The direct-selling industry positively impacts SA’s economy as its resilience and growth see an achievement of R7.8 billion in sales, all whilst other South African industries continue to struggle under increased financial stress.

Financial stress has taken a toll on South Africans, record high food and fuel prices, an inflation rate at a 13-year high and rising interest rates, both middle- and low-income earners countrywide are struggling. According to a Sanlam Savings survey, 78% of South Africans are most concerned by financial worries and 60% by the state of the economy.

At DSA’s 3rd Virtual Convention, “We are one of the very few industries that can boast success in an ever-struggling economy. We’re pleased to share that we have close to 650k direct sellers and more importantly, direct seller earnings was R2.1 billion - this is no small amount going back to the local economy.”, shared Rajesh Parshotam, chairperson of DSA of South Africa.

Globally, DSA of SA celebrates the 128 million direct sellers and the direct selling industry that recorded over 186 billion US dollars in sales. Remarkable sales results given the many challenges in the global marketplace from the war, to energy crisis through to inflationary pressures experienced worldwide.

On the local front, an exciting development, for the first time ever in the history of the DSA, we have made significant progress in expanding the conversation with government from lobbying for legislation and regulations to economic development where we will partner with various levels of government to co-create a plan for economic development in townships where people can have access to an income opportunity by owning a business of their own through one of our member companies.

Parshotam said, “Increases in the worldwide number of direct sellers and sales figures are clear indicators that more and more people are looking to our industry as the solution. Direct sellers are getting younger as more look for trusted income opportunities, with over 62% of local direct sellers below the age of 45” and a majority of 38% under the age of 35.”

We’re excited about sharing this wonderful opportunity of direct selling, of entrepreneurship and owning a business of your own. Our challenge is to remain laser focused on ensuring that the direct selling industry through the DSA is regarded as a legitimate income opportunity for all irrespective of background, a task we’ve undertaken for the last 50 years!