|
|
|
 |
Download Policies and Procedures PDF |
Global Policies and Procedures
1.0 MISSION / VISION / VALUES
1.1 MISSION
SISEL is an acronym standing for Science, Innovation, Success, Energy &
Longevity. Our name describes our mission. Drawing upon the latest research
and technology SISEL International seeks to explore the true nature of health
and wellness and to provide alternative nutritional, personal care and cosmetics
products designed to help people live healthier lives. We dedicate our unrelenting
research into emerging life sciences to our customers who, through our unique
distribution model, bring our innovative products and our message to the world.
1.2 VISION
We live in societies plagued by chronic disease and obesity on the one hand,
and extreme malnutrition and poverty on the other; with prescription drugs
more frequently consumed than ever before in history by some and absolutely
inaccessible to others; and in communities that either embrace health care systems
that put pharmaceutical and sick-care profits first or in communities that have little
or no health care at all. SISEL embraces a future in nutrition and personal care
that puts the human body first, that uses Science and Innovation to promote lives
infused by Energy and Longevity, combined with temporal and spiritual Success.
This is what our products are about; this is what our business model is about. We
seek to promote the body’s natural ability to sustain itself through proper nutrition,
physical exercise and the elimination of toxic ingredients. We promote wellness
rather than simply responding to sickness, and we do so with a business model
designed to empower and reward entrepreneurship in a healthy and sustainable
system, rather than simply maximizing short-term profits.
1.3 VALUES
In pursuit of all of our stakeholder’s (company, independent distributors and
other business partners, customers), we seek to develop structures where selfinterest
benefits the whole, while encouraging stakeholders to consider the benefit
of others and to appropriately temper the single-minded pursuit of individual
interests. We seek to instill a culture of cooperation and collaboration and to
promote the sharing of world-wide best practices while retaining local sensitivity
and respect for native cultures. We acknowledge and appreciate the uniqueness
of our individual team members and recognize their contributions. We do not
compromise moral or ethical principles--ever! We are committed to understanding
and satisfying the expectations of our customers, distributors and employees. We
support a culture that embraces change and encourages innovation. We inform,
enlighten, uplift, elevate, motivate, excite and inspire the human spirit. We do not
control, dictate, demand, coerce, manipulate or demean. We strive for sustainable
growth in harmony with a global environment. We proudly offer the world the
SISEL Solution for wellness.
2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1 POLICIES AND COMPENSATION PROGRAM INCORPORATED INTO DISTRIBUTOR AGREEMENT
These Policies and Procedures, in their present form and as amended at the
sole discretion of SISEL International, LLC, SISEL International AG, and its
affiliates, (hereafter “SISEL”; or the ”Company”), represent business practices
which are consistent with the best interests of the company and a violation of
these policies could constitute a breach of the distributor’s duties under the
Distributor Agreement. Throughout these Policies and Procedures, when the term
“Agreement”; is used, it collectively refers to the SISEL Distributor Application
and Agreement, these Policies and Procedures, SISEL’s Distributor Compensation
Program, and the SISEL Statement of Beneficial Interest Form (if applicable), and
any other documents or agreements between SISEL and Independent Distributors.
It is the responsibility of each Distributor to read, understand, adhere to and
ensure that he or she is aware of, and operating under, the most current version
of these Policies and Procedures. When sponsoring or enrolling a new Distributor,
it is the responsibility of the sponsoring Distributor to provide the most current
version of these Policies and Procedures and SISEL’s; Distributor Compensation
Program to the applicant prior to his or her execution of the Distributor
Agreement.
2.2 PURPOSE OF POLICIES
SISEL is a direct sales company that markets products through Independent
Distributors. To clearly define the relationship that exists between Independent
Distributors and SISEL, and to explicitly set a standard for acceptable business
conduct, SISEL has established the Agreement. SISEL is a global company, and
laws governing business relationships vary from country to country. Whenever
possible, SISEL attempts to achieve uniformity in how it does business across
the globe, but where local law requires changes, those changes are outlined in
a country-specific addendum. If you do business in a country requiring local
changes, your Agreement with SISEL will be modified as stated in the country
addendum. Country addendums are included at the end of these Policies and
Procedures.
SISEL Independent Distributors are required to comply with the terms of the
Agreement as a condition of doing business with the Company; to protect SISEL’s
good name and reputation, SISEL also requires that its Independent Distributors
abide by all federal, state, provincial, territorial and local laws governing their
SISEL business and their conduct in relation to it. SISEL Independent Distributors
are not employees of SISEL; they are independent business enterprises. These
Policies and Procedures are designed to clearly outline the contractual terms
and conditions for doing business between SISEL and Independent Distributors,
but they do not govern an Independent Distributor’s day to day business affairs.
Rather, these Policies and Procedures govern the protection of SISEL intellectual
property rights (including use of Trademarks and other marketing intangibles)
and establish acceptable business practices where necessary to protect the mutual
business interests of both SISEL and Independent Distributors.
SISEL attempts to create a turn-key business opportunity for its Independent
Distributors, empowering Independent Distributors to operate successful
independent businesses without having to incur the costs of stockpiling inventory,
managing employees, or having to invent safe and innovative products to sell.
Still, the success of Independent Distributors will depend upon their own abilities
to communicate clearly and effectively, their strong work ethic, and their integrity
in dealing with others. Success of Independent Distributors will also depend on
becoming familiar with the terms and conditions under which they are allowed to
sell SISEL products, use SISEL trademarks, and otherwise take advantage of what
SISEL offers to its Independent Distributors. Being thoroughly familiar will these
Policies and Procedures will help Independent Distributors abide by the terms of
their Agreement but will also help them succeed in the marketplace.
2.3 CHANGES TO THE AGREEMENT
Federal, state, provincial, territorial and local laws, as well as business
environments, periodically change. SISEL reserves the right to amend the
Agreement and its prices in its sole and absolute discretion. By signing the
Distributor Agreement, a Distributor agrees to abide by all amendments or
modifications that SISEL elects to make. Amendments shall be effective upon
notice to all Distributors that the Agreement has been modified. Notification of
amendments shall be published in official SISEL materials. The Company shall
provide or make available to all Distributors a complete copy of the amended
provisions by one or more of the following methods: (1) posting on the
Company’s official website; (2) electronic mail (e-mail); (3) fax-on-demand; (4)
voice mail system broadcast; (5) inclusion in Company periodicals; (6) inclusion
in product orders or bonus checks; or (7) special mailings. The continuation
of a Distributor’s SISEL business or a Distributor’s acceptance of bonuses or
commissions constitutes acceptance of any and all amendments.
2.4 DELAYS SISEL shall not be responsible for delays or failures in performance of its
obligations when performance is made commercially impracticable due to
circumstances beyond its reasonable control. This includes, without limitation,
strikes, labor difficulties, riot, war, fire, death, curtailment of a party’s source of
supply, or government decrees or orders.
2.5 POLICIES AND PROVISIONS SEVERABLE
If any provision of the Agreement, in its current form or as may be amended, is
found to be invalid, or unenforceable for any reason, only the invalid portion(s) of
the provision shall be severed and the remaining terms and provisions shall remain
in full force and effect and shall be construed as if such invalid or unenforceable
provision never comprised a part of the Agreement.
2.6 WAIVER
The Company never gives up its right to insist on compliance with the Agreement
and with the applicable laws governing the conduct of a business. No failure of
SISEL to exercise any right or power under the Agreement or to insist upon strict
compliance by a Distributor with any obligation or provision of the Agreement,
and no custom or practice of the parties at variance with the terms of the
Agreement, shall constitute a waiver of SISEL’s right to demand exact compliance
with the Agreement. Waiver by SISEL can be effected only in writing by an
authorized officer of the Company. SISEL’s waiver of any particular breach by a
Distributor shall not affect or impair SISEL’s rights with respect to any subsequent
breach, nor shall it affect in any way the rights or obligations of any other
Distributor. Nor shall any delay or omission by SISEL to exercise any right arising
from a breach affect or impair SISEL’s rights as to that or any subsequent breach.
The existence of any claim or cause of action of a Distributor against SISEL shall
not constitute a defense to SISEL’s enforcement of any term or provision of the
Agreement.
3.0 BECOMING A DISTRIBUTOR
3.1 REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME A DISTRIBUTOR
To become a SISEL Distributor, each applicant must:
a) be of the legal age of majority in his or her country, state, or province of
residence;
b) Reside in a country in which the Independent Distributor may sell SISEL
products or otherwise participate in the SISEL business opportunity in compliance
with local law;
c) have a valid Social Security, Social Insurance, Tax ID, or national
ID number;
d) Purchase a SISEL Distributor Kit (not applicable in North Dakota); and
e) Submit a properly completed and signed Distributor Application and Agreement
to SISEL;.
The Company reserves the right to reject any applications for a new Distributor
or applications for renewal (including automatic renewals described in Section 3.5
below)..
3.2 No person is required to purchase SISEL products, services or sales aids, or to pay
any charge or fee to become an Independent Distributor. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, where local law allows, new Independent Distributors are required to
purchase at Company “cost” an Independent Distributor Kit, containing information
about SISEL products, sales aids and other matters related to the SISEL business
opportunity. SISEL will repurchase resalable unused and unopened, Distributor
Kits from any Distributor who terminates his or her Distributor Agreement
pursuant to the terms of Section 8.2.
3.3 NEW DISTRIBUTOR ENROLLMENT
Where local law allows, SISEL provides four convenient methods for new
Distributors to enroll. An applicant may: a) mail the Application and Agreement
and Distributor Kit payment to SISEL’s corporate offices as provided on the form;
b) enroll online at SISEL’s website or at the personal SISEL website of his or her
Sponsor; c) submit the Application and Agreement by fax; or d) call the SISEL
home office during regular
business hours to receive a temporary Distributorship Identification Number
(”DIN”;) and temporary authorization for a new Distributor. (See the front of
the Distributor Application and Agreement for phone numbers and appropriate
business hours.)
If the applicant enrolls by fax, he or she must fax both the front and back of the
Application and Agreement to SISEL at the fax number listed on the Application
and Agreement. For fax enrollments, payment for the Distributor Kit must be made
by credit card.
If the applicant enrolls by telephone, he or she must be able to provide all
necessary Distributor Agreement information over the telephone and order
a Distributor Kit using a valid credit card. The new Distributor’s DIN and
authorization will be valid for 30 days, pending acceptance of the completed and
signed original Distributor Application and Agreement by SISEL. Once the original
Distributor Application and Agreement is received by SISEL, the new Distributor
Agreement will be extended to one full year from the date on which the DIN
was issued, and the Distributor will be mailed an ID card. If the new Distributor
Application and Agreement is not received within the temporary 30 day time
period, the temporary authorization shall expire, the DIN will be canceled, and the
Distributor Application and Agreement will be automatically terminated.
3.4 DISTRIBUTOR BENEFITS
Once a Distributor Application and Agreement has been accepted by SISEL, the
full benefits of the Distributor Agreement are available to the new Distributor.
These benefits include the right to:
a) Retail SISEL products and profit from these sales;
b) Participate in SISEL’s Compensation Program;
c) Sponsor other individuals as Preferred Customers or Distributors into the SISEL
business;
d) Receive periodic SISEL literature and other SISEL communications;
e) Participate in SISEL-sponsored support, service, training, motivational and
recognition functions (additional charges may apply); and
f) Participate in promotional and incentive contests and programs sponsored by
SISEL for Independent Distributors.
