KansasCity.com:
Silpada Designs, a Lenexa-based sterling silver jewelry company, ended 2008 with more than $270 million in sales — beating its record year of 2007. Silpada, now in its 12th year, also grew in other areas.
“We’re up 3,000 (sales) representatives in 2008,†said Jerry Kelly, co-owner and chief executive officer. That brings Silpada’s total to 27,000 in the United States, Puerto Rico and Guam.Silpada jewelry is sold by reps through home parties, with the average party bringing in $950 in sales and reps earning 30 percent profit, Kelly said. Average party revenue has been growing, he said, despite the recession.
“People … see Silpada as providing upscale value that’s not necessarily in fashion jewelry,†Kelly said.
As unemployment levels escalate, Silpada is an appealing option for earning money with little investment, Kelly said.
Silpada rep Stacey Saladin joined the company part time about two months ago while in career transition. She decided to sign on after attending a party.
“I had such a great time, and I walked away with $600 in (free) jewelry. I thought that was a cool proposition,†Saladin said. “You go to the party for the interaction and personal touch. And women are still willing to buy a little something for themselves.â€
Screenshot from Silpada Designs.