Document
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_________________________
FORM 10-K
x
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018
OR
o
Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from              to             
Commission file number 1-4881
_________________________
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New York
 
13-0544597
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
Building 6, Chiswick Park, London W4 5HR
(Address of principal executive offices)
+44-1604-232425
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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
_________________________ 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  x    No  o
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  o    No  x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files).    Yes  x    No  o
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.  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller



reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
 
x
  
Accelerated filer
 
o
 
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer
 
o  
  
Smaller reporting company
 
o
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
 
o
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  o    No  x
The aggregate market value of voting and non-voting Common Stock (par value $.25) held by non-affiliates at June 30, 2018 (the last business day of our most recently completed second quarter) was $0.7 billion.
The number of shares of Common Stock (par value $.25) outstanding at January 31, 2019, was 442,426,520
 _________________________
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Part III - Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
 





Table of Contents
 
 
 
Item
 
Page
Part I
 
 
 
Item 1
Item 1A
7 - 20
Item 1B
Item 2
Item 3
Item 4
 
 
 
Part II
 
 
 
Item 5
22 - 23
Item 6
Item 7
Item 7A
55 - 56
Item 8
56 
Item 9
Item 9A
56 - 57
Item 9B
 
 
 
Part III
 
 
 
Item 10
Item 11
Item 12
Item 13
Item 14
 
 
 
Part IV
 
 
 
Item 15
 
 
 
59 - 64
Item 16
 
 
 
 






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 Transformation Plan, Open Up Avon, stabilization strategies, digital strategies, cost savings initiatives, restructuring and other initiatives and related actions), costs and cost savings, competitive advantages, impairments, the impact of foreign currency, including devaluations, and other laws and regulations, government investigations, results of litigation, contingencies, taxes and tax rates, potential alliances 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 the 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. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements as predictors of future events. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following:
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 Open Up Avon, 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, digital 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;
our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of our strategic partnership with Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.;
our broad-based geographic portfolio, which is heavily weighted towards emerging markets, a general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions or markets, such as Brazil, Mexico or Russia, or sudden disruption in business conditions, and the ability to withstand an economic downturn, recession, cost inflation, commodity cost pressures, economic or political instability (including fluctuations in foreign exchange rates), competitive or other market pressures or conditions;
the effect of economic factors, including inflation and fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates; as well as the designation of Argentina as a highly inflationary economy, and the potential effect of such factors on our business, results of operations and financial condition;
the possibility of business disruption in connection with our Transformation Plan, Open Up Avon, stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, or restructuring and other initiatives;
our ability to reverse declining revenue, to improve margins and net income, or to achieve profitable growth, particularly in our largest markets and developing and emerging markets, such as Brazil, Mexico, Russia and the United Kingdom;
our ability to improve working capital and effectively manage doubtful accounts and inventory and implement initiatives to reduce inventory levels, including through our recent structural reset of inventory processes, and the potential impact on cash flows and obsolescence;
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 and segmentation 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;
general economic and business conditions in our markets, including social, economic and political uncertainties, such as in Russia and Ukraine or elsewhere, 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 political, legal, tax, including changes in tax rates, and other regulatory risks imposed on us abroad and in the U.S., our operations or the Representatives, including foreign exchange, pricing, data privacy or other restrictions, the adoption, interpretation and enforcement of foreign laws, including in jurisdictions such as Brazil and Russia, 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;
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;
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;
our ability to attract and retain key personnel;
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;
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;
our ability to comply with various data privacy laws affecting the markets in which we do business;
the risk of product or ingredient shortages resulting from our concentration of sourcing in fewer suppliers;
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;
the impact of our indebtedness, our access to cash and financing, and our ability to secure financing or financing at attractive rates and terms and conditions;
the impact of our business results (including the impact of any adverse foreign exchange movements and significant restructuring charges), on our ability to comply with certain covenants in our revolving credit facility;
our ability to successfully identify new business opportunities, strategic alliances and strategic alternatives and identify and analyze alliance candidates, secure financing on favorable terms and negotiate and consummate alliances;
disruption in our supply chain or manufacturing and distribution operations;
the quality, safety and efficacy of our products;
the success of our research and development activities;
our ability to protect our intellectual property rights, including in connection with the separation of the North America business;
our ability to repurchase the series C preferred stock in connection with a change of control; and
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 Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, and other reports and documents we file with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.


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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, 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 primarily in one channel, direct selling. Our reportable segments are based on geographic operations in four regions: Europe, Middle East & Africa; South Latin America; North Latin 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 27 through 54 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, which we refer to in this report as our "2018 Annual Report," and in Note 15, Segment Information, to the Consolidated Financial Statements on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report. We refer to each of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this 2018 Annual Report as a "Note." Information about geographic areas is included in Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report. All of our consolidated revenue is derived from operations of subsidiaries outside of the United States ("U.S.").
In December 2015, we entered into definitive agreements with affiliates of Cerberus Capital Management L.P. ("Cerberus"), which included a $435 investment in Avon by an affiliate of Cerberus through the purchase of our convertible preferred stock and the separation of the North America business (including approximately $100 of cash, subject to certain adjustments) from Avon into New Avon LLC ("New Avon"), a privately-held company that is majority-owned and managed by an affiliate of Cerberus. These transactions closed in March 2016 and Avon retained approximately 20% ownership in New Avon. Our North America business had consisted of the Company's operations in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico; this business was previously its own reportable segment, and has been presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Refer to Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report and Note 4, Investment in New Avon on page F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information regarding the investment by an affiliate of Cerberus and the separation of the North America business.
Distribution
During 2018, we had sales operations in 56 countries and territories, and distributed our products in 21 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. As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately 5 million active Representatives which represents the number of Representatives submitting an order in a sales campaign, totaled for all campaigns during the year and then divided by the number of campaigns. 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 globally.
A Representative contacts their customers directly, selling primarily through our brochure (whether paper or online), which highlights new products and special promotions (or incentives) 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 typically generated every three to four weeks. A purchase order is processed and the products are picked 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. Historically, the Representative then delivers the merchandise and collects payment from the customer for her own account. Several of our larger countries have begun to offer direct to customer delivery of the ordered products. A Representative generally receives a refund of the price the Representative paid for a product if the Representative chooses to return it.

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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 many 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. We are actively deploying and training the Representatives on additional digital tools and sales methods to help increase her customer reach.
In some markets, particularly in Asia Pacific, 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 of the Avon brand and channel with consumers and help reinforce our beauty image. In certain markets, we allow our beauty centers and other retail-oriented and direct-to-consumer opportunities to reach new customers in complementary ways to direct selling. In the United Kingdom ("UK") and certain other markets, we also utilize e-commerce and market our products through consumer websites.
The recruiting or appointing and training of Representatives are the primary responsibilities of independent leaders supported by zone managers. 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. As described above, the Representative is the "store" through which we primarily sell our products and, given the high rate of turnover among Representatives, which is 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, digital content and tools, promotional pieces, customer flyers and various forms of advertising may be used. In addition, we seek to motivate the 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. We believe that the training meetings are an integral part of enabling the Representatives to provide customers with the advice and tools to better service her customer base as well as teach sales techniques and provide recognition for sales performance.
We use a number of merchandising techniques, including promotional pricing for new products, combination offers, trial sizes and samples, and the promotion of products packaged as gift items. In most markets, for each sales campaign, we publish a distinctive brochure (whether paper or online), in which we introduce new products and special promotions on selected items, or give particular prominence to a particular category. Key priorities for our merchandising include the delivering of product bundles and regimens that help improve average order size and the continued use of analytical tools to enable a deeper, fact-based understanding of the role and impact of pricing within our product portfolio.
Competitive Conditions
We face competition from various products and product lines. 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. 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.

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Specifically, due to the nature of the direct-selling channel, we often compete on a 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 as well as significant competition from other non-direct selling earnings opportunities for which the existing Representatives or potential Representatives could avail themselves. Providing a compelling earnings opportunity for the 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 the Representatives; the Representatives’ earnings opportunity as well as the amount and type of field incentives we offer the 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
During 2018, our international operations, outside of the U.S., were conducted primarily through subsidiaries in 56 countries and territories. Outside of the U.S., our products were also distributed in 20 other countries and territories. In March 2016, we separated from our North America business, which had consisted of the Company's operations in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico; this business has been presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented. As a result, all of our consolidated revenue is derived from operations of subsidiaries outside of the U.S. During 2018, approximately 39% of our consolidated revenue was derived from South Latin America, approximately 38% was derived from Europe, Middle East & Africa, approximately 15% was derived from North Latin America and approximately 8% was derived from Asia Pacific. Further, approximately 23% of our consolidated revenue during 2018 was derived from Brazil, which is our largest market and is included within the South Latin America reportable segment.
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 in our international markets may be affected by political, legal, tax and regulatory risks." and "Risk Factors - We are subject to financial risks as a result of our international operations, including exposure to foreign currency fluctuations and the impact of foreign currency restrictions." in Item 1A on pages 7 through 20 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
Manufacturing and Sourcing
We manufacture and package the majority of our Beauty products, which are formulated and designed by our staff of chemists, designers and artists. Raw materials, consisting chiefly of essential oils, chemicals, containers and packaging components required for our Beauty products are purchased from a range of third-party suppliers. The remainder of our Beauty products and all of our Fashion & Home products are purchased from various third-party manufacturers.
Our products are affected by the cost and availability of materials such as glass, plastics, chemicals and fabrics. For the vast majority of items we have more than one source of supply available. We believe that we can continue to obtain sufficient raw materials and supplies to manufacture and produce our Beauty products for the foreseeable future.
Additionally, we design the brochures (whether paper or online) that are used by the Representatives to sell our products. The brochures are then produced on our behalf by a range of printing suppliers.
The loss of any one supplier would not have a material impact on our ability to source raw materials for the majority of our Beauty products or source products for the remainder of our Beauty products and all of our Fashion & Home products or paper for the brochures.
See Item 2, Properties, on page 20 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information regarding the location of our principal manufacturing facilities.

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Product Categories
Both of our product categories individually account for 10% or more of consolidated net sales in 2018. The following is the percentage of net sales by product category for the years ended December 31:
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
Beauty
 
74
%
 
75
%
 
74
%
Fashion & Home
 
26
%
 
25
%
 
26
%
2018 was also impacted by the Brazil IPI tax release, which is excluded from net sales in our calculation above. See "SOLA" within MD&A on pages 46 through 48 for more information.
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 relevant markets, 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. As part of our Open Up Avon strategy and to improve our brand competitiveness, we have increasingly partnered with third party product development companies to help accelerate our development time and 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 R&D facilities located in Argentina, Brazil, China, Mexico, the Philippines, Poland, South Africa and the UK.
In 2018, our most significant product launches included: Eve Discovery Collection, Full Speed Nitro, Avon Life Color for Him and Her by Kenzo Takada, Anew Platinum and Anew Ultimate Instantly Smoothing Eye Gel, Clearskin O2 Fresh Micellar Cleansing Water, Avon Care Coconut Oil Collection, Encanto Energy Collection, Mark. Big & Extreme Mascara, Avon True Velvet Luminosity Lipstick and Avon True Flawless Finishing Pearls.
The amounts incurred on research activities relating to the development of new products and the improvement of existing products were $48.0 in 2018, $52.9 in 2017 and $52.1 in 2016. 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
Compliance with environmental laws and regulations impacting our global operations has not had, and currently is not anticipated to have, a material adverse effect on our financial position, capital expenditures or competitive position.
Employees
At December 31, 2018, we employed approximately 23,000 employees. Of these, approximately 500 were employed in the U.S. and approximately 22,500 were employed in other countries.



