CONFORMED COPY
FORM 10-Q
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
[x] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2000
OR
[ ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from ___ to ___
Commission file number 1-4881
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New York 13-0544597
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R S. Employer
Incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, N.Y. 10105-0196
(Address of principal executive offices)
(212) 282-5000
(Telephone Number)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed
all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months
(or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to
file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No
The number of shares of Common Stock (par value $.25) outstanding at
October 31, 2000 was 237,915,557
Table of Contents
Part I. Financial Information
Page
Numbers
--------
Item 1. Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Three Months Ended September 30, 2000 and
September 30, 1999............................... 3
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2000 and
September 30, 1999............................... 4
Consolidated Balance Sheets
September 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999 ......... 5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2000 and
September 30, 1999.............................. 6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.......... 7-15
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of the
Results of Operations and Financial Condition....... 16-25
Part II. Other Information
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K................... 26
Signatures.................................................. 27
2
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In millions, except per share data)
Three months ended
September 30
-----------------
2000 1999
---- ----
(unaudited)
Net sales.................................. $1,342.7 $1,250.6
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales............................ 493.3 465.0
Marketing, distribution and
administrative expenses................ 679.8 639.4
------- --------
Operating profit .......................... 169.6 146.2
Interest expense......................... 22.4 9.8
Interest income.......................... (2.1) (2.4)
Other expense, net....................... 4.0 2.5
------- --------
Total other expenses....................... 24.3 9.9
------- --------
Income before taxes and minority interest.. 145.3 136.3
Income taxes............................... 51.6 47.8
-------- --------
Income before minority interest............ 93.7 88.5
Minority interest.......................... (.7) (.3)
-------- --------
Net income................................. $ 93.0 $ 88.2
======== ========
Earnings per share:
Basic ................................. $ .39 $ .34
======== ========
Diluted ............................... $ .39 $ .34
======== ========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
3
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In millions, except per share data)
Nine months ended
September 30
----------------
2000 1999
---- ----
(unaudited)
Net sales.................................. $4,045.7 $3,722.5
Costs, expenses and other:
Cost of sales* .......................... 1,487.0 1,424.9
Marketing, distribution and
administrative expenses................ 2,024.9 1,891.7
Special charge........................... - 105.2
-------- --------
Operating profit........................... 533.8 300.7
Interest expense......................... 65.1 27.7
Interest income.......................... (6.0) (7.8)
Other expense(income), net .............. 18.8 (4.6)
-------- --------
Total other expenses....................... 77.9 15.3
-------- --------
Income before taxes and minority interest.. 455.9 285.4
Income taxes............................... 161.8 127.0
-------- --------
Income before minority interest............ 294.1 158.4
Minority interest.......................... (1.8) 2.3
-------- --------
Net income................................. $ 292.3 $ 160.7
======== ========
Earnings per share:
Basic ................................. $ 1.23 $ .61
======== ========
Diluted................................ $ 1.22 $ .61
======== ========
*1999 includes a one-time charge of $46.0 for inventory write-downs.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
4
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions)
September 30 December 31
2000 1999
------ -----
(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and equivalents................... $ 94.0 $ 117.4
Accounts receivable.................... 532.1 495.6
Inventories............................ 694.4 523.5
Prepaid expenses and other............. 214.0 201.3
--------- --------
Total current assets................... 1,534.5 1,337.8
--------- --------
Property, plant and equipment, at cost. 1,488.5 1,472.0
Less accumulated depreciation.......... 747.0 737.2
--------- --------
741.5 734.8
--------- --------
Other assets........................... 483.1 456.0
--------- -------
Total assets........................... $ 2,759.1 $2,528.6
========= ========
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIT
Current liabilities:
Debt maturing within one year.......... $ 193.0 $ 306.0
Accounts payable....................... 377.6 435.9
Accrued compensation................... 126.5 165.8
Other accrued liabilities.............. 369.5 411.6
Sales and taxes other than income...... 85.1 107.5
Income taxes........................... 301.5 286.0
--------- --------
Total current liabilities.............. 1,453.2 1,712.8
--------- --------
Long-term debt......................... 1,104.6 701.4
Employee benefit plans................. 387.0 398.1
Deferred income taxes.................. 33.7 36.7
Other liabilities...................... 93.9 85.7
Shareholders' deficit:
Common stock........................... 88.4 88.1
Additional paid-in capital............. 844.7 819.4
Retained earnings...................... 997.7 837.2
Accumulated other comprehensive loss. . (395.9) (349.7)
Treasury stock, at cost................ (1,848.2) (1,801.1)
--------- --------
Total shareholders' deficit............ (313.3) (406.1)
--------- --------
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit $ 2,759.1 $ 2,528.6
========= =========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
5
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In millions)
Nine months ended
September 30
----------------
2000 1999
---- ----
(unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income...................................... $ 292.3 $ 160.7
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Special and non-recurring (payments)charges..... (14.6) 100.4
Depreciation and amortization................... 69.4 60.8
Provision for doubtful accounts................. 70.2 65.0
Translation loss/(gain)......................... 2.4 (.8)
Deferred income taxes........................... 5.4 (20.3)
Amortization of debt discount .................. 3.1 -
Other........................................... 8.2 5.3
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable........................... (124.0) (115.6)
Inventories................................... (197.3) (111.5)
Prepaid expenses and other.................... (33.7) (16.8)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities...... (82.7) (63.5)
Income and other taxes........................ (1.3) 3.9
Noncurrent assets and liabilities............. 3.4 18.8
------ ------
Net cash provided by operating activities...... .8 86.4
------ ------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures........................... (126.3) (123.3)
Proceeds from disposal of assets............... 5.7 6.2
Other investing activities..................... (1.2) (16.4)
------ ------
Net cash used by investing activities.......... (121.8) (133.5)
------ ------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Cash dividends................................. (133.6) (142.7)
Book overdrafts................................ (14.3) 23.3
Debt, net (maturities of three months or less). 26.1 339.8
Proceeds from short-term debt.................. 48.6 38.6
Retirement of short-term debt.................. (184.4) (37.0)
Proceeds from long-term debt................... 400.1 --
Retirement of long-term debt................... (.2) (.2)
Repurchase of common stock..................... (47.1) (182.7)
Proceeds from exercise of
stock options, net of taxes................. 18.3 23.9
------ ------
Net cash provided by financing activities...... 113.5 63.0
------ ------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
and equivalents............................ (15.9) (20.2)
------ ------
Net decrease in cash and equivalents........... (23.4) (4.3)
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period.... 117.4 105.6
------ ------
Cash and equivalents at end of period.......... $ 94.0 $ 101.3
======== =======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
6
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements should be
read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and
the Notes thereto contained in Avon's 1999 Annual Report to
Shareholders. The interim statements are unaudited but include all
adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, that
management considers necessary to fairly present the results for
the interim periods. Results for interim periods are not
necessarily indicative of results for a full year. The year-end
balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements,
but does not include all disclosures required by generally
accepted accounting principles.
