"Quite a few people I've taken on have come on board because of the economy. Either because their husband has lost his position or their hours are being cut back," says Sarah Smith, a consultant and director for Pampered Chef, which sells kitchen products. In recent months, Pampered Chef has seen a 19 per cent increase in consultants joining the company. Cosmetic company Avon has experienced an 11 per cent increase in new representatives in the first quarter of 2009, compared to the same time last year.
Passion Parties, a supplier of sensual products, has seen a 40 per cent increase in the last year in the number of consultants deciding to sell its products.
