AVP 10K 2013
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
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FORM 10-K
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ý | Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013
OR
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¨ | 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
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AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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New York | | 13-0544597 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
777 Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10017-1307(Address of principal executive offices)
(212) 282-5000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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Title of each class | | Name of each exchange on which registered |
Common stock (par value $.25) | | New York Stock Exchange |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
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Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨ No ý
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 ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company"
in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. |
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Large accelerated filer | | ý | | Accelerated filer | | ¨ |
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Non-accelerated filer | | £ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | | Smaller reporting company | | ¨ |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨ No ý
The aggregate market value of voting and non-voting Common Stock (par value $.25) held by non-affiliates at June 30, 2013 (the last business day of our most recently completed second quarter) was $9.1 billion.
The number of shares of Common Stock (par value $.25) outstanding at January 31, 2014, was 433,955,008
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Documents Incorporated by Reference
Part III - Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
Table of Contents
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Item | | Page |
Part I |
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Item 1 | | |
Item 1A | | |
Item 1B | | |
Item 2 | | |
Item 3 | | |
Item 4 | | |
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Part II |
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Item 5 | | |
Item 6 | | |
Item 7 | | |
Item 7A | | |
Item 8 | | |
Item 9 | | |
Item 9A | | |
Item 9B | | |
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Part III |
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Item 10 | | |
Item 11 | | |
Item 12 | | |
Item 13 | | |
Item 14 | | |
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Part IV |
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Item 15 | | |
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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
Statements in this report (or in the documents it incorporates by reference) that are not historical facts or information may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "estimate," "project," "forecast," "plan," "believe," "may," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "planned," "potential," "can," "expectation," "could," "will," "would" and similar expressions, or the negative of those expressions, may identify forward-looking statements. They include, among other things, statements regarding our anticipated or expected results, future financial performance, various strategies and initiatives (including our stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, multi-year restructuring programs and other initiatives and related actions), costs and cost savings, competitive advantages, impairments, the impact of currency devaluations and other laws and regulations, government investigations, internal investigations and compliance reviews, results of litigation, contingencies, taxes and tax rates, potential alliances, acquisitions or divestitures, liquidity, cash flow, uses of cash and financing, hedging and risk management strategies, pension, postretirement and incentive compensation plans, supply chain and the legal status of our Representatives. Such forward-looking statements are based on management's reasonable current assumptions, expectations, plans and forecasts regarding the Company's current or future results and future business and economic conditions more generally. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievement of Avon to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from management's expectations. Such factors include, among others, the following:
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• | our ability to improve our financial and operational performance and execute fully our global business strategy, including our ability to implement the key initiatives of, and realize the projected benefits (in the amounts and time schedules we expect) from, our stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, multi-year restructuring programs and other initiatives, product mix and pricing strategies, enterprise resource planning, customer service initiatives, sales and operation planning process, outsourcing strategies, Internet platform and technology strategies, marketing and advertising strategies, information technology and related system enhancements and cash management, tax, foreign currency hedging and risk management strategies, and any plans to invest these projected benefits ahead of future growth; |
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• | the possibility of business disruption in connection with our stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, multi-year restructuring programs, or other initiatives; |
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• | our ability to reverse declining revenue, margins and net income, particularly in North America, and to achieve profitable growth, particularly in our largest markets such as Brazil and developing and emerging markets such as Mexico and Russia; |
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• | our ability to improve working capital and effectively manage doubtful accounts and inventory and implement initiatives to reduce inventory levels, including the potential impact on cash flows and obsolescence; |
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• | our ability to reverse declines in Active Representatives, to implement our sales Leadership program globally, to generate Representative activity, to increase the number of consumers served per Representative and their engagement online, to enhance branding and the Representative and consumer experience and increase Representative productivity through field activation programs and technology tools and enablers, to invest in the direct-selling channel, and to compete with other direct-selling organizations to recruit, retain and service Representatives and to continue to innovate the direct-selling model; |
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• | general economic and business conditions in our markets, including social, economic and political uncertainties in the international markets in our portfolio; |
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• | the effect of economic factors, including inflation and fluctuations in interest rates and currency exchange rates, as well as the designation of Venezuela as a highly inflationary economy and the devaluation of its currency, foreign exchange restrictions, particularly currency restrictions in Venezuela and Argentina, and the potential effect of such factors on our business, results of operations and financial condition; |
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• | any developments in or consequences of investigations and compliance reviews, and any litigation related thereto, including the ongoing investigations and compliance reviews of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA") and related United States ("U.S.") and foreign law matters in China and additional countries, as well as any disruption or adverse consequences resulting from such investigations, reviews, related actions or litigation, including our ability to reach settlements with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the United States Department of Justice ("DOJ") with regard to the ongoing FCPA investigations or, if we are able to reach settlements, the timing or terms of such settlements, or if we are unable to reach settlements, the outcome of any subsequent litigation with the government which could have a material adverse effect; |
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• | a general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions, or sudden disruption in business conditions, and the ability of our broad-based geographic portfolio to withstand an economic downturn, recession, cost inflation, commodity cost pressures, economic or political instability, competitive or other market pressures or conditions; |
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• | the effect of political, legal, tax and regulatory risks imposed on us in the U.S. and abroad, our operations or our Representatives, including foreign exchange or other restrictions, adoption, interpretation and enforcement of foreign laws, including in jurisdictions such as Brazil, Russia, Venezuela and Argentina, and any changes thereto, as well as reviews and investigations by government regulators that have occurred or may occur from time to time, including, for example, local regulatory scrutiny in China; |
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• | the impact of changes in tax rates on the value of our deferred tax assets, and declining earnings, including the amount of any domestic source loss and the type, jurisdiction and timing of any foreign source income, on our ability to realize foreign tax credits in the U.S.; |
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• | competitive uncertainties in our markets, including competition from companies in the cosmetics, fragrances, skincare and toiletries industry, some of which are larger than we are and have greater resources; |
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• | the impact of the adverse effect of rising energy, commodity and raw material prices, changes in market trends, purchasing habits of our consumers and changes in consumer preferences, particularly given the global nature of our business and the conduct of our business in primarily one channel; |
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• | our ability to attract and retain key personnel; |
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• | other sudden disruption in business operations beyond our control as a result of events such as acts of terrorism or war, natural disasters, pandemic situations, large-scale power outages and similar events; |
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• | key information technology systems, process or site outages and disruptions; |
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• | the risk of product or ingredient shortages resulting from our concentration of sourcing in fewer suppliers; |
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• | the impact of any significant restructuring charges or significant legal or regulatory settlements on our ability to comply with certain covenants in our debt instruments; |
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• | any changes to our credit ratings and the impact of such changes on our financing costs, rates, terms, debt service obligations, access to lending sources and working capital needs; |
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• | the impact of our indebtedness, our access to cash and financing, and our ability to secure financing or financing at attractive rates; |
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• | the impact of possible pension funding obligations, increased pension expense and any changes in pension regulations or interpretations thereof on our cash flow and results of operations; |
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• | our ability to successfully identify new business opportunities, strategic alliances and strategic alternatives and identify and analyze alliance and acquisition candidates, secure financing on favorable terms and negotiate and consummate alliances and acquisitions, as well as to successfully integrate or manage any acquired business; |
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• | disruption in our supply chain or manufacturing and distribution operations; |
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• | the quality, safety and efficacy of our products; |
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• | the success of our research and development activities; |
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• | our ability to protect our intellectual property rights; and |
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• | the risk of an adverse outcome in any material pending and future litigations or with respect to the legal status of Representatives. |
Additional information identifying such factors is contained in Item 1A of our 2013 Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. We undertake no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
(U.S. dollars in millions, except per share data)
When used in this report, the terms "Avon," "Company," "we," "our" or "us" mean, unless the context otherwise indicates, Avon Products, Inc. and its majority and wholly owned subsidiaries.
General
We are a global manufacturer and marketer of beauty and related products. We commenced operations in 1886 and were incorporated in the State of New York on January 27, 1916. We conduct our business in the highly competitive beauty industry and compete against other consumer packaged goods ("CPG") and direct-selling companies to create, manufacture and market beauty and non-beauty-related products. Our product categories are Beauty and Fashion & Home. Beauty consists of color, fragrance, skincare and personal care. Fashion & Home consists of fashion jewelry, watches, apparel, footwear, accessories, gift and decorative products, housewares, entertainment and leisure products, children’s products and nutritional products.
Our business is conducted worldwide primarily in one channel, direct selling. Our reportable segments are based on geographic operations and include commercial business units in Latin America; Europe, Middle East & Africa; North America; and Asia Pacific. Financial information relating to our reportable segments is included in "Segment Review" within Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, which we refer to in this report as "MD&A", on pages 22 through 50 of this 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which we refer to in this report as our "2013 Annual Report", and in Note 13, Segment Information, to the Consolidated Financial Statements on pages F-41 through F-43 of our 2013 Annual Report. We refer to each of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this 2013 Annual Report as a "Note". Information about geographic areas is included in Note 13, Segment Information on pages F-41 through F-43 of our 2013 Annual Report.
In 2012, we outlined initial steps toward achieving a cost-savings target of $400 before taxes by the end of 2015. In connection with this cost-savings target, in 2012, we announced a cost savings initiative (the "$400M Cost Savings Initiative"), in an effort to stabilize the business and return Avon to sustainable growth, which is expected to be achieved through restructuring actions as well as other cost-savings strategies that will not result in restructuring charges. The $400M Cost Savings Initiative is designed to reduce our operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue to help us achieve a targeted low double-digit operating margin by 2016. The restructuring actions under the $400M Cost Savings Initiative primarily consist of global headcount reductions and related actions, as well as the restructuring or closure of certain smaller, under-performing markets, including our exit from the South Korea, Vietnam and Republic of Ireland markets. Additional information regarding our initiatives is included in "Overview" within MD&A on pages 22 through 23, and in Note 15, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-43 through F-47 of our 2013 Annual Report.
In July 2013, we completed the sale of our Silpada business ("Silpada") for $85, plus an earn-out of up to $15 if Silpada achieves specific earnings targets over two years. Unless otherwise indicated, our MD&A and 2013 Annual Report relate solely to the discussion of our continuing operations. See Note 3, Discontinued Operations on pages F-15 through F-17 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
Distribution
We presently have sales operations in 62 countries and territories, including the United States ("U.S."), and distribute our products in 43 other countries and territories. Unlike most of our CPG competitors, which sell their products through third-party retail establishments (e.g., drug stores and department stores), we primarily sell our products to the ultimate consumer through the direct-selling channel. In our case, sales of our products are made to the ultimate consumer principally through direct selling by more than 6 million active independent Representatives. Representatives are independent contractors and not our employees. Representatives earn by purchasing products directly from us at a discount from a published brochure price and selling them to their customers, the ultimate consumer of our products. Representatives can start their Avon businesses for a nominal fee, or in some markets, for no fee at all. We generally have no arrangements with end users of our products beyond the Representative, except as described below. No single Representative accounts for more than 10% of our net sales.
A Representative contacts customers directly, selling primarily through our brochure, which highlights new products and special promotions for each sales campaign. In this sense, the Representative, together with the brochure, are the "store" through which our products are sold. A brochure introducing a new sales campaign is usually generated every two weeks in the U.S. and every two to four weeks for most markets outside the U.S. Generally, the Representative forwards an order for a campaign to us using the Internet, mail, telephone, or fax. This order is processed and the products are assembled at a distribution center and delivered to the Representative usually through a combination of local and national delivery companies. Generally, the Representative then delivers the merchandise and collects payment from the customer for her or his own account. A Representative generally receives a refund of the price the Representative paid for a product if the Representative chooses to return it.
We employ certain web enabled systems to increase Representative support, which allow a Representative to run her or his business more efficiently and also allow us to improve our order-processing accuracy. For example, in many countries, Representatives can utilize the Internet to manage their business electronically, including order submission, order tracking, payment and two-way communications with us. In addition, in the U.S. and certain other markets, Representatives can further build their own business through personalized web pages provided by us, enabling them to sell a complete line of our products online. Self-paced online training also is available in certain markets.
In some markets, we use decentralized branches, satellite stores and independent retail operations (e.g., beauty boutiques) to serve Representatives and other customers. Representatives come to a branch to place and pick up product orders for their customers. The branches also create visibility for us with consumers and help reinforce our beauty image. In certain markets, we provide opportunities to license our beauty centers and other retail-oriented and direct-to-consumer opportunities to reach new customers in complementary ways to direct selling. In the U.S. and certain other markets, we also market our products through consumer websites (e.g., www.avon.com in the U.S.).
The recruiting or appointing and training of Representatives are the primary responsibilities of district sales managers, zone managers and independent leaders. Depending on the market and the responsibilities of the role, some of these individuals are our employees and some are independent contractors. Those who are employees are paid a salary and an incentive based primarily on the achievement of a sales objective in their district. Those who are independent contractors are rewarded primarily based on total sales achieved in their zones or downline team of recruited, trained and managed Representatives. Personal contacts, including recommendations from current Representatives (including the Leadership program), and local market advertising constitute the primary means of obtaining new Representatives. The Leadership program is a multi-level compensation program which gives Representatives, known as independent leaders, the opportunity to earn discounts on their own sales of our products, as well as commissions based on the net sales made by Representatives they have recruited and trained. This program generally limits the number of levels on which commissions can be earned to three. The primary responsibilities of independent leaders are the prospecting, appointing, training and development of their downline Representatives while maintaining a certain level of their own sales. Development of the Leadership program throughout the world is one part of our long-term growth strategy. As described above, the Representative is the "store" through which we primarily sell our products and, given the high rate of turnover among Representatives (a common characteristic of direct selling), it is critical that we recruit, retain and service Representatives on a continuing basis in order to maintain and grow our business.
From time to time, local governments and others question the legal status of Representatives or impose burdens inconsistent with their status as independent contractors, often in regard to possible coverage under social benefit laws that would require us (and, in most instances, the Representatives) to make regular contributions to government social benefit funds. Although we have generally been able to address these questions in a satisfactory manner, these questions can be raised again following regulatory changes in a jurisdiction or can be raised in other jurisdictions. If there should be a final determination adverse to us in a country, the cost for future, and possibly past, contributions could be so substantial in the context of the volume and profitability of our business in that country that we would consider discontinuing operations in that country.
Promotion and Marketing
Sales promotion and sales development activities are directed at assisting Representatives, through sales aids such as brochures, product samples and demonstration products. In order to support the efforts of Representatives to reach new customers, specially designed sales aids, promotional pieces, customer flyers, television advertising and print advertising can be used. In addition, we seek to motivate our Representatives through the use of special incentive programs that reward superior sales performance. Periodic sales meetings with Representatives are conducted by the district sales or zone managers. The meetings are designed to keep Representatives abreast of product line changes, explain sales techniques and provide recognition for sales performance.
A number of merchandising techniques are used, including the introduction of new products, the use of combination offers, the use of trial sizes and samples, and the promotion of products packaged as gift items. In general, for each sales campaign, a distinctive brochure is published, in which new products are introduced and selected items are offered as special promotions or are given particular prominence in the brochure. A key priority for our merchandising is to continue the use of pricing and promotional models and tools to enable a deeper, fact-based understanding of the role and impact of pricing within our product portfolio.
From time to time, various regulations or laws have been proposed or adopted that would, in general, restrict the frequency, duration or volume of sales resulting from new product introductions, special promotions or other special price offers. We expect our pricing flexibility and broad product lines to mitigate the effect of these regulations.
Competitive Conditions
We face competition from various products and product lines both domestically and internationally. The beauty and beauty-related products industry is highly competitive and the number of competitors and degree of competition that we face in this industry varies widely from country to country. Worldwide, we compete against products sold to consumers in a number of distribution methods, including by other direct-selling companies, through the Internet, and against products sold through the mass market and prestige retail channels.
Specifically, due to the nature of the direct-selling channel, we compete on a regional, often country-by-country basis, with our direct-selling competitors. Unlike most other beauty companies, we compete within a distinct business model where providing a compelling earnings opportunity for our Representatives is as critical as developing and marketing new and innovative products. As a result, in contrast to a typical CPG company which operates within a broad-based consumer pool, we must first compete for a limited pool of Representatives before we reach the ultimate consumer.
Within the broader CPG industry, we principally compete against large and well-known cosmetics (color), fragrance, skincare and personal care companies that manufacture and sell broad product lines through various types of retail establishments and other channels, including through the Internet. In addition, we compete against many other companies that manufacture and sell more narrow beauty product lines sold through retail establishments and other channels, including through the Internet.
We also have many global branded and private label competitors in the accessories, apparel, housewares, and gift and decorative products industries, including retail establishments, principally department stores, mass merchandisers, gift shops and specialty retailers. Our principal competition in the fashion jewelry industry consists of a few large companies and many small companies that sell fashion jewelry through department stores, mass merchandisers and specialty retailers.
We believe that the personalized customer service offered by our Representatives; the amount and type of field incentives we offer our Representatives on a market-by-market basis; the high quality, attractive designs and prices of our products; the high level of new and innovative products; our easily recognized brand name and our guarantee of product satisfaction are significant factors in helping to establish and maintain our competitive position.
International Operations
Our international operations are conducted primarily through subsidiaries in 61 countries and territories outside of the U.S. In addition to these countries and territories, our products are distributed in 43 other countries and territories.
Our international operations are subject to risks inherent in conducting business abroad, including, but not limited to, the risk of adverse currency fluctuations, currency remittance restrictions, the ability to procure products and unfavorable social, economic and political conditions.
See the sections "Risk Factors - Our ability to conduct business, particularly in international markets, may be affected by political, legal, tax and regulatory risks" and "Risk Factors - We are subject to financial risks related to our international operations, including exposure to foreign currency fluctuations" in Item 1A on pages 8 through 17 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
Manufacturing
We manufacture and package the majority of our Beauty products. Raw materials, consisting chiefly of essential oils, chemicals, containers and packaging components, are purchased for our Beauty products from various suppliers. Most of our Fashion & Home products are purchased from various third-party suppliers. Additionally, we design the brochures that are used by the Representatives to sell our products. The loss of any one supplier would not have a material impact on our ability to source raw materials for our Beauty products or source products for our Fashion & Home categories or paper for the brochures.