3.5 RENEWAL OF YOUR SISEL BUSINESS
The term of the Distributor Agreement is one year from the date of its acceptance
by SISEL. Distributors must renew their Distributor Agreement each year by paying
an annual administrative renewal fee of $15 on or before the anniversary date of
their Distributor Agreement. If the renewal fee is not paid within 30 days after
the expiration of the current term of the Distributor Agreement, the Distributor
Agreement will be canceled. Distributors may elect to utilize the Automatic
Renewal Program, under which the renewal fee may be:
a) deducted from the Distributor’s bonus check for the anniversary month of the
Distributor Agreement; or b) charged to the Distributor’s credit card or checking
account. To enroll in the Automatic Renewal Program, simply check the ”YES”; box
under Automatic Renewal Program, on the Distributor Application.
4.0 OPERATING A SISEL BUSINESS
4.1 ADHERENCE TO SISEL’S MARKETING PROGRAM
Distributors must adhere to the terms of SISEL’s marketing program as set forth
in official SISEL literature. In order for the Company to protect its intellectual
property rights, Distributors are prohibited from offering the SISEL opportunity
through, or in combination with, any other system, program, or method of
marketing that is inconsistent with or in violation of those specifically set forth in
official SISEL literature. Distributors shall not require or encourage other current
or prospective Preferred Customers or Distributors to participate in SISEL in
any manner that varies from the program as set forth in official SISEL literature.
Distributors shall not require or encourage other current or prospective Preferred
Customers or Distributors to execute any agreement or contract other than
official SISEL agreements and contracts in order to become a SISEL Distributor.
Similarly, Distributors shall not require or encourage other current or prospective
Preferred Customers or Distributors to make any purchase from, or payment to,
any individual or other entity to participate in SISEL’s Compensation Program
other than those purchases or payments identified as recommended or required in
official SISEL literature.
4.2 ADVERTISING
4.2.1 GENERAL
Independent SISEL Distributors are allowed to use SISEL trademarks, brands,
business models, Distributor information and other intellectual property only
according to a limited license described in the Agreement. Accordingly, all
Distributors are required to safeguard and promote the good reputation of
SISEL and its products as a condition of being an Independent Distributor.
Furthermore, the marketing and promotion of SISEL, the SISEL opportunity, SISEL’s
Compensation Program and SISEL products should be consistent with the public
interest, and must avoid all discourteous, deceptive, misleading, unethical or
immoral conduct or practices.
Any activity or material that promotes SISEL products or the SISEL business
opportunity must utilize only the sales aids and support materials produced
or approved by SISEL (and approval of activities or materials can be withheld
for any reason). In addition to the legal issues involved with protecting SISEL’s
intellectual property rights, strict adherence to these rules helps protect SISEL’s
Independent Distributors as well. SISEL has carefully designed products, product
labels, a Compensation Plan and business models, and promotional materials
to ensure that each aspect of the SISEL business opportunity is fair, truthful,
substantiated, and complies with the vast and complex requirements of the laws
of multiple jurisdictions. Distributors who attempt to develop their own sales aids
and promotional materials (including Internet advertising), notwithstanding their
integrity and good intentions, may unintentionally violate any number of statutes
or regulations affecting the Company as well as fellow Independent Distributors.
Distributors who violate Company intellectual property rights, produce
unapproved sales and marketing aids (including Internet advertising), make
improper claims regarding SISEL products, or otherwise engage in any unlawful
or improper activity may subject themselves to Company sanctions or discipline
(described more fully in Section 9.1 below), as well as expose themselves to civil
charges from the Company or third parties or to civil or criminal charges from
government authorities.
Distributors may not upload Company produced videos on file or video sharing
sites, including YouTube.
4.2.2 DISTRIBUTOR WEBSITES
Independent SISEL Distributors are allowed to use SISEL trademarks, brands,
business models, Distributor information and other intellectual property only
according to a limited license described in the Agreement. Accordingly, all
Distributors are required to safeguard and promote the good reputation of
SISEL and its products as a condition of being an Independent Distributor.
Furthermore, the marketing and promotion of SISEL, the SISEL opportunity, SISEL’s
Compensation Program and SISEL products should be consistent with the public
interest, and must avoid all discourteous, deceptive, misleading, unethical or
immoral conduct or practices.
Any activity or material that promotes SISEL products or the SISEL business
opportunity must utilize only the sales aids and support materials produced
or approved by SISEL (and approval of activities or materials can be withheld
for any reason). In addition to the legal issues involved with protecting SISEL’s
intellectual property rights, strict adherence to these rules helps protect SISEL’s
Independent Distributors as well. SISEL has carefully designed products, product
labels, a Compensation Plan and business models, and promotional materials
to ensure that each aspect of the SISEL business opportunity is fair, truthful,
substantiated, and complies with the vast and complex requirements of the laws
of multiple jurisdictions. Distributors who attempt to develop their own sales aids
and promotional materials (including Internet advertising), notwithstanding their
integrity and good intentions, may unintentionally violate any number of statutes
or regulations affecting the Company as well as fellow Independent Distributors.
Distributors who violate Company intellectual property rights, produce
unapproved sales and marketing aids (including Internet advertising), make
improper claims regarding SISEL products, or otherwise engage in any unlawful
or improper activity may subject themselves to Company sanctions or discipline
(described more fully in Section 9.1 below), as well as expose themselves to civil
charges from the Company or third parties or to civil or criminal charges from
government authorities.
Distributors may not upload Company produced videos on file or video sharing
sites, including YouTube.
4.2.2.1 SISEL’s website policies include the following:
1. Distinction Between Independent Distributor Website and SISEL Corporate
Website
1.1 The website must have a header and footer on each page with the words
“Independent Distributor” prominently displayed.
1.2 Distributor’s personal website may not be an exact copy of SISEL’s
International Company website and must be visually distinguishable.
2. SISEL Trademarks and Business Documents
2.1 The website must have a header and footer on each page with the
sentence “SISEL™, FuCoyDon™, FuCoyDon UFG™, SupraMaxx™, and
Spectra AO™ are trademarks of SISEL International, LLC and/or its affiliates.”
(Distributors need to reference only those trademarks that actually appear on
the site). The site only needs to reference the first time that a trademarked
term is used on each page.
2.2 All use of trademarks, in any form, in internet web site URL’s and domain
names is prohibited without the prior written consent of SISEL. This includes but
is not limited to the SISEL trademarks such as SISEL™, FuCoyDon™, FuCoyDon
UFG™, SupraMaxx™, and Spectra AO™, either individually or in combination
with other words. Distributors may not use SISEL trademarks, trade names,
logos, or copyrighted material without the prior written consent of SISEL.
2.3 All use of trademarks, in any form, in buried codes and metatags, is
prohibited without the prior written consent of SISEL, as with all other
trademark usage.
2.4 The website may not contain PDF forms of SISEL business documents.
Distributors may view and print SISEL business documents from the company’s
official website.
3. Verbiage and Claims
3.1 The website may not claim to be an “official” or “approved” site.
3.2 When using the name SISEL in text, always capitalize the letters. SISEL is
written with all capital letters because our name is an acronym—each letter
stands for one of the principles our company is founded upon: Science,
Innovation, Success, Energy, Longevity. Individual Distributor websites should
follow this style.
3.3 Buried codes and metatags may not make any explicit or implicit medical
claims or use words that refer to illness or diseases.
3.4 The website must comply with SISEL’s Nondisparagement policy. This
includes, but is not limited to, claims that may indirectly disparage other
Distributors, such as “only legitimate” or “only certified” Distributor.
4. Operations of an Independent Distributor Website
4.1 Distributors may not sell SISEL products on internet sites, including but
not limited to online malls, online auctions, online stores, or virtual shopping
sites. Such sites are considered to be retail or service establishments by SISEL,
based on the Commercial Outlets policy. Personal Distributor websites are not
considered retail or service establishments when the sites are privately owned
by SISEL Distributors and when the products sold on the sites are limited to
the personal products of the website owner.
5. Links
5.1 Distributor websites may link a page about SISEL products to a home
page which contains multiple products for sale or advertisement. Both the
SISEL product page and the home page must comply with SISEL’s advertising
policies and must be approved by SISEL. The SISEL product page itself must
advertise only SISEL products and not link to any of the other products. SISEL
reserves the right to deny sites that portray SISEL
products in a comparatively unfavorable way. SISEL also reserves the right to
deny approval of placing SISEL products on a home page with products or
services of a questionable or offensive nature.
5.2 Distributor websites may not be linked to any website that SISEL deems to
be of questionable or offensive nature. Also, the Distributor website may not
link to sites that contain curative or income claims in connection with SISEL
trademarks.
5.3 Distributor websites must link to the company’s website at www.
siselinternational.com and may link to other sites that have been approved by
the SISEL Compliance Department.
5.4 Distributor websites may link to other sites that contain legitimate scientific
research. When linking to such sites, an intermediate disclaimer page must be
included. This page must be between the personal sites’ home page and the
third-party research website and be free of everything but the disclaimer. The
disclaimer should read:
“The site linked hereby is not endorsed nor operated by SISEL. The
information and views expressed therein are solely those of the owner of that
site and do not constitute ‘advertising’ of SISEL products. If you have read and
understood this disclaimer, click below to continue.”
Once the “continue” button is clicked, the user would be directed to the thirdparty
website. The third-party website must be on a separate website domain,
and not have a reciprocal link back to the Distributor’s website.
These Policies apply to Distributor websites, internet ads, Distributor posts to
blogs, guest books, and forums.
4.2.3 DOMAIN NAMES AND E-MAIL ADDRESSES
Distributors may not use or attempt to register any of SISEL’s trade names,
trademarks, service names, service marks, product names, the Company’s name,
or any derivative thereof, for any Internet domain name. Nor may Distributors
incorporate or attempt to incorporate any of the Company’s trade names,
trademarks, service names, service marks, product names, the Company’s name, or
any derivative thereof, into any electronic mail address.
4.2.4 TRADEMARKS AND COPYRIGHTS
SISEL will not allow the use of its trade names, trademarks, designs or symbols by
any person, including a SISEL Distributors, without its prior, written permission.
Distributors may not produce for sale or distribution any recorded Company
events and speeches without written permission from SISEL nor may Distributors
reproduce for sale or for personal use any recording of Company-produced audio
or video tape presentations.
The name of SISEL and other names as may be adopted by SISEL are proprietary
trade names, trademarks and service marks of SISEL. As such, these marks are
of great value to SISEL and are supplied to Distributors for their use only in an
expressly authorized manner. Use of SISEL name on any item not produced by the
Company is prohibited except as follows:
Distributor’s Name
Independent SISEL Distributor
All Distributors may list themselves as an “Independent SISEL Distributor”; in
the white or yellow pages of the telephone directory under their own name. No
Distributor may place telephone directory display ads using SISEL’s name or logo.
Distributors may not answer the telephone by saying “SISEL”;, “SISEL International”
or in any other manner that would lead the caller to believe that he or she has
reached corporate offices of SISEL.
4.2.5 MEDIA AND MEDIA INQUIRIES
Distributors must not attempt to respond to media inquiries regarding SISEL or
its products. All inquiries by any type of media must be immediately referred
to SISEL’s Legal Department. This policy is designed to assure that accurate and
consistent information is provided to the public as well as a proper public image.
4.2.6 SPAMMING AND UNSOLICITED FAXES
Except as provided in this section, Distributors may not use or transmit unsolicited
faxes, mass e-mail distribution, unsolicited e-mail, or “spamming”; relative to
the operation of their SISEL businesses. The terms “unsolicited faxes”; and
“unsolicited e-mail”; mean the transmission via telephone facsimile or electronic
mail, respectively, of any material or information advertising or promoting SISEL,
its products, its compensation plan or any other aspect of the company which is
transmitted to any person, except that these terms do not include a fax or e-mail:
(a) to any person with that person’s prior express invitation or permission; or (b)
to any person with whom the Distributor has an established business or personal
relationship. The term “established business or personal relationship”; means
a prior or existing relationship formed by a voluntary two-way communication
between a Distributor and a person, on the basis of:
(a) an inquiry, application, purchase or transaction by the person regarding
products offered by such Distributor; or (b) a personal or familial relationship,
which relationship has not been previously terminated by either party.
