The changing face of retail and shift towards shopping online has seen a decline in the number of people frequenting bricks and mortar stores, a growth in the direct selling industry is a reflection of this change.

The direct selling industry contributes almost $1.7 billion to the economy through the employment of more than 475,000 people signed up to various direct selling organisations.

More than 250,000 of them are actively working at any one time.

There is also an unmeasured flow on effect to other industries such as transport, packaging, and manufacturing which also benefit.

Direct selling is a modern way to buy, where people learn about products and sample them in an intimate environment in someone’s home, and then purchase online, or by ordering through their contact within the organization.

Products including make up, skincare, tupperware, and homewares are all popular in the direct selling industry.

A report by Deloitte Access Economics found direct sellers tend to be under 45 years old, with 65 per cent aged between 25 to 45, and 90 per cent of the industry made up of women.

For further information about the industry, go to www.dsaa.asn.au.