AIBU to suspect new independent travel agents are MLM-style schemes?

[Allswellthatendswelll]

I've had three Mum aquaitances message me this week saying they are now "Independent travel agents" and asking me to book a holiday through them and/ or join their '"team" to become an ITA. Also a minor influencer I originally followed for weaning recipes seems to have pivoted to it?

Surely there can't be that much market for it? Or is it a real thing with MLM elements? (I have no interest in using one or being one)

One of my work acquaintances has been doing this for a couple of years & hasn’t tried to recruit anyone. I got the impression it was a way for her to get either reduced or free holidays plus also make a few extra quid. Some of the deals she posts look good although I prefer DIY-ing my own holidays.

InteleTravel is the one I’ve come across and it seems like a MLM

There definitely are some that are MLMs.

But people can actually be real independent travel agents too. I know someone who does it for real (and is very good).

The clue is (like all MLMs) in whether they’re trying to sell products or “recruit” what would normally be competitors for any normal sales job.

There are 8 listed here: https://mlmtruth.org/master-list/#T

Yes it’s MLM.

I saw a funny reel on instagram the other day. It was all about how we all need to be taking collagen, be a SAHM, work full time, exercise. Get enough sleep, look after the kids, smash peri menopause, take vitamins etc etc - and be an independent travel agent. 🤣

Very likely. Very unlikely ATOL protected 🤣

Yes, a person I thought was a friend tried to actively recruit me and another friend of ours via a zoom call some years ago. Made me see her in another light and we are no longer friends. It screamed mlm to both of us and literally this woman went from being friend to brainwashed salesperson in weeks.