Conference turris::womannotes-v3

    I don't have the answers you are looking for, but one thing to think
    about.. if you are going to be selling a "home-party" type product, you
    may want to consider the supply and demand side of it.

    At some point, Tupperware will become "unsellable" as everyone will
    have purchased what they need/want, with an occasionally adding of a
    new product here and there.

    You may also want to look into products that constantly need to be
    re-purchased, ie Mary Kay, Avon, Amway, (I'm sure there are more -
    that's the only three I can think of).

    I used to purchase Tupperware for years.  The one thing that you get if
    you purchase it at a party is IDEAS!  If you just purchase it from a
    distributor, you don't get ideas like:  when you paint  something and
    you don't want to cart the whole gallon at a time, put some into a
    Tupperware bowl.  When you are finished, pour out remaining paint back
    into the can and just let the T-bowl sit and let the paint dry, then
    when it is dry, just tap it on its side and the paint comes out.
    
    There are so many ideas!  I like the products because Tupperware stands
    behind them, if one gets ruined, they replace it.  Usually no questions
    asked!
    
    Hopes this helps!
    
    Jackie
    :-)
    

    .1,
    
    Good point, I have considered those points however and Tupperware comes
    out w/a new catalogue every six months from what I understand,
    fall/winter and spring/summer.  They are always coming out w/new
    products.  But I'm not really in it for the "Home parties" selling end
    of it.  Basically I'd like to stay away from Home parties, maybe have a
    few "open house" demonstrations at my home, I was just curious as to
    the reputation  of Tupperware products in general.
    
    Thanks for the input,
    
    Melissa :)
    

     I absolutely love Tupperware products.  They are reasonable compared
    to Rubbermaid products.  I don't like Tupperware's microwave line
    though.  But their products hold up very well.  (I have a cake
    container that was my mom's.)  I buy these products from my girlfriend
    who sells Tupperware and she gives me her discount.  She doesn't have
    much problem selling it.  I sold Tupperware a bit for charity and it
    was easy to sell.  My friend fakes parties alot.  ie:  She says she had
    a party but without having a party sells the appropriate amount at work
    so her Tupperware boss thinks she had a party.  (I guess you're
    supposed to have a certain number of parties.)
    
    Good Luck!
    Rachael
    

    Just to let you know that Tupperware has a new policy where customers
    are required to pay up front for what they buy.  It's a new system
    and I don't know if it is working out successfully.
    
    denise

    RE:4 & 5,
    
    4,  From what I was told, you're NOT required to have a certian number
    of parties, but it LOOKS good if you have them.  They like to know that
    they are getting the proper exposure on their products, ie:
    demonstrating all the "features" of each product.
    
    5,  This new policy is working out great from what I've seen.  I've
    been to 3 parties in the past month and a half, and everyone paid the
    night of the party.  The reason for this is because Tupperware will
    soon be shipping the products directly to the Customers homes, not to
    the Hostess' home anymore.  It'll be a while before this come into
    effect, but it's a good move I thought.  That way, all you have to do
    is sit through the demonstration and the hostess isn't responsible for
    collecting any money that's due, or worrying about getting the
    merchandise to all her guests when the orders come in!  Sounds like it
    will work much better than the current system.
    
    Mel

	I love Tupperware products. Have for years. I was even a dealer
	for a couple of years. (Worked for my wife who was a Tupperware
	manager.)

	You can buy some stuff like Tupperware for less money BUT you will
	not get the same product support. With Tupperware if it cracks or
	peels you can get a free replacement. The dealer will even pick
	up and deliver. They'll try and get you to have a party while they
	are at it but you do not have to say yes to get the service.

	Tupperware comes out with new products regularly. They also change
	colours of existing products to match trends and customer demand.
	There are several catalogs a year. Lately they have full and short
	catalogs. The short ones highlight different things and change
	more often.

	Dealers aren't really suppost to sell without parties but most do.
	It's not as cost effective to skip the party as you may think BTW.
	The overhead of catalog sales can be less in some ways (not having
	to buy hostess gifts for example) but you have to run around quite
	a bit more for the same sales volume.
	
	Parties can be a lot of fun. For the dealer too. I don't like to
	attend them myself (being the only male guest can be a drag on
	the fun) but running them as a dealer was a blast.

	You can make good money selling Tupperware but it takes quite a
	bit of work. I know several single parents who raised their kids
	and put them through school on Tupperware income. More modest
	amounts can be made without killing yourself though. What you
	make really does depend on how hard you want to work. In any case
	it's a great way to get your Tupperware cheap and have some fun
	while you're at it.

