Joint Statement Regarding Team

Friday, August 10, 2007  by Jim Payne
Category: Announcements, Rules, Quixtar Philosophy

Quixtar Inc., North American Founders Council, and Independent Business Owners Association International Board of Directors Joint Statement Regarding Team

The North American Founders Council (NAFC) and Independent Business Owners Associational International (IBOAI) are proud to represent the Quixtar business opportunity, especially during this exciting period of transformation in our business. Unprecedented investments by Quixtar are poised to help make our businesses stronger than ever – more than $60 million in new money in Quixtar Business Incentives, launch of training to help make IBOs more successful, and exciting new product and category launches. Overall, the company is spending more than $200 million in product development, brand building, training and compensation enhancements to make this business opportunity bigger and more successful than ever.

We are disappointed that the founders of the Team training organization, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady, and other IBOs affiliated with Team, have refused to move forward with the Quixtar business into this new and promising future. Given Team's unwillingness to work with the corporation to remedy their bad business-building practices, their stated intent to start a competing MLM and, ultimately, their decision to file baseless litigation against the business opportunity from which they have profited for years, the NAFC and IBOAI fully support Quixtar's decision to terminate these IBOs' businesses. The terminations of Woodward, Brady, Billy Florence, Don Wilson, Randy Haugen, Chuck Goetschel, Tim Marks, Kirk Birtles, James Martin, Aron Radosa, David Brandy, Benjamin Dickie, Bruce Gilbank, Michael Martenson, and Chuck Cullen will help correct practices that put Quixtar and all IBOs at serious and immediate risk of legal and regulatory action.

The NAFC and IBOAI stand firmly with Quixtar in an unwillingness to put our business and the businesses of hundreds of thousands of IBOs at risk of legal and regulatory action caused by Woodward and Brady’s practices.

We believe the Quixtar business is the best business opportunity in the world. We are prepared to work with the corporation and other IBOs who remain committed to their businesses as we move through this period of transformation to become stronger and more profitable, helping more individuals than ever before achieve success with a Quixtar-powered business of their own.

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Comments

William said:
August 10, 2007 11:30 PM | #

I am an active working IBO, and I have faith in you.  As a billion dollar company, you all have more to lose than anyone else.  I am not a critic, I am a faithful working IBO that likes and supports the idea of a system.

Thank you for keeping your word and kicking off your transformation process.  

My only thought is please, please understand that there are many other abuses, such as promoting of Religious or Political views, that are offensive. As well as promoting the system as non-optional (i.e. requiring IBOs to sign up with a System kit).   I hope those who are guilty of breaking such Quixtar rules will be asked to change, or face the same consequences that TEAM did.

XLNC said:
August 11, 2007 12:09 AM | #

Your decision to take a tough stand in order to maintain the integrity (and improve the reputation) of your brand is to be commended.

Companies who are willing to cut the reputational risks out, even at a financial loss, find themselves leaps and bounds ahead of the pack in the future.  

Congratulations to your leadership for making this move.

Josh said:
August 11, 2007 12:11 AM | #

I second that motion.

Also would like to add...If you are a new person looking to get started....READ READ READ the contract you are signing when you register.

Do not let your sponsor just breeze through the registration process.  Have them explain what you are signing and agreeing to!

BSMs check box, arbitration check box, money back guarantee for 6 months...etc.

READ it, so you understand it!!

XSIBO said:
August 11, 2007 12:50 AM | #

How does this effect if at all us downlline IBOs to the terminated Diamonds? I am curios to know.Quixtar is the best opportunity and has the best products !!!!

Robin Luymes said:
August 11, 2007 1:02 AM | #

XSIBO: Quixtar remains committed to supporting all IBOs willing to work with the company in an ethical and legal manner. The company has issued communications to IBOs in the organizations of terminated business leaders to reconfirm that support and to invite Team, Legacy and 5K IBOs to continue working with the company. I hope you continue to be an active and valued member of the Quixtar family of IBOs!

rdknyvr said:
August 11, 2007 1:15 AM | #

Robin, are you pulling 'night shift' duty on the blogs tonight? Perhaps have a look at some of the feedback on the Alticor blog post... the Corp really needs to be a bit more contemplative, patient, and farsighted in its messaging there.

Keep up the good work! :)

Editor's Note:  I was up late, wasn't I? I felt compelled to monitor the conversation. This is a landmark time in our business and there are many ways in which we can fail. I don't think the author at the media blog intended to alienate IBOs within the group; the sentiment was more directed to the leaders whose names have become synonymous with the Team name.  RL

Jonathan said:
August 11, 2007 1:38 AM | #

In regards to Quixtar's attitude towards TEAM and wanting to "reconfirm that support" - the article on http://media.alticorblogs.com/ titled "Go Team, Go" is anything but encouraging to me as a Legacy / TEAM IBO.  It saddens me that such hatred can be posted on an official Alticor site towards Quixtar's OWN independent business owners.  You've lost my support.

Editor's Note: As I've commented below, the media blog post really was about a few IBO leaders with whom the corporation has had to work closely for some time. Most of us weren't in the meeting rooms or part of the dialog that resulted in the tone and tenor of that blog post.  That said, it seems the post has alienated some, which is unfortunate. The company remains committed to working with those who will pursue an ethical and legal business path ... I hope that does include you, Jonathan!  RL

Dave said:
August 11, 2007 3:23 AM | #

RE:XSIBO

Robin:  This entry on the Alticor Media Blog doesn't sound very supportive to me. You guys up at the "mother-ship" need to get it together!  This blog sounds hateful.

[Edited out copy of Alticor Media Blog post] [Editor Note: The Alticor blog accurately described what happened leading up to the termination of IBO businesses. It is unfortunate that some are viewing this as "hateful." It certainly was not apologetic about the company's actions. And it clearly shows to all that we gave opportunities to affected leaders to work with us, which they clearly rejected. RL]

HURT said:
August 11, 2007 12:23 PM | #

I am very hurt and disappointed in the way Alticor has responded to the the TEAM and Orrin Woodward.  I know personally that Orrin has always had the highest regard for the Company and the highest of moral integrity.  He has been working hard to better the already awesome opportunity the Company has created.  To see that other highly esteemed IBO leaders such as Billy Florence, Fred Harteis, Randy Haugen, and Don Wilson, among others join with Orrin in his drive to correct pricing issues must give it some credibility.  I have always been proud to have been associated with the founding families and the upstanding Company, but have been extremely let down from this responce from the Company.

R Smith said:
August 11, 2007 12:43 PM | #

I am proud to be working with Quixtar and the Team. My traditional place of employment (health care) just went through similar business differences.  The rhetoric that ensues is always uncalled for.

The immaturity and disrespect that is thought of and brought forth in print is shameful. My prayer  today for the human race is please God instill a measure oif Integrity in each one of us.

Daniel G. said:
August 11, 2007 1:09 PM | #

Hurt:

I am disappointed as well as confused.I am for the efforts to drop the pricing of the products,even if it means less compensation.WE CANNOT SELL THESE PRODUCTS WITH THE CURRENT PRICES. I Tell People not to worry about the prices they will be getting big rebate soon. I feel hurt as well.I know the Team leaders  have great character and ethics were only trying to get Q to lower the prices to make the business more attractive to  thw 95 % of america who cant see past the inflated prices. This business would outsell Walmart if the prices were right.

Sincere said:
August 11, 2007 1:37 PM | #

I believe that the TEAM has the corporation's best interests at heart. As an IBO who joined in 1988, I saw what the business climate was like when the products really WERE competitively priced. It was great. In fact, Amway used to publish forms that did price comparisons with branded products and broke it down to a cost-per-use basis so we IBO's could see the value. In recent years however, the corporation seems to have abandoned the effort to remain competitive. I used to convert my entire household of products over to the company's products out of loyalty. I can no longer afford to do that due to the current prices so I only buy what I have to have. Why hasn't Alticor addressed and CHANGED this pricing problem before it came to this. I am ashamed of the company's response to well meaning IBO's The ONLY reason that Woodward and Brady may have mentioned starting another company is because Quixtar has refused to make these changes. I agree that if the company has turned a deaf ear to it's IBO's, it should be sued, though I find it sad to have come to this. Please Quixtar, hear the IBO's and make the ammends. It's not too late.

