Network Marketing vs. Party Plan Business Model

Network Marketing and Party Plan are different models of the direct selling industry. Both of them use a Multilevel Plan; however, these models have different operation structure and their compensation plans have plenty of differences.

65% of the direct selling companies in the USA use the typical Network Marketing model. On the other hand, 35% of the companies are using a Party Plan strategy.

Network Marketing

• This model, generally, sells products or services that are used on a recurring basis. Like Vitamins, Electricity and Nutrition.
• These products or services lend themselves to a recurring usage model called Auto-Ship.
• Network Marketing focuses on one person selling to another or in groups highlighting the benefits of the products.
• A significant focus is placed on the business opportunity of joining the network.
• More men are enrolled in this type of businesses.
• Compensation Plans in Network Marketing companies tend to be focused on structure.

Party Plan

• Party Plan companies generally sell products that lend themselves to demonstration, education or explanation to highlight the value proposition. For example, Jewelry Kitchen products and Skin Care.
• This type of business is almost exclusively performed by women.
• The Party Plan model involves a hostess; whose job is to gather a group of friends to see the demonstration of the products.
• The hostess receives benefits like free products, discounts and free shipping, depending of the company.
• Its focus is on the products, association, and experiences with a smaller emphasis on compensation.
• Effective compensation plans have a greater focus on volume than in the structure.