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Transformation Plan and Open Up Avon
In January 2016, we announced a transformation plan (the "Transformation Plan") which was completed in 2018. In September 2018, we initiated a new strategy to return Avon to growth ("Open Up Avon"). See "Overview" within MD&A on pages 28 through 29 for more information on these items.
Acquisitions and Dispositions
In December 2015, we entered into definitive agreements with affiliates of Cerberus, which included the separation of the North America business from Avon into New Avon, a privately-held company that is majority-owned and managed by an affiliate of Cerberus. Avon retained approximately 20% ownership in New Avon. These transactions closed in March 2016.
In February 2019, we completed the sale to TheFaceShop Co., Ltd., an affiliate of LG Household & Health Care Ltd., of all of the equity interests in Avon Manufacturing (Guangzhou), Ltd.
Refer to Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report, for additional information regarding the sale of the North America business and the sale of Avon Manufacturing (Guangzhou), Ltd.
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 2018, 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., 1 Avon Place, Suffern, N.Y. 10901, 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. Our filings with the SEC, 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 2018 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.
Risks Related to Us and Our Business
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:
implement Open Up Avon, stabilization strategies, cost savings initiatives, restructuring and other initiatives, and achieve anticipated savings and benefits from such programs and initiatives;
reverse declines in our market share and strengthen our brand image;
implement appropriate pricing strategies and product mix that are more aligned with the preferences of local markets and achieve anticipated benefits from these strategies;
reduce costs and effectively manage our cost structure, particularly selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses;
improve our business in the markets where we operate, including through improving field health;
execute investments in information technology ("IT") infrastructure and realize efficiencies across our supply chain, marketing processes, sales model and organizational structure;
implement and continue to innovate our digital strategies, Internet platform, technology strategies and customer service initiatives, including our ability to offer a more compelling social selling experience and the roll-out of e-commerce in certain markets;

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effectively manage our outsourcing activities;
improve our marketing and advertising, including our brochures and our social media presence;
improve working capital, effectively manage inventory and implement initiatives to reduce inventory levels, including through our recent structural reset of inventory processes, and the potential impact on cash flows and obsolescence;
secure financing at attractive rates, maintain appropriate capital investment, capital structure and cash flow levels and implement cash management, tax, foreign currency hedging and risk management strategies;
reverse declines in Active Representatives and Representative satisfaction by successfully reducing campaign complexity and enhancing our sales leadership program, the Representative experience, retention and earnings potential, along with improving our brand image;
increase the productivity of Representatives through successful implementation of segmentation, field activation programs and technology tools and enablers and other investments in the direct-selling channel;
improve management of our businesses in developing markets, including improving local IT resources and management of local supply chains;
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 joint ventures and alliances with other companies;
comply with certain covenants in our revolving credit facility, which depends on our business results (including the impact of any adverse foreign exchange movements and significant restructuring charges), or undertake other alternatives to avoid noncompliance, such as obtaining additional amendments to our revolving credit facility or repurchasing certain debt, and address the impact any non-compliance with such covenants may have on our ability to secure financing with favorable terms; and
estimate and achieve any financial projections concerning, for example, customer demand, future revenue, profit, cash flow, and operating margin increases and maintain an effective internal control environment as a result of any challenges associated with the implementation of our various plans, strategies and initiatives.
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 Open Up Avon and any other restructuring and cost-savings initiatives, including achieving any anticipated savings and benefits of these initiatives.
In September 2018, we initiated a new strategy in order to return Avon to growth (“Open Up Avon”). As one element of this plan, we are targeting pre-tax annualized cost savings of approximately $400 million by 2021, to be generated from efficiencies in manufacturing and sourcing, distribution, general and administrative activities, and back office functions, as well as through revenue management, interest and tax. These savings are expected to be achieved through restructuring actions (that may result in charges related to severance, contract terminations and inventory and other asset write-offs), as well as other cost-savings strategies that would not result in restructuring charges. We initiated the Open Up Avon strategy to enable us to achieve our goals of low-single-digit constant-dollar revenue growth and low double-digit operating margin by 2021. We plan to reinvest a portion of these cost savings in commercial initiatives, including training for Representatives, and digital and information technology infrastructure initiatives. See "Overview" within MD&A on pages 27 through 29 for more information on our Open Up Avon Strategy.
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 targets or in offsetting the financial benefits of reaching those targets. If we are unable to realize these savings or benefits, or otherwise fail to invest in the growth initiatives, 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 these 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 improve revenue, margins and net income or to achieve profitable growth.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to improve revenue, margins and net income, or to achieve profitable growth in the future, particularly in our largest markets and developing and emerging markets, such as Brazil, Mexico and Russia. Our

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revenue in 2018 was $5,571.3 million, compared with $5,715.6 million in 2017 and $5,717.7 million in 2016. Improving revenue, margins and net income and achieving profitable growth will depend on our ability to improve financial and operational performance and execute our global business strategy, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to achieve these goals. Our ability to improve could be hindered by competing business priorities and projects.
To improve revenue, margins and net income and to achieve profitable growth, we also need to successfully implement certain initiatives, including Open Up Avon, 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 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 (including fluctuations in foreign exchange rates), competitive pressures or other market pressures in one or more particular regions.
Failure to improve 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 primarily in one channel, direct selling.
Our business is conducted 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. As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately 5.0 million active Representatives. 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. Our direct-selling model contains an inherent risk of bad debt associated with providing Representatives with credit, which is exacerbated if the financial condition of the Representatives deteriorates. 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 or regulatory body such as Brazil or the European Union, bans or severely restricts our business methods or operational/commercial model 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 as a result of 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 all of our consolidated revenue from operations outside of the U.S.
One risk associated with our international operations is that the functional currency for most of our international operations is their local currency. The primary foreign currencies for which we have significant exposures include the Argentine peso, Brazilian real, British pound, Chilean peso, Colombian peso, the euro, Mexican peso, Peruvian new sol, Philippine peso, Polish zloty, Romanian leu, Russian ruble, South African rand, Turkish lira and Ukrainian hryvnia. 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 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, and by shifting costs to markets in which we generate revenue, we may not be able to fully offset the impact, if at all. 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 tax or 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. If this should occur, or if the exchange rates devalue, it may have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows.
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,

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liquidity and results of operations or cash flows. For example, Argentina has been designated as a highly inflationary economy. See "Segment Review - South Latin America" within MD&A on pages 47 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information regarding Argentina. In addition, there can be no assurance that other countries in which we operate will not become highly inflationary and that our revenue, operating profit and net income will not be adversely impacted as a result.
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 the Representatives. Failure to maintain proper inventory levels or increased product returns by the 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 2018, a new chief financial officer in 2015, 2017 and 2019 and other significant changes to senior management during 2017, 2018 and 2019. Such turnover creates a risk of business processes not being sustained if the turnover occurs with inadequate knowledge transfer. Any failure by our management team to perform as expected may have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. This risk may be exacerbated by the uncertainties associated with the implementation of Open Up Avon and any other stabilization strategies and restructuring and cost-savings initiatives we undertake from time to time.
A general economic downturn, a recession globally or in one or more of our geographic regions or markets 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 could adversely affect our business, our access to liquidity and capital, and our credit ratings. Economic events, including high unemployment levels and recession, as well as the tightening of credit markets, 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 2019 because customers may continue to have less money for discretionary purchases as a result of job losses, bankruptcies, and reduced access to credit, among other things.
In addition, sudden disruptions in business conditions and consumer spending may result from acts of terror, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, and pandemic situations or large-scale power outages, none of which are under our control.


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Our credit ratings were downgraded during the past several years, 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.
Nationally recognized credit rating organizations have issued credit ratings relating to our long-term debt. Our credit ratings have been downgraded at various points during the past several years, including in 2017. Our long-term credit ratings are: Moody’s ratings of Stable Outlook with B1 for corporate family debt, B3 for senior unsecured debt, and Ba1 for our Senior Secured Notes; S&P ratings of Stable Outlook with B for corporate family debt and senior unsecured debt and BB- for our Senior Secured Notes; and Fitch rating of Stable Outlook with B+, each of which are below investment grade. We do not believe these long-term credit ratings will have a material impact on our near-term liquidity. However, any rating agency reviews could result in a change in outlook or downgrade, which could further limit our access to new financing, particularly short-term financing, reduce our flexibility with respect to working capital needs, affect the market price of some or all of our outstanding debt securities, and likely result in an increase in financing costs, and less favorable covenants and financial terms under our financing arrangements. 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 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report for details about the terms of our existing debt and other financing arrangements.
Our indebtedness and any future inability to meet any of our obligations under our indebtedness, could adversely affect us by reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions.
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately $1.6 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 and our Senior Secured Notes (each, as described below), 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 current and future financial obligations or our other liquidity needs, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows. Our indebtedness could have material negative consequences on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows, including the following:
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;
a further downgrade in our credit ratings, as discussed above;
a limitation on our flexibility to plan for, or react to, competitive challenges in our business and the beauty industry;
the possibility that we are put at a competitive disadvantage relative to competitors with less debt or debt with more favorable terms than us, and competitors that may be in a more favorable position to access additional capital resources and withstand economic downturns;
limitations on our ability to execute business development activities to support our strategies or ability to execute restructuring as necessary; and
limitations on our ability to invest in recruiting, retaining and servicing the Representatives.
Our revolving credit facility and our Senior Secured Notes are secured by first-priority liens on and security interests in substantially all of the assets of Avon International Capital, p.l.c. (“AIC,” a wholly-owned foreign subsidiary) and the subsidiary guarantors and by certain assets of the Company, in each case, subject to certain exceptions and permitted liens. Both our revolving credit facility and our Senior Secured Notes contain customary covenants, including, among other things, limits on the ability of the Company, AIC or any restricted subsidiary to, subject to certain exceptions, incur liens, incur debt, make restricted payments, make investments or, with respect to certain entities, merge, consolidate or dispose of all or substantially all of its assets. Our revolving credit facility also contains a minimum interest coverage ratio and a maximum total leverage ratio. If we are unable to comply with these ratios as a result of our business results (including the impact of any adverse foreign exchange movements and significant restructuring charges), we would be limited in our ability to borrow under our revolving credit facility which could, as a result, restrict our operational flexibility. In addition, we could have difficulty undertaking other alternatives to avoid noncompliance, such as obtaining necessary waivers from compliance with, or necessary amendments to, the covenants contained in our revolving credit facility and our Senior Secured Notes or repurchasing certain debt, and we could have difficulty addressing the impact any non-compliance with these covenants may have on our ability to secure financing with favorable terms.



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Our ability to conduct business in our international markets may be affected by political, legal, tax and regulatory risks.
Our ability to achieve growth in our international markets, and to improve operations in our existing international markets, is exposed to various risks, including:
the possibility that a foreign government might ban, halt or severely restrict our business, including our primary method of direct selling;
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;
the lack of well-established or reliable legal systems in certain areas where we operate;
the adoption of new U.S. or foreign tax legislation including the 2017 U.S. federal income tax law discussed in detail below 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;
the possibility that a government authority might impose legal, tax or other financial burdens on the 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;
the possibility that a government authority might challenge the status of the Representatives as independent contractors or impose employment or social taxes on the Representatives; and
those associated with data privacy regulation and the international transfer of personal data.
We are also subject to the adoption, interpretation and enforcement by governmental agencies abroad and in the U.S. (including on federal, state and local levels) 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 those required by 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, from time to time, local governments and others question the legal status of Representatives or impose burdens inconsistent with the Representative's 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.
If we are unable to address these matters in a satisfactory manner, or adhere to or successfully implement processes in response to changing regulatory requirements, our business, costs 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.
Our business is subject to a number of foreign laws and regulations in various jurisdictions governing data privacy and security.
We collect, use and store personal data of our employees, Representatives, customers and other third parties in the ordinary course of business, and we are required to comply with increasingly complex and changing data privacy and security laws and regulations, including with respect to the collection, storage, use, transmission and protection of personal information and other data, including particularly the transfer of personal data between or among countries. In particular, the EU has adopted robust data privacy regulations. Following recent developments such as the European Court of Justice’s 2015 ruling that the transfer of personal data from the EU to the U.S. under the EU/U.S. Safe Harbor was an invalid mechanism of personal data transfer, the adoption of the EU-U.S. Privacy Shield as a replacement for the Safe Harbor, and the upcoming effectiveness of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) in May 2018, along with the proposed Regulation on Privacy and Electronic Communications (the “ePrivacy Regulation”), also on the horizon, data privacy and security compliance in the EU are increasingly complex and challenging. The GDPR in particular has broad extraterritorial effect and imposes a robust data protection compliance regime with significant penalties for non-compliance. Other countries in which we operate are developing comparable regulations. In general, the GDPR and ePrivacy Regulation, and other local privacy laws, could also require adaptation of our technologies or practices to satisfy local privacy requirements and standards. We may also face audits or investigations by one or more domestic or foreign government agencies relating to our compliance with these regulations. An adverse outcome under any such investigation or audit could result in the issuance of stop processing orders, subject us to fines, penalties or orders to cease, delay or modify collection, use or transfers of personal data. That or other circumstances related to our collection, use and transfer of personal data could cause a loss of reputation in the market or adversely affect our business.