Bridgett said:
August 11, 2007 2:31 PM | #

I find it "interesting" that HURT (Aug 11 12:23 pm) comments about Orrin's highest regard for "the Company" and uses the term "the Company" four times.

Is that how TEAM IBOs are trained to talk about "the Company", that they can't even say the name of the company?

Seems George Orwellian.

rdknyvr said:
August 11, 2007 2:37 PM | #

Robin, I would agree that technically, the information in the post on the Alticor blog is accurate -- but that's not good enough... its tone (especially the title, several "adjectives/adverbs," and last line) is destructive and lacking in judgement, and your editorial comments above are not a sufficient response from the Company (nor is your thoughful  new post at Real Quixtar). The Alticor blog post breaks all the basics of PR 101... in our company, if someone had posted like that in a blog that claims to represent the Corp's position, and especially now that there is a formal 'legal situation', they'd be burning shoe leather out the front door with an escort.

.

From the writing style and tone of the post, I'm guessing it's not something that you or Beth or Jim P would have written. It is possible to apologize for the tone, as I've posted over there, without undercutting your overall strong moral and legal position, and it should be done.

.

If you've actually read the "Complaint", and if you have some background knowledge of the history and facts, you will know how disingenuous and internally self-contraditory it is, but most TEAM IBOs don't have the full picture to see that, and the Alticor post serves only to harden their views, and short-circuits the possibility that they will do the necessary objective due diligence to figure that out. The 'blogger' made a mistake... an apology/clarification is required, at least for the tone. Please urge your Alticor colleagues to take the high road on this.

With respect,

rdknyvr said:
August 11, 2007 2:45 PM | #

And Robin, even if "the sentiment was more directed to the leaders" it's still not a smart move to attack that way. Jim P's posts, Alticor's press release, and the Joint Statement say it all and say it sufficiently. When you cross the line into ad hominem attacks, as the Alticor blogger did, you lose the overall argument, even if you are in the right and have the facts on your side, which you do.

Marcquel F said:
August 11, 2007 8:06 PM | #

I almost don't know what to say... How anyone could ever doubt the sincerity and sentiment of Orrin, Chris, and the several other successful IBO's is beyond me. It doesn't seem like anyone cares for the fate of the downline of any of the IBO's involved with the leaders in question, not quixtar the company, and not any other IBO's outside of team. At the end of the day the only people that still seem concerned with the fate of these IBO's is the aforementioned leaders! I'm sorry for those that feel that the company is in the right, as they must not understand the politics surrounding the situation, if one did there would be no discussion! I think actions speak louder then words, and the action of the TEAM leaders spoke VOLUMES. Never have we had such a well thought out business plan or step by step training, as much as the quixtar says they support the IBO i do not see training material or a competitive business plan put forth by them, only a compensation package. The fact that Time/Warner approached Orrin and Chris to publish their leadership book speaks for itself, and the fact that they committed all profit from sales of the book to charity speaks even more. As a traditional business owner I can see that TEAM leaders had a legitimate argument in the fact that no products besides alticor owned ones are competitively priced enough to make this a mainstream opportunity. Furthermore, the fact that the corporation wants to change the name to Amway or some derivative there of does not sit well with me and should not with any IBO as there is a negative connotation connected with that name, its bad product association and doesn't make much sense for business. And has any IBO really sat down and taken the time to critically think about why the corporation would want to change the name in the first place? In closing I think all IBO's need to sit down and do some critical thinking on the issues at hand, otherwise aren't we engaging in a mental attitude that is as bad   as someone who wont look at the business because they think they know all there is to know about how to make money, because they take everything they see at face value?

Pat H said:
August 11, 2007 11:52 PM | #

Quixtar will let the Team go, they can all write letters and get out. It will be several months before Team has anything put together anyway. Team has some leverage in the marketplace but not enough to put together a product line like Quixtar offered. They’ll be selling fuel addatives and vitamins for a while.

Team leaving Quixtar without a product line creates a mass of problems.

1. What about the Ibo’s and member clients who like the products…they won’t leave

2. In the interm all Team has is a cd and book selling busines That won’t sell!

3. Team upline is already recruiting downline in other peoples ” second teams” especially those on system since that is the only source of income for the near future. I’m seeing this happen already. A current Quixtar Emerald won’t be making much money with no PV. A current IBO on system looks like a life vest on the Titantic.

3 Who decides who goes where and how will the business be structured.

It will be a long and messy divorce

Eric S said:
August 12, 2007 12:06 AM | #

Robin,

Please quit justifying the post at the Alticor media blog. It was juevenile and childish, not worthy of a company of Alticor's stature.

Marcquel, the Team leaders may profess to care for their downline but it is Quixtar that is trying help them. Doesn't it seem strange that they choose to leave just as Quixtar is beginning to keep their promise regarding transformation? New products from Nutrilite and Artistry are being released. IBO compensation has been massively increased and yet they choose to leave just as those improvements are made. Could it be that the manner in which they run their system is more important to them then the Quixtar business the system is supposed to support? Quixtar's role includes proptecting this business for all of us. Could it be that Team leaders simply were not interested in legal compliance? Quixt3 must see that there is or there will be no business for any of us.

I participate willingly in a system also but we clearly understand that Quixtar is THE business which includes sponsoring and retail/IBO volume.  That does not seem to be the primary focus of Team. If that is true then that is the issue no matter how persuasive some are in their stage talk.

Tex said:
August 12, 2007 1:18 AM | #

Robin,

Contrary to the misinformed opinions above, the "Go TEAM, Go" statement wasn't strong enough.

The lawsuit the former IBO's filed was because the Quixtar products are overpriced, but think about how overpriced the tools TEAM and all other tool businesses I am aware of except for mine and Brad Doyle's (iteamusa.com). This is a MUCH larger problem than the Quixtar product prices, as they make several times more on tools than Quixtar products, and should be leveraged against the former IBO's while defeating their silly lawsuit.  

Marcus said:
August 12, 2007 1:41 AM | #

I'm an Amway retread from 15 years ago and I would never have joined Quixtar if it wasn't for the 100 plus partnership stores and the TEAM.  Having a choice of other products besides the overly priced Quixtar core products made a huge difference.  What made the most sense was the TEAM concept of building the business.  No one told me I had to purchase the tools or buy into the system.  No one told me I had to do anything in relation to the TEAM.  I was told it was MY business in Quixtar as an IBO and everything the TEAM offered was optional as a training system.  Did the TEAM members try to tell me it was in my best interest to follow the system if I wanted to build a profitable business? Sure.  The system is what leverages your time.  I guess the IBO's or prospective IBO's who felt they where pressured may also feel pressured by info commercials on television or on the radio or from telemarketers.  Maybe the problem was within themselves and not with the TEAM.  What gained my respect the most was the fact that the TEAM promoted educators like Robert Kiyosaki, "Rich Dad, Poor Dad".  I have been an IBO with Quixtar since May of 2007 and I have not had one bad experience with the TEAM or Quixtar.  I must say that I do agree that the core products, except for the Xs drinks, are over priced and are a hard sell for me and to prospective customers and new IBOs.  On a final note, as Scott Michael said, "People of integrity expect to be believed, and when they are not, they let time prove them right".  I guess time will tell who had the integrity in this matter, The TEAM or Quixtar.

