October Quick Takes: In this new “Amazoned” world, what do you see as the future of shipping and delivery for direct selling?

In this new “Amazoned” world, what do you see as the future of shipping and delivery for direct selling?

Jim Brown, Chief Operating Officer, USANA

Most companies offering Amazon-esque shipping options are forced to account for that expenditure in some way through other options within their business structure. USANA has chosen to focus our efforts on leveraging new innovations through our IT group including the creation of a new social and online shopping experience that will both meet and exceed our customer’s expectations. Customers shopping through online portals, like Amazon, are looking for an effortless shopping experience that provides the reviews, product comparisons, product information and product alternatives in a quick, easy to use environment. We are utilizing these concepts to create a similar shopping experience at USANA that will meet the demands of today’s customers.

David Isserman, Chief Operating Officer, Touchstone Essentials

Amazon’s free shipping has shifted the mindset of consumers. As Amazon continues to expand and become more vertically integrated, it is critical for direct selling companies to remain highly competitive. At Touchstone Essentials, we are sensitive to this and not only offer subsidized shipping in the United States and internationally for our Visionary Business Owners, but we also offer opportunities for them to be rewarded with free shipping through our AutoShip program.