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With the United States having some major economic problems, and a record number of people losing their jobs, it’s no wonder that some direct sales companies are seeing sales and profit rise as those who need jobs and extra income are flocking to a variety of work-at-home opportunities

One company that is seeing record profits is Amway Global.  The Ada, Michigan based direct sales company says that they will see sales in excess of $8.2 billion dollars in 2008. At a recent ceremony at Helen DeVos Hospital, Co- Founder Rick DeVos made the announcement that the company will see record sales this year.

The $8.2 billion dollar figure is a 15% jump from sales in 2007, and that’s during what many are calling a nation-wide depression. While Amway Global is privately held and therefore does not release profitability figures they will make an official statement in the next week or so in regards to sales numbers.

One major reason for the huge jump in sales is the marketing blitz that the company went on during the last year. Commercials, print ads, and major concert sponsorships have put the brand on the global radar. Just in the last year, Amway has partnered with Tina Turner, John Tesh and soccer superstar Ronaldinho among others in promoting Amway products. Amway has also retired the Quixtar brand used in the U.S. and Canada and promoted the re-invention of Amway Global in those regions through high profile spots on major television networks and in print ads.

It will be interesting in the next few weeks to hear from Amway Global leaders give more detail about sales figures, marketing campaigns and future plans to promote the brand.

Amway is one of the few companies that have been smart enough to up their advertising and marketing spending during an economic downturn. Amway understands the benefit of reaching people during these turbulent times to offer products the people want and educate the people about the opportunity that becoming part of the Amway Global family can provide.

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Rick DeVos, co-founder of one of the oldest direct sales company’s in the world, Amway is coming out with a new book, due in stores November 3rd. His newest book, called “10 Powerful Phrases for Positive People” is a book of advice from the billionaire businessman on how each of us can improve our lives and make it richer. The book is filled with simple phrases that he says will have powerful results.

DeVos recently gave a speech during which he spoke about what the inspiration for this book was. DeVos attributes much of his upbeat attitude and success to lessons learned during his life growing up during the depression with a father who was at all times positive, even when the family was poor and struggling. DeVos also spoke about the troubles with Amway that almost sent him and his partner to jail during the 1980’s and what he learned from it, and the pride he has when he looks at his family.

DeVos says, “When I look back at the impact of things I’ve said and done as I’ve gone throughout my life, they evolve around simple phrases of encouragement and lifting up others.”

Sooo….just in case you’re wondering what these ten phrases are, here’s the list-

1.I’m wrong.
2. I’m sorry.
3. You can do it.
4. I believe in you.
5. I’m proud of you.
6. Thank you.
7. I need you.
8. I trust you.
9. I respect you.
10. I love you.

To find out the story behind each of these phrases, you will have to purchase the book. DeVos does say that he could have gone on and on with other phrases, but his editor only wanted ten. When DeVos was asked what number 11 would have been, he gave an answer true to his entrepreneurial sprit, “start your own business.” DeVos feels that especially during these tough economic times, it is important for people to think about going into business for themselves

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