Packages, consisting of containers and packaging components, are designed by our staff of artists and designers. The design and development of new Beauty products are affected by the cost and availability of materials such as glass, plastics and chemicals. We believe that we can continue to obtain sufficient raw materials and supplies to manufacture and produce our Beauty products for the foreseeable future.
We also continue to implement an enterprise resource planning ("ERP") system on a worldwide basis, which is expected to improve the efficiency of our supply chain and financial transaction processes. The implementation is expected to continue in phases over the next several years. We have completed implementation in certain significant markets.
See Item 2, Properties, on pages 17 through 18 of our 2013 Annual Report for additional information regarding the location of our principal manufacturing facilities.
Product Categories
Each of our product categories individually account for 10% or more of consolidated net sales in 2013. The following is the percentage of net sales by product category for the years ended December 31:
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Beauty | | 73 | % | | 73 | % | | 74 | % |
Fashion | | 17 | % | | 17 | % | | 17 | % |
Home | | 10 | % | | 10 | % | | 9 | % |
Trademarks and Patents
Our business is not materially dependent on the existence of third-party patent, trademark or other third-party intellectual property rights, and we are not a party to any ongoing material licenses, franchises or concessions. We do seek to protect our key proprietary technologies by aggressively pursuing comprehensive patent coverage in major markets. We protect our Avon name and other major proprietary trademarks through registration of these trademarks in the markets where we sell our products, monitoring the markets for infringement of such trademarks by others, and by taking appropriate steps to stop any infringing activities.
Seasonal Nature of Business
Our sales and earnings are typically affected by seasonal variations, a characteristic of many companies selling beauty, gift and decorative products, apparel and fashion jewelry. For instance, our sales are generally highest during the fourth quarter due to seasonal and holiday-related patterns. However, the sales volume of holiday gift items is, by its nature, difficult to forecast, and taken as a whole, seasonality does not have a material impact on our financial results.
Research and Product Development Activities
New products are essential to growth in the highly competitive cosmetics industry. Our research and development ("R&D") department’s efforts are important to developing new products, including formulating effective beauty treatments relevant to women’s needs, and redesigning or reformulating existing products. To increase our brand competitiveness, we have sustained our focus on new technology and product innovation to deliver first-to-market products that provide visible consumer benefits.
Our global R&D facility is located in Suffern, NY. A team of researchers and technicians apply the disciplines of science to the practical aspects of bringing products to market around the world. Relationships with dermatologists and other specialists enhance our ability to deliver new formulas and ingredients to market. Additionally, we have an R&D facility located in Shanghai, China and satellite R&D operations located in Argentina, Brazil, China, Mexico, Poland and South Africa.
In 2013, our most significant product launches included: Anew Clinical Skinvincible/E-Defense Deep Recovery Cream and Multi-Shield Lotion (SPF 50), Anew Clinical Absolute Even Multi-Tone Skin Corrector, Solutions Cellu-Break Double Action Anti-cellulite Lotion, Clearskin Liquid Extraction Strip, Mega Effects Mascara, Super Extend Infinitize Mascara, Ultra Color Lipstick, Totally Kissable Lipstick, True Color Eyeshadows, Advance Techniques Hair Strengthen and Protect Collection, Skin So Soft Endless Touch Body Moisturizing Collection (Aroma + Therapy in North America), Elite Gentleman (Avon Alpha in Latin America) Fragrance, Only Imagine Fragrance, Ultra Sexy Fragrance and Avon Instinct for Her & for Him Fragrances.
The amounts incurred on research activities relating to the development of new products and the improvement of existing products were $67.2 in 2013, $73.3 in 2012 and $75.7 in 2011. This research included the activities of product research and development and package design and development. Most of these activities were related to the design and development of Beauty products.
Environmental Matters
In general, compliance with environmental regulations impacting our global operations has not had, and is not anticipated to have, any material adverse effect on our financial position, capital expenditures or competitive position.
Employees
At December 31, 2013, we employed approximately 36,700 employees. Of these, approximately 4,300 were employed in the U.S. and approximately 32,400 were employed in other countries.
Website Access to Reports
Our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, are, and have been throughout 2013, available without charge on our investor website (www.avoninvestor.com) as soon
as reasonably practicable after they are filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). We also make available on our website the charters of our Board Committees, our Corporate Governance Guidelines and our Code of Conduct. Copies of these SEC reports and other documents are also available, without charge, by sending a letter to Investor Relations, Avon Products, Inc., 777 Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10017-1307, by sending an email to investor.relations@avon.com or by calling (212) 282-5320. Information on our website does not constitute part of this report. Additionally, our filings with the SEC may be read and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE Washington, DC 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330. These filings, including reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding the Company are also available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after we have filed or furnished the above-referenced reports.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider each of the following risks associated with an investment in our publicly traded securities and all of the other information in our 2013 Annual Report. Our business may also be adversely affected by risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial. If any of the events contemplated by the following discussion of risks should occur, our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows may be materially adversely affected.
Our success depends on our ability to improve our financial and operational performance and execute fully our global business strategy.
Our ability to improve our financial and operational performance and implement the key initiatives of our global business strategy is dependent upon a number of factors, including our ability to:
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• | implement our stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, multi-year restructuring programs and other initiatives, and achieve anticipated savings and benefits from such programs and initiatives; |
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• | reverse declines in our top line performance and market share, and strengthen our brand image; |
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• | reduce costs, particularly selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses, and reinvest certain of those savings effectively in consumer-oriented investments and other aspects of our business, while effectively managing our cost base; |
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• | improve our business in North America, including through improving field health, improving our brochure and creating a sustainable cost base; |
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• | implement appropriate product mix and pricing strategies that are more aligned with the preferences of local markets and achieve anticipated benefits from these strategies; |
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• | implement enterprise resource planning ("ERP") successfully, execute investments in information technology infrastructure and realize efficiencies across our supply chain, marketing processes, sales model and organizational structure; |
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• | implement customer service initiatives; |
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• | implement and continue to innovate our Internet platform and technology strategies; |
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• | effectively manage our outsourcing activities; |
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• | improve our marketing and advertising, including our brochures and our social media presence; |
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• | improve working capital, effectively manage inventory and implement initiatives to reduce inventory levels, including the potential impact on cash flows and obsolescence; |
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• | secure financing at attractive rates, maintain appropriate capital investment, capital structure and cash flow levels to fund, among other things, cash dividends, and implement cash management, tax, foreign currency hedging and risk management strategies; |
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• | reverse declines in Active Representatives and Representative satisfaction by successfully reducing campaign complexity, implementing our Leadership program globally, enhancing the Representative experience and earnings potential and improving our brand image; |
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• | increase the productivity of Representatives through successful implementation of field activation programs and technology tools and enablers and other investments in the direct-selling channel; |
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• | improve management of our businesses in developing markets, including improving local information technology resources and management of local supply chains; |
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• | increase the number of consumers served per Representative and their engagement online, as well as to reach new consumers through a combination of new brands, new businesses, new channels and pursuit of strategic opportunities such as acquisitions, joint ventures and alliances with other companies; |
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• | comply with certain covenants in our debt instruments as a result of the impact of any significant restructuring charges or significant legal or regulatory settlements, obtain necessary waivers from compliance with, or necessary amendments to, such covenants, and address the impact any non-compliance with such covenants may have on our ability to secure financing; and |
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• | estimate and achieve any financial projections concerning, for example, future revenue, profit, cash flow, and operating margin increases. |
There can be no assurance that any of these initiatives will be successfully and fully executed within the time periods that we expect.
We may experience financial and strategic difficulties and delays or unexpected costs in completing our various restructuring and cost-savings initiatives, including achieving any anticipated savings and benefits of these initiatives.
In 2012, we announced a cost savings initiative (the "$400M Cost Savings Initiative") in an effort to stabilize the business and return Avon to sustainable growth, which is expected to be achieved through restructuring actions as well as other cost-savings strategies that will not result in restructuring charges. The $400M Cost Savings Initiative is designed to reduce our operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue to help us achieve a targeted low double-digit operating margin by 2016. The restructuring actions under the $400M Cost Savings Initiative primarily consist of global headcount reductions and related actions, as well as the restructuring or closure of certain smaller, under-performing markets, including our exit from the South Korea, Vietnam and Republic of Ireland markets.
As a result of the actions approved to-date, we have recorded total costs to implement these restructuring initiatives of $119.1 million before taxes, of which $68.4 million before taxes was recorded in 2013. For the actions approved to-date, we expect our total costs to implement restructuring to be in the range of $140 million to $150 million before taxes. The additional charges not yet incurred associated with the actions approved to-date of approximately $20 million to $30 million before taxes are expected to be recorded primarily in 2014. At this time we are unable to quantify the total costs to implement these restructuring initiatives that will be incurred through the time the initiative is fully implemented. In connection with the restructuring actions approved to-date associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, we expect to realize annualized savings of approximately $165 million to $170 million (both before taxes). See Note 15, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-43 through F-47 of our 2013 Annual Report for details of the costs of the restructuring initiatives.
We may not realize anticipated savings or benefits from one or more initiatives arising under our $400M Cost Savings Initiative, restructuring programs or other cost-savings initiatives in full or in part or within the time periods we expect. Other events and circumstances, such as financial and strategic difficulties and delays or unexpected costs, may occur which could result in our not realizing all or any of the anticipated savings or benefits. If we are unable to realize these savings or benefits, our ability to continue to fund other initiatives may be adversely affected. In addition, our plans to invest these savings and benefits ahead of future growth means that such costs will be incurred whether or not we realize these savings and benefits. We are also subject to the risks of labor unrest, negative publicity and business disruption in connection with our $400M Cost Savings Initiative, restructuring programs or other cost-savings initiatives. Failure to realize anticipated savings or benefits from our $400M Cost Savings Initiative, restructuring programs or other cost-savings initiatives could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to reverse declining revenue, margins and net income and achieve profitable growth.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to reverse declining revenue, margins and net income, particularly in North America where we experienced continued deteriorating results in 2013, and to achieve profitable growth in the future, particularly in our largest markets, such as Brazil and in developing and emerging markets, such as Mexico and Russia. Our revenue in 2013 was $9,955.0 million, compared with $10,561.4 million in 2012 and $11,099.5 million in 2011. Although our gross margin in 2013 improved to 62.1% compared with 61.2% in 2012, this declined from 63.4% in 2011. Our operating margin in 2013 was 4.3%, compared with 5.0% in 2012 and 9.8% in 2011. In 2013, we had a loss from continuing operations, net of tax of $1.0 million, compared with income from continuing operations, net of tax of $93.3 million and $675.6 million in 2012 and 2011, respectively. Reversing these trends will depend on our ability to improve financial and operational performance and execution of our global business strategy. There can be no assurance that we will be able to achieve these goals.
To reverse these trends in revenue, margins and net income and to achieve profitable growth, we also need to successfully implement certain initiatives including our restructuring and cost-savings initiatives, and there can no assurance that we will be able to do so. Our achievement of profitable growth is also subject to the strengths and weaknesses of our individual markets, including our international markets, which are or may be impacted by global economic conditions. We cannot assure that our broad-based geographic portfolio will be able to withstand an economic downturn, recession, cost or wage inflation, commodity cost pressures, economic or political instability, competitive pressures or other market pressures in one or more particular regions.
Failure to reverse declining revenue, margins and net income and to achieve profitable growth could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.
Our business is conducted worldwide primarily in one channel, direct selling.
Our business is conducted worldwide, primarily in the direct-selling channel. Sales are made to the ultimate consumer principally through more than 6 million active independent Representatives worldwide. There is a high rate of turnover among Representatives, which is a common characteristic of the direct selling business. In order to reverse losses of Representatives and grow our business in the future, we need to recruit, retain and service Representatives on a continuing basis, create attractive Representative earning opportunities and transform the value chain, restore field health and sales force effectiveness, successfully implement initiatives in the channel, advance the digital opportunity, improve our brochure and product offerings and improve our marketing and advertising, among other things, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to achieve these objectives. Additionally, consumer purchasing habits, including reducing purchases of beauty and related products generally, or reducing purchases from Representatives or buying beauty and related products in channels other than in direct selling, such as retail, could reduce our sales, impact our ability to execute our global business strategy or have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, if we lose market share in the direct-selling channel, our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows may be adversely affected. Furthermore, if any government bans or severely restricts our business method of direct selling, our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows may be materially adversely affected.
We are subject to financial risks related to our international operations, including exposure to foreign currency fluctuations.
We operate globally, through operations in various locations around the world, and derive approximately 88% of our consolidated revenue from our operations outside of the U.S.
One risk associated with our international operations is that the functional currency for most of our international operations is their local currency. The primary currencies for which we have significant exposures include the Argentine peso, Brazilian real, British pound, Canadian dollar, Chilean peso, Colombian peso, the euro, Mexican peso, Peruvian new sol, Philippine peso, Polish zloty, Romanian leu, Russian ruble, South Africa rand, Turkish lira, Ukranian hryvna and Venezuelan bolívar. As a result, movements in exchange rates, particularly in emerging markets, may have a significant impact on our business, assets, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows. For example, in 2013, our revenues declined 6% compared with 2012 partially due to unfavorable foreign exchange, and declined 1% on a Constant $ basis. There can be no assurance that foreign currency fluctuations will not have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows.
Another risk associated with our international operations is the possibility that a foreign government may impose currency remittance restrictions. Due to the possibility of government restrictions on transfers of cash out of the country and control of exchange rates, we may not be able to immediately repatriate cash at the official exchange rate. If this should occur, or if the official exchange rate devalues, it may have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows. For example, currency restrictions enacted by the Venezuelan government in 2003 have become more restrictive and have impacted the ability of our subsidiary in Venezuela (Avon Venezuela) to obtain foreign currency at the official rate to pay for imported products. We are currently unable to predict the likelihood of government approvals of these requests, or if approved, the estimated time for remittance. Unless official foreign exchange is made more readily available, Avon Venezuela's operations will continue to be negatively impacted as it will need to obtain more of its foreign currency needs from non-government sources where the exchange rate is less favorable than the official rate.
Inflation is another risk associated with our international operations. For example, Venezuela has been designated as a highly inflationary economy, and in February 2013 the Venezuelan government devalued its currency for the second time since January 1, 2010. Gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of the financial statements of subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies are recorded in earnings. Given Venezuela’s designation as a highly inflationary economy, and the potential for a future devaluation, our revenue, operating profit and net (loss) income could be negatively impacted further. See "Segment Review - Latin America" within MD&A on pages 37 through 39 of our 2013 Annual Report for additional information regarding Venezuela. In addition, there can be no assurance that other countries in which we operate, such as Argentina, will not also become highly inflationary and that our revenue, operating profit and net (loss) income will not be adversely impacted as a result.
We are engaged in ongoing settlement discussions with the DOJ and the staff of the SEC related to their investigations of FCPA and related matters. Based on these discussions, including the level of monetary payments being discussed, we recorded an aggregate accrual for these matters of $89 million during the year ended December 31, 2013, and we estimate the total aggregate amount of any potential settlements with the government could exceed this accrual by up to approximately $43 million. Although we are working to resolve these investigations through settlement, there can be no assurance that our efforts to reach settlements will be successful or, if they are, what the timing or terms of any such settlements would be.
We have substantially completed our internal investigation and compliance reviews regarding the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA") and related U.S. and foreign laws in China and additional countries. We have conducted these compliance reviews in a number of countries selected to represent each of the Company's international geographic segments. The internal investigation and compliance reviews have focused on reviewing certain expenses and books and records processes, including, but not limited to, travel, entertainment, gifts, use of third-party vendors and consultants and related due diligence, joint ventures and acquisitions, and payments to third-party agents and others, in connection with our business dealings, directly or indirectly, with foreign governments and their employees. In connection with the internal investigation and compliance reviews, certain personnel actions, including termination of employment of certain senior members of management, have been taken, and additional personnel actions may be taken in the future. In connection with the internal investigation and compliance reviews, we continue to enhance our ethics and compliance program, including our policies and procedures, FCPA compliance-related training, FCPA third-party due diligence program and other compliance-related resources.
As previously reported in October 2008, we voluntarily contacted the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the United States Department of Justice ("DOJ") to advise both agencies of our internal investigation. We have cooperated and continue to cooperate with investigations of these matters by the SEC and the DOJ. We have, among other things, signed tolling agreements, responded to inquiries, translated and produced documents, assisted with interviews, and provided information on our internal investigation and compliance reviews, personnel actions taken and steps taken to enhance our ethics and compliance program. We also have made factual presentations which are now substantially complete.
As previously reported in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ending June 30, 2013, in June 2013 we made an offer of settlement to the DOJ and the SEC that, among other terms, would have included payment of monetary penalties of approximately $12 million. Although our offer was rejected by the DOJ and the staff of the SEC, we accrued the amount of our offer in the second quarter of 2013.
Our settlement negotiations with the DOJ and the staff of the SEC have continued. In the fourth quarter of 2013, based on the status of our current negotiations, including the levels of monetary payments being discussed, we recorded an additional accrual of $77 million, resulting in an aggregate accrual for these matters of $89 million at December 31, 2013. Based on the status of our current negotiations with the DOJ and the staff of the SEC, we estimate the total aggregate amount of any potential settlements with the government could exceed this accrual by up to approximately $43 million. While it is reasonably possible that the aggregate monetary payments in any settlements will exceed $89 million, there is no amount within the estimated potential settlement range that we consider to be a better estimate than any other amount; therefore, we have accrued the estimated minimum amount of probable loss in connection with the potential settlements of these matters or $89 million ($77 million during the fourth quarter of 2013 and $12 million during the second quarter of 2013).
Although we are working to resolve the government investigations through settlement, there can be no assurance that our efforts to reach settlements with the government will be successful or, if they are, what the timing or terms of any such settlements would be. We expect any such settlements will include civil and/or criminal fines and penalties, and may also include non-monetary remedies, such as oversight requirements and additional remediation and compliance requirements. We may be required to incur significant future costs to comply with the non-monetary terms of any settlements with the DOJ and/or the SEC. If we do not reach settlements with the DOJ and/or the SEC, we cannot predict the outcome of any subsequent litigation with the government but such litigation could have a material adverse effect.
