AVP 10K 2014
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, 2014
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. ¨
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, 2014 (the last business day of our most recently completed second quarter) was $6.3 billion.
The number of shares of Common Stock (par value $.25) outstanding at January 31, 2015, was 434,755,598
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Documents Incorporated by Reference
Part III - Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
Table of Contents
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Item | | Page |
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Part I |
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Item 1 | | |
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Item 1A | | |
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Item 1B | | |
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Item 2 | | |
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Item 3 | | |
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Item 4 | | |
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Part II |
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Item 5 | | |
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Item 6 | | |
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Item 7 | | |
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Item 7A | | |
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Item 8 | | |
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Item 9 | | |
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Item 9A | | |
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Item 9B | | |
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Part III |
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Item 10 | | |
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Item 11 | | |
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Item 12 | | |
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Item 13 | | |
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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, restructuring and other initiatives and related actions), costs and cost savings, competitive advantages, impairments, the impact of foreign 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/or realize the projected benefits (in the amounts and time schedules we expect) from, our stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, restructuring 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 including e-commerce, 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, or restructuring and 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 enhance our sales Leadership programs, 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, to offer a more social selling experience, 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, such as in Russia and Ukraine, and any potential sanctions, restrictions or responses to such conditions imposed by other markets in which we operate; |
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• | the effect of economic factors, including inflation and fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, as well as the designation of Venezuela as a highly inflationary economy and the devaluation of its currency, the availability of various foreign exchange systems including limited access to SICAD II or the introduction of new exchange systems in Venezuela, foreign exchange restrictions, particularly foreign 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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• | developments in or consequences of any investigations and compliance reviews, and any litigation related thereto, including the 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 the retention of a compliance monitor as required by the deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice and a consent to settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, any changes in Company policy or procedure suggested by the compliance monitor or undertaken by the Company, the duration of the compliance monitor and whether and when the Company will be permitted to undertake self-reporting, the Company’s compliance with the deferred prosecution agreement and whether and when the charges against the Company are dismissed with prejudice; |
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• | a general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions or markets, such as Russia, 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, pricing, data privacy or other restrictions, the 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 Venezuela; |
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• | the impact of U.S. tax regulations and 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 amount, type, jurisdiction and timing of any foreign source income (which may be impacted by foreign currency movements), 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 consumer packaged goods industry, some of which are larger than we are and have greater resources; |
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• | the impact of the adverse effect of volatile 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, and any cyber security breaches, including any security breach of our systems or those of a third-party provider that results in the theft, transfer or unauthorized disclosure of Representative, customer, employee or Company information or compliance with information security and privacy laws and regulations in the event of such an incident which could disrupt business operations, result in the loss of critical and confidential information, and adversely impact our reputation and results of operations, and related costs to address such malicious intentional acts and to implement adequate preventative measures against cyber security breaches; |
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• | the risk of product or ingredient shortages resulting from our concentration of sourcing in fewer suppliers; |
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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 a continued decline in our business results, which includes the impact of any adverse foreign exchange movements, significant restructuring charges and significant legal or regulatory settlements, on our ability to comply with certain covenants in our revolving credit facility; |
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• | the impact of possible pension funding obligations, increased pension expense and any changes in pension standards and 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 litigation or with respect to the legal status of Representatives. |
Additional information identifying such factors is contained in Item 1A of our 2014 Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. 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 skincare (which includes personal care), fragrance and color (cosmetics). 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 23 through 56 of this 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which we refer to in this report as our "2014 Annual Report," and in Note 12, Segment Information, to the Consolidated Financial Statements on pages F-39 through F-41 of our 2014 Annual Report. We refer to each of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this 2014 Annual Report as a "Note." Information about geographic areas is included in Note 12, Segment Information on pages F-39 through F-41 of our 2014 Annual Report.
Distribution
As of December 31, 2014, we had sales operations in 60 countries and territories, including the United States ("U.S."), and distributed our products in 41 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 Representatives, who are independent contractors and not our employees. At December 31, 2014, we had approximately 6 million active Representatives. 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 of 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 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., U.K. and certain other markets, we also utilize e-commerce and 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 sales Leadership program), and local market advertising constitute the primary means of obtaining new Representatives. The sales 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 sales 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 may 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 broad product lines and pricing flexibility 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 direct selling, through the Internet, and through the mass market retail 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 a typical CPG company which operates within a broad-based consumer pool, direct sellers compete for representative or entrepreneurial talent by providing a more competitive earnings opportunity or "better deal" than that offered by the competition. 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, 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 and skincare 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, specialty retailers and e-commerce.
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
As of December 31, 2014, our international operations were conducted primarily through subsidiaries in 59 countries and territories outside of the U.S. In addition to these countries and territories, our products were distributed in 41 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 foreign currency fluctuations, foreign 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 and the impact of foreign currency restrictions" in Item 1A on pages 8 through 18 of our 2014 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.
See Item 2, Properties, on page 18 of our 2014 Annual Report for additional information regarding the location of our principal manufacturing facilities.
Product Categories
Both of our product categories individually account for 10% or more of consolidated net sales in 2014. The following is the percentage of net sales by product category for the years ended December 31:
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Beauty | | 73 | % | | 73 | % | | 73 | % |
Fashion & Home | | 27 | % | | 27 | % | | 27 | % |
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 2014, our most significant product launches included: Anew Reversalist Complete Renewal Collection, Anew Clinical Infinite Lift Targeted Contouring Serum, Avon Care Cocoa Butter Collection, Solutions Cellu-Break 4D Anti-Cellulite Treatment, Gel Finish 7-in-1 Nail Enamel, Big & Daring Volume Mascara, Ideal Flawless CC Color Corrector, Ultra Color Bold Lipstick, Ultra Color Absolute Lipstick, Advance Techniques Reconstruction 7 Collection, Naturals Swirls Body Lotions, Skin So Soft Firm & Restore DD Body Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 15, Avon Femme Fragrance, Avon Exploration Fragrance, Far Away Gold Fragrance and Avon Luck for Her and for Him Fragrances.
The amounts incurred on research activities relating to the development of new products and the improvement of existing products were $62.5 in 2014, $67.2 in 2013 and $73.3 in 2012. 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, 2014, we employed approximately 33,200 employees. Of these, approximately 3,200 were employed in the U.S. and approximately 30,000 were employed in other countries.
$400M Cost Savings Initiative
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. As part of the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, we have identified areas for cost efficiency that required restructuring charges for reductions in our global workforce and related actions across many of our businesses and functions, as well as the closure of certain smaller, under-performing markets, including South Korea, Vietnam, Republic of Ireland, Bolivia and France. We also expected to achieve savings through other cost-savings strategies that would not result in restructuring charges (including reductions in legal and brochure costs). Since we announced the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, we have reduced our global headcount by approximately 15% and achieved the cost-savings target of $400 before taxes. While we have achieved the targeted cost savings, we have not yet achieved our targeted low double-digit operating margin primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange, inflationary pressures and continued revenue decline in North America. We continue to analyze our cost structure and may incur additional restructuring charges in an effort to achieve additional cost savings. Additional information regarding our initiatives is included in "Overview" within MD&A on pages 23 through 24, and in Note 14, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-41 through F-45 of our 2014 Annual Report.
Acquisitions and Dispositions
In March 2010, we acquired Liz Earle Beauty Co. Limited ("Liz Earle") and in July 2010, we acquired Silpada Designs, Inc. ("Silpada"). In December 2010, we completed the sale of Avon Products Company Limited ("Avon Japan") and in July 2013, we completed the sale of Silpada.
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 2014, 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 2014 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, restructuring and other initiatives, and achieve anticipated savings and benefits from such programs and initiatives; |
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• | reverse declines in our revenue performance and market share, and strengthen our brand image; |
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• | implement appropriate pricing strategies and product mix that are more aligned with the preferences of local markets and achieve anticipated benefits from these strategies; |
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• | reduce costs and effectively manage our cost base, particularly selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses; |
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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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• | 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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• | offer a more compelling social selling experience, including the roll-out of e-commerce in certain markets; |
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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, enhancing our sales Leadership program, 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 revolving credit facility as a result of a continued decline in our business results, which includes the impact of any adverse foreign exchange movements, significant restructuring charges and 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 with favorable terms; 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 if and when any of these initiatives will be successfully and fully executed or completed.
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 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. While we have achieved the targeted cost savings, we have not yet achieved our targeted low double-digit operating margin primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange, inflationary pressures and continued revenue decline in North America. We continue to analyze our cost structure and may incur additional restructuring charges in an effort to achieve our targeted low double-digit operating margin. As we work to right-size our cost structure, we may not realize anticipated savings or benefits from one or more of the various restructuring and cost-savings initiatives we may undertake as part of these efforts 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, including the impact of foreign currency and inflationary pressures, may occur which could result in our not realizing our targeted low double-digit operating margin. If we are unable to realize these savings or benefits, our ability to continue to fund other initiatives and aspects of our business may be adversely affected. In addition, any 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 restructuring and other cost-savings initiatives, and the failure to realize anticipated savings or benefits from such 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 revenue declines in 2014, 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 2014 was $8,851.4 million, compared with $9,955.0 million in 2013 and $10,561.4 million in 2012. Our gross margin in 2014 was 60.5%, compared with 62.1% in 2013 and 61.2% in 2012. Our operating margin in 2014 was 4.5%, compared with 4.3% in 2013 and 5.0% in 2012. In 2014, we had a loss from continuing operations, net of tax of $384.9 million, compared with a loss from continuing operations, net of tax of $1.0 million in 2013, and income from continuing operations, net of tax of $93.3 million in 2012. 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 reverse these trends.
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 direct selling by Representatives, who are independent contractors and not our employees. At December 31, 2014, we had approximately 6 million active 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. Among other things, we need to create attractive Representative earning opportunities and transform the value chain, restore field health and sales force effectiveness, successfully implement other initiatives in the direct-selling channel, successfully execute our digital strategy, including e-commerce, improve our brochure and product offerings and improve our marketing and advertising. 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 through direct selling by buying beauty and related products in other channels 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 and the impact of foreign currency restrictions.
We operate globally, through operations in various locations around the world, and derive approximately 89% of our consolidated revenue from our operations outside of the United States ("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 foreign 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, Ukrainian hryvna and Venezuelan bolívar. As the U.S. dollar strengthens relative to our foreign currencies, our revenues and profits are reduced when translated into U.S. dollars and our margins may be negatively impacted by country mix if our higher margin markets, such as Russia, experience significant devaluation. In addition, our costs are more weighted to U.S. dollars while our sales are denominated in local currencies. Although we typically work to mitigate this negative foreign currency transaction impact through price increases and further actions to reduce costs, we may not be able to fully offset the impact, if at all. For example, in 2014, our revenues declined 11% compared with 2013 due to unfavorable foreign exchange, and were relatively unchanged on a Constant $ basis. Our success depends, in part, on our ability to manage these various foreign currency impacts and 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 foreign 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 to pay for imported products, which in turn has reduced our product offerings in Venezuela and negatively impacted our sales. Unless 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. Gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of the financial statements of subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies are recorded in earnings. High rates of inflation or the related devaluation of foreign currency may have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations or cash flows. For example, Venezuela has been designated as a highly inflationary economy. See "Segment Review - Latin America" within MD&A on pages 40 through 44 of our 2014 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 income will not be adversely impacted as a result.