			Alfred

    
    this is interesting...
    
    how does one go about getting replacement tupperware pieces?
    I have several that are cracked/damaged, and would love to
    have them replaced free/less cost.
    
    who do you contact?  how do you get the product to them???
    
    never knew Tupperware would do that!!
    
    deb
    

    Deb, regarding your question on returns/refunds etc, you can either
    look up the number for Tupperware Home parties in the phone book, or
    you can dial (800)858-7221, and they will have your local Tupperware
    dealer/Manager call you for pick-up!  It's that easy!
    
    Mel

Deb,

My mother had the lid to one of those green lettuce keepers replaced 10 
years after originally purchasing it, after the lid cracked.  Excellent
customer service.

Carla

    
    I like Tupperware, too. They are good products and they last forever.
    Last time I bought anything was 4 years ago. This may not be good
    news for you!!! I know they come out with new lines all the time,
    but I can't justify spending $ on the same items just because the
    new colors are in. The toys they have are decent too. But, there
    are just so many infant/toddler toys I can buy - kids grow up 
    real fast. 
    
    I second the suggestion of looking into Avon or Amway. YOu may get
    more repeated purchases that way.
    
    Eva.
    
     

    re: .11
    
    Avon has soooooooo many representatives!  I think that Tuppeware must
    limit the amount of their reps, because they aren't falling all over
    you all the time....and Tupperware parties, like I said are really a
    lot of fun.  We don't have them very often in our next of the woods, so
    when someone has one, everyone goes.  I sold Avon for a while and its
    not all its cracked up to be, at least in the beginning.
    
    You never know how it is until you try it....my suggestion is to try it 
    what have you got to lose?
    
    Jackie
    :-)
    

    I think some of the serving storage containers you can get at the store
    are cheaper than tupperware, and in my mind sufficient for my needs. 
    Also, I don't get into going to ANYTHING parties (tupperware, mary kay,
    getting my "colors" done, what have you) very much, particularly when I
    can just pick it up at the supermarket.  And old cool whip containers
    and margarine tubs seem to do okay for the time being.  But then again,
    I'm not a cooking-intensive person.
    
    -Jody
    

    Re: 12,
    
    Really, I might as well try it like you said, "What have I got to
    lose"?  I think it would be fun, but I wanted to check the product
    repute before I went into it.  
    
    
    Like I stated in the base note, ALL inputs welcome Please!
    
    Mel

    OK, I'm up for replying to the Tupperware note.
    
    Tupperware is good, but expensive.  Basically, I'm with Jody on 
    this one -- for my purposes, old margarine (or what-have-you) tubs 
    are usually sufficient and they're just about free.  The Tupperware 
    that I have are things that I haven't seen elsewhere (supermarkets,
    department stores) and I also expect that they'll last for years,
    especially with the amount of use they get.  I have no intention of 
    buying next year's new color.  I've got the devilled egg carrier, a 
    cake carrier and a pie carrier -- it would be a hardship to manage 
    without the last two at holiday times, but I'd probably survive.  I
    can't imagine buying replacements for YEARS.
    
    CQ

    Maybe I'm a tightwad killjoy, but I cannot imagine buying Tupperware. 
    Little plastic containers simply seem to appear in my kitchen and I go
    nuts trying to find ecological ways of getting rid of them.  (I  ditch
    them probably the same way I got them, bringing some goodie to a dish
    to pass event.)
    
    The thing that really bugs me about "party" wares is that I feel forced
    to buy the stuff.  I used to go to these parties to please friends and
    always wound up purchasing the cheapest item and ditching it at a
    rummage sale ASAP.  (Salvation Army must love me for my Princess House
    crystal donations.)  I hated the demonstrator tellling us that if the
    sales equalled some $ amount, our hostess would get a free whatever.
    
    I finally realized that I resent my friends/coworkers/neighbors
    imposing on me like this.  Now I don't go anymore.  
    
    I understand the urge to have a small business and some extra income
    but cannot understand making it off party schemes.  I don't need stuff,
    I need services.  Services are also very repeatable! 
    
    Just my 2 cents.  What a curmudgeon I am this evening!
    
         Margaret

    I think Rubbermaid is a lot cheaper than Tupperware.  And there's stuff
    that's cheaper yet.  Sure, you don't get free replacements but I don't
    have anyone destroying my stuff either.  There were some Tupper things
    that I wanted and when I found out that the woman in the next office wa
    having a party, I got myself invited.  Couldn't make it that night but
    I bought a bunch of stuff anyway.  I love those pitchers with the push
    button lids.
    
    ed

    Re .16, I can't stand going to those things either.  Drives me nuts.
     Underwear?  Cosmetics?  Plastic containers?  If I want something
    I'll go to a store and buy it!  I hate having somebody *ask* me
    if I want to buy something.  That TV channel is the trashiest approach
    yet!  Oh well....
    