Until these matters are resolved, either through settlement or litigation, we expect to continue to incur costs, primarily professional fees and expenses, which may be significant, in connection with the government investigations. Furthermore, under certain circumstances, we may also be required to advance and/or reimburse significant professional fees and expenses to certain current and former Company employees in connection with these matters.
A general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions or sudden disruption in business conditions or other challenges may adversely affect our business, our access to liquidity and capital, and our credit ratings.
A downturn in the economies in which we sell our products, including any recession in one or more of our geographic regions, or current global macro-economic instability, could adversely affect our business, our access to liquidity and capital, and our credit ratings. Recent global economic events over the past few years, including unemployment levels, the tightening of credit markets and failures of financial institutions and other entities, have resulted in challenges to our business and a heightened concern regarding further deterioration globally. In addition, as mentioned above, our business is conducted primarily in the direct-selling channel. We could experience declines in revenues, profitability and cash flow due to reduced orders, payment delays, supply chain disruptions or other factors caused by such economic, operational or business challenges. Any or all of these factors could potentially have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and capital resources and credit ratings, including our ability to access short-term financing, raise additional capital and maintain credit lines and offshore cash balances. Avon's long-term credit ratings are Baa3 (Stable Outlook) with Moody's and BBB- (Negative Outlook) with S&P, which are on the low end of investment grade, and BB (Negative Outlook) with Fitch, which is below investment grade. Additional rating agency
reviews could result in a further change in outlook or downgrade, which could limit our access to new financing, particularly short-term financing, on favorable terms; reduce our flexibility with respect to working capital needs; and adversely affect the market price of some or all of our outstanding debt securities. See Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-18 through F-21 of our 2013 Annual Report for details about the terms of our existing debt and other financing arrangements.
Consumer spending is also generally affected by a number of factors, including general economic conditions, inflation, interest rates, energy costs, gasoline prices and consumer confidence generally, all of which are beyond our control. Consumer purchases of discretionary items, such as beauty and related products, tend to decline during recessionary periods, when disposable income is lower, and may impact sales of our products. We face continued economic challenges in fiscal 2014 because customers may continue to have less money for discretionary purchases as a result of job losses, foreclosures, bankruptcies, reduced access to credit and weakness in housing, among other things.
In addition, sudden disruptions in business conditions and consumer spending may result from acts of terror, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, such as the significant typhoon which impacted the Philippines, and pandemic situations or large scale power outages, none of which are under our control.
Our ability to conduct business, particularly in international markets, may be affected by political, legal, tax and regulatory risks.
Our ability to achieve growth, particularly in new international markets, and to improve operations, particularly in our existing international markets, is exposed to various risks, including:
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• | the possibility that a foreign government might ban or severely restrict our business method of direct selling; |
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• | the possibility that local civil unrest, economic or political instability, bureaucratic delays, changes in macro-economic conditions, changes in diplomatic or trade relationships or other uncertainties might disrupt our operations in an international market; |
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• | the lack of well-established or reliable legal systems in certain areas where we operate; |
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• | the adoption of new U.S. or international tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities, including exposure to tax assessments without prior notice or the opportunity to review the basis for any such assessments in certain jurisdictions; |
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• | the possibility that a government authority might impose legal, tax or other financial burdens on our Representatives, as direct sellers, or on Avon, due, for example, to the structure of our operations in various markets; and |
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• | the possibility that a government authority might challenge the status of our Representatives as independent contractors or impose employment or social taxes on our Representatives. |
We are also subject to the adoption, interpretation and enforcement by governmental agencies in the U.S. (including on federal, state and local levels) and abroad of other laws, rules, regulations or policies, including any changes thereto, such as restrictions on trade, competition, manufacturing, license and permit requirements, import and export license requirements, privacy and data protection laws, anti-corruption laws, environmental laws, records and information management, e-invoicing, tariffs and taxes, laws relating to the sourcing of "conflict minerals", health care reform requirements such as the Patient Protection and Affordable Healthcare Act, and regulation of our brochures, product claims or ingredients, which may require us to adjust our operations and systems in certain markets where we do business. For example, we are subject to government review of our brochures in Venezuela. Another example is privacy and data protection laws which are subject to frequently changing rules and regulations, and which may vary among the various jurisdictions where we operate. If we are unable to adhere to or successfully implement processes in response to changing regulatory requirements, our business and/or reputation may be adversely affected. We cannot predict with certainty the outcome or the impact that pending or future legislative and regulatory changes may have on our business in the future.
We face intense competition and can make no assurances about our ability to overcome our competitive challenges.
We face intense competition from competing products in each of our lines of business, in both the domestic and international markets. Worldwide, we compete against products sold to consumers in a number of distribution methods, including by other direct-selling companies, through the Internet, and against products sold through the mass market and prestige retail channels. We also face increasing competition in our developing and emerging markets, particularly Brazil.
Within the direct-selling channel, we compete on a regional, and often country-by-country, basis with our direct-selling competitors. There are also a number of direct-selling companies that sell product lines similar to ours, some of which also have worldwide operations and compete with us globally. Unlike most other beauty companies, we compete within a distinct business model where providing a compelling earnings opportunity for our Representatives is as critical as developing and marketing new and innovative products. Therefore, in contrast to a typical consumer packaged goods ("CPG") company which
operates within a broad-based consumer pool, we must first compete for a limited pool of Representatives before we reach the ultimate consumer.
Direct sellers compete for representative or entrepreneurial talent by providing a more competitive earnings opportunity or "better deal" than that offered by the competition. Representatives are attracted to a direct seller by competitive earnings opportunities, often through what are commonly known as "field incentives" in the direct-selling industry. Competitors devote substantial effort to finding out the effectiveness of such incentives so that they can invest in incentives that are the most cost effective or produce the better payback. As one of the largest and oldest beauty direct sellers globally, Avon's business model and strategies are often highly sought after, particularly by smaller and more nimble competitors who seek to capitalize on our investment and experience. As a result, we are subject to significant competition for the recruitment of Representatives from other direct-selling or network marketing organizations. It is therefore continually necessary to innovate and enhance our direct-selling and service model as well as to recruit and retain new Representatives. If we are unable to do so, our business will be adversely affected.
Within the broader CPG industry, we principally compete against large and well-known cosmetics (color), fragrance, skincare and personal care companies that manufacture and sell broad product lines through various types of retail establishments and other channels, including through the Internet. In addition, we compete against many other companies that manufacture and sell more narrow beauty product lines sold through retail establishments and other channels, including through the Internet. This industry is highly competitive, and some of our principal competitors in the CPG industry are larger than we are and have greater resources than we do. Competitive activities on their part could cause our sales to suffer. We also have many highly competitive global branded and private label competitors in the accessories, apparel, housewares, and gift and decorative products industries, including retail establishments, principally department stores, mass merchandisers, gift shops and specialty retailers. Our principal competition in the highly competitive fashion jewelry industry consists of a few large companies and many small companies that sell fashion jewelry through department stores, mass merchandisers and specialty retailers.
The number of competitors and degree of competition that we face in the beauty and related products industry varies widely from country to country. If our advertising, promotional, merchandising or other marketing strategies are not successful, if we are unable to improve our product mix and offer new products that represent technological breakthroughs and are aligned with local preferences, if we do not successfully manage the timing of new product introductions or the profitability of these efforts, if we are unable to improve the Representative experience, or if for other reasons our Representatives or end customers perceive competitors' products as having greater appeal, then our sales and results of operations will be adversely affected.
Our ability to improve our financial performance depends on our ability to anticipate and respond to market trends and changes in consumer preferences.
Our ability to improve our financial performance depends on our ability to anticipate, gauge and react in a timely and effective manner to changes in consumer spending patterns and preferences for beauty and related products. We must continually work to develop, produce and market new products, maintain and enhance the recognition of our brands, achieve a favorable mix of products, and refine our approach as to how and where we market and sell our products. Consumer spending patterns and preferences cannot be predicted with certainty and can change rapidly. There can be no assurance that we will be able to anticipate and respond to trends in the market for beauty and related products and changing consumer demands and improve our financial results.
Furthermore, material shifts or decreases in market demand for our products, including as a result of changes in consumer spending patterns and preferences or incorrect forecasting of market demand, could result in us carrying inventory that cannot be sold at anticipated prices or increased product returns by our Representatives. Failure to maintain proper inventory levels or increased product returns by our Representatives could result in a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.
Our success depends, in part, on our key personnel.
Our success depends, in part, on our ability to retain our key personnel. The unexpected loss of or failure to retain one or more of our key employees could adversely affect our business. Our success also depends, in part, on our continuing ability to identify, hire, attract, train, develop and retain other highly qualified personnel. Competition for these employees can be intense and our ability to hire, attract and retain them depends on our ability to provide competitive compensation. We may not be able to attract, assimilate, develop or retain qualified personnel in the future, and our failure to do so could adversely affect our business, including the execution of our global business strategy. For example, since 2011, there have been many changes to the Company's senior management, including a new chief executive officer and chief financial officer. Any failure by our management team to perform as expected may have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. This risk may be exacerbated by the uncertainties associated with the implementation of our stabilization strategies and restructuring and cost-savings initiatives.
A disruption of a key information technology system, process or site could adversely affect our operations.
We employ information technology systems to support our business, including systems to support financial reporting, web-based tools, an ERP system which we are implementing on a worldwide basis, and an internal communication and data transfer network. We also employ information technology systems to support Representatives in many of our markets, including electronic order collection and invoicing systems and on-line training, and utilize third-party service providers. We have Internet sites in many of our markets, including business-to-business websites to support Representatives. We have undertaken initiatives to increase our reliance on employing information technology systems to enable our Representatives, as well as initiatives as part of our multi-year restructuring programs, to outsource certain services, including global human resources information technology systems and other information technology processes.
Any of these systems may be susceptible to outages or disruptions due to the complex landscape of localized applications and architectures as well as incidents due to legacy or unintegrated systems or both, fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, terrorist attacks, cyber security breaches, break-ins, corruption and similar events beyond our control. There may be other challenges and risks as we upgrade, modernize, and standardize our information technology systems on a worldwide basis. For example, Service Model Transformation ("SMT") was a global program initiated in 2009 to improve the Company's order management system and enable changes to the way Representatives interact with the Company. SMT was piloted in Canada during 2013, and caused significant business disruption in that market. We decided to halt further roll-out of SMT in the fourth quarter of 2013. In addition, in the third quarter of 2011, we experienced challenges in implementing an ERP system in Brazil which impacted service levels, which in turn negatively impacted average order and Active Representative and revenue growth during 2011.
Despite our network/ cyber security measures and our efforts to protect the security of personal information about our employees and independent sales Representatives, our systems may also be vulnerable to computer viruses, data or cyber security breaches, break-ins, corruption and similar disruptions from unauthorized tampering with these systems. The occurrence of these or other events could disrupt our information technology systems and adversely affect our operations, as well as cause damage to our reputation, financial obligations to third parties, fines, penalties, regulatory proceedings and private litigation with potentially large costs, and could also result in deterioration in our employees', Representatives' and customers' confidence in us and other competitive disadvantages.
Third-party suppliers provide, among other things, the raw materials used to manufacture our Beauty products, and the loss of these suppliers or a disruption or interruption in the supply chain may adversely affect our business.
We manufacture and package the majority of our Beauty products. Raw materials, consisting chiefly of essential oils, chemicals, containers and packaging components, are purchased from various third-party suppliers for our Beauty products. All of our Fashion & Home products are purchased from various suppliers. Additionally, we produce the brochures that are used by Representatives to sell Avon products. The loss of multiple suppliers or a significant disruption or interruption in the supply chain could have a material adverse effect on the manufacturing and packaging of our Beauty products, the purchasing of our Fashion & Home products or the production of our brochures. This risk may be exacerbated by our globally-coordinated purchasing strategy, which leverages volumes. Regulatory action, such as restrictions on importation, may also disrupt or interrupt our supply chain. Furthermore, increases in the costs of raw materials or other commodities may adversely affect our profit margins if we are unable to pass along any higher costs in the form of price increases or otherwise achieve cost efficiencies in manufacturing and distribution. In addition, if our suppliers fail to use ethical business practices and comply with applicable laws and regulations, such as any child labor laws, our reputation could be harmed due to negative publicity.
A downgrade in our credit ratings may adversely affect our access to liquidity, and our working capital.
Nationally recognized credit rating organizations have issued credit ratings relating to our long-term debt. Our long-term credit ratings are Baa3 (Stable Outlook) with Moody's and BBB- (Negative Outlook) with S&P, which are on the low end of investment grade, and BB (Negative Outlook) with Fitch, which is below investment grade. In February 2013, Fitch lowered their long-term credit rating from BBB- (Negative Outlook) to BB+ (Stable Outlook) and Moody's lowered their long-term credit rating from Baa1 (Negative Outlook) to Baa2 (Stable Outlook). In November 2013, Fitch lowered their long-term credit rating from BB+ (Stable Outlook) to BB (Negative Outlook) and Moody's placed Avon's long-term credit rating of Baa2 (Stable Outlook) on review for possible downgrade. In February 2014, Moody’s lowered their long-term credit rating from Baa2 (Stable Outlook) to Baa3 (Stable Outlook). Additional rating agency reviews could result in a further change in outlook or downgrade. A further change in outlook or downgrade of our credit ratings could limit our access to new financing, particularly short-term financing, on favorable terms; reduce our flexibility with respect to working capital needs; and adversely affect the market price of some or all of our outstanding debt securities. For example, we have approximately $159.4 million outstanding in short-term borrowings of our international subsidiaries. A further change in outlook or downgrade of our credit ratings may limit our access to such short-term financing in the future on favorable terms, if at all. See Note 5, Debt and Other Financing, on pages F-18 through F-21 of our 2013 Annual Report for details about the terms of our existing debt and other financing arrangements.
Our indebtedness could adversely affect us by reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions.
As of December 31, 2013, we had approximately $2.7 billion of indebtedness outstanding. We may also incur additional long-term indebtedness and working capital lines of credit to meet future financing needs, subject to certain restrictions under our indebtedness, including our revolving credit facility and our term loan, which would increase our total indebtedness. We may be unable to generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future borrowings and other financing may be unavailable in an amount sufficient to enable us to fund our future financial obligations or our other liquidity needs. Our indebtedness could have material negative consequences on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows, including the following:
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• | limitations on our ability to obtain additional debt or equity financing sufficient to fund growth, such as working capital and capital expenditures requirements or to meet other cash requirements, in particular during periods in which credit markets are weak; |
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• | a downgrade in our credit ratings, as discussed above; |
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• | a limitation on our flexibility to plan for, or react to, competitive challenges in our business and the beauty industry; |
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• | the possibility that we are put at a competitive disadvantage relative to competitors that do not have as much debt as us, and competitors that may be in a more favorable position to access additional capital resources and withstand economic downturns; |
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• | limitations on our ability to execute business development activities to support our strategies or ability to execute restructuring as necessary; |
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• | limitations on our ability to invest in recruiting, retaining and servicing our Representatives; and |
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• | compliance with certain covenants in our debt instruments as a result of the impact of any significant restructuring charges or significant legal or regulatory settlements; difficulty obtaining necessary waivers from compliance with, or necessary amendments to, such covenants; and difficulty addressing the impact any non-compliance with such covenants may have on our ability to secure financing. |
If we incur additional indebtedness, the related risks that we now face (including those described above), could intensify.
Significant changes in pension fund investment performance, assumptions relating to pension costs or required legal changes in pension funding rules may have a material effect on the valuation of pension obligations, the funded status of pension plans and our pension cost.
Our funding policy for pension plans is to accumulate plan assets that, over the long run, will approximate the present value of projected benefit obligations. Our pension cost is materially affected by the discount rate used to measure pension obligations, the level of plan assets available to fund those obligations at the measurement date and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. Significant changes in investment performance or a change in the portfolio mix of invested assets can result in corresponding increases and decreases in the valuation of plan assets, including equity and debt securities and derivative instruments, or in a change of the expected rate of return on plan assets. Also, significant changes in the number of participants in the pension plans may result in additional funding obligations. A change in the discount rate would result in a significant increase or decrease in the valuation of pension obligations, affecting the reported funded status of our pension plans as well as the net periodic pension cost in the following fiscal years. Similarly, changes in the expected return on plan assets can result in significant changes in the net periodic pension cost of the following fiscal years. Pension funding requirement changes under the Pension Protection Act of 2006 affect pension funding obligations and may impose limitations on a hybrid plan's interest crediting rate to the "market rate of return." This may result in a significant increase or decrease in the valuation of pension obligations affecting the reported funded status of our pension plans. Finally, if the Financial Accounting Standards Board adopts the International Financial Reporting Standards as part of generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"), there could be changes in the required funding obligations. Please see "Pension and Postretirement Expense" within "Critical Accounting Estimates" within MD&A on pages 25 through 26 and Note 12, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-33 through F-41 of our 2013 Annual Report, for additional information regarding the impact of these factors on our pension plan obligations.
Any strategic alliances, acquisitions or divestitures may expose us to additional risks.
We review strategic alliances and acquisition prospects that would complement our current product offerings, increase the size and geographic scope of our operations or otherwise offer growth and operating efficiency opportunities. Strategic alliances may entail risks such as reputational risk and inability to successfully implement such an alliance. In addition, the financing for
acquisitions could dilute the interests of our stockholders, result in an increase in our indebtedness or both. Acquisitions may entail numerous risks, including:
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• | difficulties in assimilating acquired operations or products, including the loss of key employees from acquired businesses and disruption to our direct-selling channel; |
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• | diversion of management’s attention from our core business; |
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• | adverse effects on existing business relationships with suppliers and customers; and |
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• | risks of entering markets in which we have limited or no prior experience. |
Our failure to successfully complete the integration of any acquired business could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to identify suitable alliance and acquisition candidates or consummate alliances and acquisitions on favorable terms.