We are subject to a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (the "DOJ") and a consent to settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") which require us to retain, at our own expense, an independent compliance monitor. With the approval of the DOJ and the SEC, the monitor can be replaced 18 months after the monitor’s retention by the Company pursuant to its agreement to undertake self-reporting obligations for the remainder of the monitoring period. The monitoring period expires on the later of three years from the date of the retention of the monitor and the expiration of the DPA. We will incur costs in connection with these obligations, and compliance with these obligations could divert members of management’s time from the operation of our business. Such costs and burdens could be significant.
In December 2014, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York (the "USDC") approved a deferred prosecution agreement between the Company and the DOJ (the "DPA") and in January 2015, the USDC approved a consent to settlement with the SEC (the "Consent") in connection with the previously disclosed Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA") investigations.
Under the DPA and the Consent, among other things, the Company agreed to have a compliance monitor (the "monitor"). With the approval of the DOJ and the SEC, the monitor can be replaced 18 months after the monitor’s retention by the Company pursuant to its agreement to undertake self-reporting obligations for the remainder of the monitoring period. The monitoring period expires on the later of three years from the date of the retention of the monitor and the expiration of the DPA. We are in the process of retaining a monitor, whose selection is subject to the approval of the DOJ and the SEC. There can be no assurance as to when a monitor will be approved or whether or when the DOJ and the SEC will approve replacing the monitorship with the Company’s self-reporting.
Under the DPA, the Company also represented that it has implemented and agreed that it will continue to implement a compliance and ethics program designed to prevent and detect violations of the FCPA and other applicable anti-corruption laws throughout its operations.
The monitor will assess and monitor the Company’s compliance with the terms of the DPA. The monitor may recommend changes to our policies and procedures that we must adopt unless they are unduly burdensome or otherwise inadvisable, in which case we may propose alternatives, which the DOJ and the SEC may or may not accept. In addition, operating under the oversight of the monitor may result in burdens on members of our management and divert their time from the operation of our business. Assuming the monitorship is replaced by a self-reporting period, the Company’s self-reporting obligations may continue to be costly or burdensome.
We currently cannot estimate the costs that we are likely to incur in connection with compliance with the DPA and the Consent, including the retention of the monitor, the costs, if applicable, of self-reporting, and the costs of implementing the changes, if any, to our policies and procedures required by the monitor. However, the costs and burdens of the monitoring process could be significant.
If we commit a breach of the DPA, we may be subject to criminal prosecution. Such criminal prosecution could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Under the DPA, the DOJ will defer criminal prosecution of the Company for a term of three years in connection with the charged violations of the FCPA. If the DOJ determines that the Company has knowingly violated the DPA (including the monitoring provisions described in the preceding risk factor), the DOJ may commence prosecution or extend the term of the DPA for up to one year. If the Company remains in compliance with the DPA through its term, the charges against the Company will be dismissed with prejudice.
Failure to comply with the terms of the DPA could result in criminal prosecution by the DOJ, including for the charged violations of the books and records and internal controls provisions of the FCPA that were included in the information that was filed in connection with the DPA. Under such circumstance, the DOJ would be permitted to rely upon the admissions we made in the DPA and would benefit from our waiver of certain procedural and evidentiary defenses. Such a criminal prosecution could subject us to penalties that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
A general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions or markets, such as Russia, or sudden disruption in business conditions or other challenges may adversely affect our business, our access to liquidity and capital, and our credit ratings.
Current global macro-economic instability or a further downturn in the economies in which we sell our products, including any recession in one or more of our geographic regions or markets, such as Russia, could adversely affect our business, our access to liquidity and capital, and our credit ratings. Global economic events over the past few years, including high 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, reduce flexibility with respect to working capital, and maintain credit lines and offshore cash balances.
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 may face continued economic challenges in fiscal 2015 because customers may continue to have less money for discretionary purchases as a result of job losses, 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 in 2013, and pandemic situations or large scale power outages, none of which are under our control.
Our credit ratings were downgraded in 2014, which could limit our access to financing, affect the market price of our financing, and increase financing costs. A further 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. In 2014, our credit ratings were downgraded. Our current long-term credit ratings are Ba1 (Stable Outlook) with Moody's, BB+ (Stable Outlook)
with S&P, and BB (Negative Outlook) with Fitch, which are below investment grade. Additional rating agency reviews could result in a further change in outlook or downgrade. Our credit ratings could limit our access to new financing, particularly short-term financing; reduce our flexibility with respect to working capital needs; adversely affect the market price of some or all of our outstanding debt securities; result in an increase in financing costs, including interest expense under certain of our debt instruments; and result in less favorable covenants and financial terms of our financing arrangements. For example, as of December 31, 2014, we have approximately $122 million outstanding in short-term borrowings of our international subsidiaries. A further change in outlook or downgrade of our credit ratings may increase some of these risks and 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-17 through F-20 of our 2014 Annual Report for details about the terms of our existing debt and other financing arrangements.
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, halt or severely restrict our business, including our primary 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 (including any sanctions, restrictions and other responses such as those related to Russia and Ukraine) 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, or additional taxes on our products, including in Brazil; 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, 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 direct selling, through the Internet, and through mass market retail and prestige retail channels. We also face increasing direct-selling and retail 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 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 a typical consumer packaged goods ("CPG") company which operates within a broad-based consumer pool, direct sellers compete for representative or entrepreneurial talent by providing a more competitive earnings opportunity or "better deal" than that offered by the competition. Providing a compelling earnings opportunity for our Representatives is as critical as developing and marketing new and innovative products. Therefore, in contrast to typical CPG companies, we must first compete for a limited pool of Representatives before we reach the ultimate consumer.
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 and skincare 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, specialty retailers and e-commerce.
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. In addition, certain market trends may be short-lived. There can be no assurance that we will be able to anticipate and respond to trends timely and effectively 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, there have been many changes to the Company's senior management, including a new chief executive officer in 2012 and a new chief financial officer in 2015. 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 failure, disruption, cyberattack or other breach in the security of an information technology system or infrastructure that we utilize could adversely affect our business and reputation and increase our costs.
We employ information technology systems to support our business, including systems to support financial reporting, web-based tools, an enterprise resource planning ("ERP") system, and internal communication and data transfer networks. We also employ information technology systems to support Representatives in many of our markets, including electronic order
collection, invoicing systems, social media tools and on-line training. We have e-commerce and Internet sites, including business-to-business websites to support Representatives. We use third-party service providers in many instances to provide these information technology systems. Over the last several years, we have undertaken initiatives to increase our reliance on information technology systems which has resulted in the outsourcing of certain services and functions, such as global human resources information technology systems, call center support, Representative support services and other information technology processes. Our information technology systems and infrastructure, as well as those of third parties, are integral to our performance.
Any of our information technology systems and infrastructure, or those of our third-party service providers, may be susceptible to outages, disruptions, destruction or corruption due to the complex landscape of localized applications and architectures as well as incidents related to legacy or unintegrated systems. These information technology systems and infrastructure also may be susceptible to cybersecurity breaches, attacks, break-ins, data corruption, fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, terrorist attacks and similar events beyond our control. We rely on our employees, Representatives and third parties in our day-to-day and ongoing operations, who may, as a result of human error or malfeasance or failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach of third party systems or infrastructure, expose us to risk. Furthermore, our ability to protect and monitor the practices of our third-party service providers is more limited than our ability to protect and monitor our own information technology systems and infrastructure.
Our information technology systems, or those of our third-party service providers may be accessed by unauthorized users such as cyber criminals as a result of a failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach, exposing us to risk. As techniques used by cyber criminals change frequently, a failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach may go undetected for a long period of time. A failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach of our information technology systems or infrastructure, or those of our third-party service providers, could result in the theft, transfer, unauthorized access to, disclosure, modification, misuse, loss, or destruction of Company, employee, Representative, customer, vendor, or other third-party data, including sensitive or confidential data, personal information and intellectual property.
We are investing in industry standard solutions and protections and monitoring practices of our data and information technology systems and infrastructure to reduce these risks and continue to monitor our information technology systems and infrastructure on an ongoing basis for any current or potential threats. Such efforts and investments are costly, and as cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities. As a company that operates worldwide, we could be impacted by commercial agreements between us and processing organizations, existing and proposed laws and regulations, and government policies and practices related to cybersecurity, privacy and data protection.
Despite our efforts, our and our third-party service providers’ data, information technology systems and infrastructure may be vulnerable. There can be no assurance that our efforts will prevent a failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach of our or our third-party service providers’ information technology systems or infrastructure, or that we will detect and appropriately respond if there is such a failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach. Any such failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach could adversely affect our business including our ability to expand our business, cause damage to our reputation, result in increased costs to address internal data, security, and personnel issues, and result in violations of applicable privacy laws and other laws and external financial obligations such as governmental fines, penalties, or regulatory proceedings and third-party private litigation with potentially significant costs. In addition, it could result in deterioration in our employees', Representatives', customers', or vendors’ confidence in us, which could cause them to discontinue business with us or result in other competitive disadvantages.
In addition, 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.
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.
Our indebtedness could adversely affect us by reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions.
As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately $2.6 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, 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 further 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 revolving credit facility as a result of a continued decline in our business results, which includes the impact of any adverse foreign exchange movements, significant restructuring charges and 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 with favorable terms. |
If we incur additional indebtedness, the related risks that we now face (including those described above), could intensify.
Our ability to utilize our foreign tax and other U.S. credits to offset our future taxable income may be limited under Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code.
As of December 31, 2014, we had approximately $674.8 million of foreign tax and other credits available to offset future income for U.S. federal tax liability purposes. Our ability to utilize such credits to offset future income can be limited, however, if the Company undergoes an “ownership change” within the meaning of Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). In general, an ownership change will occur if there is a cumulative increase in ownership of our stock by 5% shareholders (as defined in the Code) that exceeds 50 percentage points over a rolling three-year period. If the 50 percentage points are exceeded, Section 382 establishes an annual limitation on the amount of deferred tax assets attributable to previously incurred credits that may be used to offset taxable income in future years. A number of complex rules apply in calculating this limitation, and any such limitation would depend in part on the market value of the Company at the time of the ownership change and prevailing interest rates at the time of calculation. As a result, the magnitude of any potential limitation on the use of our deferred tax assets and the effect of such limitation on the Company if an ownership change were to occur is difficult to assess. However, if all or a portion of our deferred tax assets were to become subject to this limitation, our tax liability could increase significantly and our future results of operations and cash flows could be adversely impacted.