In June 1999, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB")
issued Financial Accounting Standard ("FAS") No. 137, "Accounting for
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Deferral of the
Effective Date of FAS No. 133", which delayed the effective date of FAS
No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities",
by one year. FAS No. 133 is now effective for all fiscal quarters of
all fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000 (January 1, 2001 for the
Company). In June 2000, the FASB issued FAS No. 138, "Accounting for
Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities - an
amendment of FASB Statement No. 133". FAS No. 138 amends FAS 133 and
will be adopted concurrently with FAS No. 133. FAS No. 133 requires
that all derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at
their fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives will be
recorded each period in current earnings or accumulated other
comprehensive income, depending on whether the derivative is designated
as part of a hedge transaction. For fair-value hedge transactions in
which the Company is hedging changes in the fair value of an asset,
liability, or firm commitment, changes in the fair value of the
derivative instrument will be included in the income statement along
with the offsetting changes in the hedged item's fair value. For cash-
flow hedge transactions in which the Company is hedging the variability
of cash flows related to a variable rate asset, liability, or a
forecasted transaction, changes in the fair value of the derivative
instrument will be reported in accumulated other comprehensive income.
The gains and losses on the derivative instruments that are reported in
accumulated other comprehensive income will be reclassified to earnings
in the periods in which earnings are impacted by the variability of the
cash flows of the hedged item. The ineffective portion of all of the
hedges will be recognized in current period earnings. The impact of FAS
No. 133 as amended by FAS 138 on the Company's financial statements will
depend on a variety of factors, including the future level of forecasted
and actual foreign currency transactions, the extent of the Company's
hedging activities, the types of hedging instruments used and the
effectiveness of such instruments. Based on an analysis of Avon's
financial instruments outstanding at September 30, 2000, the Company
does not expect the adoption of FAS No. 133 as amended by FAS 138 to
have a material impact on its earnings or statement of financial
position.
In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") issued
Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, "Revenue Recognition in Financial
Statements" ("SAB 101"). SAB 101, which provides the SEC's views in applying
generally accepted accounting principles to revenue recognition in financial
statements, must be adopted by the Company in the fourth quarter of 2000. The
Company is currently assessing the impact, if any, on the Company's financial
position and results of operations.
7
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
To conform to the 2000 presentation, certain reclassifications were made
to the prior periods' consolidated financial statements and the accompanying
footnotes.
2. INFORMATION RELATING TO THE STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
"Net cash provided by operating activities" includes the
following cash payments for interest and income taxes:
Nine months ended
September 30
----------------
2000 1999
---- ----
Interest................................. $ 65.6 $ 34.0
Income taxes, net of refunds received.... 151.0 117.9
3. EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share ("EPS") are computed by dividing net
income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during
the year. Diluted earnings per share are calculated to give
effect to all potentially dilutive common shares that were
outstanding during the year.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2000 and
1999, the number of shares used in the computation of basic and
diluted earnings per share are as follows:
Three Months ended Nine Months ended
September 30 September 30
------------ ------------
2000 1999 2000 1999
---- ---- ---- ----
Basic EPS
Weighted-average shares 237.54 260.40 237.56 261.31
Incremental shares from
assumed conversion of
stock options and
convertible debt and
settlement of forward
contracts(1) 7.97 2.53 3.86 2.90
------ ------ ------ ------
Diluted EPS
Adjusted weighted-
average shares 245.51 262.93 241.42 264.21
------ ------ ------ ------
(1) At September 30, 2000 and 1999, stock options and forward contracts
to purchase Avon common stock totaling approximately 1.0 million
shares and 2.3 million shares, respectively, are not included in the
earnings per share calculation since their impact is anti-dilutive.
For the purposes of calculating diluted earnings per share for the
three and nine months ended September 30, 2000, after tax interest
expense of $2.0 applicable to convertible debt has been added back to
net income.
The Company purchased approximately 1,200,000 shares of common
stock for $47.1 during the first nine months of 2000, as compared to
8
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
approximately 5,895,800 shares of common stock for $228.2 during the
first nine months of 1999. 1,064,000 of the 2000 shares were purchased
for $42.2 under an existing repurchase program which was completed in
the third quarter of 2000. 136,000 of the 2000 shares were purchased for
$4.9 under a new repurchase program approved by the Board of Directors
in September 2000. Under the new share repurchase program, the Company
may buy up to $1 billion of its outstanding common stock over the next five
years. At September 30, 1999, 1,779,800 shares repurchased for $45.5 were not
settled until October 1999. Accordingly, $45.5 was included in other accrued
liabilities as of September 30, 1999 on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
4. INVENTORIES
September 30 December 31
2000 1999
---- ----
Raw materials................ $185.6 $156.9
Finished goods............... 508.8 366.6
------ ------
$694.4 $523.5
====== ======
5. DIVIDENDS
Cash dividends paid per share of common stock were $.185 and
$.555 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2000,
respectively, and $.18 and $.54 for the corresponding 1999
periods. On February 3, 2000, the Company increased the annual
dividend rate to $.74 from $.72.