For divestitures, success is also dependent on effectively and efficiently separating the divested unit or business from the Company and reducing or eliminating associated overhead costs. In cases where a divestiture is not successfully implemented or completed, the Company's business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.
The loss of, or a disruption in, our manufacturing and distribution operations could adversely affect our business.
Our principal properties consist of worldwide manufacturing facilities for the production of Beauty products, distribution centers where offices are located and where finished merchandise is packed and shipped to Representatives in fulfillment of their orders, and one principal research and development facility. Additionally, we use third-party manufacturers to manufacture certain of our products. Therefore, as a company engaged in manufacturing, distribution and research and development on a global scale, we are subject to the risks inherent in such activities, including industrial accidents, environmental events, fires, strikes and other labor or industrial disputes, disruptions in logistics or information systems (such as the ERP system), loss or impairment of key manufacturing or distribution sites, product quality control issues, safety concerns, licensing requirements and other regulatory or government issues, as well as natural disasters, pandemics, border disputes, acts of terrorism and other external factors over which we have no control. These risks may be exacerbated by our efforts to increase facility consolidation covering our manufacturing, distribution and supply footprints, particularly if we are unable to successfully increase our resiliency to potential operational disruptions or enhance our disaster recovery planning. The loss of, or damage to, any of our facilities or centers, or those of our third-party manufacturers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.
Our success depends, in part, on the quality, safety and efficacy of our products.
Our success depends, in part, on the quality, safety and efficacy of our products. If our products are found to be, or are perceived to be, defective or unsafe, or if they otherwise fail to meet our Representatives' or end customers' standards, our relationship with our Representatives or end customers could suffer, we could need to recall some of our products, our reputation or the appeal of our brand could be diminished, and we could lose market share and/or become subject to liability claims, any of which could result in a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.
If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, specifically patents and trademarks, our ability to compete could be adversely affected.
The market for our products depends to a significant extent upon the value associated with our product innovations and our brand equity. We own the material patents and trademarks used in connection with the marketing and distribution of our major products both in the U.S. and in other countries where such products are principally sold. Although most of our material intellectual property is registered in the U.S. and in certain foreign countries in which we operate, there can be no assurance with respect to the rights associated with such intellectual property in those countries. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries, including many emerging markets, such as China, may not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the U.S. The costs required to protect our patents and trademarks may be substantial.
We are involved, and may become involved in the future, in legal proceedings that, if adversely adjudicated or settled, could adversely affect our financial results.
We are and may, in the future, become party to litigation, including, for example, claims alleging violation of the federal securities laws or claims relating to our products or advertising. In general, litigation claims can be expensive and time consuming to bring or defend against and could result in settlements or damages that could significantly affect financial results and the conduct of our business. We are currently vigorously contesting certain of these litigation claims. However, it is not
possible to predict the final resolution of the litigation to which we currently are or may in the future become party, and the impact of certain of these matters on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.
Government reviews, inquiries, investigations, and actions could harm our business or reputation. In addition, from time to time we may conduct other internal investigations and compliance reviews, the consequences of which could negatively impact our business or reputation.
As we operate in various locations around the world, our operations in certain countries are subject to significant governmental scrutiny and may be harmed by the results of such scrutiny. The regulatory environment with regard to direct selling in emerging and developing markets where we do business is evolving, and government officials in such locations often exercise broad discretion in deciding how to interpret and apply applicable regulations. From time to time, we may receive formal and informal inquiries from various government regulatory authorities about our business and compliance with local laws and regulations. In addition, from time to time, we may conduct internal investigations and compliance reviews. The consequences of such government reviews, inquiries, investigations, and actions or such internal investigations and compliance reviews may adversely impact our business, prospects, reputation, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows.
Any determination that our operations or activities, or the activities of our Representatives, are not, or were not, in compliance with existing U.S. or foreign laws or regulations could result in the imposition of substantial fines, interruptions of business, loss of supplier, vendor or other third-party relationships, termination of necessary licenses and permits, and other legal or equitable sanctions. Other legal or regulatory proceedings, as well as government investigations, which often involve complex legal issues and are subject to uncertainties, may also follow as a consequence.
Additionally, any determination that our operations or activities, or, where local law mandates, the activities of our Representatives, including our licenses or permits, importing or exporting, or product testing or approvals are not, or were not, in compliance with existing laws or regulations could result in the imposition of substantial fines, civil and criminal penalties, interruptions of business, modification of business practices and compliance programs, equitable remedies, including disgorgement, injunctive relief and other sanctions that we may take against our personnel or that may be taken against us or our personnel. Further, other countries in which we do business may initiate their own investigations and impose similar sanctions. Even if an inquiry or investigation does not result in these types of determinations, it potentially could create negative publicity and give rise to third-party litigation or action.
The market price of our common stock could be subject to fluctuations as a result of many factors.
Factors that could affect the trading price of our common stock include the following:
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• | variations in operating results; |
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• | developments in connection with the FCPA or other investigations and any litigation related thereto; |
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• | a change in our credit ratings; |
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• | economic conditions and volatility in the financial markets; |
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• | announcements or significant developments in connection with our business and with respect to beauty and related products or the beauty industry in general; |
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• | actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly or annual financial results; |
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• | unsolicited takeover proposals, proxy contests or other shareholder activism; |
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• | changes in our dividend practice; |
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• | governmental policies and regulations; |
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• | estimates of our future performance or that of our competitors or our industries; |
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• | general economic, political, and market conditions; |
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• | factors relating to competitors. |
The trading price of our common stock has been, and could in the future continue to be, subject to significant fluctuations.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not applicable.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Our principal properties worldwide consist of manufacturing facilities for the production of Beauty products, distribution centers where offices are located and where finished merchandise is packed and shipped to Representatives in fulfillment of their orders, and one principal research and development facility.
Our domestic manufacturing facility is located in Morton Grove, IL. Our domestic distribution centers are located in Zanesville, OH and Pasadena, CA. Our principal research and development facility is located in Suffern, NY. We also lease an office space in New York City for our executive and administrative offices, and we own property in Rye, NY for Global IT and Global Finance. In October 2012, we consolidated our New York City offices into one location at 777 Third Avenue. Our previous executive office location at 1345 Avenue of the Americas has been vacated and we are marketing for a potential sublease.
Other principal properties outside the U.S. measuring 50,000 square feet or more include the following:
•two distribution centers for primary use in North America operations outside the U.S. (Canada and Puerto Rico);
•four manufacturing facilities, eleven distribution centers and two administrative offices in Latin America;
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• | two manufacturing facilities in Europe, primarily servicing Europe, Middle East & Africa; |
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• | twelve distribution centers and seven administrative offices in Europe, Middle East & Africa; and |
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• | four manufacturing facilities, six distribution centers and one administrative office in Asia Pacific. |
We consider all of these properties to be in good repair, to adequately meet our needs and to operate at reasonable levels of productive capacity.
In January 2007, we announced plans to realign certain North America distribution operations. We have closed our distribution facilities in Newark, DE and Glenview, IL. The Newark facility is currently listed for sale and the Glenview site has been sold.
In July 2009, we announced plans to realign manufacturing operations in North America and Europe. This initiative included the sale of the manufacturing facility (and leaseback of the returns and call center) in Springdale, OH in 2013, and the sale and short-term leaseback of the manufacturing facility in Germany in 2011. These transactions are now closed.
In January 2013, we announced plans to close the Atlanta and Pasadena distribution centers. The Atlanta property was sold in 2013, and the closure of the Pasadena property has been delayed.
Of all the properties listed above, 33 are owned and the remaining 27 are leased. Many of our properties are used for a combination of manufacturing, distribution and administration. These properties are included in the above listing based on primary usage.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Reference is made to Note 16, Contingencies, on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market for Avon’s Common Stock
Our common stock is listed on The New York Stock Exchange and trades under the AVP ticker symbol. At December 31, 2013, there were approximately 14,743 holders of record of our common stock. We believe that there are many additional shareholders who are not "shareholders of record" but who beneficially own and vote shares through nominee holders such as brokers and benefit plan trustees. High and low market prices and dividends per share of our common stock, in dollars, for 2013 and 2012 are listed below. For information regarding future dividends on our common stock, see "Liquidity and Capital Resources" within MD&A on pages 45 through 50.
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| | 2013 | | 2012 |
Quarter | | High | | Low | | Dividends Declared and Paid | | High | | Low | | Dividends Declared and Paid |
First | | $ | 21.10 |
| | $ | 15.03 |
| | $ | .06 |
| | $ | 19.63 |
| | $ | 17.41 |
| | $ | .23 |
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Second | | 24.20 |
| | 20.26 |
| | .06 |
| | 23.52 |
| | 15.10 |
| | .23 |
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Third | | 23.32 |
| | 19.75 |
| | .06 |
| | 16.65 |
| | 14.45 |
| | .23 |
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Fourth | | 22.48 |
| | 16.81 |
| | .06 |
| | 17.39 |
| | 13.80 |
| | .06 |
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Stock Performance Graph
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COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN(1) |
Among Avon Products, Inc., The S&P 500 Index and |
2013 Peer Group (2) |
The Stock Performance Graph above assumes a $100 investment on December 31, 2008, in Avon’s common stock, the S&P 500 Index and the Peer Group. The dollar amounts indicated in the graph above and in the chart below are as of December 31 or the last trading day in the year indicated.
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2008 |
| | 2009 |
| | 2010 |
| | 2011 |
| | 2012 |
| | 2013 |
|
Avon | | 100.0 |
| | 135.2 |
| | 128.5 |
| | 80.3 |
| | 68.9 |
| | 83.6 |
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S&P 500 | | 100.0 |
| | 126.5 |
| | 145.5 |
| | 148.6 |
| | 172.4 |
| | 228.2 |
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Peer Group(2) | | 100.0 |
| | 107.8 |
| | 116.9 |
| | 130.2 |
| | 141.6 |
| | 177.5 |
|
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(1) | Total return assumes reinvestment of dividends at the closing price at the end of each quarter. |
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(2) | The Peer Group includes The Clorox Company, Colgate–Palmolive Company, Estée Lauder Companies, Inc., Kimberly Clark Corp., The Procter & Gamble Company and Revlon, Inc. |
The Stock Performance Graph above shall not be deemed to be "soliciting material" or to be "filed" with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as
amended (the "Exchange Act"). In addition, it shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any statement that incorporates this annual report on Form 10-K by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that we specifically incorporate this information by reference.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The following table provides information about our purchases of our common stock during the quarterly period ended December 31, 2013:
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| | Total Number of Shares Purchased | | Average Price Paid per Share | | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs | | Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program |
10/1/13 – 10/31/13 | | 8,064 |
| (1) | $ | 21.04 |
| | * | | * |
11/1/13 – 11/30/13 | | 2,095 |
| (2) | 20.08 |
| | * | | * |
12/1/13 – 12/31/13 | | 34,119 |
| (1) | 17.34 |
| | * | | * |
Total | | 44,278 |
| | $ | 18.14 |
| | * | | * |
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* | These amounts are not applicable as the Company does not have a share repurchase program in effect. |
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(1) | These shares were repurchased by the Company in connection with employee elections to use shares to pay withholding taxes upon the vesting of their restricted stock units. |
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(2) | Includes 1,219 shares purchased in private transactions with a broker in connection with stock based obligations under our Deferred Compensation Plan and 876 shares that were repurchased by the Company in connection with employee elections to use shares to pay withholding taxes upon the vesting of their restricted stock units. |
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(U.S. dollars in millions, except per share data)
We derived the following selected financial data from our audited Consolidated Financial Statements. The following data should be read in conjunction with our MD&A and our Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes contained in our 2013 Annual Report.
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| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2010 | | 2009 |
Income Statement Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenue | | $ | 9,955.0 |
| | $ | 10,561.4 |
| | $ | 11,099.5 |
| | $ | 10,754.2 |
| | $ | 10,205.2 |
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Operating profit(1) | | 427.2 |
| | 525.0 |
| | 1,092.0 |
| | 1,039.0 |
| | 1,005.6 |
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(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax(1) | | (1.0 | ) | | 93.3 |
| | 675.6 |
| | 566.0 |
| | 619.2 |
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Diluted (loss) earnings per share from continuing operations | | $ | (.01 | ) | | $ | .20 |
| | $ | 1.54 |
| | $ | 1.29 |
| | $ | 1.43 |
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Cash dividends per share | | $ | .24 |
| | $ | .75 |
| | $ | .92 |
| | $ | .88 |
| | $ | .84 |
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Balance Sheet Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 6,492.3 |
| | $ | 7,382.5 |
| | $ | 7,735.0 |
| | $ | 7,873.7 |
| | $ | 6,823.4 |
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Debt maturing within one year | | 188.0 |
| | 572.0 |
| | 849.3 |
| | 727.6 |
| | 137.8 |
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Long-term debt | | 2,532.7 |
| | 2,623.8 |
| | 2,459.1 |
| | 2,408.6 |
| | 2,307.2 |
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Total debt | | 2,720.7 |
| | 3,195.8 |
| | 3,308.4 |
| | 3,136.2 |
| | 2,445.0 |
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Total shareholders’ equity | | 1,127.5 |
| | 1,233.3 |
| | 1,585.2 |
| | 1,672.6 |
| | 1,312.6 |
|
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(1) | A number of items, shown below, impact the comparability of our operating profit and (loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax. See Note 15, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-43 through F-47 of our 2013 Annual Report, "Results Of Continuing Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 30 through 35, "Segment Review - Latin America" within MD&A on pages 37 through 39, Note 16, Contingencies on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report, Note 17, Goodwill and Intangibles on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report, Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-18 through F-21 of our 2013 Annual Report and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-22 through F-25 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on these items. |
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Impact on Operating Profit |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2010 | | 2009 |
Costs to implement restructuring initiatives related to our cost savings initiative, multi-year restructuring programs, and other restructuring initiatives | | $ | 65.9 |
| | $ | 124.7 |
| | $ | 40.0 |
| | $ | 80.7 |
| | $ | 171.0 |
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Venezuelan special items(2) | | 49.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 79.5 |
| | — |
|
FCPA accrual(3) | | 89.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
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Asset impairment and other charges(4) | | 159.3 |
| | 44.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
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In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2013 was impacted by a loss on extinguishment of debt of $73.0 before tax ($46.2 after tax) in the first quarter of 2013 caused by the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the prepayment of our Private Notes (as defined in "Capital Resources" within MD&A on pages 48 through 50), as well as the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the early repayment of $380 of the outstanding principal amount of the term loan agreement (as defined in "Capital Resources" within MD&A on pages 48 through 50). Loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2013 was also impacted by a loss on extinguishment of debt of $13.0 before tax ($8.2 after tax) in the second quarter of 2013 caused by the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs and discounts, partially offset by a deferred gain associated with the January 2013 interest-rate swap agreement termination, associated with the prepayment of the 2014 Notes (as defined in "Capital Resources" within MD&A on pages 48 through 50). In addition, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2013 was impacted by valuation allowances for deferred tax assets of $41.8 related to Venezuela and $9.2 related to China. See Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-18 through F-21 of our 2013 Annual Report, "Results Of Continuing Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 30 through 35, and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-22 through F-25 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
Income from continuing operations, net of tax during 2012 was impacted by a benefit recorded to other expense, net of $23.8 before tax ($15.7 after tax) due to the release of a provision in the fourth quarter associated with the excess cost of acquiring U.S. dollars in Venezuela at the regulated market rate as compared with the official exchange rate. This provision was released as the Company capitalized the associated intercompany liabilities. Also, during the fourth quarter of 2012, we determined that the Company may repatriate offshore cash to meet certain domestic funding needs. Accordingly, we are no longer asserting that the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries are indefinitely reinvested, and therefore, we recorded an additional provision for income taxes of $168.3. See "Results Of Continuing Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 30 through 35, and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-22 through F-25 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
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(2) | During 2013 and 2010, our operating margin was negatively impacted by the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency, and in 2010 this was coupled with a required change to account for operations in Venezuela on a highly inflationary basis. In 2013, as a result of using the U.S. historic dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventory, acquired prior to the devaluation, 2013 operating profit was negatively impacted by $49.6, due to the difference between the historical cost at the previous official exchange rate of 4.30 and the official exchange rate of 6.30. In addition to the negative impact to operating profit, as a result of the devaluation of Venezuelan currency, during 2013, we recorded a one-time, after-tax loss of $50.7 ($34.1 in other expense, net and $16.6 in income taxes), primarily reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities and deferred tax benefits. In 2010, as a result of using the historic dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventory, acquired prior to the devaluation, during 2010 operating profit was negatively impacted by $79.5 for the difference between the historical cost at the previous official exchange rate of 2.15 and the new official exchange rate of 4.30. In addition to the negative impact to operating profit, during 2010 we also recorded net charges of $46.1 in other expense, net, and $12.7 in income taxes, reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities and deferred tax benefits. See discussion of Venezuela in "Segment Review - Latin America" within MD&A on pages 37 through 39 for more information. |
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(3) | During 2013, our operating margin was negatively impacted by the $89 accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations. See Note 16, Contingencies on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information. |
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(4) | During 2013 and 2012, our operating margin was negatively impacted by non-cash impairment charges associated with goodwill and intangible assets of our China business. In addition, during 2013, our operating margin was negatively impacted by the non-cash impairment charge associated with capitalized software related to our Service Model Transformation ("SMT") project in the fourth quarter of 2013. See Note 17, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on China and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on SMT. |
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS ("MD&A")
(U.S. dollars in millions, except per share and share data)
You should read the following discussion of the results of operations and financial condition of Avon Products, Inc. and its majority and wholly owned subsidiaries in conjunction with the information contained in the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes contained in our 2013 Annual Report. When used in this discussion, the terms "Avon," "Company," "we," "our" or "us" mean, unless the context otherwise indicates, Avon Products, Inc. and its majority and wholly owned subsidiaries.
See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" on pages 24 through 25 of this MD&A for a description of how Constant dollar ("Constant $") growth rates (a Non-GAAP financial measure) are determined.
