QNET is an international direct selling company founded in 1998. As one of the first companies in Asia to incorporate e-commerce into traditional face-to-face direct selling, QNET is a trailblazer in the industry, transcending borders and reshaping lives across the world. Today, QNET is a leading global direct selling company establishing its international footprint with over 25 offices in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Sub Saharan Africa, Russia, and the CIS region. With a global headquarters in Hong Kong, QNET operates in India through its sub-franchisee Vihaan Direct Selling (India) Pvt Ltd, in Bengaluru, touching the lives of millions across the country over the years.
At the heart of QNET’s mission is empowering individuals to take charge of their lives – promoting healthier well-being, focusing on personal development, nurturing healthy relationships in life, and securing future generations for their children. See this transformative power in action in the video below:
Millions of customers have benefited from QNET’s products and services over the last two decades. More than mere customers, many have evolved into QNET distributors, not only enjoying the products but also earning commissions by sharing the benefits with others. In India alone, a staggering 600,000 QNET distributors stand testament to the company’s influence, with countless individuals reaping rewards through product sales.
QNET is not just a company; it’s a commitment to excellence and integrity. As a member of prestigious international associations such as the Direct Selling Association of Malaysia, Direct Selling Association of Singapore, Direct Selling Association of the Philippines, Direct Selling Association UAE, and Direct Selling Association of Indonesia, QNET stands as a beacon of trust and quality. QNET is also a member of Hong Kong Health Food Association and the Health Supplements Industry Association (Singapore).
What is direct selling?
Direct selling is a revolutionary network marketing method that bypasses traditional advertising giants and brick and mortar stores where products and services are sold directly to consumers. These products come with unique features exclusive to QNET (or any other direct selling company), driving sales through the authentic power of word-of-mouth referrals. In direct selling, sales are mostly generated through word-of-mouth referrals.
Relationship-based marketing is the core of direct selling and has existed for over 150 years, with the industry picking up a lot of steam globally and, notably, in India.
Read More: Understanding the ABCs of direct selling and its future in India I QNET Reviews
According to the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA), the direct selling industry generated $172.8 billion in 2022. Approximately 114 million people globally are direct sellers in both part-time and full-time capacity.
QNET business in India
In 2011, QNET appointed Vihaan Direct Selling (India) Pvt. Ltd. as its sub-franchise in India. Vihaan is incorporated under the Companies Act, 1956 and possesses all valid licenses required to operate its business. The company adheres to all statutory mandates and the direct selling guidelines issued by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs in 2016.
India now ranks 11th in the direct selling market climbing up from 15th in 2019, with retail sales reaching $3.23 billion in 2022 and boasting 40% female independent distributors in the industry. India witnessed an impressive 5.4% increase in Year-on-Year (YOY) growth. This growth trajectory is further highlighted by India’s exceptional Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 13.3% in constant dollars over the last three years.
Through Vihaan, QNET markets home care and personal care products, nutritional supplements, luxury watches, and jewellery. More than 80% of the products available to customers in India are sourced locally from small and medium enterprises in line with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
All products meet stringent quality standards and are backed by guarantees or manufacturer warranties. QNET audits the quality of all partner companies that supply our products through visual inspections, and rigorous testing standards. Third-party tests are conducted and certifications such as FSSAI and Ayush for consumable products are also sought for certain products. The video below should reassure you of the authenticity of QNET India products:
QNET’s market strategy for India includes partnerships with leading brands to develop products that address vital lifestyle challenges such as clean water and air. Prominent household consumer durable brands Kent, Sharp and Cuckoo have chosen QNET to market and distribute specific models of their technology.
QNET products
In India, the diverse range of products include health, wellness and lifestyle products:
- SHARP-QNET Zensational air purifier with patented plasma cluster ion technology, in partnership with Sharp Business Systems. KENT-QNET Smart water purifier with unique mineral retention and alkaline functionality in partnership with Kent RO Systems.
- Health and Wellness products under the Nutriplus range includes supplements like DailyHealth, DiabaHealth, ImmunHealth, BoneHealth, SkinHealth and Virgin Coconut Oil. This health range further includes exotic teas sourced from an SME and a range of organic monofloral honey from rural communities.
- ORITSU Premium Tableware brings to you a timeless dining experience, reflective of an opulent lifestyle and an ideal gifting choice for all seasons.