KS in NC said:
August 12, 2007 2:21 AM | #

I know all of the lines on your IBOAI board--8 of 18 are gone--five thru BWW do not want you to see their sites so they don't add a link--Most of the board agreed with Woodward I think but were afraid to leave. I have a twenty year record through Britt and I know how they all feel concerning many products--and it is not the opportunity it shoud be---I did not renew in December thru BWW--I was going to get back in with someone thru Bill Britt who taught me much about life--I reached 4000 in 90's (way too difficult)and was poised to go on 9/1/99 with bunches of new folks--Everyone had to run from -statement Is it Amway ---I would say, "what do you know about it"..  I could tell the that internet was the real deal but with the rough beginnings of site and the prices of basic commodities being too high and vitamins going up(explaining concentration and "exclusive Brands"is a hard sell in old manufacturing towns in the south)..every exit with 5000 population has a Walmart.  Why can't we compete on basic commodities and food items? I noticed the business had flatlined for most groups but not Woodward and Brady--Why? I wondered..I was praying in June to find someone and I signed up with the solid fanastic moral leaders in Team through a fellow coach and had planned on finally succeeding.  I  never heard anything but praise for quixtar as I listened to the hopes of the Team leaders about helping transform quixtar to compete with Walmart on the web and hearing on leadership tapes put out this spring from the diamonds on Team about their affiliation with Quixtar as being valued.  I loved the helping and legal way that Team encouraged me to build the tap root first and lining up my prospects in groups who might be on each others lists to call in bunches for a house meeting which is what kept me from being secure with my 4000 in Amway.  I totally see the positive benefits of not competing for the same guy to get in your downline when showing the plan to two people who know each other.

To see what the lawyers got together to do to Woodward, Brady, Billy Florence and many longtime Diamonds and leaders on the IBOAI board--My faith in Amway which changed name and will soon go back to name has fallen.  The American Way of Rich and Jay that their children helped run will let the lawyers tarnish the name and the industry further-Has the company backed off of the free enterprise system.    Bogus lawyerspeak was the reason given for their termination.. if it is final! Come off of the money at the top and let us compete in marketplace and clean up the Brady woodward mess before the wonderful liberal press rips us all apart again!

Canadian Viewer said:
August 12, 2007 4:40 AM | #

The superior attitude of Alticor and the management of Quixtar will be the demise of the company.  No company can continue it's operations without the support of a team.  The team must be able to sell the products and promote the business opportunity.  It is not possible at this time to sell the products as they are over priced, and how can a business that has such a superiod attitude be promoted.

The integrity and character of the individuals such as Brady, Woodwood, Wilson and other out going IBO's should be highly prized.  Integrity and honor is why Amway first became sucessful, now this integrity and honor is being compromised by the failure of Quixtar to value and recoginize these assets.

It is time for the Quixtar to put actual facts down ASAP regarding pricing of core line products and how these core line products can compete in the public market place.  This has been requested now for over 7 years - so to now say everything is Rosy is not acceptable.

YankeeIBO said:
August 12, 2007 10:59 AM | #

This whole situation is extremely unfortunate for all of us and could get very messy, depending in large part on our focus and behavior. We are in a fishbowl of public opinion, and every word spoken here is spoken to MILLIONS of people, both in our business and outside it. Currently, most of us seem to be doing what the departed diamonds are depending on us to do--defending our positions LOUDLY and expressing opinions with only the barest amount of information to base them on--opinions that become translated as facts in the much larger court of public opinion. We have been down that road before and suffered for it. The questions we ought to be asking are:

$$ Why was this exodus timed as it was? The lawsuit wasn't drawn up while they were all sitting at the IBOAI table, this was the result of calculated planning over a number of months.

$$ What would they gain by using "uncompetitive pricing" as the basis for the suit? could it be that the bruhaha that ensues will create the perception of overpriced Q* merchandise that will work in favor of the new MLM?  ?????

$$ What did TEAM have to lose by staying? Well, if you read the fine print at the bottom of the now published QBI on the site, you will see that accreditation is one of the requirements. If you also read the Quixtar communication Platform that all accredited teams have to adhere to (http://www.quixtaraccreditation.com), It could be that some of those things would present a problem for the TEAM organization and leadership??

That said, the lawsuit has very little to do with the stated complaints, and everything to do with intelligent, crafty, and well-calculated positioning to put themselves (TEAM) in the best light, and keep us all from looking below the surface.

I, for one, would welcome ALL  remaining TEAM IBO'S to hang in there with the rest of us, seek accreditation, and reap the rewards you so richly deserve!

We should all now be remembering the POWER OF THE POSITIVE in our words, to transform our lives. I propose that we all stop participating in negative conversation, to avoid the backlash that will inevitably come. We all love this business, and the personal and financial rewards it brings with it--it's time to strengthen the ties that bind and move forward shining our own light!

"If you think you know everything, you haven't asked enough quesions!"

JonD said:
August 12, 2007 11:39 AM | #

TEAM is putting together a contract for an "XS" like beverage.  That is their first product.

They are going to have to drink a lot of it to make up for the lost volume with all of the other products.

Would I like lower prices... of course.  Who wouldn't.  I'd love to see that as part of the biz transformation too.  I agree, we could outsell Wal-Mart with lower prices.  The higher prices are likely used to pay the bonuses.  I'd prefer to see core line prices increase, and non-core items that you can get elsewhere, decrease, for competitiveness.

Increase eSpring, Nutrilite, Artistry, SA8, etc a little each.  Continue to show price comparisons on per use basis, etc.  It still works.  They are still very marketable.  Decrease "catalog" prices to be competitive.  Win-win.

Pat said:
August 12, 2007 2:27 PM | #

The facts!

       Team plaintiffs assert that Quixway has been operating an illegal pyramid since the late 90's.

        Why didn't they tell us!   GREED!

       Seminar after seminar we were told this was the greatest business on the planet, it was going mainstream, that it was exploding, well it's exploded all right....in the faces of these plantiffs.

       How many millions of dollars did these plantiffs collect while knowing full well the business was illegal?

(supposedly)

       They didn't have any trouble cashing those checks for many years...while signing new people up in an illegal business.

      Cars, houses.diamond rings ...all bought in part with money recieved through an illegal pyramid??

     Give to ceasar what is ceasar, are these men of God or men of gold?

    What are these leaders going to do with all of their " ill gotten gains".

     Are they still cashing those fat Quixtar checks?

   WWJD?

     Pricing issues?..We were taught by these same plantiffs ....The prospect that questions prices " doesen't understand the business" and was laughed at as they drove away. "Prices are irrelevant....the question is can you get rich doing this: is the battle cry on Consumer Rebellion.

Patricia Dobson said:
August 12, 2007 7:19 PM | #

I totally agree with changing the name back to 'Amway'.   It was not the Amway business that created the problems, it was the IBO's who made their own rules for greed detrimental to the business.  Amway has always promoted integrity in the business and never made it a rule to buy tapes, books or other training material.   The Company should never have changed the name - but then we all learn our lessons sometime.

lisa said:
August 12, 2007 11:21 PM | #

I have read as much about this as I can since Friday, including the full pdf of the Team lawsuit, but I still can't claim to know everything.  I'm still sorting out exactly how I want to move forward from here.  One thing I know for sure is that many of the IBOs who resigned or were terminated are the very ones that I most responded to and most respected in this business - Chris Brady, Orrin Woodward, Billy Florence, Randy Haugen.  I can't yet imagine staying in Quixtar without them as leaders.  I am inclined to believe what they say.  If they are starting a new business, then I am THERE.  I think that what they've said about the inflated pricing is right on and they are saying what so many of us have thought but didn't feel able to say.  I believe that they didn't say anything about it because they were trying to go through to the proper channels first.  I think it's true that the people who most benefit from Quixtar are Dexter and his friends, and I won't even go into my opinion on him, but I will say that it's much lower than my opinion of the former diamonds who have left Quixtar.

xsibo said:
August 12, 2007 11:36 PM | #

Every IBO in the downlines should be contacted and informed of this huge event in our business. At BDS nothing was mention of The TEAM not involved with Quixtar. I believe maybe 1% there were aware of this. Like us they don't know whats going on. Hopefully some answers soon. Quixtar keeping XS?

