Direct selling is presented as a viable and attractive alternative for those interested in starting a business in Spain. A recent study by Herbalife indicates that 43% of Spaniards consider starting a business as their main aspiration. However, factors such as associated costs, economic uncertainty, and fear of failure stand in their way. In this context, direct selling emerges as an opportunity that allows entrepreneurs to develop a business independently with low investment and without significant financial risks, unlike other business models.
Entrepreneurship has taken on increasing importance in Spain, being a fundamental pillar for economic development. Despite its importance, Spanish entrepreneurs face numerous challenges, such as limited access to capital, bureaucratic complexities, the need for further education, and lack of institutional support. Direct selling companies like Herbalife offer a solution to these obstacles, providing a platform that minimizes initial investment and eliminates financial risk.
The CEOE recently published the study “Entrepreneurship in Spain,” showing that 60% of Spaniards view entrepreneurial activity favorably. However, the same Herbalife study highlights that only 43% of Spaniards would dare to start their own business due to the mentioned economic obstacles.
Tara López, General Manager of Herbalife Spain and Portugal, emphasizes the importance of direct selling especially on Entrepreneur Day. According to López, this business model is ideal for those who want to start a business with the support of a established brand and a supportive community, overcoming barriers they may face in traditional businesses.
Direct selling is distinguished by its non-intermediated structure, where the seller interacts directly with the end consumer, offering a more personalized shopping experience. This model allows entrepreneurs to avoid the high fixed and variable costs associated with opening a traditional business and provides ongoing training through the company’s network of independent distributors.
According to a Seldia report on direct selling in Europe, there are more than 190,428 professionals dedicated to this business model in Spain, the majority of whom are women and are in the 35 to 54 age range. A significant percentage of distributors have been involved in this activity for more than four years, with 23% exceeding ten years of experience.
Starting in direct selling with Herbalife is accessible, requiring only the purchase of a starter kit that includes products and support materials. This allows new entrepreneurs to establish their own business without incurring large expenses. The income generated depends on the effort and time invested, offering flexibility to complement a main job or to dedicate full time.
Herbalife supports its distributors with an extensive training program conducted by nutritionists and other professionals. This constant support is positively valued by 77% of distributors, who highlight the support received from the company.
A survey conducted by IPSOS for Herbalife reveals that, although dieticians and personal trainers are thought to be the most likely to engage in selling wellness products, in reality, anyone, regardless of their work experience, age, or gender, can engage in direct selling if they share a passion for health and wellness.
López also highlights that 45% of distributors are 44 years or older, and three-quarters are women. These individuals have the opportunity to build their own business on their terms, without the limitations of traditional employment. Furthermore, a recent SELDIA survey shows that 88% of Herbalife distributors are women, with 76% working part-time and 24% full-time.
The direct selling model also mitigates the financial risk that many potential entrepreneurs fear. Becoming a Herbalife distributor involves a low initial cost of 68.50 euros, without the need to maintain a minimum stock, and with “Gold Standard” distributor protections that guarantee 100% cost refund within 12 months if the products are not used.
In addition to providing a strong platform to start your own business, Herbalife’s direct selling model fosters a sense of community among its distributors, who exchange knowledge and experiences, also strengthening their customer network through local activities such as fitness and nutrition clubs.
Herbalife continues to lead in the direct selling industry, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth in an environment of constant support, demonstrating that starting your own business can be a rewarding and successful experience without the high financial risks.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
