Melaleuca

Melaleuca, Inc. is an American wellness company and one of the nation's leading direct-to-consumer retailers of health and wellness products. Founded in 1985 by Frank VanderSloot in Idaho Falls, Idaho, Melaleuca is unique among direct-selling companies in that it positions itself primarily as a consumer products company with an affiliate marketing model rather than a traditional MLM. The company's name comes from Melaleuca alternifolia, the tea tree plant known for its natural antiseptic properties. Melaleuca offers over 400 products across categories including nutritional supplements, weight management, sports nutrition, skincare, cleaning products, oral care, and baby products—all formulated with natural, safer ingredients. Key product lines include Vitality vitamins and supplements, EcoSense household cleaners, Renew skincare, and Sei Bella cosmetics. The company reports annual revenues exceeding $2 billion, making it one of the largest privately held consumer wellness companies in the United States. Melaleuca employs approximately 4,500 people and serves over 2 million active customers in over 20 countries across North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Melaleuca's marketing model requires customers to become 'preferred members' who commit to purchasing a minimum of 35 product points each month. Marketing executives earn commissions when they refer new preferred members and when those members continue making monthly purchases. The company has an impressive customer retention rate of approximately 95%, significantly higher than the MLM industry average, reflecting genuine product loyalty.