Canadianconnextion said:
August 12, 2007 11:56 PM | #

As a member in good standing I am appalled how this whole situation is being handled. Neither side has taken into consideration the “little people” in this debacle. As the millionaires and billionaires flex their might in an unnecessary power struggle it is the simple IBO that is hurt. Whether it’s a billionaire who is so out of touch he makes a decision without bouncing it off the field, or millionaires who allow destructive news to leak to the internet so it can haunt us for years to come, it damages the front line far more.

Gentlemen, the number one most destructive thing in our business is not high prices or structure it is the crap on the net and the name that has been our biggest challenge to growth. Amway is a great company however in North America because of its history of challenges the trademark has become a liability. 70% of my “no’s” are because of the crap on the net and we never send people to the net. Why do people hesitate to use the Quixtar name. Because it leads back to the Amway name. You want to know the truth. It is the ignoring of the net and the liability of the name that has slowed growth. The same stupid websites are still there and while we were promised these would be hunted down it has been years and still the negative exists. It’s not your brother in law’s laughing , it’s not the guys at work “opinions”, it’s the instant information and the belief in the printed word that stops a sponsoring. You would think with the overwhelming negative response from IBO’s to a name change that someone would catch on. Unfortunately when you give interviews to major trade magazines you will get yourself painted into a corner. Unfortunately  for our owner, like the emperor’s new clothes, no one wants to tell him that he is naked.

As for the pricing if anyone cared to compare the Coreline and XS with other products you would see we are completely competitive. Since the majority of our business has always been core then the challenge must lie elsewhere. There is a terrible blight on our business and it is not at the new IBO level. This infighting and swaggering by the elite must stop or there will be nothing left. The battle will be played out on the net and the loonies will use it against us for years. Our competitors will use it has proof positive that the company is a mess and every night we will have to fight against the perception you have given. All we ask is that you stop and think about us. Because it will be us that cleans up your mess every night for years to come. It will be us that faces unnecessary rejection and it will be us that lose good people before they even have a chance to chase their dream.

Jennifer Hanson said:
August 13, 2007 12:25 AM | #

As an IBO here in MI I think its about time that TEAM has recieved whats been coming to them for a long time. As someone who follows the rule and regulations I signed my name to I was getting tired of the bad rep that TEAM and its followers were giving Quixtar. I do believe i this business, and I would never lie about being affiliated with it as other "teams" have. Where do they think all their money started coming from.They might want to take a look at their records before they recieved their big tool sales checks and remember how they started their teams and who signed their checks then. Thanks for the clean sweep Alticor.

Sue Timpson said:
August 13, 2007 1:43 AM | #

I am a Team 5k IBO and to say I am upset by the events of the last few days is putting it mildly.  I told Chuck in June after a BDS that I didn't feel comfortable and he said trust me.  I did try, but our large leadership conference in Utah was the last straw.  Politics and Religion don't belong in business.  I am not leaving Quixtar and I hope we can get back on track soon.  Quixtar IS a great business!

Dixie said:
August 13, 2007 2:09 AM | #

(CHEER) "Go, TEAM, Go"; "Go, TEAM, Go"!

You tell us to Go, TEAM, Go!  Well, we will turn that into our battle cry and cheer our leaders on to victory with cheers of "Go, TEAM, Go"!

Men of principles cannot be bought or sold!  The Great 8, as they are now known in the blog forums, are all men of high principles and integrity.   They have the full support of their wives, families and TEAM.  One of them, Reverand Dickie, is an active Minister and mentor to Orrin and Chris!  Would he have resigned if it were not the right thing to do?  I know Orrin and Chris and their reputation, what they stand for and the people they lead are far more important to them than any monetary gain.  Their actions prove it!  They sacrificed themselves for me, the new IBO, just as Jesus did for us all over 2000 years ago and they are getting crucified by Quixtar and Alticor because of it!

Orrin and Chris have told the TEAM to run their IBO businesses as usual and continue to bring more IBOs into Quixtar and the TEAM, knowing that their cause is right and just and a Jury Trial to address the issues that Quixtar refused to address at any IBOAI meeting will win out, and when Quixtar is forced to implement the changes required by the Court, it will benefit us all.  They have not told us to quit or leave Quixtar or that they are planning a new MLM or product line!  Who started that rumor?  Quixtar!  Quixtar started the mudslinging.  You will not find any such mudslinging blog on the TEAM's website.  If you truly want to know more about TEAM and what they stand for then check out:  www.the-team.biz

David said:
August 13, 2007 2:21 AM | #

Patricia?   IBO Greed?

Why not address the Jay Factor?

cost X 3?

A 30 - 35% profit margin for two families seems a little "greedy".

Don't you think?

Greg said:
August 13, 2007 4:10 AM | #

I've noticed some very significant differences between what Alticor had to say versus what The TEAM leadership had to say.

The TEAM leadership said "It is important as we proceed further that no one disparages Quixtar, Amway, Alticor, or any of its constituents or employees in any way." The TEAM leadership also let us know that they requested that Quixtar lift the "no compete" rules and give IBOs a CHOICE as to what they want to do (ie stay in quixtar or leave to pursue other legitimate business opportunities even in competition with quixtar.)

"After the IBOAI meeting, roughly a third of the board members felt so strongly about what had been learned that we couldn't go forward and continue, in good faith, to represent the business.  We had been assured numerous times that if we had a problem going forward, we should approach Quixtar/Alticor's lead counsel to discuss terms of departure."  "This lawsuit does not seek damages or retribution."

Thus far all I've heard from Alticor and Quixtar is "just Go Team."   "We would say we were sorry to see Orrin Woodward go. But only if that were true."

Oh I can't forget "So we terminated him. And in return, he handed us a trumped-up, trash-talking lawsuit on his way out the door."

First off, I DON'T KNOW ANY LEGITIMATE BUSINESS THAT WOULD EVER SAY SOMETHING LIKE THAT ABOUT *ANY* OF THEIR BUSINESS ASSOCIATES, EMPLOYEES, DISTRIBUTORS, OR SUB-CONTRACTORS ETC EVEN IF IT WERE TRUE!!  Every other company I've ever worked for has held in strict confidence the terms and reasons of why someone no longer works for their company.  

Second I've read the entire lawsuit.  Quixtar is currently being operated as an illegal pyramid due to the policies in place however if it would just revert back to the established guidelines that were established by the original amway company to keep them from benig a pyramid then this business could be very lucrative.

Kbloom said:
August 13, 2007 9:03 AM | #

Transparency seems to be one way.  Most of these bloggers talking against Orrin and Chris leave alot of information about themselves out.  I started in 2002, and built it the 6-4-2 way for 3 years.  I went from 21%/4000pv to 3%/100 PV in one month, went from an organization of 25 down to 3 in the wonderful renewal process the "Q"/Alticor has in place.  Since adopting the team concept of building teams, I went from 3% to Platnium in 18 months.  TEAMS system is without a doubt the best.  Ms. P. Dobosn, it sounds like your a plant by alticor to keep these bloggs negative agaist Chris and Orrin and the TEAM.  The other possibility is that your a non-builder of the buisness.  If you were a builder, and you were in the homes every night you would know the Term "Amway"  has more negative then does companies such as: World Comm and Enron.  What Chris and Orrin are saying and doing is something that I have felt for years needed to be done, and I am as proud of them as I am of the Founding Fathers who also had the "guts"  to stand up and go through a messy divorce.  I will follow my diamond and Chris and Orrin as they are the ones who have put the time and energy into me, I have 0 loyalty to Quixtar/Alticor, as they serve as an overpaid "Human Resoruces" and have no higher standing then my present employer. As for the timing issue, I suggest that you read "The Art of War".  cya

team guy said:
August 13, 2007 12:31 PM | #

All i can say is that I would follow Chris and Orrin into battle anytime and anywhere! They are the definition of character, integrity, and morality! As far as the corp. is concerned everything they do and have done they know about and know why they do it. I don't understand why the team building process is looked at as bad by anyone, especially the corp. Figures don't lie, every one was flat lined and couldn't grow, but TEAM exploded. Why?? Because it doesn't work right. Give me a break. The big 8 I applaud you and know that anything that happens to you will be great because you are all great.