- The Physio Radiance skincare ranges bring to you beauty products that replenish and promote beautifully soft and super smooth skin.
Our homegrown Indian watch brand CHAIROS collection includes an attractive range of elegant daily wear timepieces to sporty and high-end luxury pieces for both men and women. Kinnari – The Royal Collection defines elegance with luxurious and magnificent jewellery crafted for the modern woman. For more information related to our products, please visit our website.
How does the QNET business opportunity work?
Curious about the QNET business opportunity? You can get started with QNET either as a retail customer or as a distributor:
- Simply buy our products and services as a retail customer, using a referral ID of an existing QNET Distributor. This results from a QNET distributor sharing the benefits of a product or service and you purchasing through our e-commerce portal. Your referrer earns a retail commission on your sale. There is no commitment to become a distributor at any point of your purchase.
- You buy the product but also register with QNET as a Distributor, as per the company’s policy. This allows you to promote QNET’s products and services to earn commissions on their sale. QNET’s robust compensation plan enables you to build a sales organisation and earn commissions from your personal sales as well as the sales generated by your team.
- You buy the product but also register with QNET as a Distributor, as per the company’s policy. This allows you to promote QNET’s products and services to earn commissions on their sale. QNET’s robust compensation plan enables you to build a sales organisation and earn commissions from your personal sales as well as the sales generated by your team.
Note – A distributor acts as an independent distributor (as per a contract signed with the company) and is not an employee of QNET or Vihaan Direct Selling (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Remember, the choice is yours – stay a retail consumer or embrace the distributor path. Crucially, distributors never earn commissions on registering new distributors.
Read More: Understanding The QNET Business In India
QNET compliance in India
All distributors go through a KYC process in order to begin their journey as a distributor with QNET in India. The KYC process requires PAN card for verification of your identity.
- New distributors receive a phone call or email from our support team. They are asked specific questions to ensure they understand the business they signed up for, what product they have purchased and their right to a refund within the 30-day period.
- This is followed by a standard KYC check.
- QNET enables the transfer of commission earnings once a cancelled cheque is obtained to verify the relevant bank.
- Then a One Time Password (OTP) is sent to the registered mobile number of the distributor to be on-boarded in order to authenticate their user ID and provide access to the QNET India eStore.
- ID Cards are issued to the distributor after due verifications in accordance with the direct selling guidelines of the Central Government.
Once this process is complete, the new distributor can log in to their Virtual Office on the QNET India website and find all the relevant documents related to their business, including the Code of Ethics for their marketing behaviour.
As per the Direct Selling Guidelines:
- There is no sign-up or registration fee for individuals who would like to register as a QNET distributor.
- A 30-day refund period is available if the customer is not satisfied with the product.
Personal development and training programmes
Unleash your potential with QNET in India. Our products are backed by a network of well-trained distributors. Being a part of QNET in India means:
- You will enjoy world-class and quality products
- Have access to the tools and training needed to build your own business
- Be able to grow on a professional and personal level
QNET supports its distributors with multiple levels of training programmes, business tools, and webinars. A Basic Training programme is given to newcomers to educate them about the company, its products and services, the compensation plan, code of ethics, and knowledge about the industry. Other levels of training include goal setting, planning, presentation, public speaking, leadership development, and mentoring.
QNET ensures you have the skills to build your own successful business. From basic education to advanced leadership development, our training covers every facet, ensuring you learn from the best globally.
QNET – Myths & Realities
QNET in India has been surrounded by baseless rumours and controversies. These false allegations have raised questions about the legitimacy of the QNET business.
Myth: QNET India runs a pyramid scheme
Reality:
QNET thrives on product sales, not recruitment. No sale, no commissions. We condemn pyramid schemes, upholding all consumer protection laws.
Illegal pyramid schemes pay commissions for recruiting more people. Direct selling companies in India pay commissions only based on the sale of products. No sale of products means no commissions.
A pyramid scheme’s way of making a profit is mainly through recruiting new distributors and not product sales. These schemes usually involve large upfront fees and front-loading a large amount of inventory that is not returnable. QNET condemns front loading and has adopted all domestic consumer protection laws.
Pyramid schemes inevitably collapse. QNET’s business is based on a sustainable sales model of commissions through product sales. That is why even after 20 years we continue to grow, thrive, and expand internationally.