We currently believe an ownership change has not occurred. However, in recent periods, we have experienced fluctuations in the market price of our stock and changes in ownership by our 5% shareholders. We continue to monitor these changes.
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, are expected to 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, while our U.S. defined benefit pension plan has been closed to employees hired on or after January 1, 2015, significant changes in the number and demographics of participants in our pension plans generally 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 rate of 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 U.S. Pension Protection Act of 2006 and related standards and regulations 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. Please see "Critical Accounting Estimates - Pension and Postretirement Expense" within MD&A on pages 27 through 28 and Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 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 evaluate potential 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/or operating efficiency opportunities. Strategic alliances or acquisitions may entail numerous risks, including:
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• | substantial costs, delays or other operational or financial difficulties, including difficulties in leveraging synergies among the businesses to increase sales and obtain cost savings or achieve expected results; |
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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; |
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• | risks of entering markets in which we have limited or no prior experience; and |
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• | reputational and other risks regarding our ability to successfully implement such strategic alliance or acquisition, including obtaining financing which could dilute the interests of our stockholders, result in an increase in our indebtedness or both. |
Our failure to successfully complete the integration of any new or acquired businesses 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 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 and/or become subject to regulatory action, our reputation or the appeal of our brand could be diminished, we could lose market share, and we could 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, especially in those emerging markets, 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, or to predict 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.
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, loss of supplier, vendor or other third party relationship, termination of necessary licenses and permits, 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. 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. Further, other countries in which we do business may initiate their own investigations and impose similar sanctions. These proceedings or investigations could be costly and burdensome to our management, and could adversely impact our business, prospects, reputation, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows. Even if an inquiry or investigation does not result in any adverse 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 any investigations or litigations; |
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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 administrative 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 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 that is predominantly for Global IT. 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 is in the process of being subleased.
In addition to the facilities noted above, other principal properties measuring 50,000 square feet or more include the following:
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• | one manufacturing facility and six distribution centers in North America, of which one distribution center is inactive and currently listed for sale; |
•four manufacturing facilities, ten 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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• | eleven distribution centers and six 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 2013, we announced plans to close the Atlanta and Pasadena distribution centers. The Atlanta facility was closed and subsequently sold in 2013, and the Pasadena facility is expected to be closed within the next 24 months.
Of all the properties listed above, 33 are owned and the remaining 24 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 15, Contingencies, on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 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, 2014, there were 14,021 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 2014 and 2013 are listed below. For information regarding future dividends on our common stock, see "Liquidity and Capital Resources" within MD&A on pages 51 through 56.
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2014 | | 2013 |
Quarter | | High | | Low | | Dividends Declared and Paid | | High | | Low | | Dividends Declared and Paid |
First | | $ | 17.09 |
| | $ | 14.28 |
| | $ | .06 |
| | $ | 21.10 |
| | $ | 15.03 |
| | $ | .06 |
|
Second | | 15.28 |
| | 13.30 |
| | .06 |
| | 24.20 |
| | 20.26 |
| | .06 |
|
Third | | 14.72 |
| | 12.59 |
| | .06 |
| | 23.32 |
| | 19.75 |
| | .06 |
|
Fourth | | 12.00 |
| | 9.11 |
| | .06 |
| | 22.48 |
| | 16.81 |
| | .06 |
|
|
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COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN(1) |
Among Avon Products, Inc., The S&P 500 Index and |
2014 Peer Group (2) |
The Stock Performance Graph above assumes a $100 investment on December 31, 2009, 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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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2009 |
| | 2010 |
| | 2011 |
| | 2012 |
| | 2013 |
| | 2014 |
|
Avon | | 100.0 |
| | 95.1 |
| | 59.4 |
| | 51.0 |
| | 61.9 |
| | 34.4 |
|
S&P 500 | | 100.0 |
| | 115.1 |
| | 117.5 |
| | 136.3 |
| | 180.4 |
| | 205.1 |
|
Peer Group(2) | | 100.0 |
| | 108.4 |
| | 120.8 |
| | 131.3 |
| | 164.6 |
| | 187.7 |
|
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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, 2014:
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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 |
10/1/14 – 10/31/14 | | 10,221 |
| (1) | $ | 13.31 |
| | * | | * |
11/1/14 – 11/30/14 | | 7,385 |
| (1) | 11.10 |
| | * | | * |
12/1/14 – 12/31/14 | | 24,854 |
| (1) | 9.94 |
| | * | | * |
Total | | 42,460 |
| | $ | 10.95 |
| | * | | * |
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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) | All 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. |
Some of these share repurchases may reflect a brief delay from the actual transaction date.
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 2014 Annual Report.
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2010 |
Income Statement Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Total revenue | | $ | 8,851.4 |
| | $ | 9,955.0 |
| | $ | 10,561.4 |
| | $ | 11,099.5 |
| | $ | 10,754.2 |
|
Operating profit(1) | | 400.1 |
| | 427.2 |
| | 525.0 |
| | 1,092.0 |
| | 1,039.0 |
|
(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax(1) | | (384.9 | ) | | (1.0 | ) | | 93.3 |
| | 675.6 |
| | 566.0 |
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Diluted (loss) earnings per share from continuing operations | | $ | (.88 | ) | | $ | (.01 | ) | | $ | .20 |
| | $ | 1.54 |
| | $ | 1.29 |
|
Cash dividends per share | | $ | .24 |
| | $ | .24 |
| | $ | .75 |
| | $ | .92 |
| | $ | .88 |
|
Balance Sheet Data | | | | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 5,496.8 |
| | $ | 6,492.3 |
| | $ | 7,382.5 |
| | $ | 7,735.0 |
| | $ | 7,873.7 |
|
Debt maturing within one year | | 137.1 |
| | 188.0 |
| | 572.0 |
| | 849.3 |
| | 727.6 |
|
Long-term debt | | 2,463.9 |
| | 2,532.7 |
| | 2,623.8 |
| | 2,459.1 |
| | 2,408.6 |
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Total debt | | 2,601.0 |
| | 2,720.7 |
| | 3,195.8 |
| | 3,308.4 |
| | 3,136.2 |
|
Total shareholders’ equity | | 305.3 |
| | 1,127.5 |
| | 1,233.3 |
| | 1,585.2 |
| | 1,672.6 |
|
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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 14, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-41 through F-45 of our 2014 Annual Report, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 32 through 39, "Segment Review - Latin America" within MD&A on pages 40 through 44, Note 15, Contingencies on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 Annual Report, "Segment Review - North America" within MD&A on pages 46 through 47, Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 16, Goodwill and Intangibles on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-17 through F-20 of our 2014 Annual Report and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-21 through F-25 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on these items. |
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Impact on Operating Profit |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2011 | | 2010 |
Costs to implement restructuring initiatives related to our cost savings initiative, multi-year restructuring programs, and other restructuring initiatives | | $ | 114.2 |
| | $ | 65.9 |
| | $ | 124.7 |
| | $ | 40.0 |
| | $ | 80.7 |
|
Venezuelan special items(2) | | 137.1 |
| | 49.6 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | 79.5 |
|
FCPA accrual(3) | | 46.0 |
| | 89.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Pension settlement charge(4) | | 36.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges(5) | | — |
| | 159.3 |
| | 44.0 |
| | — |
| | — |
|
In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2014 was negatively impacted by a non-cash income tax charge of $404.9. This was primarily due to a valuation allowance of $383.5 to reduce our deferred tax assets to an amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized, which was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2014. In addition, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2014 was favorably impacted by the $18.5 net tax benefit recorded in the fourth quarter of 2014 related to the finalization of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA") settlements. See Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-21 through F-25 of our 2014 Annual Report, for more information.
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 54 through 56), 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 54 through 56). 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 54 through 56). 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-17 through F-20 of our 2014 Annual Report, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 32 through 39, and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-21 through F-25 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information.
In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, 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 Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 32 through 39, and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-21 through F-25 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information.
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(2) | During 2014, 2013 and 2010, our operating profit and operating margin were 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 February 2014, the Venezuelan government announced a foreign exchange system ("SICAD II") and we concluded that we should utilize the SICAD II exchange rate to remeasure our Venezuelan operations effective March 31, 2014. At March 31, 2014, the SICAD II exchange rate was approximately 50, as compared to the official exchange rate of 6.30 that we used previously, which caused the recognition of a devaluation of approximately 88%. As a result of using the historical United States ("U.S.") dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventories, these assets continued to be remeasured, following the change to the SICAD II rate, at the applicable rate at the time of acquisition. As a result, we determined that an adjustment of $115.7 to cost of sales was needed to reflect certain non-monetary assets at their net realizable value, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2014. In 2014, we recognized an additional negative impact of $21.4 to operating profit relating to these non-monetary assets. In addition to the negative impact to operating profit, as a result of the devaluation of Venezuelan currency, during 2014, we recorded an after-tax loss of $41.8 ($53.7 in other expense, net, and a benefit of $11.9 in income taxes), primarily reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities.
In 2013, as a result of using the historical U.S. dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventories, acquired prior to the devaluation, 2013 operating profit was negatively impacted by $49.6, due to the difference between the historical U.S. dollar 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 an 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 historical U.S. dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventories, acquired prior to the devaluation, during 2010 operating profit was negatively impacted by $79.5 for the difference between the historical U.S. dollar cost at the previous official exchange rate of 2.15 and the official exchange rate of 4.30. In addition to the negative impact to operating profit, as a result of the devaluation of Venezuelan currency, during 2010, we recorded an after-tax loss of $58.8 ($46.1 in other expense, net, and $12.7 in income taxes), primarily 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 40 through 44 for more information.
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(3) | During 2014, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by the additional $46 accrual, and during 2013, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by the $89 accrual, both recorded for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations. See Note 15, Contingencies on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information. |
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(4) | During 2014, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by settlement charges associated with the U.S. pension plan. As a result of the payments made to former employees who are vested and participate in the U.S. pension plan, in the second quarter of 2014, we recorded a settlement charge of $23.5. Because the settlement threshold was exceeded in the second quarter of 2014, settlement charges of $5.4 and $7.5 were also recorded in the third and fourth quarters of 2014, respectively, as a result of additional payments from our U.S. pension plan. These settlement charges were allocated between Global Expenses and the operating results of North America. See "Segment Review - North America" within MD&A on pages 46 through 47, and Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 Annual Report for a further discussion of the settlement charges. |
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(5) | During 2013 and 2012, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by non-cash impairment charges associated with goodwill and intangible assets of our China business. In addition, during 2013, our operating profit and 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 16, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2014 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 2014 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 2014 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 25 through 26 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. As of December 31, 2014, we had sales operations in 60 countries and territories, including the United States ("U.S."), and distributed products in 41 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 skincare (which includes personal care), fragrance and color (cosmetics). 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 Representatives, who are independent contractors and not our employees. At December 31, 2014, we had approximately 6 million active Representatives. The success of our business is highly dependent on recruiting, retaining and servicing our Representatives. During 2014, approximately 89% of our consolidated revenue was derived from operations outside of the U.S.