Ohio IBO said:
August 13, 2007 1:42 PM | #

A lot could be said about this whole situation, and that's evidenced by the various blog posts. Really, after it is all said and done, it's about 2 competing philosophies.  Quixtar/Amway is focusing and moving in the direction of Content & Commerce, while Team is focusing & moving in the direction of Community.  That said, it should be a relatively simple decision for IBO's with Team, if they are given that choice.  As a Team IBO, I know what my decision would be. As far as the name change back to Amway, it is absolutely absurd.  Anyone actively building the business (not just focusing on retailing, but  actively building a group) will tell you "Amway" has too many negatives associated with it.  So many, in fact, many potential prospects ask if it's Amway, and if so they're not interested. Great Industrial Age Business Model, except this is the Information Age. The other thing is, most stats I've seen indicate about an 87% failure rate.  Not very inspiring to the new person. As for all this negative vernacular towards Team, not only is it unprofessional, but some of it has a nasty overtone.  I would say there are some who have emotional maturity challenges.  

G_W said:
August 13, 2007 2:08 PM | #

Hooray for Quixtar/Amway!

I just like to say that I'm so pleased to see Q/A deal with some of the bad actors in a public way. I've now got something I can point at to show skeptics that the company does, in fact, take compliance seriously.

Of course the "Team" members will be upset – they've been getting away with flaunting the rules the rest have had to play by – don't let them discourage you in doing the right thing.

Note: I am sure that most of the IBO's caught up in the TEAM scandal are great people that just didn't realize they were being duped… hopefully they'll get the facts and then get involved in a organization that plays by the rules. Any hostility should, of course, be reserved for those that perpetrated the bad behavior and those that condone it.

Piet Strydom said:
August 13, 2007 2:45 PM | #

I have done a lot of reading tonight about the various positions. TEAM has stated to the corporation that they (TEAM) wants to start supplying their own product into their IBO organisation, i.e. have the IBO's have relationships with two different MLM companies. Which is why they are so hammering on getting the non-competes waived.

Now, Alticor, and its preceding companies, have spent decades building a distribution channel, and building a reputation as a supplier of premium quality products. Do you really expect them fall over backwards, and allow TEAM to push their own products through the channel?

Or to allow TEAM to take away the IBO org, every which one has a legal agreement with Quixtar in place. Where would it leave those IBO's? Going from a company with a huge product portfolio, with decades of experience, to TEAM? With a reputed XS contract?

I would assume that TEAM at the very least have other products in the pipeline, otherwise their actions would be mind boggling. But even so, how will they ramp up volumes, distribution.

They should have stuck to their knitting, even if their knitting caused serious problems over the years - Procter and Gamble springs to mind!

They have forced the issue, one by refusing to submit to the rules, and two, by stating their intention to start their own MLM. This has given AMWAY the excuse to be able to clean up the marketing practises used by BSM's, which was seriously required.

It would seem that TEAM didn't realise the diminished importance of America-only groups in the globalised Amway business of today.

LisBette said:
August 13, 2007 5:35 PM | #

G_W, what are you smoking?  Team has been flaunting the rules?  Get something straight.  Team received the approval of Quixtar AND the IBOAI to build way it has.  The SA4400 modified by Quixtar is proof of that. Woodward and Brady have ALWAYS told IBOs to register new IBOs according to Quixtar rules.  

Quixtar's claim that Woodward and Brady were terminated because they violated the rules is just plain bogus.  And why has no one from the corporation commented on the SA4400 they approved specifically sanctioning the Team's methods?

Allan S said:
August 13, 2007 6:58 PM | #

The issue regarding the SA4400 isn't about the document. It is that the document was not used when showing the plan.This lawsuit, which is more of a plea to the public then litigation, is just a request to be released from a contract they all knew they had. Attacking the business as a pyramid has nothing to do with the non-compete and is not the high road they purport to be on. It truely demonstrate who and what they are.

Not justifying Alticor's "go team" comments. They were offensive but pale in comparison to Team's actions.

G_W said:
August 13, 2007 7:39 PM | #

@LisBette, When it comes to the question of "what are the rules?" … you'll have to forgive me for taking Quixtar's word ("serious and immediate risk for legal and regulatory action") over yours.

Of course it's possible Quixtar is flat-out lying… but in my experience it's much more likely that the one stretching the truth is the recently terminated and angry person… NOT  the coroporation with lots to loose in a lawsuit for libel.  

I don't have a clue what the modified SA4400 is… never seen/heard of it.

Even assuming that you're right and Quixtar historically had approved of this "stacking" (which I don't know to be true… but for the sake of argument…) we all know that Quixtar has recently been engaged in reform and cleaning up bad business practices along with the move back to the Amway name. It's perfectly logical to believe that as a part of this, Alticor approached many organizations to work with them on fixing problems (even ones that may have been supported in the past) – and "stacking" is now viewed ad a serious legal risk. I find this scenario fantastically more plausible than Quixtar lying in such a blatant and public manner.

TEAM may disagree with the assessment of stacking as serious legal risk, but the contact is with Alticor and they make the rules. Play by the rules, or don't play. Anyone that flaunts the rules gives everyone a bad name.  

HSW said:
August 13, 2007 7:41 PM | #

PLease read todays posting on “The Real Quixtar Blog”, Monday, August 13, 2007

Category: Opportunity, Transformation

“Meanwhile, the (Quixtar)Sales team is contacting leaders at the Platinum level or above within Team and other affected organizations, reaching out to them, inviting them to continue their Quixtar businesses, and seeking assurances they will build ethical businesses within Quixtar’s rules. We’re glad to see that the vast majority of those contacted see the value in the Quixtar opportunity and the safeguards provided by the Rules of Conduct to preserve and protect the hard work of many IBOs”.

Question to all of you: Why does Quixtar sales contact these leaders within TEAM now? Is it because Quixtar has a different support to offer than in the past? Or because Quixtar is trying to undermine TEAM’s wish to build an ethical and people orientated business?

I was contacted and heard bad mouthing stories about my upline and the TEAM.

TEAM doesn’t contact anybody through the back door. They use the front door with facts and not gossip! We don’t sell! We build a foundation of trust that others can build their future on.

Kim said:
August 13, 2007 7:48 PM | #

Yes, "Team" has been flaunting the rules! They have done it for some time. They forced this issue out into the open. Q had been working to get them to change but they ("TEAM") were running out of time.

The way I see it, (IMHO) they don’t meet accredidtion for their BSM’s. So next month they would have to explain to their “TEAM” members why they don’t quaifiy for the new QBI bonuses. So the backdoor blackmail deal to take their “people” to a new mlm was rejected by Q and their businesses were terminated. They file a lawsuit to distract from the real issue. (BSM’s, stacking and their desire to start their own mlm.) Q files an injuction to keep them from “looting” their LOS’s and saying nasty things about the dealings with Q. So you say it in a lawsuit that you know everyone will read. That lets you take the “High” road, yet, gets your word out.

G_W and Piet Strydom have a pretty good grasp of the sitution. Rdknyvr andYankeeIBO your post are some of the more “right on target” that I have read. (IMHO)

Thomas J said:
August 13, 2007 10:07 PM | #

This  is extremely negative and surprising as I just now have read the blogs and still do not have any details to know what is happening. I guess I am too new to even know what is rumored going on behind closed doors. Regardless of being new, I do know a few truths.

1.   YES, Amway the name and connection is definitely a liability and will, and has, slowed acceptance of prospective IBOs.

2.  Prices of products would intuitively seem to be able to be a little better if we truely are building an expanding online commerce community, based on membership. Is this not what Costco does in brick and mortar?

3.  If we could create an online community of better prices and very good compensation for membership growth, the general public would bust your door down to get registered. Again, a successful history of the Costco model, so to speak.