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The scope of data privacy and security regulations continues to evolve, and we believe that the adoption of increasingly restrictive regulations in this area may be likely within the jurisdictions in which we operate. Compliance with data privacy and security restrictions could increase the cost of our operations and failure to comply with such restrictions could subject us to criminal and civil sanctions as well as other penalties.
A failure, disruption, cyberattack or other breach in the security of an IT system or infrastructure that we utilize could adversely affect our business and reputation and increase our costs.
We employ IT 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 IT systems to support Representatives in our markets, including electronic order collection, invoicing systems, shipping and box packing, social media tools, mobile applications 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 or support these IT systems. Over the last several years, we have undertaken initiatives to increase our reliance on IT systems which has resulted in the outsourcing of certain services and functions, such as global human resources IT systems, call center support, Representative support services and other IT processes. Our IT systems and infrastructure, as well as the systems, infrastructure and services of those of third parties, are integral to our performance.
Any of our IT 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 IT systems and infrastructure also may be susceptible to cybersecurity breaches, attacks, computer viruses, break-ins, including ransomware, other malware and phishing attacks, 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 IT systems and infrastructure.
Our IT 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. An actual or perceived failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach of our IT 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 and could be particularly harmful to our brand and reputation.
We are investing in industry-standard solutions and protections and monitoring practices of our data and IT systems and infrastructure to reduce these risks and we continue to monitor our IT systems and infrastructure on an ongoing basis for any current or potential threats. We have also deployed additional employee security training and updated security policies for the Company and its third-party service providers. 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 globally, we could also 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, IT 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’ IT systems or infrastructure, or that we will detect and appropriately respond if there is such a failure, disruption, cyberattack or other security breach. Our IT databases and systems have been, and will likely continue to be, subject to ransomware, denial of service and phishing attacks, none of which has been material to the Company to date. 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, remediation efforts such as breach notification and identity theft monitoring, 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 doing 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 IT systems globally.
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 the markets we operate. We compete against products sold to consumers in a number of distribution methods, including direct selling, through the Internet, and

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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 and Russia.
Within the direct-selling channel, we often compete on 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 have worldwide operations and compete with us globally. 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 the 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 as well as significant competition from other non-direct selling earnings opportunities for which our existing Representatives or potential Representatives could avail themselves. Changes to our compensation models are sometimes necessary to be competitive but could have short-term negative impacts on our total number of Representatives. 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 the Representatives or end customers perceive competitors' products as having greater appeal, then our sales, results of operations and cash flows will be adversely affected.
Third-party suppliers provide, among other things, the raw materials required for our Beauty products, and the loss of these suppliers, a supplier's inability to supply a raw material or a finished product or a disruption or interruption in the supply chain may adversely affect our business.
We manufacture and package the majority of our Beauty products, which are formulated and designed by our staff of chemists, designers and artists. Raw materials, consisting chiefly of essential oils, chemicals, containers and packaging components required for our Beauty products are purchased from a range of third-party suppliers. The remainder of our Beauty products and all of our Fashion & Home products are purchased from various third-party manufacturers. Our products are affected by the cost and availability of materials such as glass, plastics, chemicals and fabrics. For the vast majority of items we have more than one source of supply available. We believe that we can continue to obtain sufficient raw materials and supplies to manufacture and produce our Beauty products for the foreseeable future. Additionally, we design the brochures that are used by the Representatives to sell our products. The brochures are then produced on our behalf by a range of printing suppliers.
The loss of any one supplier would not have a material impact on our ability to source raw materials for the majority of our Beauty products or source products for the remainder of our Beauty products and all of our Fashion & Home products or paper for the 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,

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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.
The comprehensive U.S. tax reform legislation enacted on December 22, 2017 could adversely affect our business and financial condition.
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was enacted that significantly revises the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the "Code"), as amended. The enacted federal income tax law contains significant changes to corporate taxation, including but not limited to, a reduction of the corporate tax rate from a top marginal rate of 35% to a flat rate of 21%, a limitation of the tax deduction for interest expense to 30% of adjusted earnings (except for certain small businesses), a one-time tax on offshore earnings at reduced rates regardless of whether the funds are physically repatriated, elimination of U.S. tax on foreign earnings (subject to certain important exceptions), immediate deductions for certain new investments instead of deductions for depreciation expense over time, and modifying or repealing many business deductions and credits. Notwithstanding the reduction in the corporate income tax rate and various guidance, legislation and regulation published by the U.S. Federal, and various state taxing authorities, there continues to be uncertainty regarding interpretation of certain provisions of the new federal tax law and the State responses to the new federal tax law.  These uncertainties and the ultimate interpretation of the federal and state provisions may adversely affect our business and financial condition.
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 Code.
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately $833 million of foreign tax and other credits available to offset future income for U.S. federal tax purposes. Our ability to utilize such credits to offset future income could be limited, however, if the Company undergoes an “ownership change” within the meaning of Section 382 of 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. In addition, the issuance and sale of perpetual convertible preferred stock to Cerberus Investor (as defined below) resulted in an increase in our cumulative ownership change by our 5% shareholders.
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 meet the minimum required contributions under applicable law and 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. A change in the discount rate could 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. Please see "Critical Accounting Estimates - Pension and Postretirement Expense" within MD&A on pages 32 through 34 and Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report, for additional information regarding the impact of these factors on our pension plan obligations.
Any strategic alliances or divestitures may expose us to additional risks.
We evaluate potential strategic alliances 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 may entail numerous risks, including:
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;

15



difficulties in assimilating acquired operations or products, including the loss of key employees from any acquired businesses and disruption to our direct-selling channel;
diversion of management’s attention from our core business;
adverse effects on existing business relationships with suppliers and customers;
risks of entering markets in which we have limited or no prior experience; and
reputational and other risks regarding our ability to successfully implement such strategic alliances, including obtaining financing which could dilute the interests of our shareholders, 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 candidates or consummate such transactions 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. Please see "Risks Related to the Separation of North America and the Preferred Stock Investment in the Company" below for additional information regarding the risks associated with the separation of North America.
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 our 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. We could also experience a negative financial impact if we do not comply with minimum purchase commitments. 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 the Representatives' or end customers' standards, then our relationship with the Representatives or end customers could suffer, we may 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 where such products are principally sold. Although most of our material intellectual property is registered in certain 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, may not completely protect our intellectual property rights. The costs required to protect our patents and trademarks, especially in emerging markets, may be substantial. Please see "The licensing of our North America intellectual property rights, including trademarks that are fundamental to our brand, in connection with the Separation could adversely impact our reputation, our business generally, and our ability to enforce intellectual property rights used in both North America and international jurisdictions" below for additional information regarding the risks on our intellectual property rights associated with the separation of North America.

16



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 employee or employment matters, 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 our 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. See Note 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report for a detailed discussion regarding certain legal proceedings in which we are a party.
Government reviews, inquiries, investigations, and actions could harm our business or reputation. In addition, from time to time we may conduct other investigations and 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 relevant 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 investigations and reviews. The consequences of such government reviews, inquiries, investigations, and actions or such investigations and 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 the 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 uncertainty surrounding the UK's decision to withdraw from the EU may adversely affect our business.
On June 23, 2016, the UK held a referendum in which voters approved an exit from the EU, commonly referred to as "Brexit." As a result of the referendum, the UK parliament voted in March 2017 to trigger Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, commencing the UK's official withdrawal process from the EU and initiating negotiations with the EU in June 2017. In November 2018, the UK negotiated the terms of an agreement with the EU to determine the future terms of the parties' relationship, including the terms of trade between the UK and the EU and other nations, following the UK's exit from the EU.
On January 15, 2019, the UK parliament, however, rejected the proposed agreement for the UK's withdrawal from the EU. As a result, there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the final terms of the negotiations and related regulatory changes. Failure to obtain parliamentary approval of a negotiated withdrawal agreement could mean that the UK would leave the EU on March 29, 2019, possibly with no agreement (referred to as a "no deal Brexit"). This uncertainty concerning the terms of the exit and the UK Parliament's approval of the UK's agreement with the EU has resulted in political, legislative and regulatory uncertainty throughout the region and could adversely affect business activity, restrict the movement of capital and the mobility of personnel and goods, and otherwise impair political stability and economic conditions in the UK, the Eurozone, the EU and elsewhere. Any of these developments could have a material adverse effect on business activity in the UK, the Eurozone, or the EU. Given that we conduct a substantial portion of our business in the EU and the UK, and our corporate headquarters has been relocated to the UK, any of these developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, liquidity and results of operations or cash flows.
The uncertainty concerning the terms of the exit could also have a negative impact on the growth of the UK and/or EU economies and has already caused significant volatility in global stock markets and greater volatility in foreign currency exchange rates, including the pound sterling, euro and/or other currencies. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates may have a material effect on our net sales, financial condition, profitability and/or cash flows and may reduce the reported value of our operating results.

17



Changes to UK border and immigration policy could likewise occur as a result of Brexit, affecting our ability to recruit and retain employees from outside the UK and resulting in possible delays in transportation of goods and increased custom duties. While the full scope of implementation of the referendum decision is still unclear, companies exposed to or with operations in the UK, such as ours, may face significant regulatory changes as a result of Brexit implementation, and complying with such new regulatory mandates may prove challenging and costly.
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:
variations in operating results;
developments in connection with any investigations or litigations;
a change in our credit ratings;
economic conditions and volatility in the financial markets;
announcements or significant developments in connection with our business and with respect to beauty and related products or the beauty industry in general;
actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly or annual financial results;
unsolicited takeover proposals, proxy contests or other shareholder activism;
governmental policies and regulations;
estimates of our future performance or that of our competitors or our industries;
general economic, political, and market conditions;
market rumors; and
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.
Risks Related to the Separation of North America and the Preferred Stock Investment in the Company
We may be exposed to claims and liabilities as a result of the separation of our North America business.
On March 1, 2016, Cleveland Apple Investor L.P. ("Cerberus Investor") (an affiliate of Cerberus) contributed $170 million of cash into New Avon in exchange for 80.1% of its membership interests, and we contributed (i) assets primarily related to our North America business (including approximately $100 million of cash, subject to certain adjustments), (ii) certain assumed liabilities (primarily pension and postretirement liabilities) of our North America business and (iii) the employees of our North America business into New Avon in exchange for a 19.9% ownership interest of New Avon (collectively, the "Separation"). In connection with the Separation, we entered into a Separation Agreement and various other agreements with New Avon to govern the separation and the relationship of the two companies going forward. These agreements provide for specific indemnity and liability obligations and could lead to disputes between us. The indemnity rights we have against New Avon under the agreements may not be sufficient to protect us. In addition, our indemnity obligations to New Avon may be significant and these risks could negatively affect our financial condition.
We or New Avon may fail to perform under the post-closing arrangements executed in connection with the Separation.
In connection with the Separation, we and New Avon entered into several agreements, including among others an Intellectual Property License Agreement, a Technical Support and Innovation Agreement and a Manufacturing and Supply Agreement. The Intellectual Property License Agreement provides New Avon with rights to use certain intellectual property rights that we used in the conduct of the North America business prior to the Separation. The Technical Support and Innovation Agreement provides that we will perform certain beauty product development services for New Avon. The Manufacturing and Supply Agreement provides that we and New Avon will manufacture, or cause to be manufactured, and supply certain products to each other. These agreements establish a bilateral relationship between New Avon and us. We will rely on New Avon to satisfy its performance and payment obligations under these agreements. If New Avon is unable to satisfy its obligations under these agreements, we could incur operational difficulties or losses that could have a material and adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The licensing of our North America intellectual property rights, including trademarks that are fundamental to our brand, in connection with the Separation could adversely impact our reputation, our business generally, and our ability to enforce intellectual property rights used in both North America and international jurisdictions.
In connection with the Separation, we granted New Avon a perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free license, with the ability to sublicense, to certain intellectual property rights that we used in the conduct of our North America business prior to the Separation. The Intellectual Property License Agreement includes quality control provisions obligating New Avon and its sublicensees to remain in compliance with applicable law or, for certain of our brands, quality standards that we have provided