QNET operates in countries with the most sophisticated and stringent laws and regulations governing this industry. We have built a strong market presence and reputation in countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Germany where our operations are completely legal and compliant with local laws.
QNET has always complied with local regulations in any country it has operated in, paid taxes, contributed to numerous community development activities, and supported the local economy. We also instil strict professional conduct in our distributors and penalise those who violate our Policies and Procedures.
Myth: Only those in the top get rich
Reality: Success depends on hard work, not position. Commissions are earned through sales, and teamwork is the key to prosperity.
It does not matter when a person registered as a distributor or where his/her position is in the team. Since commissions are only paid on product sales and not member recruitment, the only way to make money is through hard work. The distributors that generate the most in sales make the most commissions. Often distributors will earn more than the person that introduced them to the business. The way the QNET compensation plan is structured, no individual can succeed on their own unless they help others in their team succeed.
Myth: QNET India does not refund customers
Reality:
Customer satisfaction has always been our top priority. Refunds are honoured within a 30-day period, in adherence to the law.
Our business is built on word-of-mouth marketing and trust in our products. Unfairly withholding refunds would be severely detrimental to our business and contrary to the law.
Any customer who is unsatisfied with his/her product purchase needs to contact the company within a 30-day buy back time period and the company will accept the refund request. It is important to note that many customers try to demand a refund after the refund period, sometimes after 2 to 3 years. Like any other business, QNET cannot honour such refund requests.
Myth: QNET is a money deposit/money chain/ investment scheme
Reality: QNET is a direct selling company. No deposits, no interest payments. Your success hinges on dedication, strategy, and hard work.
It is very crucial to understand that QNET is not an investment scheme. QNET is a direct selling company that sells products and services. Customers only pay for the purchase of these products and services. QNET has never accepted any deposits and has never paid any type of interest payment.
Like in any other business, you need to work hard, be committed, plan your business strategy and set goals in order to achieve success in direct selling. Your success depends entirely upon you and the hard work you put in. There is no timeline to how quickly one can earn commissions.
All this information is clearly stated on our website and marketing material.
Challenges faced by QNET in India
QNET in India does not fall under the purview of the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978 (PCMC Act) and The Maharashtra Protection of Interest of Depositors Act (MPID Act)
The PCMC Act provides a framework to ban ‘Prize Chits’ and ‘Money Circulation’. The Act deals with the banning of a scheme which is aimed at making quick or easy money and on the happening of a contingent event. The PCMC Act is a variation of colonial laws that was then updated in 1978 to fight the scourge of small-time lotteries and Ponzi schemes. This was years before direct selling companies started doing business in India in the ‘90s.
QNET’s India business is neither prize chits nor money circulation because there are specific products and services that must be purchased for any acceptance of payment. In other words, the consumer always gets something for their money. Also, there is no ‘entry fee’ or periodical subscription required pursuant to Section 2(c) of the Act.
The state regulators have alleged that some of the companies involved in direct selling conduct ‘money laundering activities’ by promoting or conducting a scheme to make quick and easy money. Those regulators really have no other clear direction when misconceptions of the industry are coupled with the lack of clear guidelines. Direct selling may be the only industry pushing for further government intervention and regulation.
Similarly, QNET in India also doesn’t come under the Maharashtra Protection of Depositors (in Financial Establishments) Act, 1999 (MPID) as there are no deposits involved in the business., No offence under the MPID Act can be attributed when there is no deposit scheme involved. Vihaan and QNET are not financial establishments as they do not accept any deposit or any money or valuable commodity for any monetary return. Purchasers have no right to the money paid to the company, outside of refunds for products. Thus, any payment for products and services is not a ‘deposit’ for the purposes of MPID Act, as the orders for goods and services falls within the exception of section 2(c)(v)(d) of the MPID Act.
The entire process is in compliance with the provisions of the Sale of Goods Act as well as the model direct selling Guidelines from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.
QNET’s legal status in India
In August 2013, an investigation into QNET’s Indian franchisee Vihaan was started on the basis of a fraudulent allegation against a non-existent commercial transaction. After a 3-year-long investigation arising from this, the case went up all the way to the Supreme Court of India, which in March 2017 stayed all pending FIRs and investigations into the company.