Who cares who said what. What is needed now is someone to get a grip on this whole issue and quickly resolve the differences in a way that unites the  bickering parties. Unfortunately, I feel that will not happen and the IBOs at the bottom will be the ones taking the bullets for the millionaires.

*** DeVos said:
August 13, 2007 11:13 PM | #

Amway just made the biggest mistake in their history.

I guess I can go back to buying products for half the price now!  Go Orrin and Chris!!!!!

Editor's note by Anna Bryce:

Portions of this comment have been edited to comply with the civil discourse aspect of the Opportunity Zone's comments policy.

ThePearl said:
August 13, 2007 11:57 PM | #

Could someone clear something up for me? What is stacking and what is wrong with it? It sounds like depth building and I can't see the issue with that. Maybe I'm missing something.

As for what's going on - both sides should grow up. There seems to be a lot of skirting around the real issues by both sides.

computer freak said:
August 14, 2007 4:50 AM | #

interesting that they were terminated right before fiscal year end bonuses. quixtar saved millions in bonuses, and then kept the downline they built.

BMB said:
August 14, 2007 10:32 AM | #

What bothers me most about all this?  The lawsuit against Quixtar/Amway by Brady, Woodward, et. al. over and over again stated that the Corporation was operating an illegal pyramid scheme.  How could these men who have made their fortunes in association with the corporation and, as some TEAM members say in this blog, are telling their people to CONTINUE to bring new IBOs in under Quixtar, have the audacity to link this illegal practice we all have to dispel ever day in building our businesses!  How ethical is that?  This lawsuit was not drawn up yesterday and was definitely thought out well. These "TEAM leaders" know that. They are obviously pulling out all the stops to try to discredit Quixtar in order to benefit themselves.  What else could the answer be?  They burned bridges when they stated over and over again the owners of Quixtar were operating an illegal business.  

I have lost all respect for those so-called "respected men".  This was handled very poorly and with NO REGARD to any of the IBOs who are building integrity-based businesses -- including especially -- the people TEAM is trying to recruit for their MILLION 'army'.  

Let's all remember what happened in the story of Icarus --- sounds like humility for these men is non-existent and will be their downfall, and hopefully not ours too.

Stephen A. Draper said:
August 14, 2007 10:40 AM | #

I saw this same thing happen in my own upline several years ago.  I kept my Quixtar business when my upline was terminated by Quixtar.  They started a company called Team In Focus with all kinds of great promises.  I started buying my products which were very good through Team in Focus.  Eventually most of the founders of Team in Focus abondaned it and Team In Focus no longer exists.  I am glad I did not burn any bridges and kept my Quixtar business intact through that challenging time.  I did not raid my own or any else's downline to build a new MLM.  I am glad to see Quixtar finally getting rid of the old school Diamonds who refuse to change their unethical ways.

I have seen many comments on here talking about how great many people think these disciplined Diamonds are.  Most of these people have only seen the "Public" image of these diamonds.  They have not seen the "Private" image of these diamonds.

I must say I have never met a Diamond I did not like.  They are impressive people; that is why they are Diamonds.  However, some are masters of disguise and the unethical ones should be removed.

T Cotta said:
August 14, 2007 11:27 AM | #

Remember that the owners of Quixtar have never been IBOs and are therefore a tremendous portion of the "multi-billion" dollar company that Quixtar is goes into the families' pockets.  They also seem very insensitive to what it takes to be out in the market building the business and that is proven to me by the fact that they are changing the name of a company that was never named Amway to Amway.  When the products were competetive, people began building businesses.  Some became very successful and now have many IBOs in their LOS.  But what they found as time went on was that getting and keeping customers was becoming more and more of a challenge because the products on the shelves were improved, concentrated and cheap.  We all continued to promote the opportunity as best as we could.  Once you build a sizable LOS, you are at the mercy of Quixtar's decisions.  No one wants to lose their LOS, for some, this is their only source of income.  Adding XS was a life saver but even XS is becoming overpriced as more and more energy drinks hit the shelves.  I saw a 12 pack of the #2 drink for $8 at the store.  Long-term, Quixtar needs put a plan in place to continuously stay competetive in the market for us IBOs to be successful when e-commerce goes mainstream in the next 5 years.  I am hearing they are investing this and that but I don't see prices going down.  And the shipping...oh my goodness, no one charges those rates anymore!  Remember, e-commerce is only 3% of total retail.  As this ratio increases do you think prices will go up or down on the internet?  Quixtar, get with it please....for all of us.

Piet Strydom said:
August 14, 2007 11:35 AM | #

To ThePearl: The general Amway plan refers to putting your IBO's next to each other below you, on the same line. Stacking refers to the widely adopted practice of putting them in a vertical line below you, as well as everybody they put in.

The width approach is profitable, but not very stable. the stacking method generates more enthusiasm, but is much less profitable. It easily leads to a windtunnel. (A long row of zero's in the PV column) *Apparently* one of the problems with the TEAM approach is that they overemphasised the depth aspect, and heavily promoted tools.

This lead to people being out of pocket for the tools, while struggling to earn income from the business, as they only had one leg below them.

You need a balance between the two. Exactly where that balance is, is difficult to prescribe.

Piet Strydom said:
August 14, 2007 11:39 AM | #

To computer freak: They were terminated when they made known their intention to start a rival MLM company. This is clearly in violation of their IBO agreements with Amway, and Amway terminated their agreements.

If you peruse the internet you will see that Team of Destiny, as they were originally known, has a long history of problems associated with them. I am certain Amway grabbed the opportunity with both hands. (Which seems to be close to the truth, if you have a look at their initial announcement.)

Piet Strydom said:
August 14, 2007 11:43 AM | #

To HSW: You might not be aware, but your contractual relationship in this business is with Quixtar, not TEAM. Quixtar is not going through the "backdoor" if they contact their contracted distribution channel to provide them with their point of view first hand.

Just one question, where are you going to earn your money from in future?

Casey Mulclihy said:
August 14, 2007 12:04 PM | #

I've been a Amway and now Quixtar IBO since 1991.  Referrig to pricing above, I've always found "Amway, now Quixtar" laundry products and household cleaning products are priced with a "good bang for the buck".  Other Quixtar products are not.

I don't know what is Alticor or TEAM - I never heard of these names till today. I got an email from Quixtar and started looking on the web and found this blog.  All of  my upline has quit or quit building their businesses, except for my Diamond! This includes 2 directs in my line of sponsorship, and one of them is a Ruby! Why?  They won't tell me? Something must be wrong. I would like to know, but I'm in the dark.

I thinks a price reduction in products would be good overall.

CC said:
August 14, 2007 12:24 PM | #

I agree that the prices of products (especially the core products) should be more competative.

JG said:
August 14, 2007 2:31 PM | #

If you are part of Quixtar and  you are part of TEAM, Quitar has no right to have you quit one or the other.  

Thought we lived in America??  Thought we had freedom to choose??

If a person wants to be in more than one MLM then why should anyone care, it's like buying a Ford and a Chrylser... the freedom to buy, and own.

Bob Brookshire said:
August 14, 2007 3:32 PM | #

It was during the  June 2007 Quixtar Connection that I first caught wind of the change aka "The Transformation" from one of the staff at the Quixtar Spaulding facility.

Having been an Amway Distributor way back in the 70's and once again having an opportunity to be part of the greatest business phenomenon the world has ever known, I felt an upsurge of excitement.

I was hoping that those who are now part of Quixtar would be proud of its roots and accept this name change and adoption with grace and pride.

The first thought I had getting on the bus at Alticor was that I was in a minority. Everywhere I looked, I saw excited Japanese, Koreans, Chinese, etc. etc. And Hispanics, European and Africans

Countries that just a few years ago were Communist were there celebrating the idea of free enterprise. I saw the excitement and near fanaticism of some of them wanting have apart of the American dream and they were and are succeeding.

They are doing on a vehicle called “Amway”

It saddens me to see the family: the American part of the family has fallen apart.

It is even more distressing to see that the people who had this wonderful vision “the team” can't or won't see what I saw at the 2007 Connection.

