Tropic Skincare, established by Susie Ma, has experienced significant growth, reaching an annual turnover exceeding £100 million. The company’s founder, Susie Ma, now has an estimated net worth of £73 million and plans for global expansion.

From Pamper Parties to a £100 Million Business

The company initially gained traction through ‘pamper parties’ where ambassadors sold plant-based skincare products directly to consumers. Susie Ma recently acquired Lord Sugar’s stake in the business, solidifying her control and vision for the future.

The Multi-Level Marketing Model

Tropic Skincare operates under a multi-level marketing (MLM) business model, which has faced scrutiny. Ambassadors earn commission through both product sales and the recruitment of new members.

Ambassador Experiences: A Mixed Picture

Kathia Maillefert, a single mother, joined Tropic hoping to supplement her income. After three years, she found herself barely breaking even, having spent nearly as much on products as she earned in commissions. This highlights the potential financial difficulties faced by some ambassadors.

Concerns and Criticism

Critics argue that the emphasis on recruitment and the requirement to purchase stock can be detrimental to ambassadors, many of whom are women seeking flexible work. Statistics indicate high dropout rates within MLM schemes, with 50% of new recruits leaving within 90 days and 77% within a year.

Online Skepticism

Online communities dedicated to exposing the downsides of MLMs have gained popularity, reflecting widespread skepticism about the business model. Despite Tropic’s charitable work and support for disadvantaged women, the MLM label remains a concern.

Susie Ma's Defense

Susie Ma strongly defends her business, stating that Tropic is not a traditional MLM. She asserts that the company prioritizes direct selling and does not pressure ambassadors to hold stock or recruit new members.

Contradictory Experiences

Kathia Maillefert’s experience contradicts Ma’s claims, as she recalls consistent encouragement to recruit friends and family. Tropic utilizes incentives, such as the ‘Glammies’ and the £1 million ‘Tropic Fest’, to reward top sellers.

Company Culture and Influence

While these events foster a sense of community, they have also been described as ‘cultish’ and raise questions about the company’s culture and potential for undue influence. The contrast between Susie Ma’s vision and the experiences of some ambassadors highlights the complexities of navigating the MLM landscape.