The order from the Supreme Court was passed soon after the Hon’ble High Court of Karnataka had quashed a charge sheet filed by the CID in Bangalore. It may be noted that the Hon’ble Justice had categorically stated that “QNET is not a Ponzi scheme and the company does legitimate business”. Similarly, the Hon’ble High Court of Telangana and AP had stayed all proceedings against the company in 2016.
In January 2019, 58 distributors of QNET India were arrested by the Cyberabad Police on alleged MLM fraud. However, justice was served once again, when in January 2019, the Supreme Court ordered no coercive action to be taken upon the FIRs filed by the Telangana Police. The Telangana High Court also ordered the state of Telangana, the Commissioner of Police of Hyderabad, and the Commissioner of Police of Cyberabad, to refrain from taking any action against the distributors of QNET.
Read More: QNET and Supreme Court | Summary of Important Legal Verdicts in India
These verdicts have helped strengthen and reinforce QNET’s legitimacy in India as a genuine direct selling company.
Direct selling guidelines issued by Government of India
The Direct Selling Guidelines 2016 were issued by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution as guiding principles for State Governments to regulate the business of direct selling and Multi-Level Marketing (MLM). These guidelines also aim to strengthen the existing regulatory mechanism on direct selling, prevent fraudulent business practices, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of consumers.
The guidelines have been constructed to differentiate between legitimate direct selling businesses from Ponzi schemes and help consumers make more informed decisions.
All direct selling companies were given 90 days to register and comply with these guidelines. Some of these conditions are-
- Legal entity under the laws of India.
- Provide accurate and complete information to prospective and existing direct sellers concerning the reasonable amount of remuneration opportunity, and related rights and obligations.
- Minimum quantity of goods to be purchased shall not be fixed.
- Sales promotion materials shall not be charged.
- Buy back policy within 30 days.
- Companies should maintain an updated register of Direct Sellers.
- Company website shall show full details.
- Members shall pay VAT if exceeds the limit.
- Commission payout shall be based on sales.
- Marketing plan shall clearly show the calculation of income.
QNET is in full compliance with these guidelines. As of June 2019, the guidelines are implemented in the states of Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Mizoram, Sikkim, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan. The video below explores the truth about direct selling companies in India:
QNET Code of Ethics
When a customer decides to become a QNET distributor, they must agree to a comprehensive Policies & Procedures document that provides guidelines for conducting the business in a professional manner. This includes QNET’s Code of Ethics and professional guidelines set by the company.
We have a zero-tolerance policy for any misrepresentation or unethical practices by distributors promoting the QNET business. Distributors found to be in violation of our policies and procedures are dealt with strictly, leading to suspension or termination in many cases.
Read More: QNET India Red Alerts! Everything You Need To Know
Grievance redressal
However, the company can take action only when a complaint or grievance is filed. Unsatisfied customers can cancel their order and terminate their contract with us within the 30-day period. We will process their refund. We will also get the details of the distributor who misled them and take necessary action against that distributor.
Vihaan also houses a grievance cell where customers can report product or service-related grievances. We have a dedicated customer support team to help you find the best possible solution to your problem.
Certainly! Here’s a shorter version of the article with a focus on the most important awards won in each year:
Notable Awards and Achievements
QNET has been a beacon of excellence in the global direct selling industry for 25 years, marked by recognition for CSR, philanthropic initiatives, sustainable practices, as well as awards for outstanding marketing campaigns and innovative digital strategies. Some of the recent accolades include:
2020 – Bronze awards for ‘Engaged Community of the Year’ and ‘Best Use of Social Media.’ QNET also garnered recognition for ground-breaking communications strategies and digital initiatives.
2021 – QNET won 33 awards across various categories, including ‘Most Successful Direct Selling Brand of the Year.’
2022 – QNET accumulated 44 awards, showcasing excellence in products and services. Sustainability initiatives like the #BottleSelfieChallenge and QNET Green Legacy campaigns also drew the spotlight.
QNET’s awards signify our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, reflecting our dedication to providing quality products and a supportive community for our IRs and customers. These achievements are a testament to our 25 years of commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and enhancing lives.
QNET commitment to communities
More than 1500 entrepreneurs spread joy under the ‘Spirit of Giving’ initiatives during Diwali 2018.