6. CONTINGENCIES
Various lawsuits and claims (asserted and unasserted), arising
in the ordinary course of business or related to businesses
previously sold, are pending or threatened against Avon.
In 1991, a class action suit was initiated against Avon on
behalf of certain classes of holders of Avon's Preferred Equity-
Redemption Cumulative Stock ("PERCS"). This lawsuit alleges
various contract and securities law claims relating to the PERCS
(which were fully redeemed that year). Avon has rejected the
assertions in this case, believes it has meritorious defenses to
the claims and is vigorously contesting this lawsuit.
In the opinion of Avon's management, based on its review of
the information available at this time, the total cost of
resolving such contingencies at September 30, 2000 should not have
a material adverse impact on Avon's consolidated financial
position, results of operations or cash flows.
9
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
7. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2000 and
1999, the components of comprehensive income are as follows:
Three Months ended Nine Months ended
September 30 September 30
------ -------
2000 1999 2000 1999
---- ---- ---- ----
Net income $ 93.0 $ 88.2 $292.3 $160.7
Other comprehensive loss:
Unrealized loss, (net of
tax) from available-for
sale-securities (4.5) - (4.5) -
Change in equity due to
foreign currency
translation and
transaction adjustments (17.8) (4.8) (41.7) (45.0)
------ ------ ------- ------
Comprehensive income $ 70.7 $ 83.4 $246.1 $ 115.7
====== ====== ======= ======
8. SPECIAL AND NON-RECURRING CHARGES
In October 1997, the Company announced a worldwide business
process redesign program to streamline operations and improve
profitability through margin improvement and expense reductions.
The special and non-recurring charges associated with this program
totaled $151.2 pretax ($121.9 net of tax, or $.47 per share on a
basic and diluted basis) for the year ended December 31, 1999 and
$154.4 pretax ($122.8 net of tax, or $.46 per share on a basic and
diluted basis) for the year ended December 31, 1998.
10
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
The 1999 special and non-recurring charges by business segment are as
follows:
North America $ 33.6
Latin America 14.7
Europe 69.8
Pacific 11.8
Corporate 21.3
-------
Total $ 151.2
-------
The 1999 special and non-recurring charges by category of expenditures are
as follows:
Employee severance costs $ 57.0
Inventories 46.0
Write-down of assets to
net realizable value 26.4
Recognition of foreign currency
translation adjustment 9.8
Other 12.0
-------
Total $ 151.2
-------
Employee severance costs are expenses, both domestic and international,
associated with the realignment of the Company's global operations. Certain
employee severance costs were accounted for in accordance with the Company's
existing FAS 112 ("Employers' Accounting for Postemployment Benefits")
severance plans. Remaining severance costs were accounted for in accordance
with other existing accounting literature. The workforce has been reduced by
approximately 3,700 associates, or 9% of the total. Approximately one-half of
the terminated employees related to facility closures.
Inventory-related charges represent losses to write down the carrying
value of non-strategic inventory prior to disposal. The charges primarily
result from a new business strategy for product dispositions which
fundamentally changes the way the Company markets and sells certain inventory.
This new strategy, approved and effective in March 1999, is meant to
complement other redesign initiatives, with the objective of reducing
inventory clearance sales, building core brochure sales and building global
brands.
The write down of assets (primarily fixed and other assets) relates to the
restructuring of operations in Western Europe, including the closure of a
jewelry manufacturing facility in Ireland, and the write down of software, the
use of which is no longer consistent with the strategic direction of the
Company. By centralizing certain key functional areas and exiting unprofitable
situations, the Company plans to increase operating efficiencies and
ultimately, profit growth in the long-term.
The recognition of a foreign currency translation adjustment relates to
the closure of the jewelry manufacturing facility in Ireland.
11
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
The "Other" category primarily represents contract termination costs,
legal and consulting fees and other costs associated with the facility
closures.
The liability balance at September 30, 2000 is as follows:
Special Cost of
Charge Sales Charge Total
------- ------------ -----
Balance at December 31, 1999 $ 26.2 $ - $ 26.2
Cash expenditures (14.6) (14.6)
------ ----- ------
Balance at
September 30, 2000 $ 11.6 $ - $ 11.6
====== ===== ======
The balance at September 30, 2000 relates primarily to
employee severance costs that will be paid during 2000.
12
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
9. SEGMENT INFORMATION
Summarized financial information concerning the Company's reportable
segments is as follows:
Three Months Ended
September 30
------------------
2000 1999
---- ----
Net Operating Net Operating
Sales Profit Sales Profit
----- --------- ----- ---------
North America:
U.S. $ 425.7 $ 61.7 $ 405.7 $ 57.0
Other* 58.4 4.6 58.0 4.6
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total 484.1 66.3 463.7 61.6
-------- -------- -------- --------
International:
Latin America North** 212.1 51.9 171.6 42.4
Latin America South** 255.9 54.6 235.0 52.3
-------- -------- -------- --------
Latin America 468.0 106.5 406.6 94.7
Pacific 195.4 26.7 178.9 24.5
Europe 195.2 21.9 201.4 23.5
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total 858.6 155.1 786.9 142.7
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total from operations $1,342.7 221.4 $1,250.6 204.3
-------- -------- -------- --------
Global expenses (51.8) (58.1)
-------- --------
Operating profit $ 169.6 $ 146.2
======== ========
*Includes operating information for Canada and Puerto Rico.
**Latin America North includes the major markets of Mexico, Venezuela and
Central America. Latin America South includes the major markets of Brazil,
Argentina, Chile and Peru.
To conform to the 2000 presentation, certain reclassifications were made
to the prior periods' segment information.