Total revenue in 2014 compared to 2013 declined 11% compared to the prior-year period, due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Constant $ revenue was relatively unchanged, as a 5% decrease in Active Representatives was partially offset by higher average order. Units sold decreased 5% while the net impact of price and mix increased 5%, as pricing benefited from inflationary impacts in Latin America, primarily in Argentina and Venezuela. Sales from the Beauty category decreased 12%, or were relatively unchanged on a Constant $ basis. Sales from the Fashion & Home category decreased 12%, or 2% on a Constant $ basis.
During 2014, our Constant $ revenue was impacted by net declines in North America and to a lesser extent, Asia Pacific, which were partially offset by net growth in Latin America and Europe, Middle East & Africa. North America continued to experience year-over-year revenue declines, driven by a decrease in Active Representatives. Constant $ revenue growth in Latin America was primarily driven by Venezuela largely due to inflationary pricing, which was partially offset by declines in Mexico. Constant $ revenue growth in Europe, Middle East & Africa was driven by South Africa and the United Kingdom, which was partially offset by revenue declines in Russia and Turkey. Constant $ revenue in Russia was negatively impacted by a difficult economy, including the impact of geopolitical uncertainties, and its decline in the first half of 2014 was partially offset by Constant $ revenue growth in the second half of 2014 driven by actions to improve unit sales. In Asia Pacific, Constant $ revenue declined as compared to 2013 as growth in the Philippines was more than offset by declines in the other Asia Pacific markets. See "Segment Review" of this MD&A for additional information related to changes in revenue by segment.
During 2014, foreign currency had a significant impact on our financial results. As the U.S. dollar has strengthened relative to currencies of key Avon markets, our revenue and profits have been reduced when translated into U.S. dollars and our margins have been negatively impacted by country mix, as certain of our higher margin markets experienced significant devaluation of their local currency. In addition, as our sales and costs are often denominated in different currencies, this has created a negative foreign currency transaction impact. Specifically, as compared to the prior-year period, foreign currency has impacted our consolidated financial results as a result of foreign currency transaction losses (within cost of sales, and selling, general and administrative expenses), which had an unfavorable impact to Adjusted operating profit of an estimated $155, foreign currency translation, which had an unfavorable impact to Adjusted operating profit of approximately $160, and foreign exchange losses (within other expense, net), which had an unfavorable impact of approximately $41 before tax.
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. As part of the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, we have identified areas for cost efficiency that required restructuring charges for reductions in our global workforce and related actions across many of our businesses and functions, as well as the closure of certain smaller, under-performing markets, including South Korea, Vietnam, Republic of Ireland, Bolivia and France. We also expected to achieve savings through other cost-savings strategies that would not result in restructuring charges (including reductions in legal and brochure costs). Since we announced the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, we have reduced our global headcount by approximately 15% and achieved the cost-savings target of $400 before taxes. While we have achieved the targeted cost savings, we have not yet achieved our targeted low double-digit operating margin primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange, inflationary pressures and continued revenue decline in North America. We continue to analyze our cost structure and may incur additional restructuring charges in an effort to achieve additional cost savings. See Note 14, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-41 through F-45 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information.
In 2015, we expect to continue to make progress against our strategic objectives. Constant-dollar revenue is expected to be up modestly; however, assuming January foreign currency spot rates, reported revenue is expected to decline due to an estimated 12 point negative impact from foreign currency translation. We also expect foreign currency transaction costs and translation adjustments to have a significant negative impact on Adjusted operating profit. We expect Constant-dollar Adjusted operating margin to be up modestly as we plan to offset most of the foreign currency transaction impact with price increases and further actions to reduce costs. However, due to foreign currency translation, we expect that Adjusted operating margin could be down as much as 1 point in reported dollars.
The potential impact from a pending tax law change on cosmetics in Brazil, called Industrial Production Tax ("IPI"), has not been factored into our outlook at this time. We are presently assessing this pending tax law change and looking for ways to mitigate the potential impact.
In February 2014, the Venezuelan government announced a foreign exchange system ("SICAD II") which began operating on March 24, 2014. As SICAD II represents the rate which better reflects the economics of Avon Venezuela's business activity, we concluded that we should utilize the SICAD II exchange rate to remeasure our Venezuelan operations as of March 31, 2014. At March 31, 2014, the SICAD II exchange rate was approximately 50, as compared to the official exchange rate of 6.30 that we used previously, which represents a devaluation of approximately 88%. In addition, as a result of using the historical U.S. dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventories, these assets continued to be remeasured, following the change to the SICAD II rate, at the applicable rate at the time of acquisition. As a result, we determined that an adjustment of approximately $116 to cost of sales was needed to reflect certain non-monetary assets at their net realizable value, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2014. We recognized an additional negative impact of approximately $21 to operating profit and net income relating to these non-monetary assets in the second, third and fourth quarters of 2014. In addition to the negative impact to operating margin, we recorded an after-tax loss of approximately $42 (approximately $54 in other expense, net, and a benefit of approximately $12 in income taxes) in the first quarter of 2014, primarily reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities. In February 2015, the Venezuelan government announced that the SICAD II market would no longer be available, and a new open market foreign exchange system ("SIMADI") was created. In February 2015, the SIMADI exchange rate was approximately 170. We believe that significant uncertainty exists regarding the foreign exchange mechanisms in Venezuela, as well as how any such mechanisms will operate in the future and the availability of U.S. dollars under each mechanism. We are still evaluating our future access to funds through the SIMADI or other similar markets. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for further discussion of Venezuela.
In December 2014, the Company settled charges of violations of the books and records and internal control provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA") with U.S. Department of Justice (the "DOJ") and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). This included the $68 fine related to Avon China paid in December 2014 in connection with the DOJ settlement, and $67 in disgorgement and prejudgment interest related to Avon Products, Inc. paid to the SEC in January 2015, both of which had been previously accrued for before December 31, 2014. In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company also recorded a net tax benefit of approximately $19 related to the finalization of the FCPA settlements. See Risk Factors on pages 10 through 11 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-21 through F-25 of our 2014 Annual Report, and Note 15, Contingencies on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 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 2014 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 a measure of Representative activity based on the number of unique Representatives submitting at least one order in a sales campaign, totaled for all campaigns in the related period. To determine the change in Active Representatives, this calculation is compared to the same calculation in the corresponding period of the prior year. Orders in China are excluded from this metric as our business in China is predominantly retail. Liz Earle is also excluded from this calculation as they do not distribute through the direct-selling channel.
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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. |
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Change in Average Order | | This metric is a measure of Representative productivity. The calculation is the difference of the year-over-year change in revenue on a Constant $ basis and the Change in Active Representatives. Change in Average Order may be impacted by a combination of factors such as inflation, units, product mix, and/or pricing. |
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. Foreign 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 devaluations of Venezuelan currency in March 2014 and 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 recorded in 2013 for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations and the additional $46 accrual recorded in the first quarter of 2014 for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations, and the associated approximate $19 net tax benefit recorded in the fourth quarter of 2014 ("FCPA accrual"), 4) the settlement charges associated with the U.S. pension plan ("Pension settlement charge"), 5) 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 Service Model Transformation ("SMT") project ("Asset impairment and other charges"), 6) costs and charges related to the extinguishment of debt ("Loss on extinguishment of debt"), and 7) the non-cash income tax charge associated with our deferred tax assets recorded in 2014, and the additional provision recorded in 2012 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. 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.
The Venezuelan special items include the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income in 2014 and 2013 caused by the devaluations 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 inventories. For non-monetary assets, the Venezuelan special items include the earnings impact caused by the difference between the historical U.S. dollar cost of the assets at the previous exchange rate and the revised exchange rate. In 2014, the Venezuelan special items also include an adjustment of $116 to reflect certain non-monetary assets at their net realizable value. In 2013, the devaluation was as a result of the change in the official exchange rate, which moved from 4.30 to 6.30, and in 2014, the devaluation was caused as a result of moving from the official exchange rate of 6.30 to the SICAD II exchange rate of approximately 50. 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 Pension settlement charge includes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income in the second, third and fourth quarters of 2014 associated with the payments made to former employees who are vested and participate in the U.S. pension plan. Such payments fully settle our pension plan obligation to those participants who elected to receive such payment.
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 in "Liquidity and Capital Resources"), 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 in "Liquidity and Capital Resources"). 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 in "Liquidity and Capital Resources").
The Special tax items include the impact during 2014 on the provision for income taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Income due to a non-cash income tax charge primarily associated with a valuation allowance to reduce our U.S. deferred tax assets to an amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized. This valuation allowance was primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against currencies of some of our key markets and, to a lesser extent, the finalization of the FCPA settlements. The Special tax items also 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 14, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-41 through F-45 of our 2014 Annual Report, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" below, "Segment Review - Latin America" below, Note 15, Contingencies on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 16, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2014 Annual Report, Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-17 through F-20 of our 2014 Annual Report, "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below and Note 7, Income Taxes on pages F-21 through F-25 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on these items.
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 2014 Annual Report for a detailed discussion of the application of these and other accounting policies.
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 of 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 $193 in 2014, $239 in 2013 and $251 in 2012, 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.
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 $298 for 2014, $340 for 2013 and $386 for 2012, or approximately 3% 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.
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 $101 in 2014, $117 in 2013 and $119 in 2012.
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. However, our U.S. defined benefit pension plan has been closed to employees hired on or after January 1, 2015. 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 many retired employees in the U.S. and certain foreign countries. See Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 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, which are generally reviewed and determined on an annual basis. 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, the rate of compensation increase of plan participants and mortality rates. We use a December 31 measurement date for all of our employee benefit plans.
For 2014, the weighted average assumed rate of return on all pension plan assets, including the U.S. and non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans was 6.86%, compared with 7.19% for 2013. 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.
Beginning in 2014, we have adopted an investment strategy for the U.S. defined benefit pension plan which is designed to match the movements in the pension liability through an increased allocation towards debt securities. In addition, we also have begun to utilize derivative instruments to achieve the desired market exposures or to hedge certain risks. Derivative instruments may include, but are not limited to, futures, options, swaps or swaptions. Investment types, including the use of derivatives are based on written guidelines established for each investment manager and monitored by the plan's management team. In 2015, similar investment strategies are expected to be implemented in some of our non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans.
