Direct selling is a business model that involves selling products directly to consumers in a non-retail environment, typically outside of a fixed retail establishment, through one-to-one selling, in-home product demonstrations, or online. It eliminates middlemen involved in distribution, such as wholesalers and regional distribution centers. Direct selling can be an effective way to build a flexible, low-cost business, reduce advertising costs, avoid overhead expenses, and build long-lasting customer relationships. Compensation is ultimately based on sales and may be earned based on personal sales and/or the sales of others in their sales organizations. Direct selling is unique among retail channels because of the way in which products and services are marketed to customers. Direct selling consultants work on their own, but affiliate with a company that uses the channel, retaining the freedom to run a business on their own terms. Millions of Americans from every state, congressional district, and community in the United States choose to become involved in direct selling because they enjoy a company’s products or services and want to purchase them at a discount. Some decide to market these offerings to friends, family, and others and earn commissions from their sales. The most successful consultants may decide to expand their business by building a network of direct sellers.