TVI Express, or Travel Ventures International, emerged in 2009 as a multi-level marketing (MLM) company offering travel packages and business opportunities. Headquartered in London, UK, the company aimed to combine the booming travel industry with network marketing, providing members with discounted travel deals and potential income through recruitment.
Company Overview
TVI Express presented itself as a global travel and hospitality firm, offering members benefits such as discounted travel packages, a personalized website, virtual office access, and promotional deals. A notable feature was the promise of complimentary accommodation—7 nights at resorts or 3 nights at hotels—as part of the membership package.
Member Experiences: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Travel Discounts: Some members appreciated the discounted travel options. One member mentioned, "I joined it too eventually. I have already booked my 6-day 7-night free accommodation in Bali in January, looks good & the travel deals are great, cheaper than I can get online or with an agent."
- Business Opportunity: The MLM structure provided individuals with a chance to earn income through recruitment and sales. A member shared, "This is a real opportunity and a real business company with real people worldwide making fantastic monthly incomes."
Cons:
- Customer Support Issues: Several members reported difficulties in reachie and booking promised accommodations. One user noted, "I have been trying to book my free 6-night hotel since May 2010, and their portal has been down. You spend 90 minutes on hold waiting to talk to someone."
- Legal Concerns: TVI Express faced legal challenges in multiple countries, being accused of operating as a pyramid scheme. For instance, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission obtained orders restraining individuals from promoting TVI Express, labeling it an alleged pyramid selling scheme.
- Product Validity: Critics questioned the legitimacy of the travel deals and accommodations offered. A review highlighted, "TVI Express is supposed to be a network marketing direct selling company suspected by many to be an international scam."
Conclusion
While TVI Express attracted individuals with the allure of discounted travel and income opportunities, numerous red flags emerged over time. Reports of unfulfilled promises, poor customer service, and legal actions in various countries suggest caution. Potential members should conduct thorough research and consider the experiences of past participants before engaging with such programs.