4.3 BONUS BUYING PROHIBITED
Bonus buying is strictly prohibited. “Bonus buying”; includes: (a) the enrollment
of individuals or entities without the knowledge of and/or execution of an
Independent Distributor Application and Agreement by such individuals or
entities; (b) the fraudulent enrollment of an individual or entity as a Distributor or
Preferred Customer; (c) the enrollment or attempted enrollment of non-existent
individuals or entities as Distributors or Preferred Customers (“phantoms”;); (d) the
use of a credit card by or on behalf of a Distributor or Preferred Customer when
the Distributor or Preferred Customer is not the account holder of such credit
card, unless prior arrangements have been made for the Distributor or Preferred
Customer receiving the Product or service to reimburse the credit card holder on
a timely basis where the purchase assistance is provided as an accommodation
to the purchaser who may not have a credit card and not simply to accelerate
a purchase into any given commission or bonus period or cycle; (e) Purchasing
SISEL merchandise on behalf of another Distributor or Preferred Customer, or
under another Distributor’s or Preferred Customer’s I.D. number, to qualify for
commissions or bonuses.
4.4 BUSINESS ENTITIES
A corporation, limited liability company (LLC), partnership or trust (collectively
referred to in this section as a “Business Entity”;) may apply to be a SISEL
Distributor by submitting its Certificate of Incorporation, Certificate of
Organization, Partnership Agreement or trust documents (these documents are
collectively referred to as the “Entity Documents”;) to SISEL, along with a properly
completed Statement of Beneficial Interest Form. If a Distributor enrolls online, the
Entity Documents and Statement of Beneficial Interest Form must be submitted to
SISEL within 30 days of the online enrollment. (If not received within the 30-day
period, the Distributor Agreement will automatically terminate.) A SISEL business
may change its status under the same sponsor from an individual to a partnership,
LLC, corporation or trust, or from one type of entity to another. There is a $25.00
fee for each change requested, which must be included with the written request
and the completed Distributor Application and Agreement.
The Statement of Beneficial Interest Form must be signed by all of the
shareholders, members, partners or trustees. Members or owners of the entity act
as personal guarantors of the Business Entity in relation to SISEL and are thus
jointly and severally liable for any indebtedness or other obligation to SISEL;.
4.5 CHANGES TO A SISEL BUSINESS
4.5.1 GENERAL
Each Distributor must immediately notify SISEL of all changes to the information
contained on his or her Distributor Application and Agreement. Distributors may
modify their existing Distributor Agreement (i.e., change Social Security number
to Federal I.D. number, or change the form of ownership from an individual
proprietorship to a business entity owned by the Distributor) by submitting a
written request, a properly executed Distributor Application and Agreement and
appropriate supporting documentation. Changes shall be processed only once
per year. All changes must be submitted by November 30 to become effective on
January 1 of the following year.
4.5.2 ADDITION OF CO-APPLICANTS
When adding a co-applicant (either an individual or a business entity) to an
existing SISEL business, the Company requires both a written request as well
as a properly completed Distributor Application and Agreement containing
the applicant and co-applicant’s Social Security Numbers (or national or tax
identification numbers) and signatures. To prevent the circumvention of Section
3.27 (regarding transfers and assignments of SISEL business), the original applicant
must remain as a party to the original Distributor Application and Agreement.
If the original Distributor wants to terminate his or her relationship with the
Company, he or she must transfer or assign his or her business in accordance
with Section 3.27. If this process is not followed, the business will be canceled
upon the withdrawal of the original Distributor. All bonus and commission checks
will be sent to the address of record of the original Distributor. Please note that
the modifications permitted within the scope of this paragraph do not include a
change of sponsorship. Changes of sponsorship are addressed in Section 3.5.3,
below. There is a $25.00 fee for each change requested, which must be included
with the written request and the completed Distributor Application and Agreement.
SISEL may, at its discretion, require notarized documents before implementing any
changes to a SISEL business. Please allow thirty (30) days after the receipt of the
request by SISEL for processing.
4.5.3 CHANGE OF SPONSOR
To protect the integrity of all marketing organizations and safeguard the hard work
of all Distributors, SISEL strongly discourages changes in sponsorship. Maintaining
the integrity of sponsorship is critical for the success of every Distributor and
marketing organization. Accordingly, the transfer of a SISEL business from one
sponsor to another is rarely permitted.
Requests for change of sponsorship must be submitted in writing to the Distributor
Services Department, and must include the reason for the transfer. Transfers will
only be considered in the following two (2) circumstances:
1) In cases involving fraudulent inducement or unethical sponsoring,
a Distributor may request that he or she be transferred to another
organization with his or her entire marketing organization intact. All
requests for transfer alleging fraudulent enrollment practices shall be
evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
2) The Distributor seeking to transfer submits a properly completed and
fully executed Sponsorship Transfer Form which includes the written
approval of all parties whose income will be affected by the transfer.
Photocopied or facsimile signatures are not acceptable. All Distributor
signatures must be notarized. The Distributor who requests the transfer
must submit a fee of $50.00 for administrative charges and data processing.
If the transferring Distributor also wants to move any of the Distributors
in his or her marketing organization, each downline Distributor must also
obtain a properly completed Sponsorship Transfer Form and return it to
SISEL; with the $50.00 change fee (i.e., the transferring Distributor and
each Distributor in his or her marketing organization multiplied by $50.00
is the cost to move a SISEL business.) Downline Distributors will not be
moved with the transferring Distributor unless all of the requirements of
this paragraph are met. Transferring Distributors must allow thirty (30)
days after the receipt of the Sponsorship Transfer Forms by SISEL for
processing and verifying change requests.
4.5.4 CANCELLATION AND RE-APPLICATION
A Distributor may legitimately change organizations by voluntarily canceling his
or her SISEL business and remaining inactive (i.e., no purchases of SISEL products
for resale, no sales of SISEL products, no sponsoring, no attendance at any SISEL
functions, participation in any other form of Distributor activity, or operation of
any other SISEL business) for six (6) full calendar months. Following the six month
period of inactivity, the former Distributor may reapply under a new sponsor.
4.6 UNAUTHORIZED CLAIMS AND ACTIONS
4.6.1 Indemnification
A Distributor is fully responsible for all of his or her verbal and written statements
made regarding SISEL products and the Marketing and Compensation Plan which
are not expressly contained in official SISEL materials. Official SISEL materials
do not include oral statements made on the telephone or at meetings in which
Company personnel participate. If a Distributor makes a claim or statement that
is not reflected in official Company materials, including repeating something
heard from someone else (even SISEL management), the Distributor accepts full
responsibility for those statements or claims. These are unauthorized statements
or claims. Distributors agree to indemnify SISEL and SISEL’s directors, officers,
employees and agents, and hold them harmless from any and all liability including
judgments, civil penalties, refunds, attorney fees, court costs or lost business
incurred by SISEL as a result of the Distributor’s unauthorized representations or
actions. This provision shall survive the termination of the Distributor Agreement.
4.6.2 Product Claims
No claims (which include personal testimonials) as to therapeutic, curative or
beneficial properties of any products offered by SISEL may be made except those
contained in official SISEL literature. In particular, no Distributor may make any
claim that SISEL products are useful in the cure, treatment, diagnosis, mitigation
or prevention of any diseases. Such statements can be perceived as medical or
drug claims. Not only do such claims violate of SISEL policies, but they potentially
violate national, state, or provincial laws and regulations, including the U.S. Food,
Drug, Cosmetic Act and Federal Trade Commission Act, or laws and
4.6.3 Income Claims
In their enthusiasm to enroll prospective Distributors, some Distributors are
occasionally tempted to make income claims or earnings representations to
demonstrate the inherent power of network marketing. This is counterproductive
because new Distributors may become disappointed very quickly if their results
are not as extensive or as rapid as the results others have achieved. SISEL income
potential should be sufficiently attractive to prospective Distributors based upon
official SISEL literature without reporting the earnings of others.
Moreover, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and several countries and states/
provinces have laws or regulations that regulate or even prohibit certain types
of income claims and testimonials made by persons engaged in network
marketing. While Distributors may believe it beneficial to provide copies of
checks, or to disclose the earnings of themselves or others, such approaches have
legal consequences that can negatively impact SISEL as well as the Distributor
making the claim unless appropriate disclosures required by law are also
made contemporaneously with the income claim or earnings representation.
Because SISEL Distributors do not have the data necessary to comply with the
legal requirements for making income claims, a Distributor, when presenting
or discussing the SISEL opportunity or Marketing and Compensation Plan to a
prospective Distributor, may not make income projections, income claims, or
disclose his or her SISEL income (including the showing of checks, copies of
checks, bank statements, or tax records). Hypothetical income examples that
are used to explain the operation of the Marketing and Compensation Plan, and
which are based solely on mathematical projections, may be made to prospective
Distributors, so long as the Distributor who uses such hypothetical examples
makes clear to the prospective Distributor(s) that such earnings are hypothetical.
4.7 COMMERCIAL OUTLETS
SISEL strongly encourages the retailing and selling of its products through personto-
person contact. In an effort to reinforce this method of marketing and to help
provide a standard of fairness for its Independent Distributor base, Distributors
may not display or sell SISEL products or literature in any retail or service
establishment. SISEL will permit Distributors to solicit and make commercial sales
upon prior written approval from the Company. For the purposes of these Policies
and Procedures, the term “commercial sale”; means the sale of: a) SISEL products
that equal or exceed $150 or more in a single order; and b) To a third party who
intends to resell the products to an end consumer.
4.8 TRADE SHOWS, EXPOSITIONS AND OTHER SALES FORUMS
Distributors may display and/or sell SISEL products at trade shows and
professional expositions. Before submitting a deposit to the event promoter,
Distributors must contact the Distributor Services Department in writing for
conditional approval, as SISEL’s policy is to authorize only one SISEL; business per
event. Final approval will be granted to the first Distributor who submits an official
advertisement of the event, and a satisfactory request to display at the event.
Approval is given only for the event specified. Any requests to participate in future
events must again be submitted to the Distributor Services Department. SISEL
further reserves the right to refuse authorization to participate at any function
which it does not deem a suitable forum for the promotion of its products or the
SISEL opportunity. Approval will not be given for swap meets, garage sales, flea
markets or farmer’s markets as these events are not conducive to the professional
image SISEL wishes to portray.
4.9 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
4.9.1 Non-solicitation
As Independent Distributors, SISEL Distributors may participate in other direct
selling or network marketing or multilevel marketing ventures (collectively
“network marketing”;), and Distributors may engage in selling activities related to
non-SISEL products and services if they desire to do so. However, if a Distributor
elects to participate in another network marketing opportunity, in order to avoid
conflicts of interest and loyalties, Distributors are prohibited from Unauthorized
Recruiting, which includes the following:
a) During the term of this agreement, any actual or attempted recruitment
or enrollment of SISEL Preferred Customers or Distributors for other
network marketing business ventures, either directly or through a
third party. This includes, but is not limited to, presenting or assisting
in the presentation of other network marketing business ventures to
any SISEL Preferred Customer or Distributor, or implicitly or explicitly
encouraging any SISEL Preferred Customer or Distributor to join other
business ventures. Because there is an extreme likelihood that conflicts
will arise if a Distributor operates two network marketing programs, it is
the Distributor’s responsibility to first determine whether a prospect is a
SISEL Preferred Customer or Distributor before recruiting or enrolling the
prospect for another network business venture.
b) For a period of six months following the cancellation of a Distributor’s
Agreement, the former Distributor may not recruit any SISEL Distributor or
Preferred Customer for another network marketing program.
c) Producing or offering any literature, tapes or promotional material of
any nature for another network marketing business which is used by the
Distributor or any third person to recruit SISEL Preferred Customers or
Distributors for that business venture;
d) Selling, offering to sell, or promoting any competing non-SISEL
products to SISEL Preferred Customers or Distributors. Any product in the
same generic category as a SISEL product is deemed to be competing;
e.g.; Any dietary supplement is in the same generic category as SISEL’s
dietary supplements, and is therefore a competing product, regardless of
differences in cost, quality, ingredients or nutrient content.
e) Offering SISEL; products or promoting SISEL’s Compensation Program,
in conjunction with any non-SISEL products, services, business plan,
opportunity or incentive; or
f) Offering any non-SISEL products, services, business plan, opportunity or
incentive at any SISEL meeting, seminar, launch, convention or other SISEL
function, or immediately following such event.
