According to the Direct Selling Association (DSA), there was a 29% increase in 2012 in the number of under-25s turning to direct selling from the previous year.

The trade body says that of the 400,000 direct sellers in the UK, over 75,000 are now under 25, and discovered that under-25s now make 19% of the direct sales force, with 30% of direct sellers in the UK educated to degree level.

Direct selling is where individuals work for themselves and sell goods to consumers outside a fixed retail location. Avon and Herbalife are some of the more well-known direct selling companies.

Lynda Mills, director of the DSA, said: “For many young people, the jobs market is incredibly difficult to break into and there is a real desire to work for themselves and get up and running quickly. Direct selling offers just that and a chance for people, whatever their age to be their own boss and make a very successful career.”

“The increase in tuition fees and failure of the traditional jobs market has frequently led young people to consider direct selling, and many are now making a real success from the industry.

“Direct selling helps young people gain work experience through running their own micro businesses and learn entrepreneurial skills, which can be invaluable in later life. Under 25s are the new generation in direct selling, and are bringing with them new tools and technologies like smartphones and social media.”

A recent study from the Prince’s Trust and RBS had revealed that 30% of young people believe they will be self-employed in the future, while one in four expect to be their own boss within the next five years.