Tupperware began operations in 1946 and manufactures and markets consumer products for the home under the brand name Tupperware. Tupperware products include food storage continers, children’s educational toys, tumblers and mugs, serving centers, utensils and other products. For the three months ending 04/01/00, net sales rose 7% to $268.6 million. Net income rose 8% to $19.2 million. Results reflect higher sales in Asia, Latin America and the U.S. and improved margins and lower promotion expenses.Upper level executives with offices run Tupperware worldwide. Reporting to them are regional directors and managers who supervise various teams and direct sellers. The direct sellers are the consultants who offer and sell the product to hosted parties.Situation AnalysisTupperware Corporation, a $1.1 billion multination company, is one of the worlds leading direct selling companies, with nearly one million independent sales people bringing Tupperware’s product to life in more than 100 companies. They continue to introduce new designs and colors in its product lines, and to extend existing products into new markets around the world. The product, which is primarily designed as a food storage and preservation, has expanded into serving products, microwave and over cookware, and children’s toys.The company is uniquely run, in that its product is not available at stores like its competitors. Tupperware was originally brought to fame by selling its product in consumer’s homes via demonstrations. This is primarily how Tupperware continues to be sold. Recently, Tupperware has become available on the Internet, thanks to thousands of personal home pages of Tupperware consultants who provide an on-line catalog of the products and accepts orders through the Internet, or by phone, fax or even old-fashioned U.S. mail. Tupperware has just announced its newest venture as of May 1999 sand that is it is teaming up with the h...