4.9.2 Downline Activity (genealogy) Reports
As Independent Distributors, SISEL Distributors may participate in other direct
selling or network marketing or multilevel marketing ventures (collectively
“network marketing”;), and Distributors may engage in selling activities related to
non-SISEL products and services if they desire to do so. However, if a Distributor
elects to participate in another network marketing opportunity, in order to avoid
conflicts of interest and loyalties, Distributors are prohibited from Unauthorized
Recruiting, which includes the following:
a) During the term of this agreement, any actual or attempted recruitment
or enrollment of SISEL Preferred Customers or Distributors for other
network marketing business ventures, either directly or through a
third party. This includes, but is not limited to, presenting or assisting
in the presentation of other network marketing business ventures to
any SISEL Preferred Customer or Distributor, or implicitly or explicitly
encouraging any SISEL Preferred Customer or Distributor to join other
business ventures. Because there is an extreme likelihood that conflicts
will arise if a Distributor operates two network marketing programs, it is
the Distributor’s responsibility to first determine whether a prospect is a
SISEL Preferred Customer or Distributor before recruiting or enrolling the
prospect for another network business venture.
b) For a period of six months following the cancellation of a Distributor’s
Agreement, the former Distributor may not recruit any SISEL Distributor or
Preferred Customer for another network marketing program.
c) Producing or offering any literature, tapes or promotional material of
any nature for another network marketing business which is used by the
Distributor or any third person to recruit SISEL Preferred Customers or
Distributors for that business venture;
d) Selling, offering to sell, or promoting any competing non-SISEL
products to SISEL Preferred Customers or Distributors. Any product in the
same generic category as a SISEL product is deemed to be competing;
e.g.; Any dietary supplement is in the same generic category as SISEL’s
dietary supplements, and is therefore a competing product, regardless of
differences in cost, quality, ingredients or nutrient content.
e) Offering SISEL; products or promoting SISEL’s Compensation Program,
in conjunction with any non-SISEL products, services, business plan,
opportunity or incentive; or
f) Offering any non-SISEL products, services, business plan, opportunity or
incentive at any SISEL meeting, seminar, launch, convention or other SISEL
function, or immediately following such event.
4.10 TARGETING OTHER DIRECT SELLERS
SISEL does not condone Distributors specifically or consciously targeting the
sales force of another direct sales company to sell SISEL products or to become
Distributors for SISEL, nor does SISEL condone Distributors solicitation or
enticement of members of the sales force of another direct sales company to
violate the terms of their contract with such other company. Should Distributors
engage in such activity, they bear the risk of being sued by the other direct sales
company. If any lawsuit, arbitration or mediation is brought against a Distributor
alleging that he or she engaged in inappropriate recruiting activity of its sales force
or customers, SISEL will not pay any of Distributor’s defense costs or legal fees,
nor will SISEL; indemnify the Distributor for any judgment, award or settlement.
4.11 CROSS-SPONSORING
Actual or attempted cross sponsoring is strictly prohibited. “Cross sponsoring”;
is defined as the enrollment of an individual who or entity that already has a
current Preferred Customer or Distributor Agreement on file with SISEL, or who
has had such an agreement within the preceding six calendar months, within a
different line of sponsorship. The use of a spouse’s or relative’s name, trade names,
DBA’s, assumed names, corporations, partnerships, trusts, federal ID numbers or
fictitious ID numbers to circumvent this policy is prohibited. Distributors shall
not demean, discredit or defame other SISEL Distributors in an attempt to entice
another Distributor to become part of the first Distributor’s marketing organization.
This policy shall not prohibit the transfer of a SISEL business in accordance with
Section 4.27.
If Cross Sponsoring is discovered, it must be brought to the Company’s attention
immediately. SISEL may take disciplinary action against the Distributor that
changed organizations and/ or those Distributors who encouraged or participated
in the Cross Sponsoring. SISEL may also move all or part of the offending
Distributor’s downline to his or her original downline organization if the Company
deems it equitable and feasible to do so. However, SISEL is under no obligation
to move the Cross Sponsored Distributor’s downline organization, and the
ultimate disposition of the organization remains within the sole discretion of
SISEL. Distributors waive all claims and causes of action against SISEL arising
from or relating to the disposition of the Cross Sponsored Distributor’s downline
organization.
4.12 ERRORS OR QUESTIONS
If a Distributor has questions about or believes any errors have been made
regarding commissions, bonuses, Downline Activity Reports or charges, the
Distributor must notify SISEL in writing within 60 days of the date of the purported
error or incident in question. SISEL will not be responsible for any errors,
omissions or problems not reported to the Company within 60 days.
4.13 EXCESS INVENTORY PURCHASES PROHIBITED
Distributors are not required to carry inventory of products or sales aids.
Distributors who do so may find making retail sales and building a marketing
organization somewhat easier because of the decreased response time in fulfilling
customer orders or in meeting a new Distributor’s needs. Each Distributor must
make his or her own decision with regard to these matters. To ensure that
Distributors are not encumbered with excess inventory that they are unable to
sell, such inventory may be returned to SISEL upon the Distributor’s cancellation
pursuant to the terms of Section 8.2.
SISEL strictly prohibits the purchase of products in unreasonable amounts primarily
for the purpose of qualifying for commissions, bonuses or advancement in the
Compensation Plan. Distributors may not purchase more inventory than they can
reasonably resell or consume in a month nor may they encourage others to do
so. Distributors are prohibited from purchasing more than $500 in products per
month unless they certify to SISEL; that they have pending retail orders in excess
of that amount or provide SISEL with other written reason why such a purchase is
necessary.
4.14 GOVERNMENTAL APPROVAL OR ENDORSEMENT
Neither federal nor state regulatory agencies or officials approve or endorse any
direct selling or network marketing companies or programs. Therefore, Distributors
shall not represent or imply that SISEL or its Marketing and Compensation Plan
have been “approved,”; “endorsed”; or otherwise sanctioned by any government
agency.
4.15 HOLDING APPLICATIONS OR ORDERS
Distributors must not manipulate enrollments of new applicants and purchases of
products. All Distributor Applications and Agreements, and product orders must
be sent to SISEL within 72 hours from the time they are signed by a Distributor or
placed by a customer, respectively.
4.16 IDENTIFICATION
All Distributors are required to provide their Social Security Number, Social
Insurance Number, Federal Employer Identification Number, or national tax or
other identification number to SISEL on the Distributor Application and Agreement.
Upon enrollment, the Company will provide a unique Distributor Identification
Number to the Distributor by which he or she will be identified. This number will
be used to place orders, and track commissions and bonuses.
4.17 INCOME TAXES
Each Distributor is responsible for paying local, state/provincial, and federal taxes
on any income generated as an Independent Distributor. If a SISEL business is tax
exempt, the Federal tax identification number must be provided to SISEL. Every
year, SISEL will provide U.S. non-corporate Distributors with an IRS Form 1099
MISC (Non-employee Compensation) earnings statement to each U.S. resident
who: 1) had earnings of over $600 in the previous calendar year; or 2) made
purchases during the previous calendar year in excess of $5,000. SISEL will provide
earning statements to the applicable tax authorities for residents of countries
where required.
Note: If you are a U.S.-based Independent Distributor, by your signature
on the Distributor Application you certify the following (pursuant to the
requirements of Form W-9):
1) Your Taxpayer Identification Number provided thereon is correct;
2) You are not subject to “backup withholding” due to failure to report
interest and dividend income;
3) You are a U.S. person for U.S. federal tax purposes.
4.18 INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR STATUS
Distributors are independent contractors, and are not purchasers of a franchise
or a business opportunity. The agreement between SISEL and its Distributors
does not create an employer/employee relationship, agency, partnership or joint
venture between the Company and the Distributor. Distributors shall not be treated
as an employee for his or her services or for Federal or State tax purposes. All
Distributors are responsible for paying local, state and federal taxes due from all
compensation earned as a Distributor of the Company. The Distributor has no
authority (expressed or implied), to bind the Company to any obligation. Each
Distributor shall establish his or her own goals, hours and methods of sale, so long
as he or she complies with the terms of the Distributor Agreement, these Policies
and Procedures, and applicable laws. The Distributor Agreement and these
Policies and Procedures are designed to enforce the Company’s rights with regard
to its intellectual property and similar business interests and rights and are not
designed to govern the activities of Independent Distributors accept as specifically
noted and necessary to protect the Company.
4.19 INSURANCE
4.19.1 Business Pursuits Coverage
You may wish to arrange insurance coverage for your business. Your homeowner’s
insurance policy does not cover business-related injuries, or the theft of or damage
to inventory or business equipment. Contact your insurance agent to make certain
that your business property is protected. This can often be accomplished with a
simple “Business Pursuit”; endorsement attached to your present home owner’s
policy.
4.19.2 Product Liability Coverage
SISEL; maintains insurance to protect the Company against product liability claims.
SISEL’s insurance policy also contains a “Vendor’s Endorsement”; which extends
coverage to Independent Distributors so long as they are marketing SISEL products
in accordance with Company Policies and applicable laws and regulations. SISEL’s
product liability policy does not extend coverage to claims or actions that arise as
a result of a Distributor’s misconduct in marketing the products.
4.20 INTERNATIONAL MARKETING
Because of critical legal and tax considerations, SISEL must limit the resale
of SISEL products and the presentation of the SISEL business opportunity to
prospective customers and Distributors located within jurisdictions where such
activities may be lawfully undertaken. Some jurisdictions allow residents of
their regions to import products for personal use on a “not-for-resale” basis, but
prohibit any domestic marketing of those products. Accordingly, Distributors are
authorized to sell SISEL products and enroll Preferred Customers or Distributors
only in the countries in which they may do so in compliance with local law,
nor can SISEL products or sales aids be shipped into or sold in any “unopened”
country from another country unless specifically authorized in writing to do so
or unless approval of such activities are published in official SISEL literature. In
addition, no Distributor may, in any unauthorized country: (a) conduct sales,
enrollment or training meetings; (b) enroll or attempt to enroll potential customers
or Distributors; or (c) conduct any other activity for the purpose of selling
SISEL products, establishing a marketing organization or promoting the SISEL
opportunity.
4.21 ADHERENCE TO LAWS AND ORDINANCES
4.21.1 Local Ordinances Related to Home Based Businesses
Many cities and counties have laws regulating certain home-based businesses.
In many cases these ordinances are not applicable to Distributors because of
the nature of their business. However, Distributors must obey those laws that do
apply to them. Distributors who become aware of any local law or ordinance that
restricts their ability to conduct an Independent Distributor business effectively
may send a copy of that ordinance to the SISEL Compliance Department for review
and possible assistance in identifying options or exceptions to the ordinance.
4.21.2 Compliance With National, Federal, State, Provincial and Local Laws
Distributors agree to comply with all applicable laws and
regulations in the conduct of their businesses as a condition of being an Independent
SISEL Distributor.