A significant portion of our pension plan assets relate to the U.S. defined benefit pension plan. The assumed rate of return for 2014 for the U.S. defined benefit pension plan was 7.50%, which was based on an asset allocation of approximately 70% in corporate and government bonds and mortgage-backed securities (which are expected to earn approximately 2% to 3% in the long term) and approximately 30% in equity securities and high yield securities (which are expected to earn approximately 6% to 9% in the long term). In addition to the physical assets, the asset portfolio has derivative instruments which increase our exposure to higher yielding securities. Historical rates of return on the assets of the U.S. defined benefit pension plan were approximately 8% for the most recent 10-year period and approximately 9% for the 20-year period. In the U.S. defined benefit pension plan, our asset allocation policy has historically favored U.S. equity securities, which have returned approximately 8%
over the 10-year period and approximately 10% over the 20-year period. The rate of return on the plan assets in the U.S. was approximately 11% in 2014 and approximately 13% in 2013.
Regulations under the U.S. 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. defined benefit pension 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. defined benefit pension plans determined on this basis was 3.55% at December 31, 2014, and 4.56% at December 31, 2013. For the determination of the expected rate of return on assets and the discount rate, we take external actuarial advice into consideration.
Our funding requirements may be impacted by standards and 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 participants and certain demographics 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, 2014, we had pretax actuarial losses and prior service credits totaling $377 for the U.S. defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and $341 for the non-U.S. defined benefit 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 2015, our assumption for the expected rate of return on assets is 7.25% for our U.S. defined benefit pension plan and 6.55% for our non-U.S. defined benefit 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 2014 pension expense and the pension benefit obligation at December 31, 2014:
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| | 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 | | $ | (5.8 | ) | | $ | 5.8 |
| | N/A |
| | N/A |
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Discount rate | | (9.8 | ) | | 10.0 |
| | $ | (120.0 | ) | | $ | 129.9 |
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Rate of compensation increase | | 1.5 |
| | (1.5 | ) | | 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
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.
At December 31, 2014, we had net deferred tax assets of $858 (net of valuation allowances of $1,209).
With respect to our deferred tax assets, at December 31, 2014, we had recognized deferred tax assets relating to tax loss carryforwards of $726, primarily from foreign jurisdictions, for which a valuation allowance of $718 has been provided. Prior
to December 31, 2014, we had recognized deferred tax assets of $618 relating to excess U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards of which $57, $44, $54, $124, $79, $225 and $35 expire at the end of 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, respectively. We have a history of domestic source losses, and our excess U.S. 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 realize our U.S. deferred tax assets, such as our foreign tax credit carryforwards, is dependent on future U.S. taxable income within the carryforward period. At December 31, 2014, we would need to generate approximately $1.8 billion of excess net foreign source income in order to realize the U.S. foreign tax credits before they expire. In the assessment of our deferred tax asset position, we have relied on tax planning strategies that would, if necessary, be implemented to accelerate sufficient taxable amounts to utilize our excess foreign tax credits.
During the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company’s expected net foreign source income was reduced significantly, primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against currencies for some of our key markets and, to a lesser extent, the finalization of the FCPA settlements. This strengthening of the U.S. dollar reduced the expected dividends and royalties that could be remitted to the U.S. by our foreign subsidiaries, particularly Russia, Brazil, Mexico and Colombia. The effectiveness of our tax planning strategies, including the repatriation of foreign earnings and the acceleration of royalties from our foreign subsidiaries, was also negatively impacted by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar. In addition, the finalization of the FCPA settlements, which included a $68 fine related to Avon China in connection with the DOJ settlement and $67 in disgorgement and prejudgment interest related to Avon Products, Inc. in connection with the SEC settlement, negatively impacted expected future repatriation of foreign earnings and reduced current U.S. taxable income, respectively. As a result of these developments, we may not generate sufficient taxable income to realize all of our U.S. deferred tax assets. As such, we recorded a valuation allowance of $441 to reduce our U.S. deferred tax assets to an amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized, of which $367 was recorded to income taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Income and the remainder was recorded to various components of other comprehensive (loss) income.
To the extent that U.S. taxable income is less favorable than currently projected (including the impact of foreign currency), we may be required to recognize additional valuation allowances on our U.S. deferred tax assets. Our projected U.S. taxable income includes assumptions regarding our 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.
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, 2014, we continue to assert that our foreign earnings are not indefinitely reinvested, as a result of our domestic liquidity profile. Accordingly, we adjusted our deferred tax liability to account for our 2014 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 2013. The net impact on the deferred tax liability associated with the Company’s undistributed earnings is a reduction of $129, resulting in a deferred tax liability balance of $14 related to the incremental tax cost on $1.9 billion of undistributed foreign earnings at December 31, 2014. 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 2015, 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 2015 provision for income taxes may be impacted.
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 2014 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 2014 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. As part of our goodwill impairment analysis, we typically 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.
China
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.
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.
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 estimated 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 16, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2014 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.
Key assumptions used in measuring the fair value of Silpada during this impairment assessment included the discount rate (based on the estimated 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 charge in 2012 associated with Silpada is 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-16 through F-17 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on Silpada.
Results Of Operations - Consolidated
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Years ended December 31 | | %/Point Change |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2014 vs. 2013 | | 2013 vs. 2012 |
Total revenue | | $ | 8,851.4 |
| | $ | 9,955.0 |
| | $ | 10,561.4 |
| | (11 | )% | | (6 | )% |
Cost of sales | | 3,499.3 |
| | 3,772.5 |
| | 4,103.1 |
| | (7 | )% | | (8 | )% |
Selling, general and administrative expenses | | 4,952.0 |
| | 5,713.2 |
| | 5,889.3 |
| | (13 | )% | | (3 | )% |
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets | | — |
| | 42.1 |
| | 44.0 |
| | * | | (4 | )% |
Operating profit | | 400.1 |
| | 427.2 |
| | 525.0 |
| | (6 | )% | | (19 | )% |
Interest expense | | 111.1 |
| | 120.6 |
| | 104.3 |
| | (8 | )% | | 16 | % |
Loss on extinguishment of debt | | — |
| | 86.0 |
| | — |
| | * | | * |
Interest income | | (14.8 | ) | | (25.9 | ) | | (15.1 | ) | | (43 | )% | | 72 | % |
Other expense, net | | 139.6 |
| | 83.9 |
| | 7.1 |
| | 66 | % | | * |
(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax | | (384.9 | ) | | (1.0 | ) | | 93.3 |
| | * | | * |
Net loss attributable to Avon | | $ | (388.6 | ) | | $ | (56.4 | ) | | $ | (42.5 | ) | | * | | (33 | )% |
Diluted (loss) earnings per share from continuing operations | | $ | (.88 | ) | | $ | (.01 | ) | | $ | .20 |
| | * | | * |
Diluted loss per share attributable to Avon | | $ | (.88 | ) | | $ | (.13 | ) | | $ | (.10 | ) | | * | | (30 | )% |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Advertising expenses(1) | | $ | 177.1 |
| | $ | 201.9 |
| | $ | 251.3 |
| | (12 | )% | | (20 | )% |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Gross margin | | 60.5 | % | | 62.1 | % | | 61.2 | % | | (1.6 | ) | | .9 |
|
CTI restructuring | | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
| | — |
|
Venezuelan special items | | 1.4 |
| | .4 |
| | — |
| | 1.0 |
| | .4 |
|
Adjusted gross margin | | 61.8 | % | | 62.5 | % | | 61.2 | % | | (.7 | ) | | 1.3 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Selling, general and administrative expenses as a % of total revenue | | 55.9 | % | | 57.4 | % | | 55.8 | % | | (1.5 | ) | | 1.6 |
|
CTI restructuring | | (1.3 | ) | | (.7 | ) | | (1.1 | ) | | (.6 | ) | | .4 |
|
Venezuelan special items | | (.2 | ) | | (.1 | ) | | — |
| | (.1 | ) | | (.1 | ) |
FCPA accrual | | (.5 | ) | | (.9 | ) | | — |
| | .4 |
| | (.9 | ) |
Pension settlement charge | | (.4 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (.4 | ) | | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges | | — |
| | (1.2 | ) | | — |
| | 1.2 |
| | (1.2 | ) |
Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses as a % of total revenue | | 53.5 | % | | 54.6 | % | | 54.6 | % | | (1.1 | ) | | — |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating profit | | $ | 400.1 |
| | $ | 427.2 |
| | $ | 525.0 |
| | (6 | )% | | (19 | )% |
CTI restructuring | | 114.2 |
| | 65.9 |
| | 124.7 |
| | | | |
Venezuelan special items | | 137.1 |
| | 49.6 |
| | — |
| | | | |
FCPA accrual | | 46.0 |
| | 89.0 |
| | — |
| | | | |
Pension settlement charge | | 36.4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | | | |
Asset impairment and other charges | | — |
| | 159.3 |
| | 44.0 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 733.8 |
| | $ | 791.0 |
| | $ | 693.7 |
| | (7 | )% | | 14 | % |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 4.5 | % | | 4.3 | % | | 5.0 | % | | .2 |
| | (.7 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | 1.3 |
| | .7 |
| | 1.2 |
| | .6 |
| | (.5 | ) |
Venezuelan special items | | 1.5 |
| | .5 |
| | — |
| | 1.0 |
| | .5 |
|
FCPA accrual | | .5 |
| | .9 |
| | — |
| | (.4 | ) | | .9 |
|
Pension settlement charge | | .4 |
| | — |
| | — |
| | .4 |
| | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges | | — |
| | 1.6 |
| | .4 |
| | (1.6 | ) | | 1.2 |
|
Adjusted operating margin | | 8.3 | % | | 7.9 | % | | 6.6 | % | | .4 |
| | 1.3 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
Change in Constant $ Adjusted operating margin(2) | | | | | | | | 1.1 |
| | 1.5 |
|
| | | | | | | | | | |
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Years ended December 31 | | %/Point Change |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 | | 2014 vs. 2013 | | 2013 vs. 2012 |
Effective tax rate | | 334.4 | % | | 100.6 | % | | 78.2 | % | | 233.8 |
| | 22.4 |
|
CTI restructuring | | (3.0 | ) | | .8 |
| | (.4 | ) | | (3.8 | ) | | 1.2 |
|
Venezuelan special items | | (43.8 | ) | | (27.1 | ) | | .1 |
| | (16.7 | ) | | (27.2 | ) |
FCPA accrual | | (.3 | ) | | (6.2 | ) | | — |
| | 5.9 |
| | (6.2 | ) |
Pension settlement charge | | (.7 | ) | | — |
| | — |
| | (.7 | ) | | — |
|
Asset impairment and other charges | | — |
| | (39.0 | ) | | (3.6 | ) | | 39.0 |
| | (35.4 | ) |
Loss on extinguishment of debt | | — |
| | 1.2 |
| | — |
| | (1.2 | ) | | 1.2 |
|
Special tax items | | (246.6 | ) | | — |
| | (39.3 | ) | | (246.6 | ) | | 39.3 |
|
Adjusted effective tax rate | | 39.9 | % | | 30.3 | % | | 35.0 | % | | 9.6 |
| | (4.7 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | (5 | )% | | (2 | )% |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | (5 | )% | | (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. |
| |
(2) | Change in Constant $ Adjusted operating margin for all years presented is calculated using the current-year Constant $ rates. |
2014 Compared to 2013
Revenue
Total revenue in 2014 compared to 2013 declined 11% compared to the prior-year period, due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Constant $ revenue was relatively unchanged, and benefited by approximately 1 point due to the net impact of certain tax benefits in Brazil. In 2014 and 2013, we recognized tax credits in Brazil of approximately $85 and approximately $29, respectively, primarily associated with a change in estimate of expected recoveries of Value Added Tax ("VAT"). Constant $ revenue was negatively impacted by a 5% decrease in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order. Units sold decreased 5% while the net impact of price and mix increased 5%, as pricing benefited from inflationary impacts in Latin America, primarily in Argentina and Venezuela. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of the tax benefits in Brazil.