18



to New Avon, when selling products under certain trademarks that we have licensed to New Avon. However, there is a risk that failure by New Avon or its sublicensees to comply with such quality control provisions or other conduct by New Avon or its sublicensees associated with the trademarks licensed to New Avon, could adversely affect our reputation and our business globally. We have also granted New Avon enforcement rights to intellectual property licensed to New Avon in certain circumstances, which could adversely affect our position and options globally relating to enforcement of our intellectual property.
The issuance of 435,000 shares of our series C preferred stock to Cerberus Investor dilutes the ownership of holders of our common stock and may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
On March 1, 2016, we issued and sold to Cerberus Investor 435,000 shares of newly issued series C preferred stock for an aggregate purchase price of $435 million pursuant to an Investment Agreement between us and Cerberus Investor. Conversion of the series C preferred stock would dilute the ownership interest of existing holders of our common stock, and any sales in the public market of the common stock issuable upon conversion of the series C preferred stock could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. We have granted Cerberus Investor registration rights with respect to the shares of series C preferred stock and shares of common stock issued upon conversion of the series C preferred stock, which would facilitate the resale of such securities into the public market. On October 11, 2016, the Company filed a registration statement on Form S-3ASR with the SEC registering for sale by Cerberus Investor 435,000 shares of series C preferred stock, 142,800 shares of series D preferred stock and 113,311,940 shares (plus an additional unspecified number) of common stock. As of the date of this filing, Cerberus Investor had not made any sales in reliance on such Form S-3ASR. Sales by Cerberus Investor of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales might occur, could have a material adverse effect on the price of our common stock.
The series C preferred stock issued to Cerberus Investor has rights, preferences and privileges that are not held by, and are preferential to, the rights of holders of our common stock. Such preferential rights could adversely affect our liquidity, cash flows and financial condition, and may result in the interests of Cerberus Investor differing from those of our common shareholders.
The series C preferred stock ranks senior to the shares of our common stock with respect to dividend rights and rights on the distribution of assets on any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our affairs. The series C preferred stock has a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share, representing an aggregate liquidation preference of $435 million upon issuance. Holders of series C preferred stock are entitled to participate on an as-converted basis in any dividends paid to the holders of shares of our common stock. In addition, cumulative preferred dividends accrue daily on the series C preferred stock and are payable at the rate of 1.25% per quarter (net of any dividends on our common stock and subject to a maximum rate of 5.00% per quarter if we breach certain obligations). Except to the extent not otherwise previously paid by us, preferred dividends are payable on the seventh anniversary of the issuance date of the series C preferred stock as and when declared by the Board of Directors and at the end of each quarter thereafter. Accrued and unpaid preferred dividends may be paid, at our option, (i) in cash, (ii) subject to certain conditions, in shares of our common stock or (iii) upon conversion of shares of series C preferred stock, in shares of our non-voting, non-convertible series D preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share. Any such shares of the series D preferred stock issued would have similar preferential rights.
Upon certain change of control events involving us, holders of series C preferred stock can require us to repurchase the series C preferred stock for an amount equal to the greater of (i) an amount in cash equal to 100% of the liquidation preference thereof plus all accrued but unpaid dividends or (ii) the consideration the holders would have received if they had converted their shares of series C preferred stock into common stock immediately prior to the change of control event.
Our obligations to pay dividends to the holders of series C preferred stock, and to repurchase the outstanding shares of series C preferred stock under certain circumstances, could impact our liquidity and reduce the amount of cash flows. Our obligations to the holders of series C preferred stock could also limit our ability to obtain additional financing or increase our borrowing costs, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition. The preferential rights of holders of our series C preferred stock could also result in divergent interests between Cerberus Investor and those of our common shareholders.
Cerberus Investor is able to exercise significant influence over us, including through its ability to elect up to three members of our Board of Directors, including the Chairman.
Holders of series C preferred stock are entitled to vote generally with holders of our common stock on an as-converted basis (subject to an agreement to vote in favor of the slate of directors nominated by the Board of Directors, so long as the 25% Ownership Requirement (as defined below) is met and subject to certain exceptions). Therefore, the series C preferred stock issued to Cerberus Investor effectively reduces the relative voting power of the holders of our common stock. The shares of series C preferred stock owned by Cerberus Investor represents approximately 16.6% of the voting rights of our common stock on an as-converted basis. As a result, Cerberus Investor has the ability to significantly influence the outcome of any matter submitted for the vote of our shareholders. In addition, provided Cerberus Investor maintains certain levels of beneficial ownership of series C preferred stock and/or common stock, Cerberus Investor has consent rights over certain actions taken by

19



us, including increasing the size of the Board of Directors, reinstating our quarterly common stock dividend and incurring indebtedness in excess of certain thresholds.
In addition, Cerberus Investor has certain rights to designate directors to serve on our Board of Directors (one of whom will continue to act as the Chairman so long as the 50% Ownership Requirement (as defined below) continues to be met). Cerberus Investor will continue to be entitled to elect: (i) three directors to the Board of Directors, so long as Cerberus Investor continues to beneficially own shares of series C preferred stock and/or shares of common stock that represent, on an as-converted basis, at least 75% of Cerberus Investor’s initial shares of series C preferred stock on an as-converted basis, (ii) two directors to the Board of Directors, so long as Cerberus Investor continues to beneficially own shares of series C preferred stock and/or common stock that represent, on an as-converted basis, at least 50% but less than 75% of Cerberus Investor’s initial shares of series C preferred stock on an as-converted basis (the “50% Ownership Requirement”) and (iii) one director to the Board of Directors, so long as Cerberus Investor continues to beneficially own shares of series C preferred stock and/or common stock that represent, on an as-converted basis, at least 25% but less than 50% of Cerberus Investor’s initial shares of series C preferred stock on an as-converted basis (the “25% Ownership Requirement”). Until Cerberus Investor no longer meets the 25% Ownership Requirement, subject to certain exceptions and to satisfaction by such director designees of independence and other customary qualifications, Cerberus Investor has the right to have one of its director designees serve on each committee of the Board of Directors. Notwithstanding the fact that all directors are subject to fiduciary duties and applicable law, the interests of the directors appointed by Cerberus Investor may differ from the interests of holders of our common stock as a whole or of our other directors.
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 R&D facility located in Suffern, NY.
In October 2016, an office space at Chiswick Park in London, UK was leased, and beginning in January 2017, is used for our principal executive office and an administrative office. Our previous principal executive and administrative office, located in Rye, NY, has been substantially vacated and is in the process of being sold. Prior to that, our principal executive office was located at 777 Third Avenue, New York, NY and has been vacated, with certain floors currently being subleased and certain floors currently in the process of being subleased. We moved our principal executive office to London to be in closer proximity to many of our commercial markets.
In addition, in December 2016, we sold a distribution center in the U.S. which was inactive.
In addition to the facilities noted above, other principal properties measuring 50,000 square feet or more include the following:
two manufacturing facilities in Europe, primarily servicing Europe, Middle East & Africa;
twelve distribution centers and four administrative offices in Europe, Middle East & Africa;
two manufacturing facilities, eight distribution centers and one administrative office in South Latin America;
one manufacturing facility, two distribution centers and one administrative office in North Latin America; and
four manufacturing facilities and five distribution centers in Asia Pacific, of which one manufacturing facility is inactive.
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.
Of all the properties listed above, 26 are owned and the remaining 19 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. The above listing includes properties in Rye, China, and Malaysia, which are classified as held for sale at December 31, 2018. Refer to Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 and Note 23, Subsequent Events on page F-62 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on these properties.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Reference is made to Note 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report.

20



ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.

21



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, 2018, there were 11,826 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 2018 and 2017 are listed below. As a part of the implementation of our Transformation Plan, we suspended the dividend on our common stock effective in the first quarter of 2016.
 
 
2018
 
2017
Quarter
 
High
 
Low
 
Dividends
Declared
and Paid
 
High
 
Low
 
Dividends
Declared
and Paid
First
 
$
2.93

 
$
2.11

 
$

 
$
5.93

 
$
4.21

 
$

Second
 
2.92

 
1.48

 

 
4.85

 
3.35

 

Third
 
2.44

 
1.42

 

 
3.75

 
2.33

 

Fourth
 
2.18

 
1.43

 

 
2.40

 
1.87

 

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN(1)
Among Avon Products, Inc., The S&P 500 Index and
2018 Peer Group (2)
a10graphv2.jpg
The Stock Performance Graph above assumes a $100 investment on December 31, 2013, 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.
 
 
2013

 
2014

 
2015

 
2016

 
2017

 
2018

Avon
 
100.0

 
55.5

 
25.1

 
31.3

 
13.3

 
9.4

S&P 500
 
100.0

 
113.7

 
115.3

 
129.1

 
157.2

 
150.3

Peer Group(2)
 
100.0

 
107.1

 
116.2

 
110.7

 
135.0

 
121.5

(1)
Total return assumes reinvestment of dividends at the closing price at the end of each quarter.
(2)
The Peer Group includes The Clorox Company, Colgate–Palmolive Company, Coty Inc., Estée Lauder Companies, Inc., Herbalife Ltd., Kimberly Clark Corp., Revlon, Inc. and Tupperware Brands Corp.
The Stock Performance Graph above shall not be deemed to be "soliciting material" or to be "filed" with the SEC or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended (the "Exchange Act"). In addition, it shall

22



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, 2018:
 
 
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
10/1/18 – 10/31/18
 

 
$

 
*
 
*
11/1/18 – 11/30/18
 

 

 
*
 
*
12/1/18 – 12/31/18
 
4,388

(1) 
2.12

 
*
 
*
Total
 
4,388

 
$
2.12

 
*
 
*
*
These amounts are not applicable as the Company does not have a share repurchase program in effect.
(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 and performance 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 2018 Annual Report.
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Statement of Operations Data
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenue(1)
 
$
5,571.3

 
$
5,715.6

 
$
5,717.7

 
$
6,160.5

 
$
7,648.0

Operating profit(2)
 
235.2

 
281.3

 
323.8

 
165.0

 
434.3

(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax(2)
 
(21.8
)
 
20.0

 
(93.4
)
 
(796.5
)
 
(344.5
)
Diluted (loss) earnings per share from continuing operations
 
$
(.10
)
 
$
.00

 
$
(.25
)
 
$
(1.81
)
 
$
(.79
)
Cash dividends per share
 
$
.00

 
$
.00

 
$
.00

 
$
.24

 
$
.24

Balance Sheet Data
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets*
 
$
3,010.0

 
$
3,697.9

 
$
3,418.9

 
$
3,770.4

 
$
5,485.2

Debt maturing within one year
 
12.0

 
25.7

 
18.1

 
55.2

 
121.7

Long-term debt
 
1,581.6

 
1,872.2

 
1,875.8

 
2,150.5

 
2,417.1

Total debt
 
1,593.6

 
1,897.9

 
1,893.9

 
2,205.7

 
2,538.8

Total shareholders’ (deficit) equity
 
(896.8
)
 
(714.7
)
 
(836.2
)
 
(1,056.4
)
 
305.3

*
Total assets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 in the table above exclude the $100.0 receivable from continuing operations that was presented within current assets of discontinued operations.
(1)
The Brazil IPI tax release in 2018 impacts the comparability of our revenue. See Note 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 35 through 43, and Segment Review - South Latin America within MD&A on page 47 for more information.
(2)
A number of items, shown below, impact the comparability of our operating profit and (loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax. See Note 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report, Segment Review - South Latin America within MD&A on page 47, Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report, "Venezuela Discussion" within MD&A on pages 42 through 43, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 35 through 43, Note 20, Goodwill on page F-60 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and

23



Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report and Note 10, Income Taxes on pages F-33 through F-37 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on these items.
 
 
Impact on Operating Profit
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Brazil IPI tax release(3)
 
$
168.4

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

Costs to implement restructuring initiatives(4)
 
$
(89.7
)
 
(60.2
)
 
(77.4
)
 
(49.1
)
 
(86.6
)
Loss contingency(5)
 

 
(18.2
)
 

 

 

Legal settlement(6)
 

 

 
27.2

 

 

Venezuelan special items(7)
 

 

 

 
(120.2
)
 
(137.1
)
FCPA accrual(8)
 

 

 

 

 
46.0

Pension settlement charge(9)
 

 

 

 
(7.3
)
 
(9.5
)
Other items(10)
 

 

 

 
(3.1
)
 

Asset impairment and other charges(11)
 

 

 

 
(6.9
)
 

In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2018 was impacted by:
one-time tax reserves of approximately $18 associated with our uncertain tax positions, and an expense of approximately $3 associated with the ownership transfer of certain operational assets within the consolidated group.
In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, income from continuing operations, net of tax during 2017 was impacted by:
a $29.9 net tax benefit recognized as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in the U.S., a release of valuation allowances of $25.5 associated with a number of markets in Europe, Middle East & Africa as a result of a business model change related to the move of the Company's headquarters from the U.S. to the UK, and a $10.4 benefit as a result of a favorable court decision in Brazil, partially offset by a charge of $16.0 associated with valuation allowances to adjust deferred tax assets in Mexico.
In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2016 was impacted by:
the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations. As a result of the change to the cost method of accounting, in the first quarter of 2016 we recorded a loss of $120.5 before and after tax in other expense, net. The loss was comprised of $39.2 in net assets of the Venezuelan business and $81.3 in accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ("AOCI") associated with foreign currency movements before Venezuela was accounted for as a highly inflationary economy;
a net gain on extinguishment of debt of $1.1 before and after tax associated with the repayment of certain of our debt in 2016; and
the release of a valuation allowance associated with Russia of $7.1 and an income tax benefit of $29.3 recognized as the result of the implementation of foreign tax planning strategies, partially offset by a charge for valuation allowances for deferred tax assets outside of the U.S. of $8.6.
See "Venezuela Discussion" within MD&A on pages 42 through 43, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report, and Note 10, Income Taxes on pages F-33 through F-37 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2015 was impacted by:
the gain on sale of Liz Earle of $44.9 before tax ($51.6 after tax);
a loss on extinguishment of debt of $5.5 before and after tax caused by the make-whole premium and the write-off of debt issuance costs and discounts, associated with the prepayment of our 2.375% Notes due March 15, 2016 and a charge of $2.5 before and after tax associated with the write-off of issuance costs related to our previous $1 billion revolving credit facility;