4.22 MINORS Distributors agree to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the
conduct of their businesses as a condition of being an Independent SISEL
Distributor.
4.23 ONE SISEL BUSINESS PER DISTRIBUTOR AND PER HOUSEHOLD
A Distributor may operate or have an ownership interest (legal or equitable) as a
sole proprietorship, partner, shareholder, trustee, or beneficiary, in only one SISEL
business. No individual may have, operate or receive compensation from more
than one SISEL business. Individuals of the same family unit may not enter into
or have an interest in more than one SISEL business. A “family unit”; is defined as
spouses and dependent children living at or doing business at the same address.
In order to maintain the integrity of SISEL’s Compensation Program, husbands and
wives or common-law couples (collectively “spouses”;) who wish to become SISEL
Distributors must be jointly sponsored as one SISEL business. Spouses, regardless
of whether one or both are signatories to the Distributor Application and
Agreement, may not own or operate any other SISEL business, either individually
or jointly, nor may they participate directly or indirectly (as a shareholder, partner,
trustee, trust beneficiary, or any other legal or equitable ownership) in the
ownership or management of another SISEL business in any form.
An exception to the one business per Distributor rule will be considered on a case
by case basis if two Distributors marry or in cases of a Distributor receiving an
interest in another business through inheritance. Requests for exceptions to policy
must be submitted in writing to the Compliance Department.
4.23.1 Actions of household Members or Affiliated Individuals
If any member of a Distributor’s immediate household engages in any activity
which, if performed by the Distributor, would violate any provision of the
Agreement, such activity will be deemed a violation by the Distributor and SISEL;
may take disciplinary action pursuant to the Statement of Policies against the
Distributor. Similarly, if any individual associated in any way with a corporation,
partnership, trust or other entity (collectively “affiliated individual”;) violates the
Agreement, such action(s) will be deemed a violation by the entity, and SISEL may
take disciplinary action against the entity..
4.24 RE-PACKAGING AND RE-LABELING PROHIBITED
Distributors may not re-package, re-label, refill or alter the labels on any SISEL
products, information, materials or programs in any way. SISEL products must be
sold in their original containers only. Such re-labeling or repackaging would likely
violate national, federal, state or provincial laws, which could result in severe
criminal penalties. You should also be aware that civil liability can arise when, as a
consequence of the repackaging or re-labeling of products, the persons using the
products suffer any type of injury or their property is damaged.
4.25 REQUESTS FOR RECORDS
Any request from a Distributor for copies of duplicate invoices, applications,
downline activity reports, or other records will require a fee of $1.00 per page per
copy. This fee covers the expense of mailing and time required to research files
and make copies of the records.
4.26 ROLL-UP OF MARKETING ORGANIZATION
When a vacancy occurs in a Marketing Organization due to the termination of a
SISEL business, each Distributor in the first level immediately below the terminated
Distributor on the date of the cancellation will be moved to the first level (“front
line”;) of the terminated Distributor’s sponsor. For example, if A sponsors b, and b
sponsors C1, C2, and C3, if b terminates her business, C1, C2, and C3 will “roll-up”;
to A and become part of A’s first level.
4.27 -SALE, TRANSFER OR ASSIGNMENT OF SISEL BUSINESS
4.27.1 In general
Although a SISEL business is a privately owned, independently operated business,
the sale, transfer or assignment of a SISEL business is subject to certain limitations.
If a Distributor wishes to sell his or her SISEL business, the following criteria must
be met:
a) Protection of the existing line of sponsorship must always be
mintained so that the SISEL business continues to be operated in that line
of sponsorship.
b)The business must first be offered to the selling Distributor’s upline
Distributors as provided in Section 4.27.2 below;
c) The buyer or transferee must be (or must become) a qualified SISEL
Distributor. If the buyer is an active SISEL Distributor, he or she must first
terminate his or her SISEL business simultaneously with the purchase,
transfer, assignment or acquisition of any interest in the new SISEL
business.
d)before the sale, transfer or assignment can be finalized and approved
by SISEL;, any debt obligations the selling Distributor has with SISEL must
be satisfied.
e) The selling Distributor must be in good standing and not in violation of
any of the terms of the Agreement in order to be eligible to sell, transfer
or assign a SISEL business..
4.27.2 Right of First Refusal
If a Distributor desires to sell his or her SISEL business, the Distributor’s Sponsor
must be given the first right and option, in writing and sent via certified mail/
return receipt requested, to purchase the business. If the Sponsor desires to
purchase the business, the purchased business will merge with the Sponsor’s
business to create a single business.
If the Sponsor fails to notify the selling Distributor of his or her intention to
purchase the business within 10 business days after his or her receipt of selling
Distributor’s notice of intent to sell, the selling Distributor must offer (in succession
beginning with the Distributor immediately above the seller’s Sponsor) the
business to the first three immediate upline distributors of the seller’s Sponsor
upon the same terms provided in the option to the seller’s Sponsor. If an upline
Distributor desires to purchase the selling Distributor’s business, the purchasing
Distributor must first sell his or her own business or cancel his or her Distributor
Agreement before purchasing another.
If each of the three upline Distributors fails to notify the selling Distributor of
his or her intention to purchase the business within 10 business days after his or
her receipt of selling Distributor’s notice of intent to sell, the selling Distributor
may proceed with the sale to a third party willing to purchase the existing
business upon the same terms provided in the offer to the seller’s Sponsor. The
buyer, transferee or assignee must complete a Distributor Agreement (or Transfer
Agreement if he or she is a current SISEL Distributor) and possess reasonable
ability to satisfactorily perform the obligations of a SISEL Distributor who is of the
same rank or status as the selling Distributor.
Upon complete execution of the purchase and sale agreement, and the new
Distributor Agreement, the parties must submit copies of the same to SISEL’s
Compliance Department for review and approval. SISEL reserves the right to
request additional documentation that may be necessary to analyze the transaction
between the buyer and seller. The Compliance Department will approve or deny
the sale, transfer or assignment within 30 days after its receipt of all necessary
documents from the parties.
If the seller sells, transfers or assigns or attempts to sell, transfer or assign his or
her business upon terms different than those set forth in the offer to the seller’s
Sponsor, such transfer shall be voidable at SISEL’s option. Further, if the parties
fail to obtain SISEL’s approval for the transaction, the transfer shall be voidable at
SISEL’s option. The purchaser of the existing business will assume the obligations
and position of the selling Distributor. A Distributor who sells his or her business
shall not be eligible to re-apply as a SISEL; Distributor for a period of at least six
full calendar months after the sale.
4.28 -SEPARATION OF A SISEL BUSINESS
SISEL Distributors sometimes operate their SISEL businesses as husband-wife
partnerships, regular partnerships, corporations or trusts. At such time as a
marriage may end in divorce or a corporation, partnership or trust (the latter
three entities are collectively referred to herein as “entities”;) may dissolve,
arrangements must be made to assure that any separation or division of the
business is accomplished so as not to adversely affect the interests and income
of other businesses up or down the line of sponsorship. If the separating parties
fail to provide for the best interests of other Distributors and the Company, SISEL
will involuntarily terminate the Distributor Agreement and roll-up their entire
organization pursuant to Section 4.26. During the pendency of a divorce or entity
dissolution, the parties must adopt one of the following methods of operation:
a) One of the parties may, with consent of the other(s), operate the
SISEL business pursuant to an assignment in writing whereby the
relinquishing spouse, shareholders, partners or trustees authorize
SISEL to deal directly and solely with the other spouse or nonrelinquishing
shareholder, partner or trustee.
b) The parties may continue to operate the SISEL business jointly on a
“business-as-usual”; basis, whereupon all compensation paid by SISEL
will be paid in the joint names of the Distributors or in the name
of the entity to be divided as the parties may independently agree
between themselves.
c) If the parties cannot mutually agree on how the business shall
be allocated during the pendency of a divorce or dissolution, the
Company shall treat the business according to the status quo as
existed prior to the filing of the divorce or dissolution.
4.29 SPONSORING
All active Distributors in good standing have the right to sponsor others as new
SISEL Distributors;. Each prospective Preferred Customer or Distributor has the
ultimate right to choose his or her own Sponsor. If two Distributors claim to be the
Sponsor of the same new Distributor or Preferred Customer, the Company shall
regard the first application received by the Company as controlling, unless the
new Distributor certifies in writing within 30 days that the original application was
submitted in error.
4.30 STACKING
“Stacking”; is strictly prohibited. The term “stacking”; includes: (a) the failure to
transmit to SISEL or the holding of an Independent Distributor Application and
Agreement in excess of two business days after its execution; (b) the placement
or manipulation of Independent Distributor Applications and Agreements for
the purpose of maximizing compensation pursuant to SISEL’s Marketing and
Compensation Plan; or (c) providing financial assistance to new Distributors for
the purpose of maximizing compensation pursuant to SISEL’s Marketing and
Compensation Plan; (d) violating the one business per household rule; and/or (e)
enrolling fictitious individuals or entities into the SISEL compensation plan..
4.31 SUCCESSION
Upon the death or adjudicated mental incapacitation of a Distributor, the Company
may terminate the Distributorship unless prior arrangements have been made to
pass the business interest to an heir or successor, and unless the heir or successor
is willing assume all of the responsibilities of a Distributor, as described herein.
Whenever a SISEL business is transferred by a will or other testamentary process,
the beneficiary acquires the right to collect all bonuses and commissions of the
deceased Distributor’s marketing organization provided the following qualifications
are met. The successor(s) must: a) Not be a current SISEL Distributor b) Execute
a Distributor Agreement; c) Comply with terms and provisions of the Agreement;
and d) Meet all of the qualifications for the deceased Distributor’s status. Bonus
and commission checks of a SISEL business transferred pursuant to this section
will be paid in a single check jointly to the devisees. The devisees must provide
SISEL with an “address of record”; to which all bonus and commission checks will
be sent. If the business is bequeathed to joint devisees, they must form a business
entity and acquire a Federal Taxpayer Identification number. SISEL will issue all
bonus and commission checks and one 1099 to the business entity.
To effect a testamentary transfer of a SISEL business, the successor must provide
the following to SISEL:
(1) an original death certificate;
(2) a notarized copy of the will or other instrument establishing the successor’s
right to the SISEL business; and
(3) a completed and executed Distributor Agreement.
4.31.2 Transfer Upon Incapacitation of a Distributor To effect a transfer of a SISEL;
business because of incapacity, the successor must
provide the following to SISEL: (1) a notarized copy of an appointment as trustee
or a guardian by a court (or similar legal authority outside the United States); (2)
a notarized copy of the document establishing the trustee’s or guardian’s right
to administer the SISEL business; and (3) a completed Distributor Agreement
executed by the trustee.
4.32 TELEMARKETING
Many legal jurisdictions have laws and regulations that restrict telemarketing
practices. Telemarketing means, in brief, using the telephone to sell or advertise.
Distributors must abide by the laws and regulations governing telemarketing of
each country and state or province in which they are doing business. [Distributors
residing in the U.S., for example, should be aware that both the Federal Trade
Commission and the Federal Communications Commission (as well as a number
of states) have “do not call”; regulations as part of their telemarketing laws.
While a Distributor may not consider himself or herself to be a “telemarketer”;
in the traditional sense of the word, these regulations broadly define the term
“telemarketer”; and “telemarketing”; so that a Distributor’s inadvertent action of
calling someone whose telephone number is listed on a “do not call”; registry
could cause him or her to violate the law. Moreover, these regulations must not be
taken lightly, as they carry significant penalties, up to $11,000.00 per violation.