On a category basis, our net sales and associated growth rates were as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Years ended December 31 | | %/Point Change |
| 2014 | | 2013 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Beauty: | | | | | | | |
Skincare | $ | 2,588.5 |
| | $ | 2,924.6 |
| | (11 | )% | | (1 | )% |
Fragrance | 2,121.0 |
| | 2,380.9 |
| | (11 | ) | | 3 |
|
Color | 1,559.6 |
| | 1,797.7 |
| | (13 | ) | | (2 | ) |
Total Beauty | 6,269.1 |
| | 7,103.2 |
| | (12 | ) | | — |
|
Fashion & Home: | | | | | | | |
Fashion | 1,407.6 |
| | 1,623.5 |
| | (13 | ) | | (6 | ) |
Home | 939.2 |
| | 1,037.7 |
| | (9 | ) | | 4 |
|
Total Fashion & Home | 2,346.8 |
| | 2,661.2 |
| | (12 | ) | | (2 | ) |
Net sales | $ | 8,615.9 |
| | $ | 9,764.4 |
| | (12 | ) | | (1 | ) |
During 2014, our Constant $ revenue was impacted by net declines in North America and to a lesser extent, Asia Pacific, which were partially offset by net growth in Latin America and Europe, Middle East & Africa. North America continued to experience year-over-year revenue declines, driven by a decrease in Active Representatives. Constant $ revenue growth in Latin America was primarily driven by Venezuela largely due to inflationary pricing, which was partially offset by declines in Mexico. Constant $ revenue growth in Europe, Middle East & Africa was driven by South Africa and the United Kingdom, which was partially offset by revenue declines in Russia and Turkey. Constant $ revenue in Russia was negatively impacted by a difficult economy, including the impact of geopolitical uncertainties, and its decline in the first half of 2014 was partially offset by Constant $ revenue growth in the second half of 2014 driven by actions to improve unit sales. In Asia Pacific, Constant $
revenue declined as compared to 2013 as growth in the Philippines was more than offset by declines in the other Asia Pacific markets. 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 increased 20 basis points and 40 basis points, respectively, compared to 2013. The increase in Adjusted operating margin includes the benefits associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, primarily reductions in headcount, as well as other cost reductions. The increase 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 Assets."
Gross Margin
Gross margin and Adjusted gross margin decreased by 160 basis points and 70 basis points, respectively, compared to 2013. The gross margin comparison was largely impacted by an adjustment of approximately $116 associated with our Venezuela operations to reflect certain non-monetary assets at their net realizable value, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2014. Partially offsetting the decrease in gross margin was a lower negative impact of the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting, as approximately $5 was recognized in the current-year period as compared to approximately $45 in the prior-year period associated with carrying certain non-monetary assets at the historical U.S. dollar cost following a devaluation. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of Venezuela.
The decrease of 70 basis points in Adjusted gross margin was primarily due to the following:
| |
• | a decrease of approximately 130 basis points due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency transaction losses and foreign currency translation, driven by Europe, Middle East & Africa and Latin America; and |
| |
• | an increase of 80 basis points due to the favorable net impact of mix and pricing, primarily in Latin America, which includes the realization of price increases in markets experiencing relatively high inflation (Venezuela and Argentina). |
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses for 2014 decreased approximately $761 compared to 2013. This decrease is primarily due to the favorable impact of foreign currency translation, as the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against many of our foreign currencies resulted in lower reported selling, general and administrative expenses. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses is also due to a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $117 for capitalized software related to SMT recorded in 2013 that did not recur in 2014, the $89 accrual for the settlements relating to the FCPA investigations recorded in 2013, lower expenses related to our SMT project as a result of our decision to halt the further roll-out beyond the pilot market of Canada in the fourth quarter of 2013, lower fixed expenses primarily resulting from our cost savings initiatives, lower net brochure costs, lower Representative and sales leader expense, lower bad debt expense and lower professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigation and compliance reviews. Partially offsetting the decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses was a higher amount of CTI restructuring primarily associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative, the additional $46 accrual recorded in the first quarter of 2014 for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations and the approximate $36 aggregate settlement charges recorded in 2014 associated with the payments made to former employees who are vested and participate in the U.S. pension plan.
Selling, general and administrative expenses and Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased 150 basis points and 110 basis points, respectively, compared to 2013. Selling general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue was impacted by a higher amount of CTI restructuring as compared to the prior-year period. Additionally, in the current-year period, selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue was impacted by the additional $46 accrual recorded in the first quarter of 2014 for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations, the approximate $36 aggregate settlement charges recorded in 2014 associated with the payments made to former employees who are vested and participate in the U.S. pension plan, and approximately $16 associated with our Venezuela operations for certain non-monetary assets carried at the historical U.S. dollar cost following a devaluation. In the prior-year period, selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue was impacted by a non-cash impairment charge of $117 for capitalized software related to SMT, the $89 accrual for the settlements relating to the FCPA investigations and $5 associated with our Venezuela operations for certain non-monetary assets carried at the historical U.S. dollar cost following a devaluation.
See Note 14, Restructuring Initiatives, on pages F-41 through F-45 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on SMT, Note 15, Contingencies on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on the FCPA investigations, "Segment Review - Global and Other Expenses" in this
MD&A and Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 Annual Report for a further discussion of the pension settlement charges and "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of Venezuela.
The decrease of 110 basis points in Adjusted selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to the following:
| |
• | a decrease of 50 basis points from lower expenses related to our SMT project as a result of our decision to halt the further roll-out beyond the pilot market of Canada in the fourth quarter of 2013; |
| |
• | a decrease of 40 points due to lower fixed expenses primarily resulting from our cost savings initiatives, mainly reductions in headcount that were associated with the $400M Cost Savings Initiative; |
| |
• | a decrease of 30 basis points as a result of the net impact of the incremental tax credits in Brazil recognized as revenue in 2014 and 2013; |
| |
• | a decrease of 30 basis points from lower net brochure costs, primarily in North America and Latin America; |
| |
• | a decrease of 30 basis points from lower Representative and sales leader expense, primarily in North America and Latin America; |
| |
• | a decrease of 30 basis points from lower bad debt expense; and |
| |
• | a decrease of 20 basis points from lower professional and related fees associated with the FCPA investigation and compliance reviews. |
These items were partially offset by the following:
| |
• | an increase of approximately 90 basis points due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation and foreign currency transaction losses. |
See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of the tax benefits in Brazil.
Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets
During the third quarter of 2013, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $42 for goodwill and intangible assets associated with our China business. See Note 16, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on China.
See “Segment Review” in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in operating margin by segment.
Other Expense
Interest expense decreased by 8% compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to lower outstanding debt balances partially offset by higher average interest rates.
Loss on extinguishment of debt in 2013 is comprised of approximately $71 for the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the prepayment of our Private Notes (as defined below in "Liquidity and Capital Resources") and approximately $2 for the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the early repayment of the $380 of outstanding principal amount of the term loan agreement (as defined below in "Liquidity and Capital Resources"), 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 approximately $13 for the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs, partially offset by a deferred gain associated with the January 2013 interest-rate swap agreement termination, associated with the prepayment of our 2014 Notes (as defined below in "Liquidity and Capital Resources"). See Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-17 through F-20 of our 2014 Annual Report, and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in this MD&A for more information.
Interest income decreased by approximately $11 compared to the prior-year period, primarily impacted by $12 for interest income that benefited the fourth quarter of 2013, due to an out-of-period adjustment related to judicial deposits in Brazil.
Other expense, net, increased by approximately $56 compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to higher foreign exchange losses. Foreign exchange losses increased by approximately $41 compared to the prior-year period, with the most significant impact due to the weakening of the Russian ruble. In addition, the increase in other expense, net was also due to a more significant impact, approximately $54 in 2014 as compared to approximately $34 in 2013, from the devaluations of the Venezuelan currency on monetary assets and liabilities in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of Venezuela.
Effective Tax Rate
The effective tax rate for 2014 was 334.4%, compared to 100.6% for 2013.
The effective tax rate in 2014 was negatively impacted by a non-cash income tax charge of approximately $405. This was largely due to a valuation allowance, recorded in the fourth quarter of 2014, against deferred tax assets of approximately $384 which is primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against currencies of some of our key markets. The approximate $384 includes the valuation allowance recorded against U.S. deferred tax assets of approximately $367, as well as approximately $17 associated with other foreign subsidiaries. The effective tax rates in 2014 and 2013 were impacted by the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting discussed further within "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A. The effective tax rate in 2013 was also negatively impacted by the $89 accrual for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations, the non-cash impairment charges for goodwill and intangible assets associated with our China business of approximately $42, and a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets related to China in the third quarter of approximately $9 and Venezuela in the fourth quarter of approximately $42.
The Adjusted effective tax rate for 2014 was 39.9%, compared to 30.3% for 2013. The higher 2014 Adjusted effective tax rate is primarily due to an adjustment to the carrying value of our state deferred tax balances due to changes in the expected tax rate, valuation allowances for deferred taxes, including the impact of legislative changes, and out-of-period adjustments of approximately $6 and approximately $6 recorded in the second and fourth quarters of 2014, respectively.