    Lorna
    

    I went to a few Tupperware parties when I was starting
    housekeeping.  I love the unusual items like the cake carrier
    and pie taker.  I would go to another party now to replace
    the items I lost and to buy some as gifts for those who are
    starting out.  (The next generation - a sign of advancing age!!)
    
    I now use leftover jars and margerine tubs for miscellaneous
    storage and carrying to pot luck.  I have never found anything 
    for storing tiny leftovers except Tupperware.
    
    I enjoy parties where the hostess is not pushy.  I liked 
    learning about interesting items.  I don't like being pressured
    to earn a free whatever for the hostess.  I say go for it, but
    be low key about how much people have to buy.  Invite some of us
    who are old enough to be buying for nephews, nieces, and offspring.
    You might even invite grandparents.  Some of them are lonely
    and eager to be involved in social occasions.  
    
    Pat 

    RE: .0
    
    If you have any specific questions feel free to send me mail
    off line.  I have been a tupperware dealer for 4 years, so I
    can tell you the pro's and con's of home party sales.  
    
    If you've already decided to do some type of home party sales
    then I think Tupperware is the best personally.  The product's
    sells itself because of the warranty.  It's guaranted for life against
    chipping, cracking, peeling and breaking.  Almost everyone can
    use it.  Even if someone goes to a party and doesn't need 
    anything they can buy wedding gifts or childrens birthday gifts.
    The price ranges are from $4 up.
    
    Hope this helps!
    
    Debbi

    I have to join those who don't like the parties. I'll go if a close
    friend is giving it but even then I feel pressured to buy something. I
    wouldn't even consider going to one where I wasn't a personal friend of
    the hostess/host.

    I also hate door-to-door sales. I feel sorry for the people that have
    to do it but wish they would leave me alone! liesl

    I think that the best thing is either Tupperware or Rubbermaid.  But
    Rubermaid doesn't have parties, and when there are no parties, not only
    do you miss great ideas, but NO NETWORKING happens.  I have met some
    pretty terrific people at these parties.  And I can continue
    networking, someday I may need some of these resources and hopefully
    one of these days, they may need me for something.  
    
    So all around, I DO like the the parties!  What makes or breaks a party
    is the demonstrator.  Be a Good One, and you'll do well.  I love the
    demonstrators that are so high on the product, that nothing else
    exists, they usually fall on their faces!  If you are realistic with
    your product you will do well!
    
    Jackie
    :-)
      
    

    JAckie,
    
    I'm not all that gung ho on the parties end of the business, although
    if I were to demonstrate, I know I would do well.  I have a
    loud-n-clear speaking voice and I'm noted for pointing out all aspects
    of the product in question.  But What I've noticed alot of readers
    don't realize is the fact that Tupperware products aren't all "food
    conatiners"!  They have a wide variety of other items, such as fruit
    peelers/corers, infant learning toys, snack trays, punch bowls sets,
    strainers, desk organizers, colanders etc.....the list goes on and on. 
    Most people can say, that the margerine tubs and cool whip containers
    do the job for them, but can a cool whip container strain you veggies
    or teach your child shapes and colors (in one toy)?  I think what's
    happening is alot of people think that tupperware is just one TYPE of
    product and they don't really realize it's full potential.
    
    Mel

    Mel:
    
    I agree, Tupperware isn't "just a container to hold veggies".  Even if
    it was meant to be, you can use it for many other things...these things
    you learn at a party.  Like the very very small cups (2 oz) they are
    great to bring to work for salad dressing, etc., but have you ever
    heard of putting a pair of panty hose in them and either keeping them
    in your desk drawer or purse?
    
    The Tupperware shaper that is for children has been around for so many
    years....but it is still the best on the market, I think.  The shapes
    and the "ball" container can go anywhere and they sure take the abuse!
    
    The newest catalog that I saw was terrific!  I am sold on Tupperware, I
    like things that look nice, and Tupperware and Rubbermaid sure do.  I
    wouldn't want a lot of non-see-through containers on my shelves saying
    Cool Whip!
    
    I was raised on Tupperware, so I am a believer!
    
    
    Jackie
    
    :-)

Is tupperware biodegradable? Are the 'raised on tupperware' people
leaving something for their children grandchildren?