What I see is a world full of opportunity.

What I see is that for those of us who will ride out this storm, even greater opportunity.

What I see is that if we will accept responsibility for our choices. We will grow regardless of this present challenge.

As for me and my Quixtar house:

Welcome Home Grandpa Amway. Let sit down and talk

LisBette said:
August 14, 2007 4:12 PM | #

Stephen A. Draper, unlike you I HAVE seen the private side of several diamonds personally.  You know, been to their homes, spent time with their children, their parents, and other family members (even those not in the business!). I've been to church with them, seen them spend thousands of hours on improving themselves and their businesses so they can help more people.

Woodward and Brady are even better in private than what they show in public.  More humble, more selfless, more interested in making the best business opportunity possible. If they are masters of disguise, then I think they have fooled even themselves!

G_W said:
August 14, 2007 6:08 PM | #

@LisBette & all TEAM defenders – in case you haven't done so already, please go read Quixtar's explanation of the difference between depth building and stacking. I know it's hard to see people you look up to engaged in bad-behavior, but don't fall on your sword for them… at least not till you have all the facts.

Willingness to look at the facts is the dividing line between faithful followers and cult members.

Quixtar would not be taking this kind of dramatic action that will seriously hurt their bottom line (at least in the short term) unless they had some very good reasons… I respectfully suggest that you ought to give some serious thought to those reasons.

TEAM said:
August 14, 2007 11:27 PM | #

The adolecent acts of Quixtar in their past statements against TEAM is appauling. Like the comment above "...Quixtar wouldn't be taking this kind of dramatic action that would seriously hurt "their" bottom line..."you couldn't be more right.

Their are in it for "them". Please do your own research be for you assume anything. Afterall, we all know what happens when we assume right?

TEAM, in and of itself, is 40% of Quixtar's over all volume in North America....of course they will take every action they can to keep you blind to the actual truth. My hope is that each of you truly looks at this with open eyes. But, that's a bit hard when they're not telling you the truth, just the part that "benefits" them and you temporarily.

It truly is unfortunate it's come to this...the saying rings true, the nail that raises its head above the others gets pounded the most. Pound away if you feel so apt to do so, just try not to be ignorant of the other side of the story.

Brooke Hummell said:
August 15, 2007 1:36 AM | #

This is the INFORMATION AGE...as we have all been taught so diligently. The information from the general public is "We do not want anything to do with Amway" how then are all of us fellow business owners suppose to broaden our businesses if the moment people hear the word Amway...they run the other way? The facts and INFORMATION is clear, please consider our pleas. I fear for the company as a whole if this actually goes through. Let's stand together and seek out solutions as a team, the Quixtar team.

Brooke Hummell said:
August 15, 2007 1:38 AM | #

This is the INFORMATION AGE...as we have all been taught so diligently. The information from the general public is "We do not want anything to do with Amway" how then are all of us fellow business owners suppose to broaden our businesses if the moment people hear the word Amway...they run the other way? The facts and INFORMATION is clear, please consider our pleas. I fear for the company as a whole if this actually goes through. Let's stand together and seek out solutions as a team, the Quixtar team.

Allan S said:
August 15, 2007 2:04 AM | #

Well "Team",

You 40% number is a perfect example of the distortions and exagerations that are spread by your organization.but if it is. 4 or 40, think for a moment.Why would Quixtar threaten that much volume if it was being generated legally? They make money also off the volume.For years there has been accusations that Quixtar looked the other way when it came to violators. What ever the number I for one am glad that they have stepped up and are protecting all our futures by preserving the integrity of this business even while I remain tremendously disappointed in Alticor's juvenile approach to their blog.

HSW, Quixtar is not using any back door with IBOs affiliated with Team. Everyone of them have a contract with Quixtar and Quixtar has an obligation to communicate with them and explain options. None of us are owned by anyone we have the right to receive the information and choose for ourselves.

ROBERTO said:
August 15, 2007 3:13 AM | #

THANK YOU, FOR THIS SPACE; WE ARE VERY CONFUSED OF THIS MOMENTS, THE MOS IMPORTANT NOT OCURRED IN MY BUSINESS

Clark said:
August 15, 2007 8:53 AM | #

I have read numerous statements from both sides and truthfully dont know on which side to choose. The comment I will make is that I called both Quixtar and my Diamond (the-TEAM) and neither of them answered or returned my call. My Diamond sent me an e-mail imediately after I called with attachmenemts of the posted statements from the web. Of which it did not not answer any of my questions.  

I still have not recieved a call from him or the big Q. My question is how does Team's leaders and training termination affect me. Im starting to believe that the little guy/ new IBO dosent really matter, just thrown aside.

I have read and listened to the cd's from the (Team) and have only been a IBO since June. So as you can guess, I'm in the dark and neither side has steped up to show what paths are availble and what I am expected to do about building or what support I have now that the Team materials are not accepted by Quixtar. Do I get traded like they do in sports or just lost in the back field of the main event?

Thanks

Editor's Note: Clark, sorry that you have not been contacted. As you can expect, Sales staff are making a ton of calls to various IBOs and it's quite possible they haven't made their way through the list.  RL

MAB said:
August 15, 2007 9:48 AM | #

Clark,  the little guy has the most power.  Because without the bottom of the leg growing, there is no business.  It is going to take alot of us little guys standing up and saying enough for all sides to start listening.

My upline said "watch the team web site www.the-team.biz"  well that only tells you the team side of the story.  I suggest looking at Quixtar sites like this one to see other views or even check out other Quixtar group sites to see if they have anything posted.  You might be enlighted as to what they say.  You will also have a better understanding of the issues at hand.

As far as  your business is concerned continue on.  Use the rules you know and if you have questions on proper building call Quixtar customer support they will get you in contact with the right people, or I'm sure your DIAMOND/ platium does care about their organization.

TEAM Supporter said:
August 15, 2007 12:17 PM | #

In response to Pats' comment about the TEAM leaders knowing Quixtar is a pyramid and not telling us. First of all when I read your comment, I thought to myself (no kidding, we've trusted all along what our uplines tell us, and believe that its not a pyramid, and have to defend our position to new prospects almost everytime we show this plan), but I also agree with LisBettes' comments above. I have been on the TEAM for a few years now and have had the privilage to assoc. with several of the Diamonds and other PLAINTIFFS outside of the public eye.  These men have on more than one occasion, went to Quixtar with their concern about overpricing, and were repeatedly told that they are working on it, so they were in fact trying to fix the problem before making any major moves.  In this type of business, internal consumption only, makes it illegal.  If you've built this business for any length of time, you would know that it is extremely difficult to retail these products to customers, because of the prices.  I personally love alot of the products, however, when I have a strict budget that I have to follow, I cant afford to order a tube of toothpaste for cost X3 plus S&H, when I can go to a dollar store and get it for a $1.  How can we be expected to sell these products to members or clients, when we can't even use them ourselves.  I believe alot of prayer, thought, and investigating has led these leaders to do what was absolutely necessary for their TEAMs, and I firmly believe that in the end, TRUTH will triumph.

And as for the system, which the TEAM makes well known that it is optional, has helped so many people in their business, their home, at work, and many other aspects of life. It has literally changed lives. For me personally it's made me a better wife & mother, and has made a huge impact on my marriage.

This situation is very disturbing, it's like a slap in the face for all involved, and will affect thousands of people in the future, regardless of who comes out on top. I think that the lower level IBOS are the ones suffering the most at this point, not really knowing whats gonna happen or who to trust, or just flat out knowing the legalities of it all. So all we can do is sit and wait.   I just pray that the court will look very closely at both sides and come to a fair and just solution. Because I think we all know that it's a great business, we know it's the way of the future, and our leaders are just trying to make it better.  And Obviously, Quixtar saw something in these guys or they would not have let them on the board.  

Again,  TRUTH WILL TRIUMPH IN THE END.

