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| About DSA SA * Throughout the DSA web site we refer to Direct Sellers, but also referred to as distributors, consultants, managers, sales agents, independent business operators and other various names, and all are independent contractors. The term “direct selling” encompasses companies involved in Classical Direct Selling, Multi Level Marketing, Network Marketing and Referral Marketing Refer Direct Selling Explained
DSA PURPOSE We are a self-regulating association of direct selling companies that promotes and protects the interests of its members, distributors and consumers.
DSA VISION
We are the leading ambassadors of the Direct Selling industry and proactively champion the interests of member companies who passionately create an enabling environment in which lives are positively changed in our country.
The DSA is the Direct Selling industry’s voice and works together with national and provincial government (both at administrative and trade level) to ensure fair and equitable regulation of the marketplace and works together with the Consumer Affairs Committee in response to industry self-regulation and consumer protection activities.
The DSA also provides a forum for its Members and Supplier Members to develop and expand their businesses and to network with industry colleagues, and the opportunity to keep up-to-date with global industry trends and events. The World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA) and its national DSAs have always understood the necessity for ethical conduct in the marketplace and as such the WFDSA has developed a World Codes of Conduct for Direct Selling which all national DSAs have approved and implemented in their national codes. The DSA in South Africa has taken this Code and worked in close co-operation with the Consumer Affairs Committee to establish a local industry Code of Conduct (Code of Ethics)
All direct selling companies agree to be bound by the Code as a condition of membership. All direct sellers are bound by the Code when representing a DSA member company.
The DSA strives to ensure that all persons involved in the industry observe the highest standards of integrity and ethics in their trading activities. The relationship between the direct seller and the consumer has to be of the highest order and the correct representation of goods, services and business opportunities is imperative. Also, good relationships between the direct seller and the direct selling company are equally important and essential to industry growth. Both consumer and distributor guidelines are covered in the Code of Conduct (Code of Ethics) TOP DSA Membership The DSA in South Africa currently has a membership of 40 direct selling companies. As a condition of membership, all DSA member companies have to adhere to the industry Code of Conduct (Code of Ethics). It is also compulsory for members to complete an annual industry survey questionnaire that provides updated industry statistics, published in July each year. DSA Membership application forms are available from the DSA Secretariat: Jean McKenzie jeanemck@jcci.co.za Full Membership * Credibility of being a DSA member company Once the form and non-refundable application fee has been received, the DSA Board of Directors review the application. If successfully approved, a recommendation for Supplier Membership is proposed at the next DSA meeting (five meetings per year). Both the nominating DSA member and the supplier company must be present at the meeting.
The cost of application is a non-refundable R250, and annual fees are payable. Benefits of Supplier Membership include: * Identifies you as part of the direct selling community and a supporter of the direct selling industry * Puts you in touch with a network of senior industry executives * Increases your effectiveness and experience in relating to your direct selling industry clientele * Presents an opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow suppliers * Offers opportunities for international expansion * Potential business referrals through DSA enquiries * Gives updates on legislative and other changes affecting the industry * Provides updates on industry statistics and trends (local and international) * Enables the use of the DSA Supplier Member logo on marketing and other company materials * Company referenced on the DSA website under Supplier Members and direct link to own website * Opportunity to attend the prestigious DSA Annual Awards luncheon TOP Legal issues The DSA monitors Government legislation and legal issues to ensure that DSA members are kept informed as to their legal and legislative responsibilities and obligations and, where appropriate, it will lobby on behalf of the industry. The DSA will also take appropriate action to defend the industry should it become necessary. Examples include: * Consumer Protection Bill * National Credit Act * Medicines Control Council – proposed new legislation/effects on the industry * Independent Contractor status for direct sellers * PAYE * VAT (and responsibilities of direct sellers) * Consumer Affairs (Unfair Business Practices) Act * Skills Development Act * Employment Equity Act TOP Public Relations An active public relations programme has been implemented with the objective of building greater awareness of the direct selling industry and the opportunities it presents. Programme elements include media relations, events, exhibitions, industry awards, education programmes, industry research, website and other resources.
Further information is available from Caroline Tointon prpartnr@yebo.co.za TOP Avoiding Illegitimate Pyramid Schemes Don’t make a costly mistake! Thousands of people have lost a substantial amount of money by participating in pyramid schemes. Pyramid selling is a fraud. Many of the victims knew they were gambling (although they didn’t know the odds were rigged against them). Many others, however, thought they were paying for help in starting a small business of their own. These people were fooled by pyramid schemes disguised to look like legitimate businesses.
The purpose of this warning is to help you avoid falling victim to pyramid schemes, whether simple or disguised, and from breaking the law as participating in such schemes is illegal. Simple pyramid schemes are similar to chain letters, while disguised pyramids are like "wolves in sheep’s clothing", hiding their true nature in order to fool potential investors and evade law enforcers. For further information on what to look out for and how to avoid illegitimate pyramid schemes go to the WFDSA website link below: http://www.wfdsa.org/about_dir_sell/index.cfm?fa=schemes1 TOP Honorary Treasurer and Membership Director Legal Director DSA Code Administrator
Jean McKenzie Tel: 011 726 5300
Email: jeanemck@jcci.co.za
DSA General Enquiries
Jean McKenzie Tel: 011 726 5300
Email: jeanemck@jcci.co.za
DSA Media Relations, Communications and Academic Projects (DSA-UJ Africa Development Plan) Caroline Tointon
Email: prpartnr@yebo.co.za
DSA Secretariat
JCCI HOW TO FILE A COMPLAINT
All complaints are required to be submitted in writing either via email or post, to:
Association Manager Jean McKenzie Email: jeanemck@jcci.co.za Postal: Private Bag 34, Auckland Park, 2006 Tel: 011 726 5300 If complaints are not resolved at this level, the matter will be referred to an independent arbitrator. ALL content is subject to copyright. Permission is required for the reproduction and use of any information contained herein. Contact prpartnr@yebo.co.za |
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