Whats the alternative?
	

>  Is tupperware biodegradable? Are the 'raised on tupperware' people
> leaving something for their children grandchildren?

  Most Tupperware is almost certainly polyethylene, which suggests that
  it *ISN'T* very biodegradable although it ought to be very recyclable.
  But it's also pretty durable so as long as one's children's grand-
  children can still use it, then there's very little disposal problem.

                                   Atlant

    
    Tupperware is very durable. I won't be surprised that the stuff
    will last 10 years or more. Think about how many margarine containers
    we have to throw out in 10 years! Maybe someone should suggest
    to Tupperware about recycling. Maybe they already do that with
    the ones returned for replacement!
    
    Eva.

    
    	My wife and I like Tupperware, but we haven't bought anything
    	in years.... because we haven't needed it. We like to buy things
    	that LAST. All our Tupperware is at least 8 years old and our
    	Fuller Brushes, broom and mop are 10-15 years old. We also use the
    	Fuller Brush laundry products.
    
    	IMHO, it's easier to make money selling things that wear out
    	than things that last 10, 20 or 30 years. Just ask any american
    	auto manufacturer :-).
    
    	The thing is that with Amyway, Shaklee, Fuller, Mary K .... is that
    	there is usually a value added to the cost of the product; usually
    	service or education in using the product (such as Mary K skin care
    	classes)and delivery . My wife has hosted some "parties" and they have
    	been FUN. Especially the undercoverwear parties. I was the only man 
    	there so I was asked my opinion by the women when they tried on 
    	different outfits ;-).
    
    	I did a case study in school and I think Mary K had more women
    	earning over 50K a year than any of the other direct marketing
    	companies. Also, statistics show that on 75% of customers are 
    	reached by direct marketing salespeople, so if you are in an area
    	with many of the same product salespeople, that last 25% will be
    	harder to reach.
    
    	Lastly, my wife and I hate going to any store. We even have our
    	groceries delivered. So, I'm willing to pay extra for delivery
    	service of any product. I assign a cash value to any non-leisure
    	time, so that to me, driving 1/2 hour to the store, talking to a
    	rude saleclerk, waiting 1/2 hour in the checkout line, then driving
    	home is not worth our while.
    
    	Guy
    

    Not to rat hole this topic too much.....
    
    	BUT, has anyone had any experience with the new MLM-type 
    	product of NEXT SKIN????  I understand it's a group of
    	products that rejuvinate the skin and reverse the aging
    	of the skin!!!!   
    
    justme....jacqui

    Regarding .28,
    
    That's good to know about Tupperware products lasting so long.  I have
    a new catalog if you'd like to view it, send me mail.  Tupperware has
    alot of new products out, and you really should "take a look" you'd be
    surprised at what's available.
    
    Mel

    I have Tupperware that is over 30 years old, and still in execelent
    condition. My oldest peice is a green colender, I have used it at least
    twice a month for 31 years. The only defect is a ring around the
    outside that I caused about 20 years ago by setting it in a hot pot. 
    My only complaint is that they keep changing the colors and I need new
    covers in colors that aren't made any more.

    RE: .25
    
    Tupperware doesn't wear out.....I haven't seen one anyway and my Mom
    has used it for years.  Also, if you want to get away from having to
    store left-overs in Tupperware, another thing my said was "clean your
    plate", good idea, then you won't need containers.
    
    I don't think we have to worry about recycling, if you get tired of it
    you don't throw it away, you sell it in a garage sale, see...Tuperware
    recycles itself.
    
    RE:  New skin (can't remember the number)
    
    Does this come from Tupperware?  This is something I haven't heard of!
    
    Jackie
    
    :-| ???
    
    

    But there is a major problem with buying t'ware over using old
    margarine containers.  When the stuff you save in the container becomes
    indistinguishable from the latest monster movie special effect, you
    don't have to clean the old margarine container, you can chuck it.
    
    Now, I KNOW this is not ecological but sometimes hazardous waste
    disposal is necessary.
    
    If only I had the time to clean the fridge more often....
    
       Cheers,
         Margaret

RE: A few back

Tupperware is recycled.  When you send back broken/chipped containers, for 
replacement, they are thrown into a bin.  All the tupperware is then sent
back to the factory to be recycled.  

So, I don't think Tupperware is biodegratable, but it should never have to
be thrown out.  I have tupperware that my grandmother gave me.  It's supposed
to last for ever, if it doesn't it should be sent back for a replacement and
then recycled.  No reason to throw it away!