Jackie L said:
August 15, 2007 12:41 PM | #

Pat H., you comment that "all Team has is a cd and book selling busines That won’t sell!" That "cd and book selling business" has changed my life! It has made me a better person, a better wife and mother and has GREATLY improved my daughters chance in life for not getting roped into 95% thinking and the "45 year plan" like most of us have been trying to make a living on for most of our lives! If that is "all Team has" I'd still sign up! I look at Orrin Woodward & Chris Brady (and many other leaders of Team) and I envy their relationships with their wives, their children (and yes, with their Creator!) and can only hope that everyone could know them for who they really are.

Emory Riley said:
August 15, 2007 1:27 PM | #

I find it intersting that people say that they cannot sell the products at the current prices. I and many others on my team do rather well in retailing the products. It is through product knowledge and demonstrating the products that value is proven to the customers. Instead of complaining about the prices, try to find out what those who sell successfully are doing and copy them!

I am proud to be associated with Quixtar and I am glad they are standing up to a few who have forgotten that it is by serving our downline that we all get to grow both personally and professionally.

Opportunity? said:
August 15, 2007 8:01 PM | #

I am really disapointed with Alticor/Quixtar.  It is one thing to make hard decisions regarding their buisness, but to be negitive regarding the IBO's that resigned/terminated is not very professional.  

Those IBOs are good people making tough decisions as well.  We may not agree but does it have to be so dirty.  Alticor/Quixtar has seemed to be the most negitive.  I have not heard anything negitive from the IBOs tat resigned/terminated.  

I really think Alticor/Quixtar should take the high road and apologize for allowing the negitive things they have been promoting.  

 

Editor's Note: The IBOs who were terminated filed a class action lawsuit against the company. I don't know how that cannot be viewed as a negative statement. It threatens the company's business and the business of every single IBO.  RL

Max said:
August 15, 2007 10:02 PM | #

If you are doing well selling the products at the current pricing, can you imagine the growth of your business if the founding families reduced the 30% they take off the gross sales of all Quixtar products (the "Jay Factor")? And never have to be concerned about being related to "AmWay"??  I can't wait for this nonsense to be over with!  Soon, we will have the same products, website, bonuses, etc... but will no longer have to deal with the negative "AmWay" reputation.  Add this to providing a service of time saving, online shopping and home delivery of goods that costs less than any store front retail center and WOW, we're going to make history!! Good times are coming!  Stay with "AmWay" at your own risk!

Lucy Jacob said:
August 15, 2007 11:15 PM | #

I agree that the prices are getting out of reach for most folks and are getting less competative.  Also, the shipping is really expensive.  I've also noticed that as the prices have gone up, the PV in some instances has been reduced.

I love the products, but eventually, I will not be able to justify the cost.

Siretha Griffin said:
August 15, 2007 11:36 PM | #

Quixtar/Alticore/Amway are missing the boat.

I have been associated with this company off and on since 1976.  Every time I get out it is always the same reason:  The prices are too high and unsaleable.  I only got back in this time because Orin Woodward and the Team philosophy made more since that the Amway Philosophy.  I am so happy that the Team exposed the selfishness of Quixtar/Alticore and the new Amway.

The present company policies are a disgrace to Rich and Jay.  

The best way to save the company is to apologize to the IBOs, to Orin, Chris and the Team.

Put the Team at the Helm and watch the company grow under the Amway Name.

The mere name of Amway turns people off because the company has a bad reputation because of its high priced products.

You can't beat the team. So you may as well join up with them before it's too late.

Shirley Saunders said:
August 15, 2007 11:42 PM | #

Please send this comment to the leaders of the company.

The team is growing rapidly because the organization has credibility and is concerned about IBOs.  

Amway/Quixtar /Alticore has no credibility especially among people who have been amway distributors before.  The wisest thing to do is to join in with Orin and Chris under a new paradigm using the Team program.  That is the only way you can even begin to use the Amway name.  As it stands now, people will run from Amway and Quixtar.  But they are running to the Team. You need to ask yourselves Why?

Chris and Terry with the teams help will help restore honor to the company Rich and Jay built many years ago.  

I would hate for you guys to go out of business over this.  I also would hate for any new company formed by the team to compete with employees of Amway/Quixtar or Alticore.

Swallow your pride, Call Chris and apologize. He is a very forgiving and determined leader.  

Shirley Saunders said:
August 15, 2007 11:52 PM | #

I will comments every time I get the chance.

Someone has to talk some sense into you guys.

It is distructive to the company that Rich and Jay built for the descendents to continue the downward spiral.  

The only reason I bought the expensive products was to show support and loyalty to the Team.  Despite their quality, I was embarassed to recommend the the products to anyone who wasn't making a over 80 thousand dollars a year.  But even these persons, laughed after looking at the prices.  Its rediculous.

I tried to demonstrate to some financially challenged new IBO how to sell the products.  Needless to say, I couldn't sell ONE item.  This was an embarrassment.

I read the legal brief and am very pleased that Orin and Chris exposed the company policy that victimized me each time I rejoined the organization, hoping that things had changed.  

Like everyone else, I only bought enough to meet requirements. The few times that I bought more than this, I regretted it.  Because I was just being bilked with the high prices.  

CALL Orinn and apologize.  Join with the TEam.

Get your lawyers together and fix the regulatory issues. But don't think for one minute that experienced IBOS will go back to the antiquated Quixtar/Amway plan.  

As for the tools.  I read the books and listen to the tapes because they are motivational, just like the tapes amway produced in 1976  "The Majic of Thinking Big."  The only difference is the tools are coming from the TEam.  

Do you expect us to purchase our books and tapes from someone elses business?  

Shirley Saunders said:
August 15, 2007 11:53 PM | #

I am tired.

I am  disappointed with Amway, Quixtar and Alticore.  

Despite my ramblings, I don't think you guys are listening.  I feel sorry for all the good employees that you have. They will suffer because of the companies selfishness.  

JMartin said:
August 16, 2007 2:22 AM | #

  I'm on my way to work and I hear the Towers have been attacked... My response to others is that the perpetrators don't know America's resolve.

  I receive a call from my upline mentor that Team has announced litigation processes after attempted communication failures with Quixtar (Amway Corp was not the problem.)... And I am reminded of "The Patriot" -- of a father who did not want to get involved but was drawn into the controversy and battle.

  We are all called to become aware of Truths and own them... herein lies the problem -- "becoming," as one journeys through life, few of us take responsibility of past events and say the buck stops here - I am responsible and from this day forward will take steps to put right the wrongs that I've become aware of.  Great men are born of courage and discomfort... So lie in the comfort of status quo, when the tide goes out, you won't be noticed as not having existed.

Clark said:
August 16, 2007 5:49 AM | #

MAB,

Thanks for the info. I have completed the steps that you have suggested and thats why I am fustrated.  The Quixtar rep I called said that they couldnt help with that info and they would transfer me to the rep that could. I found out that more than likely I will not get a return call because I am not a Dia. or Plat. This info was directly from the Quixtar 1800 # rep. My upline for some reason wont answer his phone.

Its just hard for me grasp since Quixtar set me up with the Team and now that the Team is in this situation they have not taken the time to respond, to me atleast.

It is discouraging to people like me to continue since you dont know what to tell new prospects about the Team or my up line. All of my connections are starting to loose intrest and time is important. Soon I will loose intrest also. Drama brings everyone down.

Thanks

kjteam said:
August 16, 2007 9:00 AM | #

I noticed in the other blogs that there is a mention of the Federal Trade Commission and other Federal agencies.  Can you please quote me the Federal Statue in which you are referring when stating answers about "stacking".  When you mention the FTC and others you are using scare tactics that most people take on face value.  My experience in the past with Labor/Management negotiations is to read it for myself.  

The other question I have on Stacking is how does

"Market America" who builds this way (2 legs straight down, and have been around since the early 80s, and started by:  you guessed it, an x-Amway diamond) get away with it Statutorily. (no I am not considering or have ever considered joining "Market America".) I know this because they are a competitor in this area and