Excellent examples of MLM businesses are Mannatech, Vector Marketing (sellers of Cutco knives), Tupperware, and Mary Kay Cosmetics.

These businesses thrive on selling sample cases of their products to newly recruited salespersons, and will offer bonuses to members which recruit new salespersons. These commissions are based on the sale of products, not from an enrollment fee. Despite these similarities, the varying sales potential and quality of the products, these companies are considered legal businesses, because their recruited staff may receive income solely from the sale of the products of the company, without ever recruiting new salespersons. In addition, these legitimate businesses do not pay bonuses for the recruitment of salespeople.