13
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
Nine Months Ended
September 30
------------------
2000 1999
---- ----
Net Operating Net Operating
Sales Profit Sales Profit
----- --------- ----- --------
North America:
U.S. $1,335.0 $ 239.8 $1,264.5 $ 225.5
Other* 176.5 16.3 166.4 19.1
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total 1,511.5 256.1 1,430.9 244.6
-------- -------- -------- --------
International:
Latin America North** 617.2 150.4 529.8 125.3
Latin America South** 723.8 137.6 663.2 129.6
-------- ------- -------- --------
Latin America 1,341.0 288.0 1,193.0 254.9
Pacific 585.0 78.9 505.5 60.8
Europe 608.2 79.5 593.1 69.4
------- -------- -------- --------
Total 2,534.2 446.4 2,291.6 385.1
-------- -------- -------- --------
Total from operations $4,045.7 702.5 $3,722.5 629.7
-------- -------- -------- --------
Global expenses (168.7) (177.8)
Special and
non-recurring charges - (151.2)
-------- --------
Operating profit $ 533.8 $ 300.7
======== ========
*Includes operating information for Canada and Puerto Rico.
**Latin America North includes the major markets of Mexico, Venezuela and
Central America. Latin America South includes the major markets of Brazil,
Argentina, Chile and Peru.
To conform to the 2000 presentation, certain reclassifications
were made to the prior periods' segment information.
10. OTHER FINANCING ACTIVITIES
The Company had entered into forward contracts to purchase
approximately 1,568,000 shares of Avon common stock at an average
price of $37.08 per share as of September 30, 2000. The contracts
mature over the next year and provide for physical or net share
settlement to the Company. Accordingly, no adjustment for
subsequent changes in fair value has been recognized.
11. DEBT
During July 2000, the Company issued in a private placement
$735.8 principal amount at maturity of zero coupon convertible
senior notes due July 12, 2020 (the "Notes"), with proceeds of
approximately $350.0. The issue price per note was $475.66, being
47.566% of the principal amount of $1,000 per Note at maturity.
The Notes have a 3.75% yield to maturity and are convertible at
any time into the Company's common stock at a conversion rate of
14
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions, except share data)
8.2723 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount at
maturity of the Notes (equivalent to a conversion price of $57.50
per share based on the initial offering price of the Notes). The
Notes may be redeemed at the option of the Company on or after
July 12, 2003 at a redemption price equal to the issue price plus
accrued original issue discount to the redemption date. The
holders can require the Company to purchase all or a portion of
the Notes on July 12, 2003, July 12, 2008, and July 12, 2013 at
the redemption price per Note of $531.74, $640.29 and $771.00,
respectively. The holders may also require the Company to
repurchase the Notes if a fundamental change, as defined,
involving Avon occurs prior to July 12, 2003. The Company has the
option to pay the purchase price or, if a fundamental change has
occurred, the repurchase price in cash or common stock or a
combination of cash and common stock. The indenture under which
the Notes were issued restricts the Company's ability to merge
with or consolidate into another company or to sell substantially
all of the Company's assets.
The Company also granted to the initial purchasers of the
Notes an over-allotment option to purchase an additional $105.0 of
Notes. On August 8, 2000, the over-allotment option was exercised
and additional Notes with an aggregate principal amount at
maturity of approximately $105.0 were purchased by the initial
purchasers from the Company, for proceeds of approximately $50.0.
The net proceeds from the offering (including the proceeds of
the over-allotment option) were used for general corporate
purposes, including the repayment of short-term debt.
12. Subsequent Event
On November 2, 2000, the Company declared the quarterly
dividend on its common stock of $.185 per share, payable December
1, 2000 to shareholders of record November 16, 2000.
15
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of the Results of
Operations and Financial Condition
Results of Operations - Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2000 and
1999.
Consolidated
Avon's net income for the third quarter and nine-month period of 2000
was $93.0 and $292.3, respectively, or $.39 and $1.22 per share on a
diluted basis, respectively, compared with net income of $88.2 and $160.7,
respectively, or $.34 and $.61 per share on a diluted basis, respectively,
in 1999. Operating profit was $169.6 and $533.8, respectively, in the
third quarter and nine-month period of 2000 compared with $146.2 and
$300.7, respectively, in the same periods of 1999. Excluding special and
non-recurring charges recorded in the first quarter of 1999 for the
Company's business process redesign ("BPR") program, discussed below, net
income and operating profit for the nine-month period of 1999 would have
been $282.6 and $451.9, respectively.
Consolidated net sales for the third quarter and nine-month period of
2000 increased 7% and 9%, respectively, over the same periods of 1999. The
third quarter sales improvement was a result of increases in all geographic
regions excluding Europe, where sales declined 3%. The year-to-date sales
improvement resulted from improvements in all geographic regions.
Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange, consolidated net sales
for the third quarter and nine-month period rose 10% and 11%, respectively,
over the comparable periods of the prior year.
Gross margin increased 0.5 and 1.5 percentage points in the third
quarter and nine-month period of 2000, respectively, compared to the same
periods of 1999. The cost of sales for the nine months ended September
30, 1999, included a one-time charge of $46.0 for inventory write-downs
related to the Company's BPR program. See Note 8 for further detail.
Excluding the one-time charge in 1999, the year-to-date gross margin
increased 0.2 percentage points. The increased gross margin for the third
quarter and nine-month period of 2000 resulted primarily from increases in
all international regions. Gross margin for the North America Region
remained level versus 1999 for both periods.
Marketing, distribution and administrative expenses increased $40.4,
or 6%, and $133.2, or 7%, in the third quarter and nine-month period of
16
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
2000, respectively, over the same periods of 1999. Operating expenses
decreased as a percentage of sales to 50.6% in the third quarter of 2000
from 51.1% in 1999, and to 50.0% in the first nine months of 2000 from
50.8% in the comparable period of 1999. For the third quarter, an
improvement in North America more than offset expense ratio increases in
all international regions. The nine-month period expense ratio decline
resulted from improvements in Europe and the Pacific, partially offset by
slight increases in North America and Latin America. For both the third
quarter and nine-month period of 2000, global expenses decreased versus 1999.