Impact of Foreign Currency
During 2014, foreign currency had a significant impact on our financial results. Specifically, as compared to the prior-year period, foreign currency has impacted our consolidated financial results as a result of:
| |
• | foreign currency transaction losses (within cost of sales, and selling, general and administrative expenses), which had an unfavorable impact to Adjusted operating profit of an estimated $155, or approximately 150 points to Adjusted operating margin; |
| |
• | foreign currency translation, which had an unfavorable impact to Adjusted operating profit of approximately $160, or approximately 70 points to Adjusted operating margin; and |
| |
• | foreign exchange losses (within other expense, net), which had an unfavorable impact of approximately $41 before tax. |
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, our net sales and associated growth rates were as follows: |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Years ended December 31 | | %/Point Change |
| 2013 | | 2012 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Beauty: | | | | | | | |
Skincare | $ | 2,924.6 |
| | $ | 3,238.7 |
| | (10 | )% | | (8 | )% |
Fragrance | 2,380.9 |
| | 2,487.2 |
| | (4 | ) | | 2 |
|
Color | 1,797.7 |
| | 1,916.8 |
| | (6 | ) | | (1 | ) |
Total Beauty | 7,103.2 |
| | 7,642.7 |
| | (7 | ) | | (2 | ) |
Fashion & Home: | | | | | | | |
Fashion | 1,623.5 |
| | 1,750.9 |
| | (7 | ) | | (4 | ) |
Home | 1,037.7 |
| | 1,011.7 |
| | 3 |
| | 9 |
|
Total Fashion & Home | 2,661.2 |
| | 2,762.6 |
| | (4 | ) | | 1 |
|
Net sales | $ | 9,764.4 |
| | $ | 10,405.3 |
| | (6 | ) | | (1 | ) |
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 Assets."
Gross Margin
Gross margin and Adjusted gross margin increased by 90 basis points and 130 basis points, respectively, compared to 2012. The gross margin comparison was largely impacted by the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting, as approximately $45 was recognized in 2013 associated with carrying certain non-monetary assets at the historical U.S. dollar cost following a devaluation. See "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of Venezuela.
The increase of 130 basis points 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 currency transaction losses and foreign currency translation; 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 approximately $176 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, lower CTI restructuring, and lower advertising costs, partially offset by a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $117 for capitalized software related to SMT, which was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2013, the $89 accrual for the settlements related to the FCPA investigations and higher distribution costs.
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. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue in 2013 was impacted by a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $117 for capitalized software related to SMT, the $89 accrual for the settlements relating to the FCPA investigations and approximately $5 associated with our Venezuela operations for certain non-monetary assets carried at the historical U.S. dollar cost following a devaluation, partially offset by lower CTI restructuring.
See Note 14, Restructuring Initiatives, on pages F-41 through F-45 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-9 through F-15 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on SMT, Note 15, Contingencies on pages F-45 through F-47 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on the FCPA investigations and "Segment Review - Latin America" in this MD&A for a further discussion of Venezuela.
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 from 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 currency translation and foreign currency transaction losses; |
| |
• | 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 Assets
During the third quarter of 2013, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $42 for goodwill and intangible assets, as compared to a non-cash impairment charge of approximately $44 in the third quarter of 2012 for goodwill, both associated with our China business. See Note 16, Goodwill and Intangible Assets on pages F-47 through F-49 of our 2014 Annual Report for more information on China.
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 approximately $71 for the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs associated with the prepayment of our Private Notes (as defined below in "Liquidity and Capital Resources") and approximately $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 (as defined below in "Liquidity and Capital Resources"), 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 approximately $13 for the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs, partially offset by a deferred gain associated with the January 2013 interest-rate swap agreement termination, associated with the prepayment of our 2014 Notes (as defined below in "Liquidity and Capital Resources"). See Note 5, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-17 through F-20 of our 2014 Annual Report, and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in this MD&A for more information.
Interest income increased by approximately $11 compared to the prior-year period, primarily impacted by the benefit of approximately $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 by approximately $77 compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to an approximate $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 approximately $24 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 Venezuela.
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 approximately $168 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.
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 approximately $42. 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 accrual for the 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 approximately $9 and Venezuela in the fourth quarter of approximately $42. 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.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes was approximately ($348) in 2014 compared with approximately $5 in 2013, primarily due to net actuarial losses of approximately $187 in 2014 as compared with net actuarial gains of approximately $81 in 2013. In 2014, net actuarial losses were negatively impacted by lower discount rates for the non-U.S. and U.S. pension plans and updated mortality rates for the U.S. pension plan, partially offset by higher asset returns in the non-U.S. and U.S. pension plans in 2014 as compared to 2013. The other comprehensive income (loss) year-over-year comparison was also unfavorably impacted by foreign currency translation adjustments, as well as higher amortization of net actuarial loss which was driven by the settlement charges associated with the U.S. pension plan. In 2014, foreign currency translation adjustments were negatively impacted by approximately $136 as compared to 2013 primarily due to unfavorable movements of the Polish zloty, the British pound, the Colombian peso and the Mexican peso.
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes was approximately $5 in 2013 compared with approximately ($22) in 2012, primarily due to net actuarial gains of approximately $81 in 2013 as compared with net actuarial losses of approximately $58 in 2012. 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 approximately $113 as compared to 2012 primarily due to unfavorable movements of the Colombian peso, the Polish zloty and the Mexican peso.
See Note 11, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-31 through F-39 of our 2014 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, 2014.
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Years ended December 31 | | 2014 | | 2013 | | 2012 |
| | Total Revenue | | Operating Profit (Loss) | | Total Revenue | | Operating Profit (Loss) | | Total Revenue | | Operating Profit (Loss) |
Latin America | | $ | 4,239.5 |
| | $ | 279.8 |
| | $ | 4,840.5 |
| | $ | 478.6 |
| | $ | 4,993.7 |
| | $ | 443.9 |
|
Europe, Middle East & Africa | | 2,705.8 |
| | 300.9 |
| | 2,898.4 |
| | 406.7 |
| | 2,914.2 |
| | 312.8 |
|
North America | | 1,203.4 |
| | (72.5 | ) | | 1,458.2 |
| | (60.1 | ) | | 1,751.1 |
| | (4.7 | ) |
Asia Pacific | | 702.7 |
| | 20.9 |
| | 757.9 |
| | (12.1 | ) | | 902.4 |
| | 5.1 |
|
Total from operations | | 8,851.4 |
| | 529.1 |
| | 9,955.0 |
| | 813.1 |
| | 10,561.4 |
| | 757.1 |
|
Global and other expenses | | — |
| | (129.0 | ) | | — |
| | (385.9 | ) | | — |
| | (232.1 | ) |
Total | | $ | 8,851.4 |
| | $ | 400.1 |
| | $ | 9,955.0 |
| | $ | 427.2 |
| | $ | 10,561.4 |
| | $ | 525.0 |
|
Latin America – 2014 Compared to 2013
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 4,239.5 |
| | $ | 4,840.5 |
| | (12 | )% | | 5 | % |
Operating profit | | 279.8 |
| | 478.6 |
| | (42 | )% | | — | % |
CTI restructuring | | 26.7 |
| | 8.4 |
| | | | |
Venezuelan special items | | 137.1 |
| | 49.6 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 443.6 |
| | $ | 536.6 |
| | (17 | )% | | 6 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 6.6 | % | | 9.9 | % | | (3.3 | ) | | (.5 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | .6 |
| | .2 |
| | | | |
Venezuelan special items | | 3.2 |
| | 1.0 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | 10.5 | % | | 11.1 | % | | (.6 | ) | | .1 |
|
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | (4 | )% |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | (4 | )% |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
Total revenue decreased 12% compared to the prior-year period due to the unfavorable impact from foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, revenue grew 5%. The region's revenue growth benefited by approximately 1 point due to the net impact of certain tax benefits in Brazil. In addition, higher average order was partially offset by a decrease in Active Representatives. Average order benefited from pricing, including inflationary impacts, primarily in Venezuela. Revenue in Venezuela and Mexico declined 55% and 9%, respectively, which were unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange, and Constant $ revenue in Venezuela and Mexico increased 45% and declined 6%, respectively. Revenue in Brazil declined 5%, which was unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange, and Constant $ revenue in Brazil increased 3%. Brazil's revenue benefited by approximately 3 points as a result of the net impact of certain tax benefits.
In 2014, our Constant $ revenue growth and Constant $ operating profit growth were not impacted by the use of the SICAD II exchange rate as we applied the exchange rate of 6.30 to current and prior periods for our Venezuela operations in order to determine Constant $ growth. If we had used an exchange rate of 50 (which is a rate more reflective of the SICAD II rate) for our Venezuela operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, the region's Constant $ revenue would have been an increase of 1% from the prior-year period, the region's Constant $ Adjusted operating margin would have been a decrease of .8 points from the prior-year period, and Avon's consolidated Constant $ revenue decline would have been a decrease of 2% from the prior-year period. As we update our Constant $ rates on an annual basis, we will utilize a rate of approximately 50 in our Constant $ financial performance beginning with our 2015 results. See below for further discussion regarding the impact of the Venezuelan currency devaluation.
Brazil's Constant $ revenue benefited by approximately 3 points due to the net benefit of larger tax credits recognized in 2014 as compared to the benefit and tax credits recognized in 2013. In 2014 and 2013, we recognized tax credits in Brazil of approximately $85 and approximately $29, respectively, primarily associated with a change in estimate of expected recoveries of VAT. Of the VAT credits recognized in 2014, approximately $13 were out-of-period adjustments. As the tax credits are associated with VAT, which is recorded as a reduction to revenue, the benefit from these VAT credits is recognized as revenue. Brazil's Active Representatives and average order were relatively unchanged from the prior-year period. On a Constant $ basis, Brazil’s sales from both Beauty and Fashion & Home products were relatively unchanged.
Mexico's Constant $ revenue decline was primarily due to a decrease in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order. Constant $ revenue growth in Venezuela was primarily due to higher average order, partially offset by a decrease in Active Representatives. Venezuela's average order benefited from the inflationary impact on pricing that was partially offset by a decrease in units sold. Venezuela's Active Representatives and units sold were negatively impacted by the reduced size of our product offering, primarily the result of our increased difficulty to import products and raw materials. Additional information on our Venezuela operations is discussed in more detail below.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by 2.2 points as compared to the prior-year period due to a larger impact in 2014 of the Venezuelan special items in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting as discussed further below. Operating margin was also negatively impacted by .4 points as compared to the prior-year period from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin decreased .6 points, or increased .1 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of:
| |
• | a benefit of 1.1 points from lower Representative, sales leader and field expense, which was primarily attributable to a shift towards more cost-effective incentives; |
| |
• | a benefit of 1.0 point associated with the net impact of the incremental tax credits in Brazil recognized as revenue in 2014 and 2013, discussed above; |
| |
• | a benefit of .3 points from lower net brochure costs, driven by Venezuela as a result of cost savings initiatives; |
| |
• | a decline of .8 points due to lower gross margin caused primarily by 1.4 points from the unfavorable impact of foreign currency transaction losses, primarily in Venezuela, and .9 points from higher supply chain costs, which was driven by higher obsolescence primarily in Venezuela and Brazil. These items were partially offset by 1.8 points from the favorable net impact of mix and pricing. Benefits from pricing include the realization of price increases in markets experiencing relatively high inflation (Venezuela and Argentina) on inventory acquired in advance of such inflation; |
| |
• | a decline of .8 points from higher distribution expenses, driven by inflation in Venezuela and Argentina and other cost pressures in the region; and |
| |
• | a decline of .7 points from higher administrative expenses, partially driven by inflationary costs, and increased legal expenses associated with labor and civil related matters in Brazil. |
We expect the environment in Latin America to continue to be challenging in the near term with a weak economy and high levels of competition.
