History

 History Timeline :
1950S


Amway begins in Ada, Michigan. Founders Jay Van Andel and Rich DeVos coined Amway as an abbreviation for “American Way”.

1959


Amway launches its first product, Liquid Organic Cleaner – one of the world’s first bio-degradable, concentrated multi-purpose cleaners. Liquid Organic Cleaner becomes a high seller and initiates the legacy of taking our stewardship for the earth seriously.

Richard DeVos discusses the early days of Amway. How a few key decisions and opportunities led to the world of Amway as we now know it.

1960s

The Amway Business philosophy begins to expand, in geography, sales, and product offering.

1962
In October of 1962, Amway opens its first International office in London, Ontario, Canada. This would be the second of over the eventual 80 countries and territories that Amway would expand into.

1967


Amway sales reach $50 million. 

Listen to Rich DeVos on selling America. Through the latest technology of the day, the album highlights Rich DeVos’ innate ability to motivate and inspire.

1968




The Artistry brand debuts with 11 products and 37 shades. Artistry would grow to become one of the top five selling premium skin care brands.

1970s





Amway acquires Nutrilite, adds eight more international markets, and expands the world headquarters to almost one million square feet.

1971

Amway’s first overseas office opens in Sydney, Australia. Why Australia? As described by our co-founder Rich DeVos, “it was the farthest away, so we said, well, if it will work way over there, then maybe it’ll work elsewhere.” Co-founder Jay Van Andel is shown breaking ground.

1972
Amway acquires the Nutrilite Brand, to round out the Amway offering to home, beauty, and nutrition. Nutrilite would grow to become the world’s leading brand of vitamin, mineral and dietary supplements.

1980s
The Amway Opportunity reaches an additional 20 countries through the power of more than one million distributors.

1980
Amway enters the decade of the 80s by surpassing the $1 Billion sales mark. Watch Jay Van Andel discuss this milestone.

1981
Amway’s Grand Plaza Hotel opens in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. This four-star, 682 room hotel, becomes one of the iconic catalysts that would enhance and grow the Western Michigan community.

1984

Amway Celebrates its 25th Anniversary.

1990s
Amway expands into 33 additional markets around the world, including China and South Africa (shown). Through the efforts of our distributors, employees, and partners around the world, Amway would more than double in size during the decade.
2000s
The new millennium would bring new partnerships, new innovations, and new efforts to help Amway achieve its vision of Helping People Live Better Lives.

2003
Amway One by One Campaign for Children launches. It rallies the resources of the entire Amway family to make a difference in the lives of children around the world.

2006
Nutrilite opens the Center of Optimal Health. This California based facility represents a worldwide collaboration of experts who are dedicated to helping people achieve optimal health.


2009
Amway celebrates its 50th Anniversary

2010
The Amway Center, a 20,000 seat entertainment and events center opens in downtown Orlando, Florida, USA. The Amway Center is the home of the National Basketball Association (NBA) Orlando Magic basketball team.