Overview
We are a global manufacturer and marketer of beauty and related products. Our business is conducted worldwide, primarily in the direct-selling channel. We presently have sales operations in 62 countries and territories, including the United States ("U.S."), and distribute products in 43 more. Our reportable segments are based on geographic operations and include commercial business units in Latin America; Europe, Middle East & Africa; North America; and Asia Pacific. Our product categories are Beauty and Fashion & Home. Beauty consists of color, fragrance, skincare and personal care. Fashion & Home consists of fashion jewelry, watches, apparel, footwear, accessories, gift and decorative products, housewares, entertainment and leisure products, children’s products and nutritional products. Sales are made to the ultimate consumer principally through direct selling by more than 6 million active independent Representatives, who are independent contractors and not our employees. The success of our business is highly dependent on recruiting, retaining and servicing our Representatives. During 2013, approximately 88% of our consolidated revenue was derived from operations outside the U.S.
In the first quarter of 2013, we renamed our "Growth in Active Representatives" performance metric to be referred to as "Change in Active Representatives." In addition, we revised the definition of this metric to exclude China. As previously disclosed, our business in China is predominantly retail, and as a result, we do not believe including China within the Change in Active Representatives calculation provides for a relevant indicator of underlying business trends. There were no changes to the underlying calculation other than the exclusion of China.
Total revenue in 2013 compared to 2012 declined 6% compared to the prior-year period, partially due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Constant $ revenue declined 1%, as a 2% decrease in Active Representatives was partially offset by a 1% increase in average order. Sales from the Beauty category decreased 7%, or 2% on a Constant $ basis. Sales from the Fashion category decreased 7%, or 4% on a Constant $ basis. Sales from the Home category increased 3%, or 9% on a Constant $ basis.
Our Constant $ revenue was impacted by net declines in North America and Asia Pacific; however, these declines were partially offset by improvements in Latin America and Europe, Middle East & Africa. Growth in Latin America was driven by Brazil, particularly in Fashion & Home, and Venezuela primarily due to inflationary pricing, which was partially offset by executional challenges in Mexico in the second half of 2013. In Europe, Middle East & Africa, growth was driven by South Africa, Russia and Turkey, which was partially offset by a revenue decline in the United Kingdom. North America experienced deteriorating financial results, primarily as a result of the decline in Active Representatives. Asia Pacific's revenue decline was primarily due to continuing weak performance of our China operations and operational challenges in the Philippines.
See “Segment Review” of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, which we refer to in this report as "MD&A," for additional information related to changes in revenue by category and segment.
We are focused on driving profitable growth by improving access to our brands and products. In order to achieve this growth, we intend to strengthen and leverage our direct sales core, maximize our geographic portfolio and expand our brands and channels. Our revenue recovery is taking longer than expected, and it will take some time to reverse the trends that have caused the recent deceleration. This is partially attributed to not executing consistently on two important processes, commercial marketing (which includes pricing, merchandising and brochure execution) and field management (which includes Representative recruitment, retention and activity), across some of our key markets in 2013. In addition, we expect pressure on operating margin in the first half of 2014, partially as a result of gross margin in Europe, Middle East & Africa, including the negative impact of foreign exchange.
In 2012, we announced a cost savings initiative (the "$400M Cost Savings Initiative"), in an effort to stabilize the business and return Avon to sustainable growth, which is expected to be achieved through restructuring actions as well as other cost-savings strategies that will not result in restructuring charges. The $400M Cost Savings Initiative is designed to reduce our operating
expenses as a percentage of total revenue to help us achieve a targeted low double-digit operating margin by 2016. The restructuring actions under the $400M Cost Savings Initiative primarily consist of global headcount reductions and related actions, as well as the restructuring or closure of certain smaller, under-performing markets, including our exit from the South Korea, Vietnam and Republic of Ireland markets.
As a result of the actions approved to-date, we have recorded total costs to implement these restructuring initiatives of $119.1 before taxes, of which $68.4 before taxes was recorded in 2013. For the actions approved to-date, we expect our total costs to implement restructuring to be in the range of $140 to $150 before taxes. The additional charges not yet incurred associated with the actions approved to-date of approximately $20 to $30 before taxes are expected to be recorded primarily in 2014. At this time we are unable to quantify the total costs to implement these restructuring initiatives that will be incurred through the time the initiative is fully implemented. In connection with the restructuring actions approved to-date associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, we expect to realize annualized savings of approximately $165 to $170 (both before taxes). See Note 15, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-43 through F-47 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
In December 2013, we decided to halt the further roll-out of our Service Model Transformation ("SMT") project beyond the pilot market of Canada, in light of the potential risk of further business disruption. As a result, a non-cash impairment charge for the capitalized software associated with SMT of $117.2 was recorded. This impairment charge was recorded as a component of our global expenses, within selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income. See Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information regarding SMT.
As a result of the 32% devaluation of Venezuelan currency in February 2013, our 2013 revenue and operating margin was negatively impacted. As a result of using the U.S. historic dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventory, acquired prior to the devaluation, 2013 operating profit and net loss were negatively impacted by $50, due to the difference between the historical cost at the previous official exchange rate of 4.30 and the official exchange rate of 6.30. In addition to the negative impact to operating margin, as a result of the devaluation of Venezuelan currency, during the first quarter of 2013, we recorded a one-time, after-tax loss of $51 ($34 in other expense, net and $17 in income taxes), primarily reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities and deferred tax benefits. See further discussion of Venezuela in "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A.
In July 2013, we completed the sale of our Silpada business ("Silpada") for $85, plus an earn-out of up to $15 if Silpada achieves specific earnings targets over two years. Silpada has been classified within discontinued operations for all periods presented. Silpada was previously reported within our North America segment. In the second quarter of 2013, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge of $79 ($50 net of tax), reflecting the expected loss on sale. See Note 3, Discontinued Operations, on pages F-15 through F-17 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
New Accounting Standards
Information relating to new accounting standards is included in Note 2, New Accounting Standards, to our consolidated financial statements contained in this 2013 Annual Report.
Performance Metrics
Within this MD&A, in addition to our key financial metrics of revenue, operating profit and operating margin, we utilize the performance metrics defined below to assist in the evaluation of our business.
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Performance Metrics | | Definition |
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Change in Active Representatives | | This metric is based on the number of unique orders in a campaign, totaled for all campaigns in the related period, excluding China. This amount is divided by the number of billing days in the related period, to exclude the impact of year-to-year changes in billing days (for example, holiday schedules). To determine the growth in Active Representatives, this calculation is compared to the same calculation in the corresponding period of the prior year. |
| |
Change in units sold | | This metric is based on the gross number of pieces of merchandise sold during a period, as compared to the same number in the same period of the prior year. Units sold include samples sold and products contingent upon the purchase of another product (for example, gift with purchase or discount purchase with purchase), but exclude free samples. |
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To supplement our financial results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"), we disclose operating results that have been adjusted to exclude the impact of changes due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, including changes in: revenue, operating profit, Adjusted operating profit, operating margin and Adjusted operating margin. We also refer to these adjusted financial measures as Constant $ items, which are Non-GAAP financial measures. We believe these measures provide investors an additional perspective on trends. To exclude the impact of changes due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, we calculate current-year results and prior-year results at a constant exchange rate. Currency impact is determined as the difference between actual growth rates and constant- currency growth rates.
We also present gross margin, selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue, total and net global expenses, operating profit, operating margin and effective tax rate on a Non-GAAP basis. The discussion of our segments presents operating profit and operating margin on a Non-GAAP basis. We refer to these Non-GAAP financial measures as "Adjusted." We have provided a quantitative reconciliation of the difference between the Non-GAAP financial measures and the financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses the Non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate its operating performance and believes that it is meaningful for investors to be made aware of, on a period-to-period basis, the impacts of 1) costs to implement ("CTI") restructuring initiatives, 2) costs and charges related to the devaluation of Venezuelan currency in February 2013 combined with being designated as a highly inflationary economy, a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets related to Venezuela, and the benefit related to the release of a provision associated with the excess cost of acquiring U.S. dollars in Venezuela ("Venezuelan special items"), 3) the $89 accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations ("FCPA accrual"), 4) the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges and a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets related to the China business, as well as the capitalized software impairment charge related to our SMT project ("Asset impairment and other charges"), 5) costs and charges related to the extinguishment of debt ("Loss on extinguishment of debt") and 6) the additional provision for income taxes as we are no longer asserting that the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries are indefinitely reinvested ("Special tax items"). The Company believes investors find the Non-GAAP information helpful in understanding the ongoing performance of operations separate from items that may have a disproportionate positive or negative impact on the Company's financial results in any particular period.
The Venezuelan special items include the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income in 2013, caused by the devaluation of Venezuelan currency on monetary assets and liabilities, such as cash, receivables and payables; deferred tax assets and liabilities; and non-monetary assets, such as inventory and prepaid expenses. For non-monetary assets, the Venezuelan special items include the earnings impact caused by the difference between the historical cost of the assets at the previous official exchange rate of 4.30 and the revised official exchange rate of 6.30. The Venezuelan special items also include the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income caused by a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets related to Venezuela recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013, as well as the release of a provision in the fourth quarter of 2012 associated with the excess cost of acquiring U.S. dollars in Venezuela at the regulated market rate as compared with the official exchange rate.
The Asset impairment and other charges include the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income caused by the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges and a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets related to the China business in the third quarter of 2013, and the goodwill impairment charge related to the China business in the third quarter of 2012. The Asset impairment and other charges also include the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income caused by the capitalized software impairment charge related to our SMT project in the fourth quarter of 2013.
The Loss on extinguishment of debt includes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income in the first quarter of 2013, caused by the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the prepayment of our Private Notes (as defined below), as well as the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the early repayment of $380 of the outstanding principal amount of the term loan agreement (as defined below). The Loss on extinguishment of debt also includes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income in the second quarter of 2013, caused by the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs and discounts, partially offset by a deferred gain associated with the January 2013 interest-rate swap agreement termination, associated with the prepayment of the 2014 Notes (as defined below).
The Special tax items include the impact during 2012 on the provision for income taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Income of our decision to no longer assert that the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries are indefinitely reinvested. During the fourth quarter of 2012, we determined that the Company may repatriate offshore cash to meet certain domestic funding needs.
See Note 15, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-43 through F-47 of our 2013 Annual Report, "Results Of Continuing Operations - Consolidated" below, "Segment Review - Latin America" below, Note 16, Contingencies on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report, Note 17, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report, Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-18 through F-21 of our 2013 Annual Report, "Liquidity and
Capital Resources" below and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-22 through F-25 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on these items.
These Non-GAAP measures should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We believe the accounting policies described below represent our critical accounting policies due to the estimation processes involved in each. See Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report for a detailed discussion of the application of these and other accounting policies.
Allowances for Sales Returns
Policies and practices for product returns vary by jurisdiction, but within many jurisdictions, we generally allow an unlimited right of return. We record a provision for estimated sales returns based on historical experience with product returns. Over the past three years, annual sales returns were $340 for 2013, $386 for 2012 and $443 for 2011, or approximately 4% of total revenue in each year, which has been generally in line with our expectations. If the historical data we use to calculate these estimates does not approximate future returns, due to changes in marketing or promotional strategies, or for other reasons, additional allowances may be required.
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts Receivable
Representatives contact their customers, selling primarily through the use of brochures for each sales campaign. Sales campaigns are generally for a two-week duration in the U.S. and a two- to four-week duration outside the U.S. The Representative purchases products directly from us and may or may not sell them to an end user. In general, the Representative, an independent contractor, remits a payment to us during each sales campaign, which relates to the prior campaign cycle. The Representative is generally precluded from submitting an order for the current sales campaign until the accounts receivable balance for the prior campaign is paid; however, there are circumstances where the Representative fails to make the required payment. We record an estimate of an allowance for doubtful accounts on receivable balances based on an analysis of historical data and current circumstances, including seasonality and changing trends. Over the past three years, annual bad debt expense was $239 in 2013, $251 in 2012 and $247 in 2011, or approximately 2% of total revenue in each year. The allowance for doubtful accounts is reviewed for adequacy, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis. We generally have no detailed information concerning, or any communication with, any end user of our products beyond the Representative. We have no legal recourse against the end user for the collection of any accounts receivable balances due from the Representative to us. If the financial condition of our Representatives were to deteriorate, resulting in their inability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.
Provisions for Inventory Obsolescence
We record an allowance for estimated obsolescence equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value. In determining the allowance for estimated obsolescence, we classify inventory into various categories based upon its stage in the product life cycle, future marketing sales plans and the disposition process. We assign a degree of obsolescence risk to products based on this classification to determine the level of obsolescence provision. If actual sales are less favorable than those projected, additional inventory allowances may need to be recorded for such additional obsolescence. Annual obsolescence expense was $117 for 2013, $119 for 2012 and $128 for 2011.
Pension and Postretirement Expense
We maintain defined benefit pension plans, which cover substantially all employees in the U.S. and a portion of employees in international locations. Additionally, we have unfunded supplemental pension benefit plans for some current and retired executives and provide retiree health care benefits subject to certain limitations to the majority of retired employees in the U.S. and certain foreign countries. See Note 12, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-33 through F-41 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on our benefit plans.
Pension plan expense and the requirements for funding our major pension plans are determined based on a number of actuarial assumptions. These assumptions include the expected rate of return on pension plan assets, the interest crediting rate for hybrid plans and the discount rate applied to pension plan obligations.
For 2013, the weighted average assumed rate of return on all pension plan assets, including the U.S. and non-U.S. plans was 7.19%, compared with 7.28% for 2012. In determining the long-term rates of return, we consider the nature of the plans’ investments, an expectation for the plans’ investment strategies, historical rates of return and current economic forecasts. We evaluate the expected long-term rate of return annually and adjust as necessary.
A significant portion of our pension plan assets relate to the U.S. pension plan. The assumed rate of return for 2013 for the U.S. plan was 7.75%, which was based on an asset allocation of approximately 35% in corporate and government bonds and mortgage-backed securities (which are expected to earn approximately 2% to 4% in the long term) and approximately 65% in equity securities and high yield securities (which are expected to earn approximately 6% to 10% in the long term). Historical rates of return on the assets of the U.S. plan were approximately 9% for the most recent 10-year period and approximately 8% for the 20-year period. In the U.S. plan, our asset allocation policy has historically favored U.S. equity securities, which have returned approximately 8% over the 10-year period and approximately 8% over the 20-year period. The rate of return on the plan assets in the U.S. was approximately 13% in 2013 and approximately 15% in 2012.
Beginning in 2014, our investment strategy for the U.S. pension plan is designed to match the movements in the pension liability through an increased allocation towards debt securities. In addition, we will also utilize derivative instruments to achieve the desired market exposures or to hedge certain risks.
Regulations under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, which are finalized but not yet effective, will require that hybrid plans limit the maximum interest crediting rate to one among several choices of crediting rates which are considered "market rates of return." The rate chosen will affect total pension obligations. The discount rate used for determining future pension obligations for each individual plan is based on a review of long-term bonds that receive a high-quality rating from a recognized rating agency. The discount rates for our more significant plans, including our U.S. plan, were based on the internal rates of return for a portfolio of high quality bonds with maturities that are consistent with the projected future benefit payment obligations of each plan. The weighted-average discount rate for U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans determined on this basis was 4.56% at December 31, 2013, and 4.11% at December 31, 2012. For the determination of the expected rate of return on assets and the discount rate, we take into consideration external actuarial advice.
Our funding requirements may be impacted by regulations or interpretations thereof. Our calculations of pension and postretirement costs are dependent on the use of assumptions, including discount rates, hybrid plan maximum interest crediting rates and expected return on plan assets discussed above, rate of compensation increase of plan participants, interest cost, health care cost trend rates, benefits earned, mortality rates, the number of associate retirements, the number of associates electing to take lump-sum payments and other factors. Actual results that differ from assumptions are accumulated and amortized to expense over future periods and, therefore, generally affect recognized expense in future periods. At December 31, 2013, we had pretax actuarial losses and prior service credits totaling $347 for the U.S. pension and postretirement plans and $285 for the non-U.S. pension and postretirement plans that have not yet been charged to expense. These actuarial losses have been charged to accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCI") within shareholders’ equity. While we believe that the assumptions used are reasonable, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may materially affect our pension and postretirement obligations and future expense. For 2014, our assumption for the expected rate of return on assets is 7.50% for our U.S. pension plan and 6.40% for our non-U.S. pension plans. Our assumptions are reviewed and determined on an annual basis.
A 50 basis point change (in either direction) in the expected rate of return on plan assets, the discount rate or the rate of compensation increases, would have had approximately the following effect on 2013 pension expense and the pension benefit obligation at December 31, 2013:
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Increase/(Decrease) in Pension Expense | | Increase/(Decrease) in Pension Obligation |
| | 50 Basis Point | | 50 Basis Point |
| | Increase | | Decrease | | Increase | | Decrease |
Rate of return on assets | | $ | (5.5 | ) | | $ | 5.5 |
| | N/A |
| | N/A |
|
Discount rate | | (9.0 | ) | | 9.1 |
| | $ | (100.9 | ) | | $ | 108.4 |
|
Rate of compensation increase | | 1.9 |
| | (1.8 | ) | | 7.2 |
| | (7.0 | ) |
Restructuring Reserves
We record the estimated expense for our restructuring initiatives when such costs are deemed probable and estimable, when approved by the appropriate corporate authority and by accumulating detailed estimates of costs for such plans. These expenses include the estimated costs of employee severance and related benefits, impairment or accelerated depreciation of property, plant and equipment and capitalized software, and any other qualifying exit costs. These estimated costs are grouped by specific projects within the overall plan and are then monitored on a quarterly basis by finance personnel. Such costs represent our best estimate, but require assumptions about the programs that may change over time, including attrition rates. Estimates are evaluated periodically to determine whether an adjustment is required.
Taxes
At December 31, 2013, we had net deferred tax assets of $1,144 (net of valuation allowances of $783).
