The number of over 50s supplementing their retirement savings and pensions with sales jobs has soared by a third.
Around 120,000 over 50s are reckoned to earn some extra cash with door-to-door sales and parties.
Firms leading the market include homeware supplier Betterware, cosmetics giant Avon, naughty undies seller Ann Summers and Herbalife, a health supplement provider.
The direct sales business is a niche market worth around £2 billion a year and the over 50s make up around a third of the 400,000-strong army of sellers knocking on Britain’s front doors.
Setting up a direct sales business generally requires little outlay – often no more than £100.
As self-employed sellers, hours are flexible and other costs are low – although some national insurance may be due and the tax man will want a slice of any profits.
Trade body the Direct Selling Association (DSA) has released statistics showing the number of over 50s employed in selling is up from 93,000 in 2010.
For many, selling has a business and social goal.
Not only can the earnings top-up savings and pensions, but active retirees can still get out and about and meet new people once they have given up a career.
Fitting a sales job around personal and family commitments is also easy to juggle.
DSA director general Paul Southworth said: “In terms of quality of life, many in the plus-50 age bracket enjoy the social side of direct selling, which allows them to continue to work and network with a variety of people.
“It is an attractive option, allowing them to manage their own business with minimal outlay as well as generate an income.”
According to the DSA, most direct sellers work for a few hours a week and earn less than a £1,000 a year. Around 30,0000 people make selling a full time job and can earn £50,000 or more a year.
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