The Company's third quarter operating margin of 12.7% was its highest
third quarter level in a decade despite incremental expenses of approximately
$20.0 targeted against consumers and its core direct selling business in 2000
over 1999. Through nine months, the Company's incremental spending on those
initiatives totaled approximately $60.0.
The September year-to-date 1999 results include a special charge of
$105.2 for the Company's BPR program primarily related to employee
severance benefits worldwide and the restructuring of operations in
Western Europe. See Note 8 for further detail.
Interest expense increased to $22.4 in the third quarter of 2000 as
compared with $9.8 in 1999 and to $65.1 in the first nine months of 2000
compared with $27.7 in 1999, primarily as a result of increased domestic
borrowings related to the acceleration of the share repurchase program, which
occurred in the second half of 1999, and working capital requirements.
Interest income of $2.1 and $6.0 decreased $0.3 and $1.8 in the third
quarter and nine-month period of 2000, respectively, versus 1999, primarily
resulting from reduced interest rates in Brazil and Mexico during 2000.
Other expense(income), net, of $4.0 in the third quarter of 2000 was
$1.5 unfavorable to the comparable period of 1999 primarily due to a value-
added tax refund in China in 1999, partially offset by a favorable foreign
exchange in 2000. Other expense(income) of $18.8 for the nine-month period
of 2000 was $23.4 unfavorable over the comparable period of 1999 mainly due
to favorable foreign exchange in 1999 resulting from gains on Brazilian
forward contracts and, to a lesser extent, a value-added tax refund in
China in 1999.
The effective tax rate for the third quarter 2000 was 35.5% versus
35.1% in 1999, and the effective tax rate was 35.5% in the first nine
months of 2000 versus 35.8% in 1999, excluding the 1999 special charge.
The tax rate fluctuations result from the earnings mix and tax rates of
international subsidiaries. The tax rate benefit of the special charge in
1999 was 19.4% due to the mix of countries and tax jurisdictions incurring
the charges.
Minority interest of $(0.7) and $(1.8) in the third quarter and first
nine months of 2000, respectively, were unfavorable by $(.4) and $(4.1),
respectively, due to improved results in Japan and China in 2000.
The following discussion addresses net sales and operating profit by
reportable segment as presented in Note 9:
North America
Net sales increased 4% in the third quarter and 6% for the first nine
months of 2000 over the prior year. The U.S. business, which represents
17
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
almost 90% of the North American segment, reported sales increases of 5% and
6% in the third quarter and nine-month period of 2000, respectively, versus
1999. The third-quarter U.S. increase resulted from a 4% increase in the
number of units sold as well as a 2% increase in active Representatives. U.S.
sales of cosmetics, fragrance and toiletries ("CFT") increased 9%, reflecting
a significant double-digit increase in skincare primarily due to sales of
Botanisource and Retroactive, launched in the third quarter of 2000, compared
to the 1999 Skincare launch which occurred in the fourth quarter.
Additionally, women's fragrance and to a lesser extent, color cosmetics
contributed to the CFT sales increase. Sales in the Beauty Plus category also
increased 2%. Within this category, watches increased solid double digits
resulting from strong performance on new products. Jewelry sales decreased
double digits primarily due to the strategic decision not to anniversary a
1999 marketing customer flyer. Apparel and accessories sales increased due to
resources to support growth in neckwear, luggage and small leather goods.
Beyond Beauty and other sales category remained level resulting from increases
in gifts, due to sales of toys, and candles, new in 2000, offset by declines
in home entertainment, due to fewer new products.
On a September year-to-date basis, sales in North America increased
6%. Sales in the U.S. increased 6% resulting from a 7% increase in the
number of units sold, as well as a 2% increase in active Representatives.
The sales increase reflects a 7% increase in the CFT category, with color
cosmetics having a double digit increase due to the successful launch of
Glazewear and Nailwear, as well as a near double-digit increase in
fragrance. Sales in the Beauty Plus category grew 3%, including jewelry
and watches which increased strong single digits, partially offset by a
decline in apparel. Beyond Beauty and other sales grew 5% reflecting the
introduction of candles sales in 2000.
Operating profit in North America increased 8% and 5% in the third
quarter and first nine months of 2000, respectively, versus 1999,
primarily attributable to the region's increased sales, discussed above.
Operating margin improved 0.4 points for the third quarter compared to
1999 resulting primarily from a 0.4 points improvement in the U.S. The
U.S. expense ratio declined 0.6 points driven by BPR savings and continued
aggressive expense management, primarily in marketing and administration,
partially offset by investments in advertising and e-commerce initiatives.
A 0.2 points reduction in gross margin in the U.S. was primarily due to a
decline in the gifts margin resulting from the introduction of low-margin
new products. This decline was partially offset by improvements in beauty
due to mix, as well as improvements in apparel and accessories primarily
from improved sourcing and competitive bidding. U. S. third quarter
operating profit increased 8%.
The September year-to-date operating margin in North America declined 0.2
points due to a decline in the Puerto Rico margin, partially offset by
improvement in U.S. margin. The decline in Puerto Rico resulted from an
expense ratio increase caused by higher brochure costs and increased
compensation expense.
18
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
An expense ratio improvement of 0.3 points in the U.S. versus prior year
resulted from cost containment and BPR savings, partially offset by increased
spending on advertising and e-commerce initiatives. A 0.2 points decline in
gross margin versus 1999 in the U.S. was the result of investments in the
beauty category to drive customer transactions, a negative product mix impact,
as well as margin declines in jewelry and gifts due to low margin new products.
Partially offsetting these declines were increased margins in apparel and
accessories due to improved sourcing and competitive bidding and incremental
supply chain savings. On a year-to-date basis, U.S. operating profit rose 6%.