With respect to our deferred tax assets, at December 31, 2013, we had recognized deferred tax assets relating to tax loss carryforwards of $756, primarily from foreign jurisdictions, for which a valuation allowance of $718 has been provided. We also had recognized deferred tax assets of $585 relating to excess foreign tax credit carryforwards of which $57, $44, $54, $124, $79 and $227 expire at the end of 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. We have a history of domestic source losses and our excess foreign tax credits have primarily resulted from having a greater domestic source loss in recent years which reduces foreign source income. During 2013, our domestic source loss included the tax losses generated from the sale of our Silpada business and our losses on extinguishment of debt, which led to an increase in our excess foreign tax credit carryforwards generated in 2013, which expire in 2023. Our ability to utilize these foreign tax credits is dependent on future U.S. taxable income. At December 31, 2013, we would need to generate approximately $1.7 billion of excess net foreign source income in order to realize the deferred tax assets. There are a number of variables to consider in determining the projected realization of excess foreign tax credits including the amount of any domestic source loss and the type, jurisdiction and timing of any foreign source income. Based on our projections, we estimate that it will take several years to generate sufficient excess net foreign source income to realize these excess foreign tax credits, which expire 10 years after being created.
We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to an amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized. Evaluating the need for and quantifying the valuation allowance often requires significant judgment and extensive analysis of all the weighted positive and negative evidence available to the Company in order to determine whether all or some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In performing this analysis, the Company’s forecasted domestic and foreign taxable income and the existence of potential prudent and feasible tax planning strategies that would enable the Company to utilize some or all of its excess foreign tax credits were taken into consideration.
As a result of this analysis, we have concluded that the tax benefits associated with the excess foreign tax credits are “more likely than not” to be realized prior to expiration. Our conclusion is based on forecasted future U.S. taxable income, including domestic profitability, royalties received from foreign subsidiaries, and the potential impact of possible tax planning strategies, including the repatriation of foreign earnings and the acceleration of royalties. Assumptions embedded in our forecasted future U.S. taxable income include continued international growth, the stabilization of the U.S. business and the reduction of corporate expenses. To the extent U.S. taxable income is less favorable than currently projected, our ability to utilize these foreign tax credits may be negatively affected.
With respect to our deferred tax liability, during the fourth quarter of 2012, as a result of the uncertainty of our financing arrangements and our domestic liquidity profile at that time, we determined that we may repatriate offshore cash to meet certain domestic funding needs. Accordingly, we asserted that these undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries were no longer indefinitely reinvested and, therefore, recorded an additional provision for income taxes of $168 on such earnings. At December 31, 2012, we had a deferred tax liability in the amount of $225 for the U.S. tax cost on the undistributed earnings of subsidiaries outside of the U.S. of $3.1 billion.
At December 31, 2013, we continue to assert that our undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries are not indefinitely reinvested, as a result of our domestic liquidity profile. Accordingly, we adjusted our deferred tax liability to account for our 2013 undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and for earnings that were actually repatriated to the U.S. during the year. Additionally, the deferred tax liability was reduced due to the lower cost to repatriate the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries compared to 2012. The net impact on the deferred tax liability associated with the Company’s undistributed earnings is a reduction of $82, resulting in a deferred tax liability balance of $143 related to the incremental U.S. tax cost on $2.6 billion of undistributed foreign earnings at December 31, 2013. This deferred income tax liability amount is net of the estimated foreign tax credits that would be generated upon the repatriation of such earnings. The repatriation of foreign earnings should result in the utilization of foreign tax credits in the year of repatriation; therefore, the utilization of foreign tax credits is dependent on the amount and timing of repatriations, as well as the jurisdictions involved. We have not included the undistributed earnings of our subsidiary in Venezuela in the calculation of this deferred income tax liability as local regulations restrict cash distributions denominated in U.S. dollars.
With respect to our uncertain tax positions, we recognize the benefit of a tax position, if that position is more likely than not of being sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. We believe that our assessment of more likely than not is reasonable, but because of the subjectivity involved and the unpredictable nature of the subject matter at issue, our assessment may prove ultimately to be incorrect, which could materially impact the Consolidated Financial Statements.
We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In 2014, a number of open tax years are scheduled to close due to the expiration of the statute of limitations and it is possible that a number of tax examinations may be completed. If our tax positions are ultimately upheld or denied, it is possible that the 2014 provision for income taxes may be impacted.
Share-based Compensation
All share-based payments issued to employees are recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements based on their fair value using an option-pricing model at the date of grant. We use a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to calculate the fair value of options. This model requires various judgmental assumptions including volatility, forfeiture rates and expected option life. If any of the assumptions used in the model change significantly, share-based compensation may differ materially in the future from historical results.
Loss Contingencies
We determine whether to disclose and/or accrue for loss contingencies based on an assessment of whether the risk of loss is remote, reasonably possible or probable. We record loss contingencies when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss is reasonably estimable. Our assessment is developed in consultation with our outside counsel and other advisors and is based on an analysis of possible outcomes under various strategies. Loss contingency assumptions involve judgments that are inherently subjective and can involve matters that are in litigation, which, by its nature is unpredictable. We believe that our assessment of the probability of loss contingencies is reasonable, but because of the subjectivity involved and the unpredictable nature of the subject matter at issue, our assessment may prove ultimately to be incorrect, which could materially impact the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Impairment of Assets
Capitalized Software
We review capitalized software for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable.
In December 2013, we decided to halt further roll-out of our SMT project beyond the pilot market of Canada, in light of the potential risk of further business disruption. As a result, a non-cash impairment charge for the capitalized software associated with SMT of $117.2 was recorded. This impairment charge was recorded as a component of our global expenses, within selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
The fair value of the capitalized software associated with SMT ("SMT asset") was determined using a risk-adjusted discounted cash flow ("DCF") model under the relief-from-royalty method. The impairment analysis performed for the asset group, which includes the SMT asset, required several estimates, including revenue and cash flow projections, and royalty and discount rates. As a result of this impairment charge, the remaining carrying amount of the SMT asset is not material.
See Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on SMT.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
We test goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives for impairment annually, and more frequently if circumstances warrant, using various fair value methods. We review finite-lived intangible assets, which are subject to amortization, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable.
We completed our annual goodwill impairment assessment for 2013 during the year-end close process and determined that the estimated fair values were considered substantially in excess of the carrying values of each of our reporting units.
The impairment analyses performed for goodwill and intangible assets require several estimates in computing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit, an indefinite-lived intangible asset, and a finite-lived intangible asset. We use a DCF approach to estimate the fair value of a reporting unit, which we believe is the most reliable indicator of fair value of a business, and is most consistent with the approach that we would generally expect a market participant would use. In estimating the fair value of our reporting units utilizing a DCF approach, we typically forecast revenue and the resulting cash flows for periods of five to ten years and include an estimated terminal value at the end of the forecasted period. When determining the appropriate forecast period for the DCF approach, we consider the amount of time required before the reporting unit achieves what we consider a normalized, sustainable level of cash flows. The estimation of fair value utilizing a DCF approach includes numerous uncertainties which require significant judgment when making assumptions of expected growth rates and the selection of discount rates, as well as assumptions regarding general economic and business conditions, and the structure that would yield the highest economic value, among other factors.
See Note 17, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
China
As compared to our projections used in our fourth quarter 2012 impairment analysis ("Q4 2012 projections"), China performed generally in line with our revenue and earnings projections during the first half of 2013. As assumed in our Q4 2012
projections, China's revenue in the first half of 2013 continued to deteriorate versus the prior-year period; however, beginning in the third quarter of 2013, this revenue decline was significantly in excess of our assumptions. As a result, in the third quarter of 2013, it became apparent that we would not achieve our 2013 and long-term forecasted revenue and earnings, and we completed an interim impairment assessment of the fair value of goodwill related to our operations in China. The revenue decline in China during the third quarter of 2013 resulted in the recognition of an operating loss while we had expected operating profit in our Q4 2012 projections. In the third quarter of 2013, we significantly lowered our long-term revenue and earnings projections for China that was included in our DCF model utilized in our interim impairment assessment. As a result of our impairment testing, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $42.1 in the third quarter of 2013 to reduce the carrying amounts of goodwill and finite-lived intangible assets. There are no amounts remaining associated with goodwill or intangible assets for our China reporting unit as a result of this impairment charge.
During the third quarter of 2012, we completed an interim impairment assessment of the fair value of goodwill related to our operations in China, based on the continued decline in revenue performance in and a corresponding lowering of our long-term growth estimates in that market. We made changes to our long-term growth estimates as the China business did not achieve our revenue, earnings and cash flows expectations primarily due to challenges in our business model. As a result of our impairment testing, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $44.0 in the third quarter of 2012 to reduce the carrying amount of goodwill to its estimated fair value.
Key assumptions used in measuring the fair value of China during these impairment assessments included projections of revenue and the resulting cash flows, as well as the discount rate (based on the weighted-average cost of capital). To estimate the fair value of China, we forecasted revenue and the resulting cash flows over ten years using a DCF model which included a terminal value at the end of the projection period. We believed that a ten-year period was a reasonable amount of time in order to return China's cash flows to normalized, sustainable levels.
See Note 17, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on China.
Silpada
During the 2012 year-end close process, our analysis of the Silpada business indicated an impairment as the carrying value of the business exceeded the estimated fair value and the finite-lived intangible assets were not recoverable. This was primarily the result of the lower than expected financial performance for 2012, which served as a baseline for the long-term projections of the business. We lowered our long-term revenue and earnings projections for Silpada to reflect a more moderate recovery of the business, which was believed to be appropriate due to the lack of sales momentum in the business and the continued inability of Silpada to achieve our financial performance expectations. Accordingly, a non-cash impairment charge of $209 was recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of goodwill, an indefinite-lived intangible asset, and a finite-lived intangible asset. The decline in the fair values of the Silpada assets was driven by the reduction in the forecasted growth rates and cash flows used to estimate their respective fair values.
During the 2011 year-end close process, our analysis of the Silpada business indicated an impairment as the carrying value of the business exceeded the estimated fair value. Accordingly, a non-cash impairment charge of $263 was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2011 to reduce the carrying amounts of goodwill and an indefinite-lived intangible asset. Following weaker than expected performance in the fourth quarter of 2011, we lowered our revenue and earnings projections for Silpada largely due to the rise in silver prices, which nearly doubled since the acquisition, and the negative impact of pricing on revenues and margins. The decline in the fair values of the Silpada reporting unit and the underlying trademark was driven by the reduction in the forecasted growth rates and cash flows used to estimate their respective fair value.
Key assumptions used in measuring the fair value of Silpada during these impairment assessments included the discount rate (based on the weighted-average cost of capital) and revenue growth, as well as silver prices and Representative growth and activity rates. To estimate the fair value of Silpada, we forecasted revenue and the resulting cash flows over ten years using a DCF model which included a terminal value at the end of the projection period. We believed that a ten-year period was a reasonable amount of time in order to return Silpada's cash flows to normalized, sustainable levels. The fair value of Silpada's indefinite-lived trademark was determined using a risk-adjusted DCF model under the relief-from-royalty method. The royalty rate used was based on a consideration of market rates. The fair value of the Silpada finite-lived customer relationships was determined using a DCF model under the multi-period excess earnings method.
The impact of the impairment charges in 2012 and 2011 associated with Silpada are reflected within Discontinued Operations. There is no risk of additional impairments associated with Silpada as the business was sold in July 2013. See Note 3, Discontinued Operations on pages F-15 through F-17 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on Silpada.
Results Of Operations - Consolidated
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2013 vs. 2012 | | 2012 vs. 2011 |
Total revenue | | $ | 9,955.0 |
| | $ | 10,561.4 |
| | $ | 11,099.5 |
| | (6 | )% | | (5 | )% |
Cost of sales | | 3,772.5 |
| | 4,103.1 |
| | 4,065.0 |
| | (8 | )% | | 1 | % |
Selling, general and administrative expenses | | 5,713.2 |
| | 5,889.3 |
| | 5,942.5 |
| | (3 | )% | | (1 | )% |
Impairment of goodwill and intangible asset | | 42.1 |
| | 44.0 |
| | — |
| | (4 | )% | | * |
|
Operating profit | | 427.2 |
| | 525.0 |
| | 1,092.0 |
| | (19 | )% | | (52 | )% |
Interest expense | | 120.6 |
| | 104.3 |
| | 92.9 |
| | 16 | % | | 12 | % |
Loss on extinguishment of debt | | 86.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | * |
| | * |
|
Interest income | | (25.9 | ) | | (15.1 | ) | | (16.4 | ) | | 72 | % | | (8 | )% |
Other expense, net | | 83.9 |
| | 7.1 |
| | 35.4 |
| | * |
| | (80 | )% |
(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax | | (1.0 | ) | | 93.3 |
| | 675.6 |
| | * |
| | (86 | )% |
Net (loss) income attributable to Avon | | $ | (56.4 | ) | | $ | (42.5 | ) | | $ | 513.6 |
| | (33 | )% | | * |
|
Diluted (loss) earnings per share from continuing operations | | $ | (.01 | ) | | $ | .20 |
| | $ | 1.54 |
| | * |
| | (87 | )% |
Diluted (loss) earnings per share attributable to Avon | | $ | (.13 | ) | | $ | (.10 | ) | | $ | 1.18 |
| | (30 | )% | | * |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Advertising expenses(1) | | $ | 201.9 |
| | $ | 251.3 |
| | $ | 308.9 |
| | (20 | )% | | (19 | )% |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Gross margin | | 62.1 | % | | 61.2 | % | | 63.4 | % | | .9 |
| | (2.2 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | — |
| | — |
| | .1 |
| | — |
| | (.1 | ) |
Venezuelan special items | | .4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | .4 |
| | — |
|
Adjusted gross margin | | 62.5 | % | | 61.2 | % | | 63.5 | % | | 1.3 |
| | (2.3 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Selling, general and administrative expenses as a % of total revenue | | 57.4 | % | | 55.8 | % | | 53.5 | % | | 1.6 |
| | 2.3 |
|
CTI restructuring | | (.7 | ) | | (1.1 | ) | | (.3 | ) | | .4 |
| | (.9 | ) |
Venezuelan special items | | (.1 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (.1 | ) | | — |
|
FCPA accrual | | (.9 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (.9 | ) | | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges | | (1.2 | ) | | | | | | (1.2 | ) | | — |
|
Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses as a % of total revenue | | 54.6 | % | | 54.6 | % | | 53.3 | % | | — |
| | 1.3 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating profit | | $ | 427.2 |
| | $ | 525.0 |
| | $ | 1,092.0 |
| | (19 | )% | | (52 | )% |
CTI restructuring | | 65.9 |
| | 124.7 |
| | 40.0 |
| | | | |
Venezuelan special items | | 49.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | | | |
FCPA accrual | | 89.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | | | |
Asset impairment and other charges | | 159.3 |
| | 44.0 |
| | — |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 791.0 |
| | $ | 693.7 |
| | $ | 1,132.0 |
| | 14 | % | | (39 | )% |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 4.3 | % | | 5.0 | % | | 9.8 | % | | (.7 | ) | | (4.9 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | .7 |
| | 1.2 |
| | .4 |
| | (.5 | ) | | .8 |
|
Venezuelan special items | | .5 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | .5 |
| | — |
|
FCPA accrual | | .9 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | .9 |
| | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges | | 1.6 |
| | .4 |
| | — |
| | 1.2 |
| | .4 |
|
Adjusted operating margin | | 7.9 | % | | 6.6 | % | | 10.2 | % | | 1.3 |
| | (3.6 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Effective tax rate | | 100.6 | % | | 78.2 | % | | 31.1 | % | | 22.4 |
| | 47.1 |
|
CTI restructuring | | .8 |
| | (.4 | ) | | .1 |
| | 1.2 |
| | (.5 | ) |
Venezuelan special items | | (27.1 | ) | | .1 |
| | — |
| | (27.2 | ) | | .1 |
|
FCPA accrual | | (6.2 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (6.2 | ) | | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges | | (39.0 | ) | | (3.6 | ) | | — |
| | (35.4 | ) | | (3.6 | ) |
Loss on extinguishment of debt | | 1.2 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 1.2 |
| | — |
|
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2013 vs. 2012 | | 2012 vs. 2011 |
Special tax items | | — |
| | (39.3 | ) | | — |
| | 39.3 |
| | (39.3 | ) |
Adjusted effective tax rate | | 30.3 | % | | 35.0 | % | | 31.2 | % | | (4.7 | ) | | 3.8 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | (2 | )% | | — | % |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | (5 | )% | | — | % |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
* Calculation not meaningful
| |
(1) | Advertising expenses are included within selling, general and administrative expenses. |
2013 Compared to 2012
Revenue
Total revenue in 2013 compared to 2012 declined 6% compared to the prior-year period, partially due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Constant $ revenue declined 1%, as a 2% decrease in Active Representatives was partially offset by a 1% increase in average order. Units sold decreased 5% while the net impact of price and mix increased 4%, as pricing benefited from inflationary impacts in Latin America, primarily in Argentina and Venezuela.
On a category basis, revenue growth rates were as follows: |
| | | | |
| | %/Point Change |
| | US$ | | Constant $ |
Beauty | | (7)% | | (2)% |
Beauty Category: | | | | |
Fragrance | | (4) | | 2 |
Color | | (6) | | (1) |
Skincare | | (12) | | (8) |
Personal care | | (7) | | (3) |
| | | | |
Fashion & Home | | (4) | | 1 |
Fashion & Home Category: | | | | |
Fashion | | (7) | | (4) |
Home | | 3 | | 9 |
Our Constant $ revenue was impacted by net declines in North America and Asia Pacific; however, these declines were partially offset by improvements in Latin America and Europe, Middle East & Africa. Growth in Latin America was driven by Brazil, particularly in Fashion & Home, and Venezuela primarily due to inflationary pricing, which was partially offset by executional challenges in Mexico in the second half of 2013. In Europe, Middle East & Africa, growth was driven by South Africa, Russia and Turkey, which was partially offset by a revenue decline in the United Kingdom. North America experienced deteriorating financial results, primarily as a result of the decline in Active Representatives. Asia Pacific's revenue decline was primarily due to continuing weak performance of our China operations and operational challenges in the Philippines.
