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AdvoCare International, LLC, a renowned American dietary supplement company, was founded in 1993 by Charles Ragus. The business was recognized for its achievements in direct sales and its involvement in multi-level marketing practices, which led to accusations of using a pyramid scheme. Located in Richardson, Texas, AdvoCare continues to grow by continually offering its customers a wide range of dietary supplements.

AdvoCare was founded by Ragus, a former NFL player and regional vice president of Fidelity Union Insurance. The company’s goal is to deliver high-quality supplements to help people achieve their health and fitness goals. The name “AdvoCare” stands for “Advocates Who Care,” which emphasizes Ragus’ commitment to helping people realize their ambitions.

AdvoCare’s offerings were promoted through a multi-level marketing mechanism, allowing distributors to profit by selling products and attracting new distributors. However, this model has been criticized for potentially operating as a pyramid scheme – an illegal business scheme focused primarily on recruiting rather than selling products. Consequently, AdvoCare’s MLM system was investigated for potentially misleading customers.

In 2015, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) initiated legal action against AdvoCare, accusing the company of operating an illegal pyramid scheme. According to the FTC, AdvoCare created a multi-level marketing system that favored mostly existing distributors and disadvantaged new entrants. In addition, the FTC found that AdvoCare falsely marketed its products as having therapeutic or healing properties, in direct violation of the law.

In 2016, AdvoCare settled the lawsuit with the FTC, agreeing to pay a $100 million fine and make changes to its MLM system. In addition, AdvoCare pledged to stop making inaccurate or misleading statements about its products.

Currently, AdvoCare continues to operate, albeit with a new strategy. Instead of using multi-level marketing, the company now sells its products directly to consumers through its website and a wide range of retail partners. This innovative approach has expanded the company’s reach and supported its growth.

In 1993, Charles Ragus developed a vision to transform the health and wellness industry, which became a reality with the creation of AdvoCare.

In 1996, AdvoCare reached a major milestone by going public, paving the way for new opportunities.

In 2001, Charles Ragus, a distinguished public figure who left behind a legacy of benevolence, generosity, and compassion, passed away.

In 2007, Richard H. Wright became AdvoCare’s President and CEO, determined to guide the company to continued success.

In 2015, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against AdvoCare, accusing it of running an illegal pyramid scheme.

In 2016, AdvoCare settled a lawsuit with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that accused the company of deceptive marketing tactics.

In 2017, AdvoCare made the revolutionary decision to cease operations as a multi-level marketing company, which significantly changed the world of the industry.