Independent SISEL Distributors are individually responsible for their marketing
activities. The Company does not dictate the means or methods by which
Distributors conduct their day to day business activities, except as necessary to
protect the Company’s business and intellectual property rights. Pursuant to
this, the Company has adopted the following Telemarketing guidelines, which
Independent Distributors are expected to follow (without relieving Distributors
of their individual duty to determine whether local laws are more restrictive than
those adopted here).
1.Telephone “cold calls” made to prospective customers or
distributors to promote either SISEL’s products or the SISEL
opportunity are specifically prohibited, including the use of
automatic telephone dialing systems.
2. Telephone call(s) placed to a prospective customer or Distributor
(a “prospect”;) is permissible under the following situations:
- If the Distributor has an established business
relationship with the prospect. An “established business
relationship”; is a relationship between a Distributor and a
prospect based on the prospect’s purchase, rental or lease
of goods or services from the Distributor, or a financial
transaction between the prospect and the Distributor,
within the eighteen (18) months immediately preceding
the date of a telephone call to induce the prospect’s
purchase of a product or service.
- The prospect made a written personal inquiry
or application regarding a product or service offered by
the Distributor, within the three (3) months immediately
preceding the date of such a call.
You may call family members, personal friends
and acquaintances. An “acquaintance”; is someone with
whom you have at least a recent first-hand relationship
(i.e., you have recently personally met him or her) and
had a sufficiently in-depth exchange that the acquaintance
is expected to recall the meeting.
- You may call a first-hand referral from those
identified as permissible to call above, provided that
the referring person allows use of his or her name in
connection with the call.
5.0 RESPONSIBILITIES OF DISTRIBUTORS
5.1 CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE
To ensure timely delivery of products, support materials and commission checks, it
is critically important that SISEL’s files are current. Street addresses are required for
shipping since package delivery service companies cannot deliver to a post office
box. Distributors planning to move should send their new address and telephone
numbers to SISEL’s corporate offices to the attention of the distributor services
department. To guarantee proper delivery, two weeks advance notice must be
provided to SISEL on all changes. If more than one change of address notice has
been submitted to SISEL, the most recent one will supersede previous notices.
Please allow thirty (30) days after the receipt of the notice by SISEL for processing.
5.2 CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR DISTRIBUTORS AND SPONSORS
5.2.1 - Ongoing Training
Any Distributor who sponsors another Distributor into SISEL must perform a
bona fide assistance and training function to ensure that his or her downline is
properly operating his or her SISEL business. Distributors must have ongoing
contact and communication with the Distributors in their Downline Organizations.
Examples of such contact and communication may include, but are not limited
to: newsletters, written correspondence, personal meetings, telephone contact,
voice mail, electronic mail and the accompaniment of downline Distributors to
SISEL meetings, training sessions and other functions. Upline Distributors are also
responsible to motivate and train new Distributors in SISEL; product knowledge,
effective sales techniques, SISEL’s Dynamic Compensation Program and
compliance with Company Policies and Procedures. Communication with and the
training of downline Distributors must not, however, violate Section 3.2 (regarding
the development of Distributor-produced sales aids and promotional materials).
Distributors must monitor the Distributors in their Downline Organizations to
ensure that downline Distributors do not make improper product or business
claims, or engage in any illegal or inappropriate conduct. Upon request, every
Distributor should be able to provide documented evidence to SISEL of his or her
ongoing fulfillment of the responsibilities of a Sponsor.
5.2.2 Increased Training Responsibilities
As Distributors progress through the various levels of leadership, they will become
more experienced in sales techniques, product knowledge and understanding of
the SISEL program. They may be called upon to share this knowledge with lessexperienced
Distributors within their organization.
5.2.3 Ongoing Sales Responsibilities
Regardless of their level of achievement, Distributors have an ongoing obligation
to continue to personally promote sales through the generation of new customers
and through servicing their existing customers and as an upline sponsor to their
downlines on a monthly basis. Failure to properly service existing customers and
downline Distributors may result in termination or suspension of distributorship, to
be determined solely by SISEL.
5.3 NONDISPARAGEMENT
While SISEL welcomes constructive input, negative comments and remarks made
in the field by Distributors about the Company, its products, or compensation plan
serve no purpose other than to sour the enthusiasm of other SISEL Distributors.
For this reason, and to set the proper example for their downline, Distributors
must not disparage, demean or make negative remarks about SISEL, other SISEL
Distributors, SISEL’s products, the Marketing and Compensation plan, or SISEL’s
directors, officers, or employees.
5.4 PROVIDING DOCUMENTATION TO APPLICANTS
Distributors must provide the most current version of the Policies and Procedures
and the Compensation Plan to individuals whom they are sponsoring to become
Distributors before the applicant signs a Distributor Agreement. Additional copies
of Policies and Procedures can be acquired from SISEL. In addition, Distributors
may use only the forms provided by SISEL to sponsor new Distributors, order
products and assist retail and Preferred Customers in ordering products. The
necessary forms, which include the Independent Distributor Application and
Agreement (Form 101), the Distributor Purchase Order Form (Form 102), the
Preferred Customer Purchase Order Form (Form 103), the ACh (Automatic Clearing
house) Application Form (Form 104) and Statement of beneficial Interest Form
(Form 105), are included in the Distributor Kit. Additional forms may be obtained
from SISEL;
5.5 REPORTING POLICY VIOLATIONS
Distributors observing a Policy violation by another Distributor should submit a
written report of the violation directly to the attention of the SISEL Compliance
Department. Details of the incidents such as dates, number of occurrences, persons
involved and any supporting documentation should be included in the report. All
complaints must be submitted in writing to SISEL’s Compliance Department.
6.0 SALES REQUIREMENTS
6.1 PRODUCT SALES
SISEL’S Compensation Program is based upon the sale of SISEL products to
end consumers. Distributors must fulfill personal and Downline Organization
retail sales requirements (as well as meet other responsibilities set forth in the
Agreement) to be eligible for bonuses, commissions and advancement to higher
levels of achievement. The following sales requirements must be satisfied for
Distributors to be eligible for commissions:
a) Distributors must satisfy the Personal Sales Volume (PV) and group Sales
Volume (PgV) requirements to fulfill the requirements associated with their rank
as specified in SISEL’s Compensation Program. PV includes purchases made by the
Distributor and purchases made by the Distributor’s personally enrolled Preferred
Customers. PgV shall include the total Sales Volume of all Distributors in his or
her marketing organization, including non-break-away Executive Distributors Sales
Volume.
b) A minimum of seventy percent (70%) of a Distributor’s personal orders must
be sold to his or her personal retail customers. Distributors may not purchase
additional product until at least seventy percent (70%) of the previous order has
been sold to end consumers. By reordering, a Distributor certifies that he or she
has complied with this policy.
c) Distributors must develop or service at least five customers every month. These
customers can be either personal retail customers and/or Preferred Customers.
6.2 NO EXCLUSIVE TERRITORIES
There are no exclusive territories granted to anyone. No franchise fees are required.
6.3 PRODUCT PRICING
SISEL sells products to Distributors and customers at the same retail prices. There
are no wholesale prices for Distributors or customers. Shipping Costs: Shipping
and handling charges will be based on quantities shipped, weight and delivery
requirements.
6.4 SALES RECEIPTS
Except for cases where orders are placed over the Internet, all Distributors
must provide their retail customers with two copies of an official SISEL; sales
receipt at the time of the sale. These receipts set forth the Customer Satisfaction
guarantee for SISEL products, as well as any consumer protection rights afforded
by applicable law. Distributors must maintain all retail sales receipts for a period
of two years and furnish them to SISEL at the Company’s request. Records
documenting the purchases of Distributors’ Preferred Customers will be maintained
by SISEL. Distributors must ensure that the following information is contained on
each sales receipt:
(1) The date of the transaction;
(2) The date by which the buyer may give notice of cancellation under applicable
laws or regulations and
(3) Name and address of the selling Distributor. Remember that customers must receive
two copies of the sales receipt. In addition, Distributors must orally inform the
buyer of his or her cancellation rights.
7.0 BONUSES AND COMMISSIONS
7.1 BONUS AND COMMISSION QUALIFICATIONS
A Distributor must be active and in compliance with the Agreement to qualify for
bonuses and commissions. So long as a Distributor complies with the terms of the
Agreement, SISEL shall pay commissions to such Distributor in accordance with
the Compensation plan.
7.2 ADJUSTMENT TO BONUSES AND COMMISSIONS
7.2.1 Adjustments for Returned Products
Distributors receive bonuses and commissions based on the actual sales of
products to end consumers. When a product is returned to SISEL for a refund or
is repurchased by the Company, any bonuses and commissions attributable to the
returned or repurchased product(s) that is paid to Distributors will be deducted
from subsequent bonus and commission payments until the commission is
recovered.
7.2.2 Depending upon the method selected for receiving Bonus and Commission
payments, handling charges may apply to certain
transactions as outlined in the current Compensation Plan.
7.3 UNCLAIMED COMMISSIONS AND CREDITS
Preferred Customers or Distributors who have a credit on account must use their
credit within six months from the date on which the credit was issued. If credits
have not been used within six months, SISEL shall attempt to notify the Distributor
or Preferred Customer on a monthly basis, by sending written notice to the last
known address, advising the Distributor or Preferred Customer of the credit. There
shall be a $10.00 charge for each attempted notification. This charge shall be
deducted from the Distributor’s or Preferred Customer’s credit on account. In the
event that a Preferred Customer chooses to become a Distributor, their Preferred
Customer account will be automatically terminated. The points earned by that
Preferred Customer are non-transferable. The balance of the points earned by the
Preferred Customer must be used prior to their account being terminated. Any
remaining balance will be canceled.
7.4 REPORTS
All information provided by SISEL in online or telephonic downline activity
reports, including but not limited to personal and group sales volume (or any part
thereof), and downline sponsoring activity is believed to be accurate and reliable.
Nevertheless, due to various factors including the inherent possibility of human
and mechanical error; the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of orders; denial
of credit card and electronic check payments; returned products; credit card and
electronic check charge-backs; the information is not guaranteed by SISEL or any
persons creating or transmitting the information.
All personal and group sales volume information is provided “as is”; without
warranties, express or implied, or representations of any kind whatsoever. In
particular but without limitation there shall be no warranties of merchantability,
fitness for a particular use or non infringement.
To the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, SISEL and/or other persons
creating or transmitting the information will in no event be liable to any distributor
or anyone else for any direct, indirect, consequential, incidental, special or punitive
damages that arise out of the use of or access to personal and group sales volume
information (including but not limited to lost profits, bonuses, or commissions,
loss of opportunity and damages that may result from inaccuracy, incompleteness,
inconvenience, delay or loss of the use of the information), even if SISEL or other
persons creating or transmitting the information shall have been advised of the
possibility of such damages. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SISEL or other
persons creating or transmitting the information shall have no responsibility or
liability to you or anyone else under any tort, contract, negligence, strict liability,
products liability or other theory with respect to any subject matter of this
agreement or terms and conditions related thereto. Access to and use of SISEL’s
online and telephone reporting services and your reliance upon such information
is at your own risk. All such information is provided to you “as is.”; If you are
dissatisfied with the accuracy or quality of the information, your sole and exclusive
remedy is to discontinue use of and access to SISEL’s online and telephone
reporting services and your reliance upon the information.
8.0 PRODUCT GUARANTEES, RETURNS, ETC.
8.1 PRODUCT GUARANTEE
SISEL; offers a 100% 30-day, money-back satisfaction guarantee (less shipping and
handling charges) to all Preferred Customers, retail customers and Distributors.
Commissions paid out on the returned product will be deducted from the
Distributor’s and from the uplines’ future commissions, bonuses, rebates, refunds
or other incentives.
8.1.1 Returns by Preferred Customers
SISEL offers Preferred Customers an unconditional 30-day, money-back guarantee.