Debbi

    Margaret:
    
    You are the BEST!  I do definitely agree about the green stuff in those
    containers.  But you see, that's why I have to keep buying T'ware, I
    throw so much away because of the toxic waste that develops!
    
    That's one thing about us Noters, we can always find someone who has
    the same "problems" we have, just like toxic waste in containers. 
    Maybe I should start liking Cool Whip and eating it, just for the
    containers,..... actually, I could buy the Cool Whip and chuck it and still
    be farther ahead money wise, its better to throw away the Cool Whip and
    keep the container for later and then throw the container away.
    
    What a great idea.........thanks Margaret!
    
    
    Jackie
    
    :^)
    

	RE: .29  Next Skin...

	Actually it's Nu Skin.  A friend of mine sells this and I have tried
	a number of the products.  The Nu Skin Face Lift product is kind of
	nice.  Their shampoos are very good.  If you want/need more info, let
	me know and I'll try to get it for you.

	RE: .32

	As far as I know, it is not a Tupperware business.

	Jodi-

    re:  .36
    
    	Thanks Jodi.  I dropped the [Nu] Skin note in this note as
    	an alternative to selling Tupperware as the basenoter appeared	
    	to be asking for ways to make a decision.  
    
    	Someone I know recently went to a Nu Skin recruitment night but
    	didn't get to sit through the whole presentation.  I was inter-
    	ested if anyone in -wn- knew anything concrete on this product
    	and how the seller was doing after a period of time.  The in's
    	and out's of profit/effort etc.
    
    	Thanks,
    	justme....jacqui

    I mentioned Tupperware's guarantee to a friend and she told me that she
    had a t'ware container that had become curled and misshapen and when
    she tried to get it replaced the dealer said "you must have done it in
    the dishwaher."  T'ware is [or was] billed as top-rack safe and I know
    this lady would not have put it on the bottom rack.
    
    ed

    I was informed by my Manager, that when replacing tupperware, the
    dealer must use his/her own judgement.   Onlt T'ware that has been
    purchased after 1979, is dishwasher safe.  And t'ware that is broken,
    cracked, peeling or chipped will be replaced free of charge.  Any other
    problems such as stains, warping or scratches are not replaced free of
    charge, the customer must pay a replcement charge for the product. 
    These problems of staining, warping and scratching are due to misuse of
    the product, either by using in microwave (t'ware is NOT guaranteed
    microwave safe, only the ULTRA 21 line is microwave /conventional oven
    safe) or dishwasher (if bought before 1979) or pouring HOT chili or
    spaghetti sauce in them etc.  If the customer uses sharp knives it
    t'ware it WILL scratch.  T'ware won't replace t'ware free of charge for
    any scratches due to use of sharp kives.
    
    This is what I have discovered thus far, If anyone knows differently
    please help.
    
    Mel

    Yep, the only Tupperware I've managed to wreck were the pieces I put
    in the microwave and freezer (two different pieces).  I'm using my
    mother's T'ware left-overs.  The midget cups are the best!  Great for
    dressing, small amounts of milk, just enough sour cream for that
    enchilada you brought for lunch... ;-)
    
    I do agree with Jody, though.  The Rubbermaid is less expensive,
    equally durable, and goes from freezer to microwave.  So, I "make do"
    with my current stock of T'ware.
    
    Some side notes in praise of T'ware, however:  I *love* my coasters! 
    They are wonderful and aren't garrish.  I would not have survived knee
    surgery if it hadn't been for T'ware!!  When I was home alone on
    crutches, I used my covered tumblers and plastic shopping bags to
    transport food (especially tea) from stove to couch or bed.  (I never
    thought I'd be greatful for those awful CVS bags!)  And T'ware makes
    some cups with covers that have straw sized holes, and some that have a
    "straw" sipper built in (do they still make those?) and my niece and
    nephew loved their "sippy cups" of juice at my house.
    
    My big complaint:  Any item with tomato stains T'ware (and Rubbermaid)!
    
    
    Susan

    The reason tomato sauce stains the TW is that you are putting it into
    the container before it cools down.  Let it cool first.  
    
    BTW you can bleach your TW and it will come clean of stains.
    
    A former TW dealer
    

    That's right, if you put T'ware into cold water after you have had
    tomato sauce in it (or chili etc.) then it shouldn't stain.  Because
    T'ware is plastic and plastic is poros then it will stain if not
    treated correctly.  Just like your clothes.  If you spilled coffee or
    sauce on your clothes you would apply cold water first so that the
    stain wouldn't SET into the material, and the grease lifts out.
    
    Mel :^)