24



an aggregate income tax charge of $685.1. This was primarily due to additional valuation allowances for U.S. deferred tax assets of $669.7 which were due to the continued strengthening of the U.S. dollar against currencies of some of our key markets and the impact on the benefits from our tax planning strategies associated with the realization of our deferred tax assets. In addition, the charge was due to valuation allowances for deferred tax assets outside of the U.S. of $15.4, primarily in Russia, which was largely due to lower earnings, which were significantly impacted by foreign exchange losses on working capital balances; and
an income tax benefit of $18.7, which was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2015, recognized as a result of the implementation of the initial stages of foreign tax planning strategies.
See Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report, and Note 10, Income Taxes on pages F-33 through F-37 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
In addition to the items impacting operating profit identified above, loss from continuing operations, net of tax during 2014 was impacted by:
an 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; and
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.
(3)
During 2018, our operating profit and operating margin benefited from the release of the liability related to IPI tax on cosmetics in Brazil. The release was recorded in net sales and other (income) expense, net in the amounts of approximately $168 and approximately $27, respectively. The Brazil IPI tax release also includes approximately $66 recorded in income taxes. See Note 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" within MD&A on pages 35 through 43, and Segment Review - South Latin America within MD&A on page 47 for more information.
(4)
During all periods presented, our operating profit and operating margin was negatively impacted by costs to implement restructuring initiatives. Refer to Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report, for additional information.
(5)
During 2017, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by a charge of $18.2 for a loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan, for which an amendment to the plan that occurred in a prior year may not have been appropriately implemented. See Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
(6)
During 2016, our operating profit and operating margin benefited from the net proceeds of $27.2 before and after tax recognized as a result of settling claims relating to professional services that had been provided to the Company prior to 2013 in connection with a previously disclosed legal matter. See Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
(7)
During 2015 and 2014, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by devaluations of the Venezuelan currency, combined with Venezuela being designated as a highly inflationary economy.
In February 2015, the Venezuelan government announced the creation of a new foreign exchange system referred to as the SIMADI exchange ("SIMADI"), which represented the rate which better reflected the economics of Avon Venezuela's business activity, in comparison to the other then available exchange rates; as such, we concluded that we should utilize the SIMADI exchange rate to remeasure our Venezuelan operations. The change to the SIMADI rate caused the recognition of a devaluation of approximately 70% as compared to the exchange rate we had used previously. 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 SIMADI rate, at the applicable rate at the time of their acquisition. The remeasurement of non-monetary assets at the historical U.S. dollar cost basis caused a disproportionate expense as these assets were consumed in operations, negatively impacting operating profit and net income by $18.5 during 2015. Also as a result of the change to the SIMADI rate, we determined that an adjustment of $11.4 to cost of sales was needed to reflect certain non-monetary assets, primarily inventories, at their net realizable value, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2015. In addition, we reviewed Avon Venezuela's long-lived assets to determine whether the carrying amount of the assets was recoverable. Based on our expected cash flows associated with the asset group, we determined that the carrying amount of the assets, carried at their historical U.S. dollar cost basis, was not recoverable. As such, an impairment charge of $90.3 to SG&A expenses was needed to reflect the write-down of the long-lived assets to estimated fair value of $15.7, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2015. In addition to the negative impact to operating profit, as a result of the devaluation of Venezuelan currency, during 2015, we recorded an after-tax benefit of $3.4 (a benefit of $4.2 in other expense, net, and a

25



loss of $.8 in income taxes) in the first quarter of 2015, primarily reflecting the write-down of net monetary assets. See discussion of our Venezuelan operations in "Venezuela Discussion" within MD&A on pages 42 through 43 and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
In February 2014, the Venezuelan government announced a foreign exchange system which began operating in March 2014, referred to as the SICAD II exchange ("SICAD II"). As SICAD II represented the rate which better reflected the economics of Avon Venezuela's business activity, in comparison to the other then available exchange rates, we concluded that we should utilize the SICAD II exchange rate to remeasure our Venezuelan operations effective March 31, 2014. The change to the SICAD II rate caused the recognition of a devaluation of approximately 88% as compared to the official exchange rate we used previously. 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 their acquisition. The remeasurement of non-monetary assets at the historical U.S. dollar cost basis caused a disproportionate expense as these assets are consumed in operations, negatively impacting operating profit and net income by $21.4 during 2014. Also as a result, we determined that an adjustment of $115.7 to cost of sales was needed to reflect certain non-monetary assets, primarily inventories, at their net realizable value, which was recorded in the first quarter of 2014. 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 net monetary assets.
(8)
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 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information.
(9)
During 2015, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by settlement charges associated with the U.S. defined benefit pension plan. As a result of the lump-sum payments made to former employees who were vested and participated in the U.S. defined benefit pension plan, in the third quarter of 2015, we recorded a settlement charge of $23.8 (before and after tax). Because the settlement threshold was exceeded in the third quarter of 2015, a settlement charge of $4.1 (before and after tax) was also recorded in the fourth quarter of 2015, as a result of additional payments from our U.S. defined benefit pension plan. These settlement charges were allocated between Global ($7.3) and Discontinued Operations ($20.6). See Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for a further discussion.
During 2014, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by settlement charges associated with the U.S. defined benefit pension plan. As a result of the lump-sum payments made to former employees who were vested and participated in the U.S. defined benefit pension plan, in the second quarter of 2014, we recorded a settlement charge of $23.5 (before and after tax). Because the settlement threshold was exceeded in the second quarter of 2014, settlement charges of $5.4 and $7.5 (both before and after tax) were also recorded in the third and fourth quarters of 2014, respectively, as a result of additional payments from our U.S. defined benefit pension plan. These settlement charges were allocated between Global ($9.5) and Discontinued Operations ($26.9).
(10)
During 2015, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by transaction-related costs of $3.1 before and after tax associated with the planned separation of North America that were included in continuing operations.
(11)
During 2015, our operating profit and operating margin were negatively impacted by a non-cash impairment charge of $6.9 (before and after tax) associated with goodwill of our Egypt business. See Note 20, Goodwill on page F-60 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on Egypt.

26




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 2018 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 29 through 30 of this MD&A for a description of how constant dollar ("Constant $") growth rates (a Non-GAAP financial measure) are determined and see "Performance Metrics" on page 29 of this MD&A for definitions of our performance metrics (Change in Active Representatives, Change in units sold, Change in Ending Representatives and Change in Average Order).
Overview
We are a global manufacturer and marketer of beauty and related products. Our business is conducted primarily in the direct-selling channel. During 2018, we had sales operations in 56 countries and territories, and distributed products in 21 more. All of our consolidated revenue is derived from operations of subsidiaries outside of the United States ("U.S."). Our reportable segments are based on geographic operations in four regions: Europe, Middle East & Africa; South Latin America; North Latin America; and Asia Pacific. Our product categories are Beauty and Fashion & Home. Beauty consists of skincare, 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.
As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately 5 million active Representatives which represents the number of Representatives submitting an order in a sales campaign, totaled for all campaigns during the year and then divided by the number of campaigns. The success of our business is highly dependent on recruiting, retaining and servicing our Representatives.
During 2018, revenue declined 3% compared to the prior-year period. Excluding the Brazil IPI release, Adjusted revenue was down 5%, primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange. Constant $ Adjusted revenue increased 1%. Revenue and Constant $ Adjusted revenue included a benefit of approximately 4% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. The 4% benefit was driven primarily by the reclassification of fees paid by Representatives for brochures, late payments and payment processing, and income from appointment kits, from SG&A. The impact of timing of revenue recognition for sales incentives was negligible.
Constant $ Adjusted revenue was impacted by declines primarily in Brazil, which continued to be negatively impacted by competitive pressures against a backdrop of a challenging macroeconomic environment and lower consumption in the market, as well as lower appointments, partly due to the application of strict credit requirements for the acceptance of new Representatives. To a lesser extent, Constant $ Adjusted revenue was also impacted by declines in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Russia, as well as lower revenue from the closure of Australia and New Zealand during 2018. These declines were partially offset by improved revenue growth management, including inflationary, pricing in Argentina. Revenue and Constant $ Adjusted revenue were impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives of 5%, which was primarily driven by Brazil, and to a lesser extent, Russia. Average order in Constant $ increased 2%, including a benefit of approximately 4% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. Units sold decreased 6%, driven by a decline in Brazil.
Ending Representatives declined 8%, primarily driven by declines in Russia and Brazil.
The impact of the new revenue recognition standard was primarily driven by the following accounting changes effective as of January 1, 2018:
Certain of our sales incentives and prospective discounts are now considered to be a separate deliverable, thus initially revenue is deferred generally until delivery of the incentive prize to the Representative or future discounts are realized, and at that time the associated cost is recognized in cost of sales. Historically, the cost of sales incentives was recognized in SG&A over the period that the sales incentive was earned; and
Fees paid by Representatives to the Company for brochures, late payments and payment processing are now reflected as revenue, rather than reflected as a reduction of SG&A. The associated cost for brochures that are sold is now recognized in cost of sales rather than in SG&A. Further, the fees and costs associated with brochures are now recognized upon delivery to the Representatives, rather than recognized over the campaign length.

27



See Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 2, New Accounting Standards, to the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein for additional information on the new revenue recognition standard.
See "Segment Review" in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in revenue by segment.
Transformation Plan and Open Up Avon
In January 2016, we initiated a transformation plan (the "Transformation Plan"), in order to enable us to achieve our long-term goals of mid-single-digit Constant $ revenue growth and low double-digit operating margin. The Transformation Plan included three pillars: invest in growth, reduce costs in an effort to continue to improve our cost structure and improve our financial resilience. Under this plan, we had targeted pre-tax annualized cost savings of approximately $350 after three years, which were expected to be achieved through restructuring actions, as well as other cost-savings strategies that would not result in restructuring charges. There are no further restructuring actions to be taken associated with our Transformation Plan, as beginning in the third quarter of 2018, all new restructuring actions that are approved will operate under our new Open Up Avon plan described below.
In September 2018, we initiated a new strategy in order to return Avon to growth (“Open Up Avon”). The Open Up Avon strategy is integral to our ability to return Avon to growth, built around the necessity of incorporating new approaches to various elements of our business, including increased utilization of third-party providers in manufacturing and technology, a more fit for purpose asset base, and a focus on enabling our Representatives to more easily interact with the company and achieve relevant earnings. The commercial elements of the strategy were developed to help increase Representative earnings and thereby retention. Elements of the Representative facing strategy include improvements in service functions, increased training on utilization of digital tools to expand her consumer reach, product bundling and regimens designed to help improve her earnings opportunity and sharper more targeted product innovation to drive brand relevancy. Cost savings under this plan are targeted as pre-tax annualized cost savings of approximately $400 by 2021, and expected to be generated from efficiencies in manufacturing and sourcing, distribution, general and administrative activities, and back office functions, as well as through revenue management, interest and tax. These savings are expected to be achieved through restructuring actions (that may result in charges related to severance, contract terminations and inventory and other asset write-offs), as well as other cost-savings strategies that would not result in restructuring charges. In January 2019, we announced significant advancements in this strategy, including a structural reset of inventory processes and an aggregate 18% reduction in global workforce. The structural reset of inventory processes includes a 15% reduction in inventory levels and 25% reduction in Stock Keeping Units (SKUs). The structural reset of inventory will result in lower operational and ongoing obsolescence costs. Over the longer term, it will result in a more concentrated focus on high-turn, higher margin products, driving greater earnings for Representatives due to lessened discount pressure and enhanced service levels. The structural reset resulted in an incremental one-off inventory obsolescence expense of $88 recognized at December 31, 2018. In addition, the global workforce will be reduced in 2019 by approximately 10% to align with ongoing operating model changes and to create a leaner organization that is better aligned with Avon’s current and future business focus. This reduction is incremental to an 8% reduction of the global workforce that was completed in 2018. We expect to incur a restructuring charge of approximately $100 in 2019 relating to the global workforce reduction, which wasn't approved by the Board of Directors until January 2019. We initiated the Open Up Avon strategy to enable us to achieve our goals of low-single-digit Constant $ revenue growth and low double-digit operating margin by 2021. We plan to reinvest a portion of these cost savings in commercial initiatives, including training for Representatives, and digital and information technology infrastructure initiatives.
During 2018, we estimate that we achieved total cost savings of approximately $110 before taxes, of which approximately $40 is attributable to Open Up Avon and approximately $70 is attributable to the Transformation Plan. The estimated $40 of savings attributable to Open Up Avon primarily relates to tax and interest, when compared to our costs in 2017. As it relates to the Transformation Plan, we exceeded our cost savings target of $65 before taxes for full-year 2018. These savings include both run-rate savings from the Transformation Plan from 2017, along with in-year savings from current year initiatives already identified, and are associated with restructuring actions and from other cost-savings strategies that did not result in restructuring charges. As a result of restructuring actions and other cost-savings strategies taken to-date, as it relates to the Transformation Plan, we exited 2018 with run-rate savings in excess of our total cumulative cost savings target of $350.
In connection with the actions and associated savings discussed above, we have incurred costs to implement ("CTI") restructuring initiatives of approximately $205 before taxes to-date associated with the Transformation Plan and approximately $143 before taxes to-date associated with Open Up Avon, which includes $88 relating to the structural reset of inventory. Of these costs, approximately $38 and approximately $143 was recorded during 2018 associated with the Transformation Plan and Open Up Avon, respectively. The additional charges not yet incurred associated with the restructuring actions approved as at December 31, 2018 relate to Open Up Avon and are negligible. At December 31, 2018, we have liabilities of approximately $59 associated with our restructuring actions, primarily associated with our Transformation Plan. The majority of future cash payments associated with these restructuring liabilities are expected to be made during 2019.