If, for any reason, a Preferred Customer is dissatisfied with any SISEL product, he
or she may return that product to the Company within 30 days, for a replacement,
exchange or a full refund of the purchase price (less shipping)..
8.1.2 Returns by Distributors (Products Purchased for Personal Consumption)
If a Distributor is unsatisfied with any SISEL product purchased for personal
use, the Company offers a 100% 30-day, money-back guarantee (less shipping).
This guarantee is limited to $150. If a Distributor wishes to return merchandise
exceeding $300, in any 12-month period, the return will be deemed an inventory
repurchase and the Company shall repurchase the inventory pursuant
8.1.3 Returns by Distributors (Products Returned by Personal Retail Customers)
If a personal retail customer returns a product to the Distributor from whom it was
purchased, the Distributor may return it to the Company for an exchange or refund
(less shipping and handling). All products returned by personal retail customers
must be returned to the Company within 10 days from the date on which it was
returned to the Distributor along with the sales receipt which the Distributor gave
to the retail customer.
8.2 RETURN OF INVENTORY AND SALES AIDS BY DISTRIBUTORS
Upon cancellation of a Distributor’s Agreement, the Distributor may return
inventory and sales aids for a refund if he or she is unable to sell or use the
merchandise. A Distributor may only return products and sales aids purchased
by him or her that are in resalable condition. Upon receipt of the products and
sales aids, the Distributor will be reimbursed 30% of the net cost of the original
purchase price(s), less shipping and handling charges. If the purchases were
made through a credit card, the refund will be credited back to the same account.
The Company shall deduct from the reimbursement paid to the Distributor any
commissions, bonuses, rebates or other incentives received by the Distributor
which were associated with the merchandise that is returned.
8.2.1 Montana Residents A Montana resident may cancel his or her Distributor
Agreement within 15 days from the date of enrollment, and may return his
or her Distributor Kit for a full refund including shipping costs within such time period.
8.3 PROCEDURES FOR ALL RETURNS
The following procedures apply to all returns for refund, repurchase or exchange:
a) All merchandise must be returned by the Distributor or customer who
purchased it directly from SISEL; b) All products to be returned must have a
Return Authorization Number which is obtained by calling the Distributor Services
Department. This Return Authorization Number must be written on each carton
returned. c) The return is accompanied by: i) a completed and signed Consumer
Return Form; ii) a copy of the original dated retail sales receipt; and iii) the unused
portion of the product in its original container. d) Proper shipping carton(s) and
packing materials are to be used in packaging the product(s) being returned for
replacement, and the best and most economical means of shipping is suggested.
All returns must be shipped to SISEL shipping pre-paid. SISEL does not accept
shipping-collect packages. The risk of loss in shipping for returned product
shall be on the Distributor. If returned product is not received by the Company’s
Distribution Center, it is the responsibility of the Distributor to trace the shipment.
e) If a Distributor is returning merchandise to SISEL that was returned to him or
her by a personal retail customer, the product must be received by SISEL within
ten (10) days from the date on which the retail customer returned the merchandise
to the Distributor, and must be accompanied by the sales receipt the Distributor
gave to the customer at the time of the sale.
PRODUCT RETURN POLICY
a) Product should not be used if tamper-evident seal is broken or tampered
with in any way. b) Product that is damaged in shipment should be refused at
the time of delivery. If unable to return damaged product to delivery company,
the distributor should notify SISEL International Customer Service immediately
(within 10 days) and request a return authorization number. c) Product that is
shipped incorrectly due to company error, please notify SISEL Customer Service
immediately (within 10 days) and ask for a return authorization number. d) SISEL
International, whenever possible, will replace or exchange damaged or misshipped
product with new product. however, when an exchange is not feasible, SISEL will
refund the amount of the returned product less shipping and handling costs. No
refund or replacement of product will be made if the conditions of these rules are
not met.
9.0 DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS
9.1 DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS
Violation of the Agreement, these Policies and Procedures, or any illegal,
fraudulent, deceptive or unethical business conduct by a Distributor may result, at
SISEL’s discretion, in one or more of the following corrective measures:
a) Issuance of a written warning or admonition;
b) Requiring the Distributor to take immediate corrective measures;
c) Imposition of a fine, which may be withheld from bonus and commission checks;
d) Loss of rights to one or more bonus and commission checks;
e) SISEL may withhold from a Distributor all or part of the Distributor’s bonuses
and commissions during the period that SISEL is investigating any conduct alleging
violations of the Agreement. If a Distributor’s business is canceled for disciplinary
reasons, the Distributor will not be entitled to recover any commissions withheld
during the investigation period;
f) Suspension of the individual’s Distributor Agreement for one or more pay periods;
g) Involuntary termination of the offender’s Distributor Agreement;
h) Any other measure expressly allowed within any provision of the Agreement or which
SISEL; deems practicable to implement and appropriate to equitably resolve
injuries caused partially or exclusively by the Distributor’s policy violation or
contractual breach;
i) In situations deemed appropriate by SISEL, the Company may institute legal
proceedings for monetary and/or equitable relief.
9.2 GRIEVANCES AND COMPLAINTS
When a Distributor has a grievance or complaint with another Distributor
regarding any practice or conduct in relationship to their respective SISEL
businesses, the complaining Distributor should first report the problem to his or
her Sponsor who should review the matter and try to resolve it with the other
party’s upline sponsor. If the matter cannot be resolved, it must be reported in
writing to the Distributor Services Department at the Company. The Distributor
Services Department will review the facts and attempt to resolve it. If it is not
resolved, it will be referred to the Dispute Resolution board for final review and
determination.
9.3 DISPUTE RESOLUTION BOARD
When a Distributor has a grievance or complaint with another Distributor
regarding any practice or conduct in relationship to their respective SISEL
businesses, the complaining Distributor should first report the problem to his or
her Sponsor who should review the matter and try to resolve it with the other
party’s upline sponsor. If the matter cannot be resolved, it must be reported in
writing to the Distributor Services Department at the Company. The Distributor
Services Department will review the facts and attempt to resolve it. If it is not
resolved, it will be referred to the Dispute Resolution board for final review and
determination.
9.4 ARBITRATION
Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to the Agreement, or the breach
thereof, shall be settled by arbitration administered by the International Chamber
of Commerce Arbitration Rules, and judgment on the award rendered by the
arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. Distributors
waive all rights to trial by jury or to any court. All arbitration proceedings shall
be held in Zurich, Switzerland,. All parties shall be entitled to all discovery rights
pursuant to the International Chamber of commerce Arbitration Rules. There
shall be one arbitrator, an attorney at law, who shall have expertise in business
law transactions with a strong preference being an attorney knowledgeable in
the direct selling industry, as approved by both parties. The prevailing party shall
be entitled to receive from the losing party, costs and expenses of arbitration,
including legal and filing fees. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and
binding on the parties and may, if necessary, be reduced to a judgment in any
court of competent jurisdiction. This agreement to arbitration shall survive any
termination or expiration of the Agreement.
Nothing in these Policies and Procedures shall prevent SISEL from applying to and
obtaining from any court having jurisdiction a writ of attachment, a temporary
injunction, preliminary injunction, permanent injunction or other relief available to
safeguard and protect SISEL’s interest prior to, during or following the filing of any
arbitration or other proceeding or pending the rendition of a decision or award in
connection with any arbitration or other proceeding.
9.5 GOVERNING LAW, JURISDICTION AND VENUE
Jurisdiction and venue of any matter not subject to arbitration shall reside in Utah
County, State of Utah unless the laws of the state in which a Distributor resides
expressly require the application of its laws. The laws of the State of Utah of
the United States shall govern all other matters relating to or arising from the
Agreement unless the laws of the state in which a Distributor resides expressly
require the application of its laws. 9.5.1 Louisiana Residents Notwithstanding the
foregoing, Louisiana residents may bring an action against the Company with
jurisdiction and venue as provided by Louisiana law.
SECTION 10 ORDERING
10.1 PREFERRED CUSTOMERS
Distributors are encouraged to promote SISEL’s Preferred Customer Program to
retail customers. Customers simply call SISEL’s Toll Free Order Number or go
online to the SISEL website or the replicated website of their SISEL Distributor
to place their orders, which they can charge to their credit card. SISEL will send
the ordered products directly to the customer. To ensure that Distributors receive
the appropriate sales volume, Customers may not place an order without a
Distributor’s ID Number. In addition, a Preferred Customer may sign up to have a
pre-selected package of SISEL; products delivered to his or her home automatically
each month (the Automatic Purchase Program).
10.2 PRODUCT REBATE
Preferred Customers receive one product point for each $20.00 of SISEL products
purchased to redeem for free products. Redeemable value is one product point
equals $3.00 USD. In the event that a Preferred Customer chooses to become a
Distributor, their Preferred Customer account will be automatically terminated. The
points earned by that Preferred Customer are non-transferable. The balance of the
points earned by the Preferred Customer must be used prior to their account being
terminated. Any remaining balance will be canceled.
10.3 REDEEMED PRODUCTS
Free products redeemed for product points are not purchased and as such are
exempt from the compensation program and have no PV or WBV value.
10.4 PURCHASING SISEL PRODUCTS
Each Distributor should purchase his or her products directly from SISEL. If a
Distributor purchases products from another Distributor or any other source, the
purchasing Distributor will not receive the personal sales volume that is associated
with that purchase.
10.5 GENERAL ORDER POLICIES
On mail orders with invalid or incorrect payment, SISEL will attempt to contact
the Distributor by phone, and/or mail to try to obtain another payment. If these
attempts are unsuccessful after five working days the order will be returned
unprocessed. No C.O.D. orders will be accepted. SISEL maintains no minimum
order requirements. Orders for products and sales aids may be combined.
10.6 SHIPPING AND BACK ORDER POLICY
SISEL will normally ship products within 7 days from the date on which it receives
an order. SISEL will expeditiously ship any part of an order currently in stock. If,
however, an ordered item is out-of-stock, it will be placed on back order and sent
when SISEL receives additional inventory. Distributors will be charged and given
Personal Sales Volume on back ordered items unless notified on the invoice that
the product has been discontinued. SISEL will notify Distributors and Preferred
Customers if items are back-ordered and are not expected to ship within 30 days
from the date of the order. An estimated shipping date will also be provided.
back ordered items may be canceled upon a Preferred Customer’s or Distributor’s
request. Preferred Customers and Distributors may request a refund, credit on
account, or replacement merchandise for canceled back orders. If a refund is
requested, the Distributor’s Personal Sales Volume will be decreased by the amount
of the refund in the month in which the refund is issued..
10.7 CONFIRMATION OF ORDER
A Distributor and/or recipient of an order must confirm that the product received
matches the product listed on the shipping invoice, and is free of damage. Failure
to notify SISEL of any shipping discrepancy or damage within thirty days of
shipment will cancel a Distributor’s right to request a correction..
11 PAYMENT AND SHIPPING
11.1 DEPOSITS
No monies should be paid to or accepted by a Distributor for a sale to a personal
retail customer except at the time of product delivery. Distributors should not
accept monies from retail customers to be held for deposit in anticipation of future
deliveries.
11.2 INSUFFICIENT FUNDS
It is the responsibility of each Distributor participating in the Automatic Purchase
Program to ensure that there are sufficient funds or credit available in his or her
account to cover the monthly Automatic Purchase order. SISEL; will not contact
Distributors in regard to Automatic Purchase orders canceled due to insufficient
funds or credit. This may result in a Distributor’s failure to meet his or her Personal
Sales Volume requirements for the month.
11.3 RETURNED CHECKS
All checks returned by a Distributor’s bank for insufficient funds will be resubmitted
for payment. A $25.00 returned check fee will be charged to the
account of the Distributor. After receiving a returned check from a customer or a
Distributor, all future orders must be paid by Credit Card, money order or cashier’s
check. Any outstanding balance owed to SISEL by a Distributor for NSF checks
and returned check fees will be withheld from subsequent bonus and commission
checks.
