The World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA) reported global direct sales of $186.1 billion in 2021. With the exception of China, which saw a 1.5% increase, worldwide retail sales increased 3.3% year-over-year.
The direct selling global sales force saw a slight increase of 0.7% and now totals 128.2 million independent distributors. Within this number, 70 million are actively working to build their direct selling business as a full-time or part-time career.
The COVID-19 pandemic continued to have a significant impact on the industry in 2021, including supply chain disruptions, lack of inventory and continued community restrictions and lockdowns. China’s direct selling market is still recovering from these disturbances.
In spite of these challenges, direct selling was an attractive option for those who had been displaced from their jobs or resigned in favor of a position with more flexibility. Male participation in direct selling increased to 30% (from 26% in 2020) and the number of distributors participating full time increased by 12%.