See "Segment Review" in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in revenue by segment.
Operating Margin
Operating margin decreased 70 basis points and Adjusted operating margin increased 130 basis points compared to 2012. The increase in Adjusted operating margin includes the benefits associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative. The decrease in operating margin and increase in Adjusted operating margin are discussed further below in "Gross Margin", "Selling, General and Administrative Expenses" and "Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Asset."
Gross Margin
Gross margin and Adjusted gross margin increased by 90 basis points and 130 basis points, respectively, compared to 2012. The increase in Adjusted gross margin was primarily due to the following:
| |
• | an increase of 70 basis points due to lower supply chain costs, largely due to 60 points from lower freight costs, primarily in Latin America due to reduced usage of air freight; |
| |
• | an increase of 70 basis points due to the favorable net impact of mix and pricing, primarily in Latin America including benefits in pricing due to the realization of price increases in advance of costs in markets experiencing relatively high inflation (Venezuela and Argentina), while mix negatively impacted gross margin due to higher growth in Fashion & Home; |
| |
• | a decrease of 60 basis points due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange; and |
| |
• | various other insignificant items that contributed to the increase in gross margin and Adjusted gross margin. |
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses for 2013 decreased $176.1 compared to 2012. This decrease is primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign exchange, lower professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigation and compliance reviews, and lower advertising costs, partially offset by a non-cash impairment charge of $117.2 for capitalized software related to SMT, which was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2013, the $89 accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations, higher CTI restructuring and higher distribution costs. See Note 15, Restructuring Initiatives, on pages F-43 through F-47 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information on SMT.
As a percentage of revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses increased 160 basis points, while Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses was relatively unchanged compared to 2012. The primary drivers of Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue as compared to the prior year were the following:
| |
• | an increase of 30 basis points due to higher distribution costs, driven by increased transportation costs, primarily in Latin America, and increased costs per unit as a result of lower volume in North America; |
| |
• | an increase of 20 basis points due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange; |
| |
• | a decrease of 20 basis points from lower administrative expenses, primarily due to lower professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigation and compliance reviews, as well as lower compensation costs; and |
| |
• | a decrease of 20 basis points from lower net brochure costs, primarily in Europe and North America, partially driven by initiatives to reduce the cost of our brochures. |
Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Asset
During the third quarter of 2013, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $42.1 for goodwill and intangible assets, as compared to a non-cash impairment charge of $44.0 in the third quarter of 2012 for goodwill, both associated with our China business. See Note 17, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
See “Segment Review” in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in operating margin by segment.
Other Expense
Interest expense increased by 16% compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to higher average interest rates partially offset by lower outstanding debt balances.
Loss on extinguishment of debt in 2013 is comprised of $71 for the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the prepayment of our Private Notes (defined below) and $2 for the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the early repayment of $380 of the outstanding principal amount of the term loan agreement, which occurred in the first quarter of 2013. In addition, in the second quarter of 2013 we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of $13 for the make-whole premium and write-off of debt issuance costs, partially offset by a deferred gain associated with the termination of interest-rate swap agreements, associated with the prepayment of our 2014 Notes (defined below). See Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-18 through F-21 of our 2013 Annual Report, and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in this MD&A for more information.
Interest income increased by 72% compared to the prior-year period, primarily impacted by the benefit of $12 for interest income recognized in the fourth quarter of 2013, due to an out-of-period adjustment related to judicial deposits in Brazil. This
out-of-period benefit to interest income was partially offset by lower average interest rates, as well as lower average cash balances in 2013 as compared to 2012.
Other expense, net increased compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to a $34 negative impact in the first quarter of 2013 from the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency on monetary assets and liabilities in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting. In addition, other expense, net was impacted by the benefit of $23.8 in 2012 due to the release of a provision in the fourth quarter of 2012 associated with the excess cost of acquiring U.S. dollars in Venezuela at the regulated market rate as compared with the official exchange rate. This provision was released as the Company capitalized the associated intercompany liabilities. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of our Venezuela operations.
Effective Tax Rate
The effective tax rate for 2013 was 100.6%, compared to 78.2% for 2012.
During the fourth quarter of 2012, as a result of the uncertainty of our financing arrangements and our domestic liquidity profile at that time, we determined that the Company may repatriate offshore cash to meet certain domestic funding needs. Accordingly, at that time, we asserted that the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries were no longer indefinitely reinvested, and therefore, we recorded an additional provision for income taxes of $168.3 related to the incremental U.S, taxes associated with the unremitted foreign earnings, which increased the 2012 tax rate. The effective tax rate in 2012 was also unfavorably impacted by the non-cash impairment charges for goodwill and intangible assets associated with our China business of $44.0.
At December 31, 2013, we continue to assert that the Company’s foreign earnings may not be indefinitely reinvested, as a result of our domestic liquidity profile. In this regard, the 2013 effective tax rate was favorably impacted primarily due to the country mix of earnings and the lower expected tax cost to repatriate the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries. The 2013 effective tax rate was also unfavorably impacted by the non-cash impairment charges for goodwill and intangible assets associated with our China business of $42.1. The rate was further impacted unfavorably by the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting discussed further within "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A, and the $89.0 accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations. Additionally, the rate was negatively impacted by a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets related to China in the third quarter of $9.2 and Venezuela in the fourth quarter of $41.8. The valuation allowance in Venezuela was due to the impact of higher than expected inflation on our taxable income which negatively impacted the likelihood we would realize existing deferred tax assets. Given the short life of the net operating loss carryforward periods for these markets, we determined that it was more likely than not that we would not use these carryforward losses before they expire.
The Adjusted effective tax rate for 2013 was 30.3%, compared to 35.0% for 2012, primarily due to the country mix of earnings and the lower expected tax cost to repatriate the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries.
2012 Compared to 2011
Revenue
Total revenue in 2012 compared to 2011 decreased 5% due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Constant $ revenue increased 1% due to a 1% increase in average order. Active Representatives and units sold were relatively unchanged, while the net impact of price and mix increased 1%.
On a category basis, revenue growth rates were as follows: |
| | | | |
| | %/Point Change |
| | US$ | | Constant $ |
Beauty | | (5)% | | 1% |
Beauty Category: | | | | |
Fragrance | | (4) | | 2 |
Color | | (6) | | 1 |
Skincare | | (7) | | (1) |
Personal care | | (6) | | — |
| | | | |
Fashion & Home | | (4) | | — |
Fashion & Home Category: | | | | |
Fashion | | (4) | | (1) |
Home | | (4) | | 2 |
Our Constant $ revenue was impacted by improvements in Latin America, particularly in Brazil, Mexico, and Venezuela; however, these improvements were offset by net declines in other regions. In Europe, Middle East & Africa we saw a revenue decline in the United Kingdom that partially reflects a continued weak macroeconomic environment, competition, and executional challenges. In addition, North America experienced challenging financial results, partially as a result of the ongoing impact of field transformation and redistricting in the U.S. Asia Pacific's revenue decline was primarily due to continuing weak performance of our China operations.
See "Segment Review" in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in revenue by segment.
Operating Margin
Operating margin and Adjusted operating margin decreased 490 basis points and 360 basis points, respectively, compared to 2011. The decreases in operating margin and Adjusted operating margin are discussed further below in "Gross Margin", "Selling, General and Administrative Expenses" and "Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Asset."
Gross Margin
Gross margin and Adjusted gross margin decreased by 220 basis points and 230 basis points, respectively, compared to 2011. The decrease in Adjusted gross margin was primarily due to the following:
| |
• | a decline of 100 basis points due to higher supply chain costs, primarily caused by increased product costs which were partially due to inflationary pressures; |
| |
• | a decline of 80 basis points due to the unfavorable net impact of product mix and pricing, partly due to an increase in smart value offerings as well as other initiatives to flow excess inventory; and |
| |
• | a decline of 50 basis points due to the negative impact of foreign exchange. |
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses for 2012 decreased $53.2 compared to 2011. This decrease is primarily due to lower distribution costs and lower advertising, partially offset by the negative impact of foreign exchange and higher CTI restructuring.
As a percentage of revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses increased 230 basis points, while Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses increased 130 basis points compared to 2011. The increase in Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to the following:
| |
• | an increase of 60 basis points due to higher overhead expenses, primarily associated with wage inflation in 2012, as well as higher expenses associated with employee incentive compensation plans; |
| |
• | an increase of 60 basis points due to higher Representative and sales leader investment, primarily driven by investments in the One Simple Sales Model in the U.S., partially offset by lower investments in China; |
| |
• | an increase of 40 basis points due to the negative impact of foreign exchange; and |
| |
• | a decrease of 30 basis points due to lower advertising costs. |
Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Asset
During the third quarter of 2012, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $44.0 in the third quarter of 2012 for goodwill associated with our China business. See Note 17, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-49 through F-51 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
See “Segment Review” in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in operating margin by segment.
Other Expense
Interest expense increased by 12% compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to higher outstanding debt balances and higher average interest rates.
Interest income decreased by 8% compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to lower average interest rates partially offset by higher average cash balances.
Other expense, net decreased by 80% compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to a benefit of $23.8 in 2012 due to the release of a provision in the fourth quarter of 2012 associated with the excess cost of acquiring U.S. dollars in Venezuela at the regulated market rate as compared with the official exchange rate. This provision was released as the Company capitalized the
associated intercompany liabilities. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of our Venezuela operations.
Effective Tax Rate
The effective tax rate for 2012 was 78.2%, compared to 31.1% for 2011.
During the fourth quarter of 2012, as a result of the uncertainty of our financing arrangements and our domestic liquidity profile at that time, we determined that the Company may repatriate offshore cash to meet certain domestic funding needs. Accordingly, at that time, we no longer asserted that the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries at December 31, 2012 were indefinitely reinvested, and therefore, we recorded an additional provision for income taxes of $168.3, which increased the 2012 tax rate. The tax rate was also unfavorably impacted by the goodwill impairment charge of $44.0 related to our operations in China for which no tax benefit was recorded. This charge did not result in a tax deduction as there is no tax basis in this goodwill.
The Adjusted effective tax rate for 2012 was 35.0%, compared to 31.2% for 2011. The effective tax rate for 2011 included tax benefits from audit settlements and statute expirations.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes was $5.2 in 2013 compared with ($21.7) in 2012, primarily due to net actuarial gains of $80.6 as compared with net actuarial losses of $58.4. In 2013, net actuarial gains in the U.S. and non-U.S. pension and postretirement plans benefited primarily due to a higher discount rate for the U.S. pension plan, as well as higher asset returns for the non-U.S. pension plans in 2013 as compared to 2012. Partially offsetting these benefits was the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation adjustments. In 2013, foreign currency translation adjustments were negatively impacted by $112.9 as compared to 2012 primarily due to unfavorable movements of the Colombian peso, the Polish zloty and the Mexican peso.
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes was ($21.7) in 2012 compared with ($249.0) in 2011, primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign currency translation adjustments. In 2012, foreign currency translation adjustments benefited by $176.5 as compared to 2011 primarily due to favorable movements of the Polish zloty and the Mexican peso. Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of taxes also benefited from lower net actuarial losses of $45.0. In 2012, net actuarial losses in the U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans benefited primarily due to higher asset returns in 2012 as compared to 2011. Partially offsetting the benefit of higher asset returns was the negative impact of lower discount rates used for determining future pension obligations, but to a much lesser extent.
See Note 12, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-33 through F-41 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
Segment Review
Below is an analysis of the key factors affecting revenue and operating profit (loss) by reportable segment for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Years ended December 31 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 |
| | Total Revenue | | Operating Profit (Loss) | | Total Revenue | | Operating Profit (Loss) | | Total Revenue | | Operating Profit |
Latin America | | $ | 4,840.5 |
| | $ | 478.6 |
| | $ | 4,993.7 |
| | $ | 443.9 |
| | $ | 5,161.8 |
| | $ | 634.0 |
|
Europe, Middle East & Africa | | 2,898.4 |
| | 406.7 |
| | 2,914.2 |
| | 312.8 |
| | 3,122.8 |
| | 478.9 |
|
North America | | 1,458.2 |
| | (60.1 | ) | | 1,751.1 |
| | (4.7 | ) | | 1,872.5 |
| | 49.4 |
|
Asia Pacific | | 757.9 |
| | (12.1 | ) | | 902.4 |
| | 5.1 |
| | 942.4 |
| | 81.4 |
|
Total from operations | | 9,955.0 |
| | 813.1 |
| | 10,561.4 |
| | 757.1 |
| | 11,099.5 |
| | 1,243.7 |
|
Global and other expenses | | — |
| | (385.9 | ) | | — |
| | (232.1 | ) | | — |
| | (151.7 | ) |
Total | | $ | 9,955.0 |
| | $ | 427.2 |
| | $ | 10,561.4 |
| | $ | 525.0 |
| | $ | 11,099.5 |
| | $ | 1,092.0 |
|
Global and Other Expenses
Global and other expenses include, among other things, costs related to our executive and administrative offices, information technology, research and development, marketing, professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigations and compliance reviews, a non-cash impairment charge for the capitalized software associated with SMT and the accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations. We allocate certain planned global expenses to our business segments primarily based on planned revenue. The unallocated costs remain as Global and other expenses. We do not allocate to our segments costs of implementing restructuring initiatives related to our global functions, professional and related fees associated
with the FCPA investigations and compliance reviews, a non-cash impairment charge for the capitalized software associated with SMT or the accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations. Costs of implementing restructuring initiatives related to a specific segment are recorded within that segment.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | % Change | | 2012 | | 2011 | | % Change |
Total global expenses | | $ | 824.3 |
| | $ | 706.3 |
| | 17 | % | | $ | 706.3 |
| | $ | 651.1 |
| | 8 | % |
CTI restructuring | | 22.3 |
| | 44.6 |
| | | | 44.6 |
| | 7.2 |
| | |
FCPA accrual | | 89.0 |
| | — |
| | | | — |
| | — |
| | |
Asset impairment and other charges | | 117.2 |
| | — |
| | | | — |
| | — |
| | |
Adjusted total global expenses | | $ | 595.8 |
| | $ | 661.7 |
| | (10 | )% | | $ | 661.7 |
| | $ | 643.9 |
| | 3 | % |
Allocated to segments | | (438.4 | ) | | (474.2 | ) | | (8 | )% | | (474.2 | ) | | (499.4 | ) | | (5 | )% |
Adjusted net global expenses | | $ | 157.4 |
| | $ | 187.5 |
| | (16 | )% | | $ | 187.5 |
| | $ | 144.5 |
| | 30 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | | | |
Net global expenses(1) | | $ | 385.9 |
| | $ | 232.1 |
| | 66 | % | | $ | 232.1 |
| | $ | 151.7 |
| | 53 | % |
(1) Net global expenses represents total global expenses less amounts allocated to segments.
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
2013 Compared to 2012
Total global expenses was negatively impacted as compared to the prior-year period from a non-cash impairment charge of $117.2 for capitalized software related to SMT, the $89 accrual for the potential settlements related to the FCPA investigations and higher CTI restructuring. In the fourth quarter of 2013, we decided to halt further roll-out of our SMT project beyond the pilot market of Canada, in light of the potential risk of further business disruption. As a result, a non-cash impairment charge for the capitalized software associated with SMT was recorded. See Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information.
Adjusted total global expenses decreased compared to the prior-year period primarily due to lower professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigations and compliance reviews as well as lower consulting fees, partially offset by higher expenses related to our SMT project. Amounts allocated to segments decreased compared to the prior-year period primarily due to the decrease in budgeted marketing and research and development costs, which are costs that are allocated to segments. Professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigations and compliance reviews described in Note 16, Contingencies on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report, amounted to approximately $28 in 2013, as compared to approximately $92 in 2012. While these fees are difficult to predict, we expect ongoing fees may vary during the course of these investigations and reviews. These fees were not allocated to the segments.
2012 Compared to 2011
Total global expenses was negatively impacted as compared to the prior-year period from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted total global expenses increased compared to the prior-year period primarily due to higher expenses associated with employee incentive compensation plans and higher expenses associated with global initiatives, partially offset by lower marketing costs. Amounts allocated to segments decreased compared to the prior-year period primarily due to the decrease in budgeted marketing and global sales costs, which are costs that are allocated to segments. Professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigations and compliance reviews described in Note 16, Contingencies on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report, amounted to approximately $92 in 2012, as compared to approximately $93 in 2011. These fees were not allocated to the segments.
With respect to the global expenses discussion above, for all years presented, please see Risk Factors on pages 10 through 11 of our 2013 Annual Report, and Note 16, Contingencies on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information regarding the FCPA investigations, compliance reviews, and other related matters, including our expectations with respect to future professional and related fees related to the FCPA investigations and compliance reviews.
Latin America – 2013 Compared to 2012
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 4,840.5 |
| | $ | 4,993.7 |
| | (3 | )% | | 6 | % |
Operating profit | | 478.6 |
| | 443.9 |
| | 8 | % | | 31 | % |
CTI restructuring | | 8.4 |
| | 19.6 |
| | | | |
Venezuelan special items | | 49.6 |
| | — |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 536.6 |
| | $ | 463.5 |
| | 16 | % | | 28 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 9.9 | % | | 8.9 | % | | 1.0 |
| | 2.1 |
|
CTI restructuring | | .2 |
| | .4 |
| | | | |
Venezuelan special items | | 1.0 |
| | — |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | 11.1 | % | | 9.3 | % | | 1.8 |
| | 2.0 |
|
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | — | % |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | (3 | )% |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
Total revenue decreased 3% compared to the prior-year period due to the unfavorable impact from foreign exchange, including the impact of the Venezuelan currency devaluation. On a Constant $ basis, revenue grew 6%. The region's revenue was favorably impacted by approximately 1 point as a result of the aggregate of the tax credits of $22 recognized in the third quarter of 2013 associated with a change in estimate of expected recoveries of Value Added Tax ("VAT"), as well as the initial realization of a government incentive that was recognized in the first quarter of 2013 associated with activity in prior years. As the tax credits are associated with VAT, and the government incentive is associated with excise taxes, which are both recorded as a reduction to revenue, the benefit from these VAT credits and government incentive is recognized as revenue. The region's Constant $ revenue growth was primarily due to higher average order, which benefited from pricing, including inflationary impacts, primarily in Argentina and Venezuela, and new Beauty product launches. Active Representatives were relatively unchanged. Revenue in Venezuela, Brazil and Mexico declined 17%, 1% and 1%, respectively. Revenue growth in Brazil and Venezuela was unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. Constant $ revenue increased 9% in Brazil, and 16% in Venezuela, and declined 4% in Mexico.