International
International U.S. dollar net sales for the third quarter and first nine
months of 2000 increased 9% and 11%, respectively, over the comparable periods
in 1999. Excluding the effect of foreign currency exchange, international
sales increased 14% for the third quarter and 15% for the nine-month period,
with double-digit increases in all regions for the nine-month period.
In the Pacific Region, the 9% and 16% sales improvements in the third
quarter and first nine months of 2000, respectively, were driven by increases
in nearly all markets resulting from 18% and 19% increases in the number of
units sold and 34% increases in active Representatives for the quarter and
year-to-date periods, respectively. In Japan, U.S. dollar sales increased
double-digits and local currency sales increased 7% due to an increase in CFT
units sold and active Representatives for the quarter. In China, sales growth
of over 49% for the quarter continued to be driven by channel expansion, led by
beauty boutiques. In the Philippines, third quarter dollar sales were in the
mid single digits; however local currency sales had solid double-digit
increases resulting from strong increases in key statistical indicators.
Local currency sales in the Pacific region increased 12% and 15% for the third
quarter and nine-month period of 2000, respectively, over 1999. For the third
quarter and first nine months of 2000, dollar sales for most markets were
negatively impacted by foreign currency exchange, excluding Japan and Taiwan
where foreign currency exchange had a positive impact on dollar sales.
In Latin America, sales increased 15% and 12% for the third quarter and
first nine months of 2000, respectively, over 1999. Third quarter and year-
to-date units rose 6% and 4%, respectively, while active Representatives in
the region rose 10% in both the quarter and year-to-date period. For the
third quarter, double-digit increases in Mexico, Brazil and Venezuela were
slightly offset by low single digit sales declines in Chile and Argentina.
For the nine-month period, all major markets had sales increases, with Mexico,
Brazil and Venezuela being the main contributors. The sales growth in Mexico
was driven by double-digit increases in the number of units sold, customers
served, orders and active Representatives. Sales were also driven by an
increased number of pages in the brochures. Higher average order, along with
increased prices and more Representatives, were the main drivers for Brazil's
sales improvement. Venezuela's solid sales increase resulted from increases
in the number of units sold, orders, active Representatives and customers
served. Venezuela was able to post these increases despite the late 1999
flooding, which negatively affected operations at the beginning of 2000, along
with the persistent uncertain economic and political environment. The third-
quarter sales decline in Chile resulted from a negative foreign currency
exchange impact, while Argentina's sales decline was primarily due to a weak
economic environment. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange,
sales in Latin America increased 18% and 16%, in the third quarter and nine-
month period of 2000, respectively, over 1999.
19
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
In Europe, sales decreased 3% in the third quarter but increased 9% in
local currencies on 14% growth in units and 22% higher active Representatives.
Sales increased 3% for the first nine months of 2000, and 14% in local
currencies, with units growing 18% and active Representatives increasing 22%.
In the United Kingdom, sales for the third quarter were down high single digits
from a strong third quarter 1999 performance primarily resulting from an 8
point negative foreign exchange impact. For the nine-month period, sales in
the United Kingdom were up mid-single digits, negatively affected by foreign
currency exchange of 5 points. The United Kingdom's year-to-date sales
increase resulted from an improvement in average order and units sold. For
the third quarter and nine-month period of 2000, sales for Central and Eastern
Europe and Russia increased strong double digits, while sales in Germany
declined double digits. The improvement in Central and Eastern Europe,
primarily Poland, resulted from continued increases in the number of units
sold, orders, customers served and active Representatives. The sales
improvement in Russia was due to double-digit increases in key indicators, as
well as weak 1999 comparable results. In Germany, the sales decline reflected
a continuing weak economic climate.
International operating profit increased 9% and 16% in the third quarter
and nine-month period of 2000, respectively, compared to the same periods in
1999.
Operating profit growth in the Pacific Region of 9% and 30% in the third
quarter and nine-month period of 2000, respectively, resulted from the sales
growth, discussed above, and operating margin improvements in Japan and China.
In Japan, gross margin improved due to product cost savings initiatives and a
favorable change of product mix from non-CFT to higher margin CFT products.
China's operating expense ratio improvement was driven primarily by increased
sales growth. Operating profit in Taiwan decreased in the third quarter but
increased slightly for the first nine months of 2000. For both periods,
operating margin in Taiwan declined primarily due to increased costs resulting
from moving to a new facility and increased spending to support sales growth.
The third quarter operating margin in the Pacific was level versus prior year
and 1.5 points above 1999 for the first nine months of 2000.
In Latin America, operating profit grew 12% and 13% in the third quarter
and first nine months of 2000, respectively, over 1999. In Brazil, operating
profit increased double digits for both periods, with third quarter operating
margin, increasing nearly 2.0 points. In the third quarter, Brazil's gross
margin improved primarily due to a shift in mix to higher margin items. For
the nine-month period, Brazil's operating margin remained relatively level due
to difficult prior-year comparisons resulting from strong vendor negotiations
and foreign exchange gains that favorably impacted last year's margin. In
Mexico, operating profit was up strong double digits for both third quarter
and the first nine months of 2000; however, operating margin was down slightly
for the third quarter and relatively level for September year-to-date. A
decline in gross margin due to increased sales of lower margin items offset
20
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
the improvement in expense ratio resulting from decreased investments in
advertising and fewer returned goods. In Argentina, operating profit and
margin declined for both the third quarter and first nine months of 2000 due
to higher expenses (increased incentives and advertising) combined with soft
sales from a weak economic environment. The operating margin for the third
quarter of 2000 in Latin America declined 0.5 points and increased 0.1 points
for the nine-month period versus 1999.
