Usborne Books & More is a network marketing company that specializes in selling children's books through independent consultants. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, it operates as a direct sales division of Usborne Publishing.
The company offers a wide variety of books from Usborne and Kane Miller, catering to children from infancy to young adulthood. With a solid BBB rating of A+ and a Trustpilot score of 3.5/5, Usborne Books & More seems to have built a reputable presence in the educational market.
However, potential consultants should be aware of some risks. The income disclosure indicates that a small percentage of earners make the majority of income, and there are monthly purchase requirements to earn full commissions. Still, the overall risk level is low, with a trust score of 81/100.
Pros and Cons
✓ Pros
- Reputable company
Usborne Books & More has been around since 1989 and has an A+ rating from the BBB, which shows they've built a solid reputation.
- Decent commission structure
You earn a 25% commission on sales, which is pretty standard and can be appealing for book lovers.
- Flexible selling options
They offer various ways to sell, like home parties and book fairs, giving you a chance to reach different customers.
- Good support for fundraisers
Their fundraiser commissions can be a great way to engage with schools and communities, making it easier to sell books.
- Annual convention rewards
The annual convention can be a fun way to connect with other consultants and gain motivation, plus you can earn rewards.
✗ Cons
- High top earner concentration
The income disclosure shows that a small percentage of consultants earn most of the money, which isn’t unusual but is a red flag.
- Monthly purchase requirements
To earn full commissions, you must meet monthly purchase requirements, which can pressure you to spend more than you sell.
- Mixed Trustpilot reviews
With a 3.5/5 rating, some consultants report dissatisfaction, which indicates potential issues in the experience.
- Income potential may be limited
Many people in MLMs end up losing money, and Usborne isn’t an exception as most participants earn less than they spend.
- Not a full-time income option
It’s unlikely that you can make a sustainable full-time income solely through Usborne, especially if you're not a strong seller.
Verdict: Usborne Books & More has some solid aspects, especially for book lovers, but the risk of low earnings and pressure to buy monthly is a concern. If you’re looking for a side gig and love books, it might be worth exploring, but be cautious about the financial commitment.
Best for: This is ideal for those who enjoy selling and connecting with others over books, especially parents and teachers. If you want a guaranteed income or are not comfortable with sales, you might want to steer clear.
Risk Analysis
Usborne Books & More has a low risk profile with a solid BBB rating and positive customer feedback. However, potential recruits should be aware of the income concentration among top earners and the monthly purchase requirements for full commissions.
Key Concerns
- Income concentration among top earners moderate
Income disclosure shows a significant portion of earnings is concentrated among a small number of top earners.
- Monthly purchase requirements for full commissions moderate
Participants must make monthly purchases to qualify for full commission rates.
Positive Indicators
- Strong BBB rating
Usborne Books & More has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
- Decent customer satisfaction
Trustpilot scores show a 3.5/5 rating, indicating a reasonable level of customer satisfaction.
Consumer Advice: If you're considering joining Usborne Books & More, take a hard look at the income potential and understand the requirements for earning commissions. Make sure you're comfortable with the monthly purchase obligations before diving in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Usborne Books & More
Is Usborne Books & More a legitimate MLM company?
Yes, Usborne Books & More is a legitimate MLM company. Founded in 1989 and based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, which speaks to their credibility.
What products does Usborne Books & More sell?
Usborne Books & More specializes in children's books. They offer a wide range of titles, including educational books, activity books, and storybooks, all aimed at engaging young readers.
How much can you make with Usborne Books & More?
Earnings can vary widely, but Usborne Books & More offers a 25% sales commission on personal sales. Top earners can pull in significant income, but the income disclosure shows a concentration among the highest earners, meaning not everyone will earn the same.
Are there complaints about Usborne Books & More?
Some complaints about Usborne Books & More focus on the monthly purchase requirements to qualify for full commissions. This can be a hurdle for some consultants, especially those just starting out.
What is the compensation plan for Usborne Books & More?
Usborne Books & More uses a Unilevel Plan for their compensation structure. You can earn a 25% commission on your sales, plus team overrides of 3-8%, and bonuses for book fairs and fundraising events.
How much does it cost to join Usborne Books & More?
Joining Usborne Books & More typically requires an initial investment for a starter kit, which costs around $75. This kit includes a selection of books and resources to help you get started.
What is Usborne Books & More's BBB rating?
Usborne Books & More has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This indicates that they handle customer complaints effectively and maintain a strong level of trust with their consultants.
What is the Trust Score for Usborne Books & More?
Usborne Books & More has a Trust Score of 81/100. This score reflects their overall reputation and customer satisfaction, which is a solid indicator of their standing in the MLM space.
What are some alternatives to Usborne Books & More?
If you're considering alternatives to Usborne Books & More, you might check out companies like Pampered Chef or Tupperware. Each has its own unique products and compensation plans, so it’s worth comparing them to find the best fit for you.