Constant $ revenue in Brazil was favorably impacted by approximately 2 points due to the benefit of the aggregate of the VAT credits recognized in the third quarter of 2013 and the government incentive recognized in the first quarter of 2013. Brazil's Constant $ revenue growth was primarily driven by higher average order, as well as an increase in Active Representatives. Higher average order was primarily due to benefits from pricing, new Beauty product launches and continued strength in Fashion & Home. On a Constant $ basis, Brazil’s sales from Beauty products increased 3% and sales from Fashion & Home products increased 20% primarily due to more effective pricing and merchandising.
Constant $ revenue in Mexico was negatively impacted by lower average order, while Active Representatives were relatively unchanged. In the second half of 2013, Constant $ revenue in Mexico was negatively impacted by executional challenges coupled with the weaker economy. Constant $ revenue growth in Venezuela was due to higher average order, benefiting from the inflationary impact on pricing that was partially offset by a decrease in units sold. Higher average order in Venezuela was partially offset by a decrease in Active Representatives, which was impacted by continued economic and political instability as well as service issues. Revenue and operating profit in Venezuela was negatively impacted in 2013 by the Venezuelan currency devaluation. Additional information on our Venezuela operations is discussed in more detail below.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by 1.0 point due to the Venezuelan currency devaluation in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting as discussed further below. Operating margin benefited by .2 points as compared to the prior-year period from lower CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin increased 1.8 points, or 2.0 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of:
| |
• | a benefit of .5 points associated with the aggregate of the VAT credits in Brazil recognized in the third quarter of 2013 and the government incentive in Brazil recognized in the first quarter of 2013, discussed above; |
| |
• | a benefit of 1.9 points due to higher gross margin caused primarily by 1.5 points from the favorable net impact of mix and pricing. Benefits from pricing include the realization of price increases in advance of costs in markets experiencing relatively high inflation (Venezuela and Argentina), while mix negatively impacted gross margin due to |
higher growth in Fashion & Home. In addition, there were various other insignificant items that favorably impacted gross margin. These items were partially offset by .6 points from the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange; and
| |
• | a decline of .5 points from higher transportation costs, primarily in Venezuela. |
Currency restrictions enacted by the Venezuelan government in 2003 have impacted the ability of Avon Venezuela to obtain foreign currency at the official rate to pay for imported products. Since 2003, Avon Venezuela had been obtaining its foreign currency needs beyond the amounts that could be obtained at official rates through non-government sources where the exchange rates were less favorable than the official rate ("parallel market"). In late May 2010, the Venezuelan government took control over the previously freely-traded parallel market, by implementing a regulated ("SITME") market in early June 2010. The SITME market was eliminated in February 2013 in conjunction with the government's devaluation of its currency as described below. In March 2013, the government announced a foreign exchange system ("SICAD") that increases government control over the allocation of U.S. dollars in the country. The availability of U.S. dollars under the SICAD market for Avon has been limited to-date. We are still evaluating our future access to funds through the SICAD or other similar markets.
We account for Venezuela as a highly inflationary economy. Effective February 13, 2013, the official exchange rate moved from 4.30 to 6.30, a devaluation of 32%. As a result of the change in the official rate to 6.30, we recorded a one-time, after-tax loss of $51 ($34 in other expense, net and $17 in income taxes) in the first quarter of 2013, primarily reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities and deferred tax benefits. Additionally, certain non-monetary assets are carried at the U.S. historic dollar cost subsequent to the devaluation. Therefore, these costs impacted the income statement during 2013 at a disproportionate rate as they were not devalued based on the new exchange rates, but were expensed at their U.S. historic dollar value. As a result of using the U.S. historic dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventory, acquired prior to the devaluation, 2013 operating profit and net income were negatively impacted by $50, due to the difference between the historical cost at the previous official exchange rate of 4.30 and the new official exchange rate of 6.30. Results for periods prior to 2013 were not impacted by the change in the official rate in February of 2013.
At December 31, 2013, we had a net asset position of $252 associated with our operations in Venezuela, which included cash balances of $136, of which approximately $135 was denominated in Bolívares remeasured at the December 31, 2013 official exchange rate of 6.30. Of the $252 net asset position, approximately $92 was associated with Bolívar-denominated monetary net assets and prepaid income taxes. During 2013, Avon Venezuela represented approximately 5% of Avon’s consolidated revenue and 7% of Avon’s consolidated Adjusted operating profit. The costs associated with acquiring goods that required settlement in U.S. dollars included within Venezuela's operating profit were not significant during 2013, and were approximately $18 during 2012.
To illustrate our sensitivity to potential future changes in the official exchange rate in Venezuela, if the official exchange rate was further devalued by 50% as of December 31, 2013, or from the official rate of 6.3 to a rate of 12.6 Bolívares to the U.S. dollar, our results would be negatively impacted as follows:
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• | As a result of the use of a further devalued exchange rate for the remeasurement of Avon Venezuela's revenues and profits, Avon's annualized consolidated revenues would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 2% and annualized consolidated operating profit would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 3% prospectively, assuming no operational improvements occurred to offset the negative impact of a further devaluation. |
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• | Avon's consolidated operating profit during the first twelve months following the devaluation, in this example, would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 11%, assuming no offsetting operational improvements. The larger negative impact on operating profit during the first twelve months as compared to the prospective impact is caused by costs of non-monetary assets being carried at historical dollar cost in accordance with the requirement to account for Venezuela as a highly inflationary economy while revenue would be remeasured at the further devalued rate. |
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• | We would likely incur an immediate charge of approximately $37 (a charge of approximately $42 in other expense, net and a benefit of approximately $5 in income taxes) associated with the $92 of Bolívar-denominated monetary net assets and prepaid income taxes. |
Additionally, if an alternative source of exchange, which may include the SICAD market, were to become widely available at 12.6 Bolívares to the U.S. dollar, which would represent a 50% devaluation from the official exchange rate for the existing U.S. dollar-denominated liabilities, as of December 31, 2013, we would likely incur an immediate charge of approximately $2, and may also incur higher ongoing costs.
At December 31, 2013, Avon Venezuela had pending requests submitted with an agency of the Venezuelan government for approximately $54 for remittance of dividends and royalties to its parent company in the U.S. These outstanding requests had been periodically submitted between 2005 and 2012. We are currently unable to predict the likelihood of government approvals of these requests, or if approved, the estimated time for remittance.
In late 2011, the Argentine government introduced restrictive currency exchange controls. Unless foreign exchange is made more readily available at the official exchange rate, Avon Argentina's operations may be negatively impacted. At December 31, 2013, we had a net asset position of $83 associated with our operations in Argentina. During 2013, Avon Argentina represented approximately 4% of Avon’s consolidated revenue, 10% of Avon's consolidated operating profit and 6% of Avon’s consolidated Adjusted operating profit.
To illustrate our sensitivity to potential future changes in the exchange rate in Argentina, if the exchange rate was devalued by approximately 50% from the average exchange rate of Argentina's 2013 results, and using the 2013 results, Avon's annualized consolidated revenues would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 2% and annualized consolidated operating profit would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 3% prospectively. This sensitivity analysis was performed assuming no operational improvements occurred to offset the negative impact of a devaluation.
As of December 31, 2013, we did not account for Argentina as a highly inflationary economy. As a result, any potential devaluation would not negatively impact earnings with respect to Argentina's monetary and non-monetary assets.
Latin America – 2012 Compared to 2011
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2012 | | 2011 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 4,993.7 |
| | $ | 5,161.8 |
| | (3 | )% | | 5 | % |
Operating profit | | 443.9 |
| | 634.0 |
| | (30 | )% | | (20 | )% |
CTI restructuring | | 19.6 |
| | 3.1 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 463.5 |
| | $ | 637.1 |
| | (27 | )% | | (17 | )% |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 8.9 | % | | 12.3 | % | | (3.4 | ) | | (3.0 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | .4 |
| | .1 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | 9.3 | % | | 12.3 | % | | (3.0 | ) | | (2.6 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | 3 | % |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | 2 | % |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.Total revenue declined 3% due to unfavorable foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, revenue grew 5% due to an increase in Active Representatives, as well as higher average order. Average order benefited from pricing, including inflationary impacts. Revenue in Brazil declined 12%, negatively impacted by foreign exchange, while revenue in Mexico grew 1%. Constant $ revenue benefited from growth of 3% in Brazil and 8% in Mexico. In Venezuela, revenue and Constant $ revenue grew 13%.
Constant $ revenue growth in Brazil was driven by an increase in Active Representatives. Revenue growth in Brazil was negatively impacted by decreased demand, which was partially due to increased competition, as well as uncompetitive pricing in Fashion and Home during the first half of 2012. Brazil’s sales of Beauty products declined 11% and sales of Fashion & Home products declined 15%, both negatively impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, Brazil’s sales of Beauty products increased 4% and sales of Fashion & Home products were flat.
Constant $ revenue growth in Mexico was driven by an increase in Active Representatives, as well as higher average order. Revenue growth in Venezuela was primarily due to higher average order, benefiting from the inflationary impact on pricing; however, Venezuela revenue growth was restrained during the latter half of 2012 by slowing economic activity and the impact of lower inflation on pricing.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by .3 points as compared to the prior-year period from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin declined 3.0 points, or 2.6 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of:
| |
• | a decline of 2.5 points due to lower gross margin caused primarily by .9 points from higher supply chain costs not offset by pricing. Gross margin was also negatively impacted by .9 points from foreign exchange and .7 points from the unfavorable net impact of pricing and mix; |
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• | a decline of .8 points from increased overhead, primarily due to wage inflation outpacing revenue growth; |
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• | a benefit of .4 points from lower bad debt expense; and |
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• | a benefit of .3 points from lower advertising costs. |
Europe, Middle East & Africa – 2013 Compared to 2012
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 2,898.4 |
| | $ | 2,914.2 |
| | (1 | )% | | 2 | % |
Operating profit | | 406.7 |
| | 312.8 |
| | 30 | % | | 34 | % |
CTI restructuring | | 17.7 |
| | 11.8 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 424.4 |
| | $ | 324.6 |
| | 31 | % | | 35 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 14.0 | % | | 10.7 | % | | 3.3 |
| | 3.4 |
|
CTI restructuring | | .6 |
| | .4 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | 14.6 | % | | 11.1 | % | | 3.5 |
| | 3.6 |
|
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | 1 | % |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | — | % |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
Total revenue decreased 1% compared to the prior-year period due to the unfavorable impact from foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, revenue grew 2% primarily due to an increase in Active Representatives and higher average order. The region’s Constant $ revenue benefited from growth in South Africa, Russia and Turkey. This growth was partially offset by a decline in the United Kingdom.
In Russia, revenue declined 1%, or grew 2% on a Constant $ basis, primarily due to an increase in Active Representatives, which was partially offset by lower average order. During the second half of 2013, average order in Russia was negatively impacted by product portfolio mix and merchandising execution coupled with the weaker economy. In the United Kingdom, revenue declined 6%, or 5% on a Constant $ basis, negatively impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives, which was partially offset by higher average order. In Turkey, revenue declined 5%, unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, Turkey's revenue grew 2%, as higher average order was partially offset by a decrease in Active Representatives. In South Africa, revenue declined 8%, unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, South Africa’s revenue grew 9%, primarily due to higher average order from successful marketing strategies and Representative mix.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by .2 points as compared to the prior-year period from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin increased 3.5 points, or 3.6 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of:
| |
• | a benefit of 1.9 points due to higher gross margin caused primarily by lower supply chain costs, largely due to lower material and overhead costs together with the benefits from productivity initiatives, including facility rationalization. These items were partially offset by the unfavorable net impact of mix and pricing of .5 points as a result of discounts and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange; |
| |
• | a benefit of .9 points from lower bad debt expense partially due to a higher provision in the first quarter of 2012 to increase reserves for bad debts in South Africa as a result of growth in new territories, of which .5 points was an adjustment associated with prior periods. Bad debt expense was also favorably impacted by the change in estimate of the collection of our receivables which increased bad debt in the prior-year period that did not recur in 2013; and |
| |
• | a benefit of .5 points from lower net brochure costs, partially impacted by initiatives to reduce the cost of our brochures in various European markets. |
Europe, Middle East & Africa – 2012 Compared to 2011
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2012 | | 2011 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 2,914.2 |
| | $ | 3,122.8 |
| | (7 | )% | | (1 | )% |
Operating profit | | 312.8 |
| | 478.9 |
| | (35 | )% | | (27 | )% |
CTI restructuring | | 11.8 |
| | 5.3 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 324.6 |
| | $ | 484.2 |
| | (33 | )% | | (26 | )% |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 10.7 | % | | 15.3 | % | | (4.6 | ) | | (4.1 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | .4 |
| | .2 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | 11.1 | % | | 15.5 | % | | (4.4 | ) | | (3.9 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | — | % |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | — | % |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.Total revenue declined 7% primarily due to unfavorable foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, revenue declined 1%, impacted by approximately 1 point due to a nonrecurring item in the prior-year period. During 2011, the United Kingdom’s revenue benefited from the settlement of a long time dispute associated with an estimated VAT liability. The region’s Constant $ revenue was impacted by declines in the United Kingdom and Turkey, partially reflecting a continued weak macroeconomic environment, competition and executional challenges. Growth in South Africa partially offset these declines.
In Russia, revenue declined 5%, impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange. Russia's revenue was flat on a Constant $ basis, as higher average order was offset by a decrease in Active Representatives. In the United Kingdom, revenue and Constant $ revenue declined 10%. Revenue in the United Kingdom was negatively impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives, as well as by approximately 4 points due to the benefit of the VAT settlement in the prior-year period that did not recur in 2012. In Turkey, revenue declined 10%, or 3% on a Constant $ basis, due to lower average order. In South Africa, revenue declined 2%, impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, South Africa’s revenue grew 11% primarily due to higher average order and growth in Active Representatives.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by .2 points as compared to the prior-year period from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin declined 4.4 points, or 3.9 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of:
| |
• | a nonrecurring benefit of .4 points associated with the VAT settlement in the United Kingdom that occurred in 2011; |
| |
• | a decline of 2.0 points due to lower gross margin caused primarily by 1.4 points from higher supply chain costs due to foreign exchange, primarily due to the weakening of the Turkish Lira against the Euro, as well as increased product costs in Fashion and Home. The unfavorable net pricing and mix negatively impacted gross margin by .9 points, driven by smart value offerings; and |
| |
• | a decline of .9 points from higher bad debt expense primarily due to a higher provision to increase reserves for bad debt in South Africa as a result of growth in new territories, of which .4 points was an out-of-period adjustment, and was also negatively impacted by a change in estimate of the collection of our receivables. |
North America – 2013 Compared to 2012
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 1,458.2 |
| | $ | 1,751.1 |
| | (17 | )% | | (16 | )% |
Operating loss | | (60.1 | ) | | (4.7 | ) | | * | | * |
CTI restructuring | | 12.5 |
| | 30.5 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating (loss) profit | | $ | (47.6 | ) | | $ | 25.8 |
| | * | | * |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | (4.1 | )% | | (.3 | )% | | (3.8 | ) | | (3.9 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | .9 |
| | 1.7 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | (3.3 | )% | | 1.5 | % | | (4.8 | ) | | (4.7 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | (15 | )% |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | (17 | )% |
*Calculation not meaningful
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
In the second quarter of 2013, Silpada was classified within discontinued operations. See Note 3, Discontinued Operations on pages F-15 through F-17 of our 2013 Annual Report for more information. Accordingly, the amounts for North America exclude the results of Silpada for all periods presented.
Total revenue decreased 17% compared to the prior-year period, or 16% on a Constant $ basis, primarily due to a decrease in Active Representatives. Active Representatives were negatively impacted by recruitment challenges. Sales from Beauty products declined 19%, on both a reported and Constant $ basis, driven primarily by skincare. Sales from Fashion & Home products declined 14%, or 13% on a Constant $ basis.
In the second half of 2013, revenue in Canada was adversely impacted due to significant field disruptions as a result of the piloting of the SMT technology platform and associated business process changes initiated in the second quarter of 2013. See "Global and other expenses" in this MD&A for more information on SMT.
Operating margin benefited by .8 points as compared to the prior-year period from lower CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin declined 4.8 points, or 4.7 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of:
| |
• | a decline of 4.3 points due to the net impact of declining revenue with respect to our fixed expenses, partially offset by lower expenses primarily resulting from our cost savings initiatives, mainly reductions in headcount that were primarily associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, and reduced field spending; |
| |
• | a decline of .9 points with respect to transportation expenses, due to the net impact of declining revenue and increased costs per unit as a result of lower volume; |
| |
• | a decline of .6 points due to lower gross margin caused primarily by .7 points from unfavorable supply chain costs, partially as a result of .3 points that benefited the prior-year period for out-of-period adjustments associated with vendor liabilities, and the impact of lower unit volume that was partially offset by productivity initiatives; and |
| |
• | a benefit of .6 points from lower net brochure costs impacted by initiatives to reduce the cost of our brochures and the number of brochures printed as a result of lower Representative count. |
We continue to expect weak financial results within North America as we address continued deterioration in the business. We are focused on restoring field health, improving our brochure and creating a sustainable cost base which may include additional restructuring actions.
North America – 2012 Compared to 2011
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2012 | | 2011 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 1,751.1 |
| | $ | 1,872.5 |
| | (6 | )% | | (6 | )% |
Operating (loss) profit | | (4.7 | ) | | 49.4 |
| | |