses into income this company has truly created an opportunity that is revolutionary.

Sure, there are many companies out there that say this, but with Lightyear all one must do is look at their compensation plan and you will clearly see that this company actually backs up their talk. Most companies in the Network Marketing/Direct Sales industry design their compensation plans to maximize the failure of the average person. They do this by putting all the real money into places that the average person in their company will never reach. Ask yourself this: In the company that you’re a part of, do they put all the big commissions way down on a 6th, 7th, or 8th level? Or do they require you to promote all the way up the comp plan in order to earn more than just 2 or 3 levels? Have you ever asked why they do this?"

Company Profile: ForeverGreen

Corporate Web -

"The creation of ForeverGreen began out of industry necessity. After a brief retirement, Ron Williams observed that the Network Marketing industry is arguably the fastest-growing industry in the world (approaching 50,000 people per day). Knowing that this industry is built upon the shoulders of everyday human beings like you and I, Mr. Williams saw an opportunity to set a standard that would change the perception from an industry of “takers” to an indiscriminate global community of “givers”. Mr. Williams believes that there is not a greater industry in the world to create change… even one person at a time.

In May 2004, ForeverGreen the company was launched! A public company. A debt-free company. An International company already doing business in more than 10 countries.

ForeverGreen is a company that stakes its future on timeless principles of health and humanity, and then trusting in its results."

5 linx - A Great Year Ahead!

5Linx Telecommunications Go MLM!:

"2007 was a very busy year for 5LINX. The company has grown tremendously. We have grown from 34 employees to 115, and counting! We moved into our new corporate headquarters, which many of you came to visit in early December; we had a great time sharing our grand opening with all of you who visited.

We had some high hurdles to clear in 2007, thank you all for your collective patience and constructive comments as we geared up to support a much larger organization. Your comments and loyalty to the organization have helped us get better and stronger as we enter a new year with lots of great opportunity. I am very proud of the management team we have added in the latter half of 2007; this talented group of individuals will dramatically affect how well we handle the growth of our mutual business. We have already seen tremendous improvements in call hold times, porting, and technical support."