In 1999, Avon Products, Inc., was one of the world's largest direct-selling merchandisers of beauty and beauty-related products. Avon markets product lines to women in the United States as well as in many different countries through 2.8 million independent sales representatives who sell primarily on a door-to-door or direct selling basis.
             Total operating profits in 1999 were$ 549.4 million, up slightly from $473.2 in 1998.
             However, predictions show that Avon's profit in its fourth quarter is expected to fall short of expectations.
             A series of corporate principles were developed by McConnell and provided direction and continued to influence decision making for the company throughout its history. The principles are (1) to provide individuals an opportunity to earn in support of their well-being and happiness, (2) To serve families throughout the world with products of the highest quality backed by a guarantee of satisfaction, (3) To render a service to customers that is outstanding in its helpfulness and courtesy, (4) to give full recognition to employees and Representatives, on whose contribution Avon depends (5) to share with others the rewards of growth and success (6) to meet fully the obligations of corporate citizenship by contributing to the well-being of society and the environment in which it functions (7) to maintain and cherish the friendly spirit of Avon.
             Vision: To be the company that best understands and satisfies the product, service and self-fulfillment needs of women, globally
             Objectives: are merely implied from performance. They are:
             Maintain a good image of the company
             Develop a domestic and international network of sales agents
             Strategies: Avon enjoys a global reputation stemming largely from its formidable worldwide network of independent sales agents. In 1998, Avon announced a strategic plan that included expanded consumer-marketing programs to drive growth in beauty sales and a modernize...