Venezuela Discussion
Currency restrictions enacted by the Venezuelan government since 2003 have impacted the ability of Avon Venezuela to obtain foreign currency at the official rate to pay for imported products. Since 2010, we have been accounting for our operations in Venezuela under accounting guidance associated with highly inflationary economies. Under U.S. GAAP, the financial statements of a foreign entity operating in a highly inflationary economy are required to be remeasured as if the functional currency is the company’s reporting currency, the U.S. dollar. This generally results in translation adjustments, caused by changes in the exchange rate, being reported in earnings currently for monetary assets (e.g., cash, accounts receivable) and liabilities (e.g., accounts payable, accrued expenses) and requires that different procedures be used to translate non-monetary assets (e.g., inventories, fixed assets). Non-monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured at the historical U.S. dollar cost basis. This diverges significantly from the application of accounting rules prior to designation as highly inflationary accounting, where such gains and losses would have been recognized only in other comprehensive income (shareholders' equity).
With respect to our 2013 results, effective February 13, 2013, the official exchange rate moved from 4.30 to 6.30, a devaluation of approximately 32%. As a result of the change in the official rate to 6.30, we recorded an after-tax loss of approximately $51 (approximately $34 in other expense, net, and approximately $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 historical U.S. 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 historical U.S. dollar value. As a result of using the historical U.S. dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventories, acquired prior to the devaluation, 2013 operating profit and net income were negatively impacted by approximately $45, due to the difference between the historical U.S. dollar 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 2013.
In March 2013, the Venezuelan government announced a foreign exchange system ("SICAD I") that increased government control over the allocation of U.S. dollars in the country. The availability of U.S. dollars under the SICAD I market for Avon has been limited to-date. At December 31, 2014, the SICAD I rate was approximately 12.
In February 2014, the Venezuelan government announced a foreign exchange system ("SICAD II") which began operating on March 24, 2014. The Venezuelan government had indicated that all companies incorporated or domiciled in Venezuela in all sectors will be allowed to obtain U.S. dollars through the SICAD II market. The exchange rates established through the SICAD II market fluctuated daily and were significantly higher than both the official rate and SICAD I rate. In April 2014, we began to access the SICAD II market and were able to obtain only limited U.S. dollars. While liquidity was limited through the SICAD II market, in comparison to the other available exchange rates (the official rate and SICAD I rate), it represented the rate which better reflected the economics of Avon Venezuela's business activity. Accordingly, we concluded that we should utilize the SICAD II exchange rate to remeasure our Venezuelan operations effective March 31, 2014.
In February 2015, the Venezuelan government announced that the SICAD II market would no longer be available, and a new open market foreign exchange system ("SIMADI") was created. In February 2015, the SIMADI exchange rate was approximately 170. We believe that significant uncertainty exists regarding the foreign exchange mechanisms in Venezuela, as well as how any such mechanisms will operate in the future and the availability of U.S. dollars under each mechanism. We are still evaluating our future access to funds through the SIMADI or other similar markets.
At March 31, 2014, the SICAD II exchange rate was approximately 50, as compared to the official exchange rate of 6.30 that we used previously, which caused the recognition of a devaluation of approximately 88%. As a result of our change to the
SICAD II rate, we recorded an after-tax loss of approximately $42 (approximately $54 in other expense, net, and a benefit of approximately $12 in income taxes) in the first quarter of 2014, primarily reflecting the write-down of monetary assets and liabilities. At December 31, 2014, the SICAD II exchange rate was approximately 50.
Additionally, certain non-monetary assets are carried at their historical U.S. dollar cost subsequent to the devaluation. As a result of using the historical U.S. dollar cost basis of non-monetary assets, such as inventories, these assets continued to be remeasured, following the change to the SICAD II rate, at the applicable rate at the time of acquisition. As a result, we determined that an adjustment of approximately $116 to cost of sales was needed to reflect certain non-monetary assets at their net realizable value, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2014. We recognized an additional negative impact of approximately $21 to operating profit and net income relating to these non-monetary assets in the second, third and fourth quarters of 2014. In addition, at March 31, 2014, we reviewed Avon Venezuela's long-lived assets to determine whether the carrying amount of the assets were recoverable, and determined that they were. As such, no impairment of Avon Venezuela's long-lived assets was required; however, further devaluations or regulatory actions may impair the carrying value of Avon Venezuela's long-lived assets, which was approximately $107 at December 31, 2014.
At December 31, 2014, we had a net asset position of $100 associated with our operations in Venezuela, which included cash balances of approximately $4, of which approximately $3 was denominated in Bolívares. Of the $100 net asset position, a net liability of approximately $5 was associated with Bolívar-denominated monetary net assets. During 2014, Avon Venezuela (using the 6.30 exchange rate for the first quarter and the SICAD II rate beginning in the second quarter) represented approximately 2% of Avon’s consolidated revenue and 3% of Avon’s consolidated Adjusted operating profit. If we had remeasured Avon Venezuela's income statement at the SICAD II rate of approximately 50 for the entire year ended December 31, 2014, Avon Venezuela would have represented approximately 1% of Avon's consolidated revenue and approximately 1% of Avon's consolidated Adjusted operating profit.
There also could be ongoing impacts primarily related to the remeasurement of Avon Venezuela's financial statements. To illustrate our sensitivity to potential future changes in the foreign exchange rates in Venezuela, if we were to utilize an exchange rate of approximately 170 Bolívares to the U.S. dollar to remeasure our Venezuelan operations as of December 31, 2014 (a devaluation of approximately 70% from the exchange rate of approximately 50), and using 2014 results, Avon's annualized consolidated results would be negatively impacted as follows:
| |
• | 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 1% and annualized consolidated Adjusted operating profit would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 1% prospectively, assuming no operational improvements occurred to offset the negative impact of a further devaluation. |
| |
• | Avon's consolidated Adjusted operating profit during the first twelve months following the devaluation would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 5%, assuming no offsetting operational improvements or any impairment of Avon Venezuela's long-lived assets. The larger negative impact on Adjusted operating profit during the first twelve months as compared to the prospective impact is caused by costs of non-monetary assets, primarily inventories, being carried at their historical U.S. 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. |
| |
• | We would likely incur an immediate benefit of approximately $3 (primarily in other expense, net) associated with the net liability of Bolívar-denominated monetary net assets. |
In 2014, the Venezuelan government also issued a Law on Fair Pricing, establishing a maximum profit margin. During 2014, this law did not have a significant effect on Avon Venezuela's results; however, it is uncertain how this law may be interpreted and enforced in the future.
Argentina Discussion
In late 2011, the Argentine government introduced restrictive foreign 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, 2014, we had a net asset position of approximately $91 associated with our operations in Argentina. During 2014, Avon Argentina represented approximately 4% of Avon’s consolidated revenue and approximately 6% of Avon’s consolidated Adjusted operating profit.
To illustrate our sensitivity to potential future changes in the exchange rate in Argentina, if the exchange rate was devalued by approximately 50% from the average exchange rate of Argentina's 2014 results, and using 2014 results, Avon's annualized consolidated revenues would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 2% and annualized consolidated Adjusted operating profit would likely be negatively impacted by approximately 4% prospectively. This sensitivity analysis was performed assuming no operational improvements occurred to offset the negative impact of a devaluation.
As of December 31, 2014, we did not account for Argentina as a highly inflationary economy. As a result, any potential devaluation would not negatively impact earnings with respect to Argentina's monetary and non-monetary assets.
Latin America – 2013 Compared to 2012
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2013 | | 2012 | | US$ | | 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 |
| | .1 |
| | | | |
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 approximately $22 recognized in the third quarter of 2013 associated with a change in estimate of expected recoveries of 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 above.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by 1.0 point due to the Venezuelan currency devaluation in conjunction with highly inflationary accounting as discussed further above. 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 currency transaction losses; and |
| |
• | a decline of .5 points from higher transportation costs, primarily in Venezuela. |
Europe, Middle East & Africa – 2014 Compared to 2013
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 2,705.8 |
| | $ | 2,898.4 |
| | (7 | )% | | 1 | % |
Operating profit | | 300.9 |
| | 406.7 |
| | (26 | )% | | (18 | )% |
CTI restructuring | | 23.2 |
| | 17.7 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating profit | | $ | 324.1 |
| | $ | 424.4 |
| | (24 | )% | | (16 | )% |
| | | | | | | | |
Operating margin | | 11.1 | % | | 14.0 | % | | (2.9 | ) | | (2.6 | ) |
CTI restructuring | | .9 |
| | .6 |
| | | | |
Adjusted operating margin | | 12.0 | % | | 14.6 | % | | (2.6 | ) | | (2.4 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Change in Active Representatives | | | | | | | | (1 | )% |
Change in units sold | | | | | | | | — | % |
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
Total revenue decreased 7% compared to the prior-year period, due to the unfavorable impact from foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, revenue grew 1%. The region's Constant $ revenue was negatively impacted by approximately 1 point as a result of the closure of the France business.
In Russia, revenue declined 18%, which was unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, Russia's revenue declined 1%, primarily due to a decrease in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order. Russia was negatively impacted by a difficult economy, including the impact of geopolitical uncertainties. Russia's Constant $ revenue decline in the first half of 2014 was partially offset by Constant $ revenue growth in the second half of 2014, driven by actions to improve unit sales. In the United Kingdom, revenue increased 6%, which was favorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, the United Kingdom's revenue increased 1%, primarily due to higher average order, partially offset by a decrease in Active Representatives. In Turkey, revenue declined 14%, which was unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, Turkey's revenue declined 2%, primarily due to lower average order. In South Africa, revenue declined 3%, which was unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, South Africa’s revenue increased 8%, primarily due to an increase in Active Representatives.
Operating margin was negatively impacted by .3 points as compared to the prior-year period from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted operating margin decreased 2.6 points, or 2.4 points on a Constant $ basis, primarily as a result of a decline of 2.2 points due to lower gross margin caused primarily by an estimated 3 points from the unfavorable impact of foreign currency transaction losses, partially offset by 1.0 point from lower supply chain 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 currency transaction losses; |
| |
• | 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. |
North America – 2014 Compared to 2013
|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | %/Point Change |
| | 2014 | | 2013 | | US$ | | Constant $ |
Total revenue | | $ | 1,203.4 |
| | $ | 1,458.2 |
| | (17 | )% | | (17 | )% |
Operating loss | | (72.5 | ) | | (60.1 | |