28



For additional details on restructuring initiatives, see Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives, to the Consolidated Financial Statements included herein.
New Accounting Standards
Information relating to new accounting standards is included in Note 2, New Accounting Standards on pages F-19 through F-24 of our 2018 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.
Performance Metrics
  
Definition
 
 
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.

 
 
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.
 
 
 
Change in Ending Representatives
 
This metric is based on the total number of Representatives who were eligible to place an order in the last sales campaign in the related period as a result of being on an active roster. To determine the Change in Ending Representatives, this calculation is compared to the same calculation in the corresponding period of the prior year. Change in Ending Representatives may be impacted by a combination of factors such as our requirements to become and/or remain a Representative, our practices regarding minimum order requirements and our practices regarding reinstatement of Representatives. We believe this may be an indicator of future revenue performance.
 
 
 
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 U.S. ("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, Adjusted revenue, operating profit, Adjusted operating profit, operating margin and Adjusted operating margin. We 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 and underlying business results. 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 constant exchange rates, which are updated on an annual basis, usually in October, as part of our budgeting process. Foreign currency impact is determined as the difference between actual growth rates and Constant $ growth rates.
We also present revenue, gross margin, SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue, operating profit, operating margin, income (loss) before taxes, income taxes and effective tax rate on a Non-GAAP basis. We refer to these Non-GAAP financial measures as "Adjusted." We have provided a quantitative reconciliation of the Non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. See "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" within "Results of Operations - Consolidated" on pages 35 through 43 in this MD&A for this quantitative reconciliation.
The Company uses Non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate its operating performance. 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 Company believes investors find the Non-GAAP information helpful in understanding the ongoing performance of operations separate from items that may have a disproportionate positive or negative impact on the Company's financial results in any particular period. The Company believes that it is meaningful for investors to be made aware of the impacts of 1) CTI restructuring initiatives; 2) the Brazil IPI tax release; 3) a charge for a loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan

29



("Loss contingency"); 4) the net proceeds recognized as a result of settling claims relating to professional services ("Legal settlement"); 5) charges related to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations as of March 31, 2016, combined with Venezuela being designated as a highly inflationary economy ("Venezuelan special items"); 6) various other items associated with debt-related charges ("Other items"); and, as it relates to our effective tax rate discussion, 7) special tax items associated with uncertain tax positions and the ownership transfer of certain operational assets within the consolidated group, which were recognized in 2018, the net income tax benefit as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in the U.S., a release of valuation allowances associated with a number of markets in Europe, Middle East & Africa, and a benefit as a result of a favorable court decision in Brazil, partially offset by a charge associated with valuation allowances to adjust deferred tax assets in Mexico, which were recognized in 2017, income tax benefits realized in 2016 as a result of tax planning strategies, an income tax benefit in the second quarter of 2016 primarily due to the release of a valuation allowance associated with Russia and the adjustments associated with our deferred tax assets recorded in 2016 ("Special tax items").
(1)
CTI restructuring initiatives includes the impact on the Consolidated Statement of Operations for all periods presented of net charges incurred on approved restructuring initiatives.
(2)
The Brazil IPI tax release includes the impact on the Consolidated Statement of Operations during the third quarter of 2018 of the release of the liability related to IPI tax on cosmetics in Brazil. The release was recorded in net sales and other (income) expense, net in the amounts of approximately $168 and approximately $27, respectively. The Brazil IPI tax release also includes approximately $66 recorded in income taxes.
(3)
The Loss contingency includes the impact on our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the second quarter of 2017 caused by a charge of approximately $18 for a loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan, for which an amendment to the plan that occurred in a prior year may not have been appropriately implemented.
(4)
The Legal settlement includes the impact on our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the third quarter of 2016 associated with the net proceeds of approximately $27 recognized as a result of settling claims relating to professional services that had been provided to the Company prior to 2013 in connection with a previously disclosed legal matter.
(5)
The Venezuelan special items include the impact on our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the first quarter of 2016 caused by the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations for which we recorded a loss of approximately $120 in other expense, net. The loss was comprised of approximately $39 in net assets of the Venezuelan business and approximately $81 in accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments within accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCI") associated with foreign currency changes before Venezuela was accounted for as a highly inflationary economy.
(6)
The Other items include the impact on our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the third quarter of 2016 due to a net gain on extinguishment of debt associated with the cash tender offers in August 2016, the debt repurchases in October and December 2016, and the prepayment of the remaining principal amount of our 4.20% Notes due July 15, 2018 and our 5.75% Notes due March 1, 2018 in November 2016.
(7)
In addition, the effective tax rate discussion includes Special tax items, including the impact on the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during 2018 due to one-time tax reserves of approximately $18 associated with our uncertain tax positions, and an expense of approximately $3 associated with the ownership transfer of certain operational assets within the consolidated group. Special tax items also include the impact on the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during 2017 due to an approximate $30 net benefit recognized as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in the U.S., a release of valuation allowances of approximately $26 associated with a number of markets in Europe, Middle East & Africa, and an approximate $10 benefit as a result of a favorable court decision in Brazil, partially offset by a charge of approximately $16 associated with valuation allowances to adjust deferred tax assets in Mexico. Special tax items also include the impact on the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the fourth quarter of 2016 due to the charge of approximately $9 associated with valuation allowances to adjust certain non-U.S. deferred tax assets to an amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized. Special tax items also include the impact on the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the second quarter of 2016 primarily due to the release of a valuation allowance associated with Russia of approximately $7. Special tax items also include the impact on the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Operations during the first quarter of 2016 due to income tax benefits of approximately $29 recognized as the result of the implementation of foreign tax planning strategies.
See Note 19, Contingencies on pages F-57 through F-59 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report, "Results Of Operations - Consolidated" below, Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report, "Venezuela Discussion" below, Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report, Note 10, Income Taxes on pages F-33 through F-37 of our 2018 Annual Report and "Effective Tax Rate" on pages 39 in this MD&A for more information on these items.

30



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-11 through F-219 of our 2018 Annual Report for a detailed discussion of the application of these and other accounting policies.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized when control of a product or service is transferred to a customer, which is generally the Representative. Revenue is measured based on the consideration specified in a contract with a customer and excludes amounts collected on behalf of third parties, such as Value Added Taxes (“VAT”) collected for taxing authorities.
Our contracts with Representatives often include multiple promises to transfer products and/or services to the Representative and determining which of these products and/or services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately. When assessing the recognition of revenue for the identified performance obligations, management has exercised significant judgment in the following areas: estimation of variable consideration and the stand-alone selling prices ("SSP") of promised goods or services delivered under sales incentives to determine and allocate the transaction price.
Typically included within a contract with customers is variable consideration, such as sales returns and late payment fees. Revenue is only recorded to the extent it is probable that it will not be reversed, and therefore revenue is adjusted for variable consideration. Judgment is required to estimate the variable consideration. The Company uses the expected value method, which considers possible outcomes weighted by their probability. Specifically, for sales returns, a refund liability will be recorded for the estimated cash to be refunded for the products expected to be returned, and a returns asset will be recorded for the products which we expect to be returned and re-sold, each of these based on historical experience. The estimate of sales returns as well as the measurement of the returns asset and the refund liability is updated at the end of each month for changes in expectations regarding the amount of salvageable returns, reconditioning costs and any additional decreases in the value of the returned products. Late payment fees are recorded when the uncertainty associated with collecting such fees are resolved (i.e., when collected).
Additionally, management has exercised significant judgment in the estimation of the SSP of promised goods or services delivered under sales incentives such as status programs, loyalty points, prospective discounts, and gift with purchase, among others, to determine and allocate the transaction price. SSP represents the estimated market value, or the estimated amount that could be charged for that material right when the entity sells it separately in similar circumstances to similar customers. Judgment is required to determine the SSP for each distinct performance obligation. In instances where SSP is not directly observable, such as when we do not sell the product or service separately, including for certain sales incentives, we determine the SSP using information that may include market prices and other observable inputs.
The new standard related to revenue recognition had a material impact in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies pages F-12 through F-14 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on our revenue recognition accounting policy.
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts Receivable
Representatives contact their customers, selling primarily through the use of brochures for each sales campaign, generally on credit if the Representatives meet certain criteria. Sales campaigns are generally for a three- to four-week duration. 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 past due for prior campaigns 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 $162 in 2018, $222 in 2017 and $191 in 2016, or approximately 3% of total revenue in 2018, approximately 4% of total revenue in 2017, and approximately 3% of total revenue in 2016. 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 the 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. We record a provision for estimated sales returns based on historical experience with product returns. Over the past three years, annual sales returns were $172 for 2018, $198 for 2017 and $187 for 2016, or approximately 3% of total revenue in each year, which has been generally in line with our expectations.

31



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, when applicable, equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the net realizable 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 estimate 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 $114 in 2018, $37 in 2017 and $37 in 2016, or 2% of total revenue in 2018, and less than 1% of total revenue in 2017 and 2016. As discussed in the Overview section, 2018 includes inventory obsolescence charges of $88 related to our inventory reset program.
Pension and Postretirement Expense
We maintain defined benefit pension plans, the most significant of which are in the UK, Germany and the U.S. However, our U.S. defined benefit pension plan is closed to employees hired on or after January 1, 2015 and the UK defined benefit pension plan was frozen for future accruals as of April 1, 2013. 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 certain retired employees in the U.S. and certain foreign countries. See Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on our benefit plans.
Pension and postretirement 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 discount rate applied to plan obligations, the expected rate of return on plan assets, the rate of compensation increase of plan participants, price inflation, cost-of-living adjustments, mortality rates and certain other demographic assumptions, and other factors. We use a December 31 measurement date for all of our employee benefit plans.
For 2018, the weighted average assumed rate of return on all pension plan assets was 5.23%, as compared with 5.12% for 2017. 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 generally evaluate the expected long-term rates of return annually and adjust as necessary.
In some of our defined benefit pension plans, we have adopted investment strategies which are designed to match the movements in the pension liability through an increased allocation towards debt securities. In addition, we also utilize derivative instruments in our UK defined benefit pension plans 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 investment committee.
A significant portion of our pension plan assets relate to the UK defined benefit pension plan. The assumed rate of return for determining 2018 net periodic benefit cost for the UK defined benefit pension plan was 5.20%. In addition, the 2018 rate of return assumption for the UK defined benefit pension plan was based on an asset allocation of approximately 80% in corporate and government bonds and mortgage-backed securities (which are expected to earn approximately 2% to 4% in the long-term) and approximately 20% in equity securities, emerging market debt and high yield securities (which are expected to earn approximately 5% to 9% in the long-term). In addition to the physical assets, the asset portfolio for the UK defined benefit pension plan has derivative instruments which increase our exposure to fixed income (in order to better match liabilities) and, to a lesser extent, impact our equity exposure. The rate of return on the plan assets in the UK was approximately -4% in 2018 and approximately 9% in 2017.
Historically, the pension plan with the most significant pension plan assets was the U.S. defined benefit pension plan. As part of the separation of the North America business, in 2016 we transferred $499.6 of pension liabilities under the U.S. defined benefit pension plan associated with current and former employees of the North America business and certain other former Avon employees, along with $355.9 of assets held by the U.S. defined benefit pension plan, to a defined benefit pension plan sponsored by New Avon. We also transferred $60.4 of other postretirement liabilities (namely, retiree medical and supplemental pension liabilities) in respect of such employees and former employees. See Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report. We continue to retain certain U.S. pension and other postretirement liabilities primarily associated with employees who are actively employed by Avon in the U.S. providing services other than with respect to the North America business. Prior to this separation, our net periodic benefit costs for the U.S. pension and postretirement benefit plans were allocated between Discontinued Operations and Global as the plan included

32



both North America and U.S. Corporate Avon associates, and as such, our ongoing net periodic benefit costs within Global were not materially impacted by the separation of the North America business.
The assumed rate of return for determining 2018 net periodic benefit cost for the U.S. defined benefit pension plan was 5.50%, which was based on an asset allocation of approximately 70% in corporate and government bonds (which are expected to earn approximately 3% to 5% in the long-term) and approximately 30% in equity securities (which are expected to earn approximately 6% to 8% in the long-term). The rate of return on the plan assets in the U.S. was approximately -6% in 2018 and approximately 15% in 2017.
The discount rate used for determining the present value of future pension obligations for each individual plan is based on a review of bonds that receive a high-quality rating from a recognized rating agency. The discount rates for calculating the balance sheet obligations of our more significant plans, including our UK defined benefit pension plan and 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 3.06% at December 31, 2018, and 2.66% at December 31, 2017. For the determination of the expected rates of return on assets and the discount rates, we take external actuarial and investment advice into consideration.
Effective as of January 1, 2018, we changed the method we use to estimate the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost for the U.S. defined benefit pension plan and the majority of our significant non-U.S. pension plans, including the UK defined benefit pension plan. Historically, including in 2017, we estimated the service and interest cost components using a single weighted-average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period. Beginning in 2018, we elected to use a full yield curve approach in the estimation of these components of net periodic benefit cost by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. We made this change to improve the correlation between projected benefit cash flows and the corresponding yield curve spot rates, which we believe will result in a more precise measurement of service and interest costs. We accounted for this change in estimate on a prospective basis beginning in 2018.
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, 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, 2018, we had pretax actuarial losses and prior service credits totaling approximately $33 for the U.S. defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and approximately $175 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 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 2019, our assumption for the expected rate of return on assets is 5.5% for our U.S. defined benefit pension plan and 5.3% for our non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans (which includes 5.20% for our UK defined benefit pension plan). Our assumptions are generally 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 2018 pension expense and the pension benefit obligation at December 31, 2018:
 
 
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
 
$
(3.4
)
 
$
3.4

 
N/A

 
N/A

Discount rate
 
(.7
)
 
.6

 
$
(52.9
)
 
$
58.7

Rate of compensation increase
 
.6

 
(.6
)
 
2.4

 
(2.3
)
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, inventory write-offs, 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.