At QNET, we care about the communities in which we do business and work towards making them more sustainable. The life and work of Mahatma Gandhi have profoundly influenced the founders of QNET. Thus, the principle of RYTHM – Raise Yourself to Help Mankind – is at the core of the business. Through RYTHM, QNET has spread happiness and brought smiles to millions worldwide. In India, QNET often partners with the Lions Club to carry out various CSR initiatives across the country.
Read More: QNET and RYTHM Foundation | Empowering Lives and Transforming Indian Communities
Projects in partnership with Lions Clubs
- In 2015, employees and distributors partnered with the Lions Dist.317 F Service Foundation, Bangalore Chapter, and organised relief kits for 200 families affected by the Chennai floods.
- In 2016, QNET launched the Nutriplus Health Camp at the Government primary school Sahakarnagar in Bangalore in association with the Lions Clubs of Kodigehalli, and the support of BBMP Corporator. Around 180 students were provided Nutriplus protein shake every day for the duration of the project, and significant health changes were recorded at the end of 8 weeks of continuous monitoring of the students.
- In 2018, the Lions Clubs in Kodigehalli, Bangalore organised a blood donation camp, in partnership with QNET in order to create awareness about the shortage of blood and educate people about the benefits of blood donation.
- QNET India partnered with Lions Clubs International, a local chapter in Bengaluru to donate a Kidney Dialysis Unit to the Shirdi Sai Hospital located in Devasandra, Bangalore
- On 24 November, QNET’s India business in association with Lions Clubs organised Walk of Life, a walkathon, to create more awareness about childhood cancer.
- In 2018, QNET in association with Lions Clubs, held an event in Hassan, Karnataka, to provide prosthetic limbs Jaipur Foot to 50 disadvantaged people who had lost a limb in tragic accidents.
- On World Diabetes Day, QNET India along with Lions Clubs organised a Free Diabetes Camp for the underprivileged communities in Bengaluru.
- QNET partnered with the Lions Clubs of Hyderabad, Swarnapuri and identified 1200 deserving children from Grade 6 and above, who couldn’t afford basic school supplies. Under QNET India’s We Care initiative, the company-sponsored uniforms and eco-friendly school bags for these children so that they could start the new school year with confidence.
- QNET partnered with the Lions Clubs of Hyderabad, Swarnapuri, Dist. 316 F, to fund the construction of a water storage facility for a Government Primary School in Sriram Nagar in Hyderabad. This storage facility delivers safe drinking water to more than 800 students every day.
Other charitable projects
- In Mumbai, QNET in India had partnered with Our Children Trust to present the annual Children’s Meet, a showcase of talent by underprivileged children in the city.
- Every Diwali, QNET entrepreneurs in India come together and help spread the festive cheer among the underprivileged communities across the country. In 2018, around 1500 entrepreneurs joined forces under the ‘Spirit of Giving’ banner to carry out nationwide voluntary programmes aimed at giving back to the society.
- QNET India partnered with the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics in Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru to help promote nutrition awareness among three government schools in Bengaluru.
Partnerships in sports
QNET is passionate about sports in India and actively works to promote sports in the country, especially para-sports and para-athletes. Over the years, QNET India has associated with various sporting events and partnered with renowned and inspiring names.
- International tennis player Martina Hingis has been a QNET brand ambassador.
- Since 2011, QNET has sponsored motorsports driver Chetan Korada, the world’s first formula driver to win a race with synthetic feet.
- In 2015, QNET India co-hosted the National Para Badminton Championship in Bengaluru.
- QNET along with Lions Clubs sponsored Indian para-athlete Sandesh B.G. for the 31st World Arm Wrestling Championship 2018. He finished among the top 5 at the Championship held in Antalya, Turkey.
- Amputee mountaineer Arunima Sinha became QNET’s India brand ambassador in December 2018. QNET sponsored her Antarctica Expedition and after successfully completing the expedition, she has become the only female amputee to conquer all seven peaks across the five continents.
- QNET is also has a long-standing partnership with football giants Manchester City FC.
The road ahead
With a growing consumer base and the introduction of direct selling guidelines, the future of this industry in India is bright. However, emphasis needs to be given on the proper implementation of guidelines across the states. For QNET in India, the focus in the coming years will be to develop and expand offerings in the health and wellness category, partner with Indian SMEs to bring their products to a vast audience and support underprivileged communities through our CSR activities.