11.4 RESTRICTIONS ON THIRD PARTY USE OF CREDIT CARDS AND CHECKING ACCOUNT ACCESS
Distributors shall not permit other Distributors or customers to use his or her credit
card, or permit debits to their checking accounts, to enroll or to make purchases
from the Company.
11.5 SALES TAXES
In designing the SISEL opportunity, one of our guiding philosophies has been to
free Distributors from as many administrative, operational, and logistical tasks as
possible. In doing so, Distributors are free to concentrate on those activities that
directly affect their incomes, namely product sales and enrollment activities. To
these ends, SISEL relieves Distributors of the burdens of collecting and remitting
sales taxes, filing sales tax reports, and keeping records relative to sales taxes.
By virtue of its business operations, SISEL; is required to charge sales taxes on
all purchases made by Distributors and Preferred Customers, and remit the taxes
charged to the respective states. Accordingly, SISEL will collect and remit sales
taxes on behalf of Distributors, based on the retail price of the products, according
to applicable tax rates in the country, state or province to which the shipment is
destined. If a Distributor has submitted, and SISEL has accepted, a current Sales
Tax Exemption Certificate and Sales Tax Registration License, sales taxes will not
be added to the invoice and the responsibility of collecting and remitting sales
taxes to the appropriate authorities shall be on the Distributor. Exemption from the
payment of sales tax is applicable only to orders which are shipped to a state or
province for which the proper tax exemption papers have been filed and accepted.
Applicable sales taxes will be charged on orders that are drop-shipped to another
state/province. Any sales tax exemption accepted by SISEL is not retroactive.
The taxability of products and sales tax rates differ by country, state and province.
Additionally, an increasing number of local taxes (county and city) are being
initiated in various jurisdictions. This could result in a disparity in what SISEL
charges a Distributor and what the Distributor in turn can charge a retail customer
depending upon where the sale occurs. The difference should be brought to
the attention of SISEL Customer Service Department for adjustment. Distributors
must provide date of sale, state, province, county, city and rate of tax where sold,
total retail sales and the amount of the additional tax due, or credit due. It is the
responsibility of each Distributor to know what products are taxable and at what
rate. If you have questions regarding taxability and rates, contact the appropriate
governmental agency for assistance.
12 INACTIVITY AND CANCELLATION
12.1 EFFECT OF CANCELLATION
So long as a Distributor remains active and complies with the terms of the
Distributor Agreement and these Policies and Procedures, SISEL shall pay
commissions to such Distributor in accordance with the Marketing and
Compensation Plan. A Distributor’s bonuses and commissions constitute the entire
consideration for the Distributor’s efforts in generating sales and all activities
related to generating sales (including building a downline organization). Following
a Distributor’s non-renewal of his or her Distributor Agreement, cancellation
for inactivity, or voluntary or involuntary cancellation of his or her Distributor
Agreement (all of these methods are collectively referred to as “cancellation”;),
the former Distributor shall have no right, title, claim or interest to the marketing
organization which he or she operated, or any commission or bonus from the
sales generated by the organization. A Distributor whose business is cancelled will
permanently lose all rights as a Distributor. This includes the right to sell SISEL
products and the right to receive future commissions, bonuses, or other income
resulting from the sales and other activities of the Distributor’s former downline
sales organization. In the event of cancellation, Distributors agree to waive all
rights they may have, including but not limited to property rights, to their former
downline organization and to any bonuses, commissions or other remuneration
derived from the sales and other activities of his or her former downline
organization.
Following a Distributor’s cancellation of his or her Distributor Agreement, the
former Distributor shall not hold himself or herself out as a SISEL; Distributor and
shall not have the right to sell SISEL products. A Distributor whose Distributor
Agreement is canceled shall receive commissions and bonuses only for the last full
pay period he or she was active prior to cancellation (less any amounts withheld
during an investigation preceding an involuntary cancellation).
12.2 CANCELLATION DUE TO INACTIVITY It is the Distributor’s
responsibility to lead his or her marketing organization with the proper example in
personal production of sales to end consumers. Without this proper example and
leadership, the Distributor will lose his or her right to receive commissions from
sales generated through his or her marketing organization.
12.2.1 Insufficient Personal Volume to Maintain Active Requirement
Distributors who personally generate less than $100 in Personal Volume for any
pay period will not receive a commission for the sales generated through their
marketing organization for that pay period. If a Distributor has not purchased
any products for a period of six consecutive calendar months (and thus becomes
“inactive”;), his or her Distributor Agreement shall be canceled for inactivity. The
cancellation will become effective on the day following the last day of the sixth
month of inactivity.
12.2.2 Failure to Maintain a Personally Sponsored Distributor or Preferred Customer.
If a Distributor does not have at least one personally sponsored active Distributor
or Preferred Customer in his or her downline sales organization for 12 consecutive
months, his or her Distributor Agreement shall be cancelled for inactivity.
12.3 INVOLUNTARY CANCELLATION
A Distributor’s violation of any of the terms of the Agreement, including any
amendments that may be made by SISEL in its sole discretion, may result in any
of the sanctions listed in Section 9.1, including the involuntary cancellation of
his or her Distributor Agreement. Cancellation shall be effective on the date on
which written notice is mailed, faxed or delivered to an express courier, to the
Distributor’s last known address (or fax number), or to his/her attorney, or when
the Distributor receives actual notice of cancellation, whichever occurs first.
12.4 VOLUNTARY CANCELLATION
A participant in this network marketing plan has a right to cancel at any time,
regardless of reason. Cancellation must be submitted in writing to the Company
at its principal business address. The written notice must include the Distributor’s
signature, printed name, address, and Distributor I.D. Number. Please allow 10
business days from the date of receipt until the Distributorship is cancelled.
12.5 NON-RENEWAL
A Distributor may also voluntarily cancel his or her Distributor Agreement by
failing to renew the Agreement on its anniversary date. The Company may also
elect not to renew a Distributor’s Agreement upon its anniversary date.
13 DEFINITIONS
Active Distributor – A Distributor who satisfies the minimum Personal Sales
Volume requirements, as set forth in SISEL’s; 5-Star global-Seamless hybrid
Compensation Program, to ensure that he or she is eligible to receive bonuses and
commissions.
Active Rank – The term “active rank”; refers to the current rank of a Distributor,
as determined by SISEL’s 5-Star global-Seamless hybrid Program, for any volume
period. To be considered “active”; relative to a particular rank, a Distributor must
meet the criteria set forth in SISEL’s 5 Star global-Seamless hybrid Compensation
Program for his or her respective rank. (See the definition of “Rank”; below.)
Agreement – The contract between the Company and each Distributor includes the
Distributor Application and Agreement, the SISEL Policies and Procedures, SISEL’s
Dynamic Compensation Program, and the Statement of beneficial Interest Form
(where appropriate), all in their current form and as amended by SISEL in its sole
discretion. These documents are collectively referred to as the “Agreement.”;
Cancel – The termination of a Distributor’s business. Cancellation may be either
voluntary involuntary, through non-renewal or inactivity.
Commissionable Products – All SISEL products on which commissions and
bonuses are paid. Distributor Kits and sales aids are not commissionable products.
Company – The term “Company”; as it is used throughout the Agreement means
SISEL International, LLC, SISEL International AG, and their affiliates.
Distributor Kit – A selection of SISEL training materials and business support
literature that each new Distributor is required to purchase.
Downline – See “Marketing Organization”; below.
Downline Activity Report – A monthly report generated by SISEL that provides
critical data relating to the identities of Distributors, sales information and
enrollment activity of each Distributor’s Marketing Organization. This report
contains confidential and trade secret information which is proprietary to SISEL.
Downline Leg – Each one of the individuals enrolled immediately underneath you,
with you as their Sponsor, and their respective marketing organizations represents
one “leg”; in your marketing organization.
End Consumer – A person who purchases SISEL; products for the purpose of
personally consuming them rather than for resale to someone else.
group Sales Volume (PgV) – The commissionable value of SISEL products
generated by an Executive (or higher ranked) Distributor’s personal nonbreakaway
Marketing Organization. group Sales Volume does not include the
Personal Sales Volume of the subject Distributor. (Distributor Kits and sales aids
have no Sales Volume.)
Immediate household – heads of household and dependent family members
residing in the same house.
Level – The layers of downline Preferred Customers and Distributors in a particular
Distributor’s Marketing Organization. This term refers to the relationship of a
Distributor relative to a particular upline Distributor, determined by the number
of Distributors between them who are related by sponsorship. For example, if A
sponsors b, who sponsors C, who sponsors D, who sponsors E, then E is on A’s
fourth level.
Marketing Organization – The Preferred Customers and Distributors
sponsored below a particular Distributor of any rank.
Official SISEL Material – Literature, audio or video tapes, and other materials
developed, printed, published and distributed by SISEL to Distributors.
Personal Sales Volume (PV) – The commissionable value of products sold in a
calendar month: (1) by the Company to a Distributor; and (2) by the Company to
the Distributor’s personally enrolled Preferred Customers.
Preferred Customer – A customer who has executed a SISEL Preferred Customer
Agreement. (See Section 10.1 above). And who uses the products for personal
consumption and does not develop a downline distributor organization.
Rank – The “title”; that a Distributor has achieved pursuant to SISEL’s 5 Star global-
Seamless hybrid Compensation Program. Rank advancements take effect on the
1st day of the month following their qualification. There are two primary ranks
within SISEL’s Dynamic Compensation Program, Distributor and Executive. Details
on each rank and their associated qualifications are found in SISEL’s 5 Star global-
Seamless hybrid Compensation Program brochure.
Recruit – For purposes of SISEL’s Conflict of Interest Policy (Section 4.9), the
term “recruit”; means actual or attempted solicitation, enrollment, encouragement
or effort to influence in any other way, either directly or through a third party,
another SISEL Distributor or Preferred Customer to enroll or participate in another
multilevel marketing, network marketing or direct sales opportunity. This conduct
constitutes recruiting even if the Distributor’s actions are in response to an inquiry
made by another Distributor or Preferred Customer.
Resalable – Products and sales aids shall be deemed “resalable”; if each of the
following elements are satisfied: 1) they are unopened and unused; 2) packaging
and labeling has not been altered or damaged; 3) the product and packaging are
in a condition such that it is a commercially reasonable practice within the trade
to sell the merchandise at full price; 3) products are returned to SISEL; within one
year from the date of purchase; 5) the product expiration date has not elapsed;
and 6) the product contains current SISEL labeling. Any merchandise that is clearly
identified at the time of sale as non-returnable, discontinued or as a seasonal item,
shall not be resalable.
Retail Customer – An individual who purchases SISEL products from a Distributor.
Roll-Up – The method by which a vacancy in a Marketing Organization left by a
Distributor whose Distributor Agreement has been cancelled is filled.
Sponsor – A Distributor who enrolls a Preferred Customer or another Distributor
into the Company, and is listed as the Sponsor on the Distributor Application and
Agreement. The act of enrolling others and training them to become Distributors is
called “sponsoring.”;
Suggested Retail Price (SRP) – The price at which SISEL may suggest Distributors
sell a particular product to retail customers. Notwithstanding the SRP, Distributors
are always free to sell SISEL products at any price they choose.
Upline – This term refers to the Distributor or Distributors above a particular
Distributor in a sponsorship line up to the Company. Conversely stated, it is the
line of sponsors that links any particular Distributor to the Company.
© 2009 SISEL; International, LLC. & SISEL International AG, All rights reserved.
www.siselinternational.com -03/14/2007 - REVISED 2-06-09 14423:0003\982514.01
|
|
|
|