33



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 U.S. 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, are taken into consideration. At December 31, 2018, we had net deferred tax assets of approximately $193 (net of valuation allowances of approximately $3,258 and deferred tax liabilities of $85).
With respect to our deferred tax assets, at December 31, 2018, we had recognized deferred tax assets of approximately $2,144 relating to foreign and state tax loss carryforwards, for which a valuation allowance of approximately $2,073 has been provided. At December 31, 2018, we had recognized deferred tax assets of approximately $831 primarily relating to excess U.S. foreign tax and other U.S. general business credit carryforwards for which a valuation allowance of approximately $813 had been provided. We have a history of U.S. source losses, and our excess U.S. foreign tax and general business credits have primarily resulted from having a greater U.S. source loss in recent years which reduces our ability to credit foreign taxes or utilize the general business credits which we generate.
Our ability to realize our U.S. deferred tax assets, such as our foreign tax and general business credit carryforwards, is dependent on future U.S. taxable income within the carryforward period. At December 31, 2018, we would need to generate approximately $4.0 billion of excess net foreign source income in order to realize the U.S. foreign tax and general business credits before they expire.
At December 31, 2018, we continue to assert that our foreign earnings are not indefinitely reinvested. Accordingly, we adjusted our deferred tax liability each period to account for our undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and for the tax effect of earnings that were actually repatriated during the year. The net impact on the deferred tax liability associated with the Company’s undistributed earnings is a decrease of approximately $5, resulting in a deferred tax liability balance of approximately $17 related to the incremental tax cost on approximately $1.1 billion of undistributed foreign earnings at December 31, 2018.
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 our Consolidated Financial Statements.
We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In 2019, 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 2019 provision for income taxes, as well as tax related cash receipts or payments, 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 our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Impairment of Assets
Plant, Property and Equipment and Capitalized Software
We evaluate our plant, property and equipment and capitalized software for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated pre-tax undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment

34



charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. The fair value of the asset is determined using revenue and cash flow projections, and royalty and discount rates, as appropriate.
Goodwill
We test goodwill for impairment annually, and more frequently if circumstances warrant, using various fair value methods. We completed our annual goodwill impairment assessment for 2018 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 require several estimates in computing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit. As part of our goodwill impairment analysis, we typically use a discounted cash flow ("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.
Results Of Operations - Consolidated
 
 
Years ended December 31
 
Basis Point Change
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2018 vs.
2017
 
2017 vs.
2016
Select Consolidated Financial Information
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenue
 
$
5,571.3

 
$
5,715.6

 
$
5,717.7

 
(3
)%
 
 %
Cost of sales
 
2,364.0

 
2,203.3

 
2,257.0

 
7
 %
 
(2
)%
SG&A expenses
 
2,972.1

 
3,231.0

 
3,136.9

 
(8
)%
 
3
 %
Operating profit
 
235.2

 
281.3

 
323.8

 
(16
)%
 
(13
)%
Interest expense
 
134.6

 
140.8

 
136.6

 
(4
)%
 
3
 %
Loss (gain) on extinguishment of debt
 
0.7

 

 
(1.1
)
 
*

 
*

Interest income
 
(15.3
)
 
(14.8
)
 
(15.8
)
 
3
 %
 
(6
)%
Other expense, net
 
7.1

 
34.6

 
172.9

 
(79
)%
 
(80
)%
Income from continuing operations, before taxes
 
108.1

 
120.7

 
31.2

 
(10
)%
 
*

Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax
 
(21.8
)
 
20.0

 
(93.4
)
 
*

 
*

Net income (loss) attributable to Avon
 
$
(19.5
)
 
$
22.0

 
$
(107.6
)
 
*

 
*

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted income (loss) per share from continuing operations
 
$
(.10
)
 
$
(.00
)
 
$
(.25
)
 
*

 
*

Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to Avon
 
$
(.10
)
 
$
(.00
)
 
$
(.29
)
 
*

 
*

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advertising expenses(1)
 
$
127.6

 
$
118.4

 
$
108.9

 
8
 %
 
9
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenue
 
$
5,571.3

 
$
5,715.6

 
$
5,717.7

 
(3
)%
 
 %
Brazil IPI tax release
 
(168.4
)
 

 

 
 
 
 
Adjusted revenue
 
5,402.9

 
5,715.6

 
5,717.7

 
(5
)%
 
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross margin
 
57.6
 %
 
61.5
 %
 
60.5
 %
 
(3.9
)
 
1.0

Brazil IPI tax release
 
(1.3
)
 

 

 
(1.3
)
 

CTI restructuring
 
1.6

 

 

 
1.6

 

Adjusted gross margin
 
57.9
 %
 
61.5
 %
 
60.5
 %
 
(3.6
)
 
1.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SG&A expenses as a % of total revenue
 
53.3
 %
 
56.5
 %
 
54.9
 %
 
(3.2
)
 
1.6

Brazil IPI tax release
 
1.7

 

 

 
1.7

 
 %
CTI restructuring
 
(1.6
)
 
(1.0
)
 
(1.3
)
 
(.6
)
 
.3

Loss contingency
 

 
(.3
)
 

 
.3

 
(.3
)

35



 
 
Years ended December 31
 
Basis Point Change
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2018 vs.
2017
 
2017 vs.
2016
Legal settlement
 

 

 
.5

 

 
(.5
)
Adjusted SG&A expenses as a % of total revenue
 
53.4
 %
 
55.2
 %
 
54.0
 %
 
(1.8
)
 
1.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating profit
 
$
235.2

 
$
281.3

 
$
323.8

 
(16
)%
 
(13
)%
Brazil IPI tax release
 
(168.4
)
 

 

 
 
 
 
CTI restructuring
 
180.5

 
60.2

 
77.4

 

 

Loss contingency
 

 
18.2

 

 

 
 
Legal settlement
 

 

 
(27.2
)
 
 
 

Adjusted operating profit
 
$
247.3

 
$
359.7

 
$
374.0

 
(31
)%
 
(4
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating margin
 
4.2
 %
 
4.9
 %
 
5.7
 %
 
(.7
)
 
(.8
)
Brazil IPI tax release
 
(2.8
)
 

 

 
 
 
 
CTI restructuring
 
3.2

 
1.1

 
1.4

 
2.1

 
(.3
)
Loss contingency
 

 
.3

 

 
(.3
)
 
.3

Legal settlement
 

 

 
(.5
)
 

 
.5

Adjusted operating margin
 
4.6
 %
 
6.3
 %
 
6.5
 %
 
(1.7
)
 
(.2
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in Constant $ Adjusted operating margin(2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(140
)
 
(40
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before taxes
 
108.1

 
120.7

 
31.2

 
(10
)%
 
*

Brazil IPI tax release
 
(194.7
)
 

 

 
 
 
 
CTI restructuring
 
180.5

 
60.2

 
77.4

 
 
 
 
Loss contingency
 

 
18.2

 

 
 
 
 
Legal settlement
 

 

 
(27.2
)
 
 
 
 
Venezuelan special items
 

 

 
120.5

 
 
 
 
Other items
 

 

 
(1.1
)
 
 
 
 
Adjusted income before taxes
 
93.9

 
199.1

 
200.8

 
(53
)%
 
(1
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income taxes
 
(129.9
)
 
(100.7
)
 
(124.6
)
 
29
 %
 
(19
)%
Brazil IPI tax release
 
66.2

 

 

 
 
 
 
CTI restructuring
 
(17.4
)
 
(1.7
)
 
(13.5
)
 
 
 
 
Special tax items
 
21.1

 
(49.8
)
 
(27.8
)
 
 
 
 
Adjusted income taxes
 
(60.0
)
 
(152.2
)
 
(165.9
)
 
(61
)%
 
(8
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effective tax rate
 
120.2
 %
 
83.4
 %
 
*

 
 
 
 
Adjusted effective tax rate
 
63.9
 %
 
76.4
 %
 
82.6
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Metrics
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in Active Representatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(5
)%
 
(3
)%
Change in units sold
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(6
)%
 
(4
)%
Change in Ending Representatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(8
)%
 
 %
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
*     Calculation not meaningful
(1)
Advertising expenses are recorded in SG&A expenses.
(2)
Change in Constant $ Adjusted operating margin for all years presented is calculated using the current-year Constant $ rates.
2018 Compared to 2017
Revenue
During 2018, revenue declined 3% compared to the prior-year period. Excluding the Brazil IPI release, Adjusted revenue was down 5%, primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange. Constant $ Adjusted revenue increased 1%. Revenue and Constant $ Adjusted revenue included a benefit of approximately 4% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. The 4% benefit was driven primarily by the reclassification of fees paid by Representatives for brochures,

36



late payments and payment processing, and income from appointment kits, from SG&A. The impact of timing of revenue recognition for sales incentives was negligible.
Revenue and constant $ Adjusted revenue was impacted by declines primarily in Brazil, which continued to be negatively impacted by competitive pressures against a backdrop of a challenging macroeconomic environment and lower consumption in the market, as well as lower appointments due to the application of strict credit requirements for the acceptance of new Representatives. To a lesser extent, Constant $ Adjusted revenue was also impacted by declines in the UK, South Africa and Russia, as well as lower revenue from the closure of Australia and New Zealand during 2018. These declines were partially offset by improved revenue growth management including inflationary pricing in Argentina. Revenue and Constant $ Adjusted revenue were impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives of 5%, which was primarily driven by Brazil, and to a lesser extent, Russia. Average order in Constant $ increased 2%, including a benefit of approximately 4% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. Units sold decreased 6%, driven by a decline in Brazil.
Ending Representatives declined 8%, primarily driven by declines in Russia and Brazil.
On a category basis, our net sales from reportable segments and associated growth rates were as follows:
 
Years ended December 31
 
% Change
 
2018
 
2017
 
US$
 
Constant $
Beauty:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Skincare
$
1,474.7

 
$
1,606.4

 
(8
)%
 
(3
)%
Fragrance
1,428.1

 
1,547.2

 
(8
)
 
(1
)
Color
845.3

 
968.0

 
(13
)
 
(7
)
Total Beauty
3,748.1

 
4,121.6

 
(9
)
 
(3
)
Fashion & Home:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fashion
750.8

 
812.5

 
(8
)
 
(4
)
Home
561.3

 
587.2

 
(4
)
 
5

Total Fashion & Home
1,312.1

 
1,399.7

 
(6
)
 

Brazil IPI tax release
168.4

 

 
 
 
 
Net sales from reportable segments
5,228.6

 
5,521.3

 
(5
)
 
(2
)
Net sales from Other operating segments and business activities
19.1

 
43.8

 
(56
)
 
(57
)
Net sales
$
5,247.7

 
$
5,565.1

 
(6
)
 
(3
)
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 decreased 170 basis points, compared to 2017, including a benefit of 10 basis points due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. The benefit of 10 basis points was driven by the net positive contribution to operating margin of fourth quarter 2017 sales incentives satisfied during 2018 and sales incentives deferred during the period, impacted by the mix of products. The changes in operating margin and Adjusted operating margin include the benefits associated with the Transformation Plan, primarily reductions in headcount, as well as other cost reductions. These savings were partially offset by the inflationary impact on costs. Operating margin and Adjusted operating margin drivers are discussed further below in "Gross Margin" and "SG&A Expenses."
Gross Margin
Gross margin decreased 390 basis points and Adjusted gross margin decreased 360 basis points, compared to the same period of 2017, including a decline of 350 basis points due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. The 350 basis point decline was driven by the reclassification of sales incentive costs from SG&A to cost of sales, partially offset by the reclassification of fees paid by Representatives for late payments, payment processing and brochures from SG&A to other revenue and the reclassification of income from appointment kits from SG&A to net sales.
Gross margin and Adjusted gross margin were primarily impacted by the following:
a decrease of 80 basis points due to higher supply chain costs, driven by higher material costs primarily in South Latin America;
a decrease of 20 basis points due to the net unfavorable impact of foreign currency transaction losses and foreign currency translation; and

