Consumer guidance – based on extensive research
This research and information on MLM (multi-level or network marketing, etc.) was prepared with the help of top experts over fifteen years by the Consumer Awareness Institute , directed by Dr. Jon Taylor. Opinions vary widely on MLM's legitimacy. But here you will find independent research on success and loss rates, compensation plans, viability of MLM as a business model, etc.
What went into the research by Consumer Awareness Institute. The investigative research that formed the basis of these reports includes:
Analysis of the compensation plans of over 400 MLM programs Extensive comparative research on MLM compensation plans and alternative business models to clarify differences Worldwide feedback from thousands of MLM distributors and ex-distributors in a wide variety of MLM programs over a period of over 15 years Interviews with the top experts in the field Surveys of hundreds of tax professionals where MLM is concentrated – representing millions of tax returns of MLM participants IRS income tax records of top distributors in one state
Public court records in MLM cases
Household consumer surveys regarding MLM participation Surveys of leading MLM company presidents Private and public financial disclosures by MLM companies Communications with law enforcement officials at all levels Direct experience with prominent MLM companies.
Archives: MLM-thetruth.com Update
Download (pdf files) and review past newsletter publications below . . .
Issue #1, July 2011:
Bloomberg Business Week tells it like it is – and is immediately threatened
Nu Skin CEO receives lifetime achievement award from ernst & young, following a pattern of mlms gaining recognition for dynamic [how about viral and predatory?] growth
FTC officials ignored (or did not understand) comments by consumer advocates regarding the proposed Business Opportunity Rule
MLMs recently analyzed by Dr. Jon Taylor – to be added to listings on the web site – mlm-thetruth.com
Issue #2, August 2011 :
Need advice about an MLM company? Do not call the Better Business Bureau!
So – where can one go for an authoritative evaluation of an MLM company?
Are MLMs merely cleverly disguised pyramid schemes?
Issue #3, October 2011
Republican candidates get big backing by MLMs
Blame it all on Amway
MLMs recently analyzed by Dr. Jon Taylor – to be added to listings on the web site – mlm-thetruth.com
Issue #4, December 2011
MLM sometimes gets ugly with bankruptcies, divorces, alienation from friends and families –
A classic article holds up over time.
"Book Burning in America: a Tale of Nu Skin"
MLMs recently analyzed by Dr. Jon Taylor
Issue #5, February 2012
The" Consumer Protection awards" go to –
The Cleverest Con Game Award goes to –
The Consumer Protection Turkey awards go to –
The FTC issues it's final Business Opportunity Rule – exempting MLM!