Operating profit in Europe decreased 7% in the third quarter resulting
from sales declines, discussed above, currency weakness and a difficult
comparison to 1999 third quarter results that had improved 58% over the 1998
quarter, as well as an operating margin decline in the United Kingdom,
partially offset by operating margin improvements in Poland and Russia. In
the United Kingdom, the higher expense ratio was due to higher shipping and
distribution costs resulting from the transition to a new shipping system. In
Poland, gross margin improved due to a shift in mix to higher margin items,
partially offset by increased branch expenses to compensate for increased
orders shipped, as well as timing of advertising expenses. The operating
margin improvement in Russia was the result of an improved expense ratio due
to tight expense controls on a higher sales base. In the Europe Region, third
quarter 2000 operating margin declined 0.4 points over the same period in
1999.
Operating profit in Europe for the first nine months of 2000 increased
15% over 1999, resulting from the sales increases, discussed above, coupled
with operating margin improvements in Russia and Poland, partially offset by
margin declines in the United Kingdom. The operating margin improvement in
Russia was primarily due to a favorable comparison against last year's
discount pricing policy as well as tight expense controls on a higher sales
base. In Poland, a shift in mix to higher margin items as well as the strong
sales increase, discussed above, and a relatively fixed level of expenses
contributed to the operating margin improvement. Partially offsetting these
improvements was an increased expense ratio in the United Kingdom resulting
from increased advertising, consumer motivation and sampling activities to
support sales growth, as well as increases in shipping, distribution and
volume related costs due to reduced capacity of shipping lines during the
transition to a new shipping system. In the Europe region, September 2000
year-to-date operating margin increased 1.4 points above the same period in
1999.
Global Expenses
In the third quarter of 2000, global expenses decreased 11% versus 1999
primarily due to lower expenses related to the Company's long-term incentive
plan and insurance proceeds received in 2000 related to 1999 flood losses in
Venezuela, partially offset by increased strategic investments, primarily in
information technology and retail initiatives. In the first nine months of
2000, global expenses decreased 5% versus 1999 primarily due to lower expenses
related to the Company's long-term incentive plan, insurance proceeds received
in 2000 related to the 1998 hurricane losses in Central America and 1999 flood
losses in Venezuela and the timing of global marketing expenses, partially
offset by increased investments in information technology and retail
initiatives.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Flows
Excluding changes in debt, there was a net decrease in cash of $313.6 in
the first nine months of 2000 compared with a decrease of $345.5 in the
comparable period of 1999. The $31.9 variance primarily reflects a decrease
in repurchases of common stock, decreased cash used for investing activities
due to the acquisition of a manufacturing facility in 1999, lower dividend
21
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
payments due to share repurchases, and a favorable effect of foreign currency
exchange. These sources of cash were partially offset by lower net cash
provided by operations and a decrease in book overdrafts. The lower cash
provided by operations reflects higher working capital levels which primarily
included increased inventory levels mainly due to higher sales volume and
additional stock on hand to protect service levels, and the payout of the long-
term incentive plan in 2000. The increase in working capital was offset in
part by higher net income.
The Company purchased approximately 1,200,000 shares of common
stock for $47.1 during the first nine months of 2000, as compared to
approximately 5,895,800 shares of common stock for $228.2 during the
first nine months of 1999. 1,064,000 of the 2000 shares were purchased
for $42.2 under an existing repurchase program which was completed in
the third quarter of 2000. 136,000 of these shares were purchased for
$4.9 under a new repurchase program approved by the Board of Directors
in September 2000. Under the new share repurchase program, the Company
may buy up to $1 billion of its currently outstanding common stock over
the next five years. At September 30, 1999, 1,779,800 shares
repurchased for $45.5 were not settled until October 1999. Accordingly,
$45.5 was included in other accrued liabilities as of September 30, 1999
on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Capital Resources
Total debt increased $290.2 to $1,297.6 from $1,007.4 at December 31,
1999, principally due to working capital requirements and the payout of
the Company's long-term incentive plan. Total debt of $1,297.6 at
September 30, 2000 was higher than total debt of $600.4 at September 30,
1999, primarily due to increased borrowings to fund the Company's share
repurchase program which was significantly accelerated during the second
half of 1999. In addition, at September 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999,
other accrued liabilities include approximately $101.9 and $106.4,
respectively, related to securities lending activities. Subsequent to
September 30, 2000, these other accrued liabilities related to securities
lending activities were repaid.
At September 30, 2000, there were no borrowings under the amended and
restated revolving credit and competitive advance facility agreement.
This agreement is also used to support the Company's commercial paper
borrowings of which $114.3 was outstanding at September 30, 2000.
At September 30, 2000, there were no borrowings outstanding under
uncommitted lines of credit or Company's bankers' acceptance facilities.
Management currently believes that cash from operations and available
financing alternatives are adequate to meet anticipated requirements for
working capital, dividends, capital expenditures, the stock repurchase
program and other cash needs.
Working Capital
As of September 30, 2000, current assets exceeded current liabilities by
$81.3, while at December 31, 1999, current liabilities exceeded current assets
by $375.0. The increase in current assets over current liabilities of $456.3
was primarily due to a decrease in short-term net debt (debt less cash
equivalents) reflecting the refinancing of short-term commercial paper
borrowings with the proceeds of the Notes discussed in the Capital Resources
section above and Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, an
increase in net inventories, primarily due to higher sales volume and
additional stock on hand to protect service levels, and decreases in accounts
22
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
payable, accrued compensation and other accrued liabilities. The decline in
payables and accrued liabilities reflects the seasonal pattern of Avon's
operations, the timing of cash payments and the payout of the cash component
of the Company's three-year long-term incentive plan in 2000.
Avon's liquidity results from its ability to generate significant cash
flows from operations and its ample unused borrowing capacity. The
aforementioned acceleration of the Company's share repurchase program resulted
in a shareholders' deficit balance at September 30, 2000 of $313.3. Avon's
credit agreements do not contain any provisions or requirements with respect
to working capital.
Financial Instruments and Risk Management Strategies
The Company operates globally, with manufacturing and distribution
facilities in various locations around the world. The Company may reduce
its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and foreign exchange rates
by creating offsetting positions through the use of derivative financial
instruments. The Company currently does not use derivative financial
instruments for trading or speculative purposes, nor is the Company a
party to leveraged derivatives.
