The Gig Economy’s Original Side Hustle: Direct Selling in 2026

Listen On

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we explore how direct selling continues to evolve as a powerful model built on trust, flexibility, and human connection.

Joining us is Peter Maddox, President of the Direct Sellers Association of Canada. With deep insight into a network of over a million independent sellers, Peter shares how this industry is shaping modern entrepreneurship.

Key Highlights:

1. The Modern Seller: Peter explains why more Canadians are turning to direct selling as a flexible business model.
    
2. Accessible Entrepreneurship: Peter shares how the model supports income generation alongside personal commitments.
    
3. Trust in Commerce: Peter highlights why relationship driven selling is gaining strength in today’s market.
    
4. Economic Contribution: Peter discusses the industry’s impact and what policymakers need to recognize.
    
5. Future Through Education: Peter outlines how new training and scholarship programs support long term growth.

Special Thanks to Our Partners:

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx

For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Maheen Bari

A Client Manager at CanadianSME, Maheen adds a practical, hands-on perspective to the podcast. Her experience in conducting interviews, coordinating events, and collaborating with business experts provides valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of running a small business. Her involvement in the magazine’s marketing initiatives also brings a valuable understanding of audience engagement and content strategy.

See Full Bio