The Company periodically uses interest rate swaps to hedge
portions of interest payable on its debt. In addition, the Company may
periodically employ interest rate caps to reduce exposure, if any, to
increases in variable interest rates.
At September 30, 2000, the Company had a five-year interest rate
swap contract with a notional amount of $50.0 to effectively convert
fixed interest on a portion of the Company's $100.0 bonds to a variable
interest rate, based on LIBOR. The Company also has five-year and ten-
year interest rate swap contracts with notional amounts of $200.0 and
$300.0, respectively, to convert fixed interest on the Company's $200.0
five-year notes and $300.0 ten-year notes to a variable interest rate,
based on commercial paper rates.
In May 2000, the Company entered into an interest rate cap
agreement with a notional amount of $150.0 expiring on May 31, 2001 to
convert variable interest, resulting from the interest rate swaps above,
to a fixed interest rate. The cap rate under this contract is 7%.
The Company may periodically hedge foreign currency royalties, net
investments in foreign subsidiaries, firm purchase commitments and
contractual foreign currency cash flows or obligations, including third-
party or intercompany foreign currency exposures and ensures that hedge
contract amounts do not exceed the amounts of the underlying exposures.
At September 30, 2000, the Company held foreign currency forward
contracts with notional amounts totaling $348.9 and option contracts
with notional amounts totaling $19.1 to hedge foreign currency items.
Only $130.4 of these contracts have maturities after 2000. Also
outstanding at September 30, 2000 were foreign currency forward
contracts with notional amounts totaling $61.4 and option contracts
totaling $33.0 which do not qualify as hedging transactions under the
current accounting definitions and accordingly, have been marked to
market. The mark-to-market adjustment at September 30, 2000 was not
material. The Company's risk of loss on the options in the future is
limited to premiums paid, which are not material.
The Company has entered into forward contracts to purchase
approximately 1,568,000 shares of Avon common stock at an average
price of $37.08 per share as of September 30, 2000. The contracts
23
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In millions, except share data)
mature over the next year and provide for physical or net share
settlement to the Company. Accordingly, no adjustment for subsequent
changes in fair value has been recognized.
The Company attempts to minimize its credit exposure to counterparties by
entering into interest rate swap and cap contracts only with major
international financial institutions with "A" or higher credit ratings as
issued by Standard and Poor's Corporation. The Company's foreign currency and
interest rate derivatives are comprised of forward contracts, swaps or options
with major international financial institutions. Although the Company's
theoretical credit risk is the replacement cost of the then estimated fair
value of these instruments, management believes that the risk of incurring
losses is remote and that such losses, if any, would not be material.
Other Information
Euro
A single currency called the euro was introduced in Europe on
January 1, 1999. Eleven of the fifteen member countries of the
European Union adopted the Euro as their common legal currency on that
date. Fixed conversion rates between these participating countries'
existing currencies (the "legacy currencies") and the euro were
estimated as of that date. The legacy currencies are scheduled to
remain legal tender as denominations of the euro until June 30, 2002
after which they will be withdrawn from circulation. During this
transition period, parties may settle transactions using either the
euro or a participating country's legal currency. Beginning in January
2002, new euro-denominated bills and coins will be issued.
Avon operating subsidiaries affected by the euro conversion have
established plans to address issues raised by the euro currency
conversion. These issues include, among others, the need to adapt
information technology systems, business processes and equipment to
accommodate euro-denominated transactions, the impact of one common
currency on pricing and recalculating currency risk. Avon does not
expect system and equipment conversion costs to be material. Due to
the numerous uncertainties associated with the market impact of the
euro conversion, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the effects one
common currency will have on pricing and the resulting impact, if any,
on results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.
24
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" STATEMENT
UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
Certain statements in this report which are not historical
facts or information are forward-looking statements, including,
but not limited to, the information set forth in "Other
Information" herein. Such forward-looking statements involve
known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may
cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or
achievement of the Company, or industry results, to be materially
different from any future results, levels of activity, performance
or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking
statements. Such factors include, among others, the following:
general economic and business conditions; the ability of the
Company to implement its business strategy; the Company's access
to financing and its management of foreign currency risks; the
Company's ability to successfully identify new business
opportunities; the Company's ability to attract and retain key
executives; the Company's ability to achieve anticipated cost
savings and profitability targets; changes in the industry;
competition; the effect of regulatory and legal restrictions
imposed by foreign governments; the effect of regulatory and legal
proceedings and other factors discussed in Item 1 of the Company's
Form 10-K. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, no
assurance can be given as to the future results and achievements
of the Company. Neither the Company nor any other person assumes
responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of these
statements.
25
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.
(a) Exhibits
Exhibit
Number Description
------ -----------
27 Financial Data Schedule
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
On July 7, 2000, the Company filed a Form 8-K to announce
that it was considering issuing zero coupon convertible notes to
repay a portion of its existing floating rate short-term debt.
On July 7, 2000, the Company filed a Form 8-K to announce
that it had priced a private placement of $350 million of Zero
Coupon Convertible Senior Notes due 2020.
On September 14, 2000 the Company filed a Form 8-K to
announce the following:
On September 7, 2000, the Company announced a new program to
repurchase up to $1 billion of the Company's common stock
over the next five years.
On September 14, 2000, the Company filed a registration
statement on Form S-3 covering the resale by holders of the
Company's Zero Coupon Convertible Senior Notes due 2020
("Notes") and the common stock issuable upon conversion of
such Notes.
In response to a private investigation by the Securities and
Exchange Commission, the Company is providing information
concerning an item included in its special charge reported for
the first quarter of 1999.
26
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
-------------------
(Registrant)
Date: November 14, 2000 By /s/ JANICE MAROLDA
-------------------------------
Janice Marolda
Vice President,
Controller
Principal Accounting Officer
Signed both on behalf of the
registrant and as principal
accounting officer.
27