37



a decrease of 20 basis points due to the unfavorable impact as a result of hyperinflationary accounting in Argentina effective July 1, 2018, primarily due to inventory being accounted for at its historical dollar cost.
This item was partially offset by the following:
an increase of 110 basis points due to the favorable net impact of mix and pricing, driven by inflationary pricing in Argentina.
SG&A Expenses
SG&A as a percentage of total revenue, which decreased 320 basis points, benefited 170 basis points from the Brazil IPI release in the third quarter of 2018 and 30 basis points from a loss contingency recorded in the prior-year period related to a non-U.S. pension plan, partially offset by 60 basis point from higher CTI restructuring. Adjusted SG&A as a percentage of Adjusted revenue decreased 180 basis points, compared to the same period of 2017. SG&A as a percentage of total revenue and Adjusted SG&A as a percentage of Adjusted revenue include a benefit of 350 basis points due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. The 350 basis point benefit was driven by the reclassification of sales incentive costs from SG&A to cost of sales, partially offset by the reclassification of fees paid by Representatives for late payments, payment processing and brochures from SG&A to other revenue and the reclassification of income from appointment kits from SG&A to net sales.
SG&A as a percentage of total revenue and Adjusted SG&A as a percentage of Adjusted revenue were primarily impacted by the following:
an increase of 50 basis points due to higher Representative, sales leader and field expense, primarily in Brazil due to investments aimed at recovering activity levels that were disrupted by the national transportation strike in the second quarter of 2018, as well as increased focus on Representatives training in the second half of 2018;
an increase of 40 basis points from higher advertising expense primarily due to increased investments in Europe, Middle East & Africa;
an increase of 40 basis points from higher transportation costs, mainly in Brazil primarily driven by inefficiencies caused by the national transportation strike and an increase in fuel prices, in Europe, Middle East & Africa driven by further increases in delivery rates in Russia and increased flexibility in order processing in the UK and in Mexico due to an increase in fuel prices;
an increase of approximately 40 basis points due to the net unfavorable impact of foreign currency transaction losses and foreign currency translation;
an increase of 40 basis points due to higher net brochure expense primarily due to an increase in brochure volumes in Brazil; and
a decrease of 50 basis points from lower bad debt expense, primarily in Brazil due to improved credit control and collections processes.
See Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the legal settlement, Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan and Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring.
Other Expenses
Interest expense decreased by approximately $6, primarily due to interest savings associated with prepayment of the $237.8 principal amount of our 6.50% Notes due March 2019. Refer to Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information.
A loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $1 was comprised of a loss of approximately $3 associated with the prepayment of our 6.50% Notes, partially offset by a gain of approximately $2 associated with the debt repurchases in the fourth quarter of 2018. Refer to Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information.
Interest income increased by $1 compared to the prior-year period.
Other expense, net, decreased by approximately $28 compared to the prior-year period, including the impact of the Brazil IPI tax release of $27. Other expense, net, was positively impacted by lower expenses associated with employee benefit plans of $12, primarily related to the UK and including the impact of a $3 settlement charge recorded in the third quarter of 2017, and approximately $12 recorded for our proportionate share of New Avon's losses during the nine months ended September 30, 2017. As the recorded investment balance in New Avon was zero at the end of the third quarter of 2017, we have not recorded

38



any additional losses associated with New Avon since the third quarter of 2017. These benefits were partially offset by foreign exchange net losses, which increased by approximately $19 compared to the prior-year period, and other miscellaneous unfavorable impacts totaling $4 See Note 4, Investment in New Avon on page F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on New Avon.
Effective Tax Rate
The effective tax rates in 2018 and 2017 continue to be impacted by our inability to recognize additional deferred tax assets in various jurisdictions related to our current-year operating results. In addition, the effective tax rates in 2018 and 2017 continue to be impacted by withholding taxes associated with certain intercompany payments, including royalties, service charges and dividends, which in the aggregate are relatively consistent each year due to the need to repatriate funds to cover U.S.-based costs, such as interest on debt and corporate overhead. These factors resulted in unusually high effective tax rates in 2018 and 2017.
The effective tax rate in 2018 was impacted by an approximate net $25 benefit recognized primarily due to Avon's interpretation of case law and/or guidance provided during 2018 in the U.S. and Latin America and the release of valuation allowances of approximately $5 associated with improved profitability of certain Markets partially offset by a net charge of approximately $11 primarily associated with an increase in reserves for uncertain tax positions. The effective tax rate in 2018 was also impacted by the accrual of taxes associated with the reversal of the Brazil IPI loss contingency and CTI restructuring for which tax benefits cannot currently be claimed in all affected jurisdictions.
The effective tax rate in 2017 was impacted by an approximate net $30 benefit recognized as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in U.S., a release of valuation allowances of approximately $26 associated with a number of markets in Europe, Middle East & Africa as a result of a business model change related to the headquarters move, and an approximate $10 benefit as a result of a favorable court decision in Brazil, partially offset by a charge of approximately $16 associated with valuation allowances to adjust deferred tax assets in Mexico. The effective tax rate in 2017 was also impacted by a loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan and CTI restructuring, both for which tax benefits cannot currently be claimed.
In addition, the effective tax rates and the Adjusted effective tax rates in 2018 and 2017 were negatively impacted by the country mix of earnings.
See Note 10, Income Taxes on pages F-33 through F-37 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on tax items, Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan, Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring and "Venezuela Discussion" in this MD&A and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information for further discussion of our Venezuelan operations.
Impact of Foreign Currency
As compared to the prior-year period, foreign currency in 2018 impacted our consolidated financial results in the form of:
foreign currency transaction net losses as compared to net gains in the prior year (classified within cost of SG&A expenses), which had an unfavorable impact to operating profit and Adjusted operating profit of an estimated $30, or approximately 50 basis points to operating margin and Adjusted operating margin;
foreign currency translation, which had an unfavorable impact, as compared to a favorable impact in the prior year, to operating profit and Adjusted operating profit of approximately $75 and approximately $35, respectively, or approximately 80 basis points and approximately 30 basis points, respectively, to operating margin and Adjusted operating margin; and
higher foreign exchange net losses on our working capital (classified within other expense, net) as compared to net gains in the prior year, resulting in a year-over-year unfavorable impact of approximately $20 before tax on both a reported and Adjusted basis.
2017 Compared to 2016
Revenue
During 2017, revenue was relatively unchanged compared to the prior-year period, partially benefiting from foreign exchange, while Constant $ revenue decreased 2%. Our Constant $ revenue decline was primarily driven by declines in Brazil, Russia and the UK, partially offset by growth in Argentina and South Africa. The decline in revenue and Constant $ revenue was primarily due to a 3% decrease in Active Representatives, which was partially offset by higher average order. The decrease in Active Representatives was impacted by declines in all reportable segments, most significantly in South Latin America (driven by Brazil) and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The net impact of price and mix increased 2%, primarily due to the inflationary impact on pricing in Argentina, Russia and Mexico. Units sold decreased 4%, primarily due to declines in Russia, Brazil,

39



Mexico and the UK. The revenue performance was negatively impacted most significantly by a decline in Color sales, as we experienced issues in some markets while we segmented our Color category into three distinct brands. The timing of innovation also impacted the decline in Color sales.
Ending Representatives were relatively unchanged. Ending Representatives at December 31, 2017 as compared to the prior-year period benefited from growth in Russia, which was offset by a decline in Brazil.
On a category basis, our net sales from reportable segments and associated growth rates were as follows:
 
Years ended December 31
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
US$
 
Constant $
Beauty:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Skincare
$
1,606.4

 
$
1,589.0

 
1
 %
 
(2
)%
Fragrance
1,547.2

 
1,504.8

 
3

 
1

Color
968.0

 
984.2

 
(2
)
 
(4
)
Total Beauty
4,121.6

 
4,078.0

 
1

 
(1
)
Fashion & Home:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fashion
812.5

 
838.8

 
(3
)
 
(5
)
Home
587.2

 
589.5

 

 
(2
)
Total Fashion & Home
1,399.7

 
1,428.3

 
(2
)
 
(3
)
Net sales from reportable segments
5,521.3

 
5,506.3

 

 
(2
)
Net sales from Other operating segments and business activities
43.8

 
72.5

 
(40
)
 
         *
Net sales
$
5,565.1

 
$
5,578.8

 

 
(2
)
See "Segment Review" in this MD&A for additional information related to changes in revenue by segment.

Operating Margin
Operating margin and Adjusted operating margin decreased 80 basis points and 20 basis points, respectively, compared to 2016. The decreases in operating margin and Adjusted operating margin include the benefits associated with the Transformation Plan, primarily reductions in headcount, as well as other cost reductions. These savings were largely offset by the inflationary impact on costs outpacing revenue growth. The decreases in operating margin and Adjusted operating margin are discussed further below in "Gross Margin" and "SG&A Expenses."
Gross Margin
Gross margin and Adjusted gross margin both increased 100 basis points compared to 2016, in each case primarily due to an increase of 120 basis points from the favorable net impact of mix and pricing, driven by inflationary pricing in South Latin America.
SG&A Expenses
SG&A expenses for 2017 increased approximately $94 compared to 2016. This increase is primarily due to the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation, as the weakening of the U.S. dollar against many of our foreign currencies resulted in higher reported SG&A expenses. The increase in SG&A expenses is also due to the approximate $27 of net proceeds recognized as a result of a legal settlement in 2016, higher bad debt expense, higher transportation costs, the loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan and higher Representative, sales leader and field expense. Partially offsetting the increase in SG&A expenses was lower expenses associated with employee incentive compensation plans and lower CTI restructuring.
SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue and Adjusted SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue increased 160 basis points and 120 basis points, respectively, compared to 2016. The SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue comparison was negatively impacted by:
approximately 50 basis points for the approximate $27 of net proceeds recognized as a result of a legal settlement in the 2016; and
approximately 30 basis points for a loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan.
These items were partially offset by:
approximately 30 basis points for lower CTI restructuring.

40



The remaining increase in SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue and the increase of 120 basis points in Adjusted SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue were, in each case, primarily due to the following:
an increase of 50 basis points from higher bad debt expense, driven by Brazil due to the lower than anticipated collection of receivables, primarily impacted by the macroeconomic environment, as well as resulting from an adjustment to credit terms available to new Representatives during 2016;
an increase of 50 basis points primarily due to higher Representative, sales leader and field expense, most significantly in Brazil to support efforts to activate the field and improve Representative recruitment, as well as in the Philippines;
an increase of 40 basis points from higher transportation costs, most significantly in Russia which was driven by new delivery rates; and
an increase of 20 basis points primarily due to the impact of the Constant $ revenue decline causing deleverage of our fixed expenses, partially offset by lower fixed expenses. Fixed expenses include the benefits associated with the Transformation Plan, primarily reductions in headcount, as well as other cost reductions. These savings were largely offset by the inflationary impact on costs outpacing revenue growth.
These items were partially offset by the following:
a decrease of 30 basis points due to lower expenses associated with employee incentive compensation plans; and
a decrease of approximately 20 basis points due to the favorable impact of foreign currency translation and foreign currency transaction losses.
See Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the legal settlement, Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan and Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring.
Other Expenses
Interest expense increased by approximately $4 compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to the interest associated with $500 principal amount of 7.875% Senior Secured Notes issued in August 2016 and lower amortization of gains associated with the termination of interest rate swaps. These items were partially offset by the interest savings associated with the repayment of certain of our debt in 2016 and lower interest due to a reduction of the international debt balances. Refer to Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report and Note 11, Financial Instruments and Risk Management on pages F-37 through F-38 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information.
Gain on extinguishment of debt in 2016 of approximately $1 was comprised of a gain of approximately $4 associated with the cash tender offers in August 2016 and a gain of approximately $1 associated with the debt repurchases in December 2016, partially offset by a loss of approximately $3 associated with the prepayment of the remaining principal amount of our 4.20% Notes and 5.75% Notes in November 2016 and a loss of approximately $1 associated with the debt repurchases in October 2016. Refer to Note 8, Debt and Other Financing on pages F-30 through F-33 of our 2018 Annual Report for additional information.
Interest income decreased by approximately $1 compared to the prior-year period.
Other expense, net, decreased by approximately $138 compared to the prior-year period, primarily due to the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations, as we recorded a loss of approximately $120 in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, other expense, net was positively impacted by foreign exchange net gains in the current year as compared to net losses in the prior year, resulting in a year-over-year benefit of approximately $28. The amounts recorded for our proportionate share of New Avon's losses was approximately $12 in both 2017 and 2016. As the recorded investment balance in New Avon was zero at the end of the third quarter of 2017, we have not recorded any additional losses associated with New Avon since the third quarter of 2017. See "Venezuela Discussion" in this MD&A and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report for further discussion of our Venezuelan operations. See Note 4, Investment in New Avon on page F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on New Avon.
Effective Tax Rate
The effective tax rates in 2017 and 2016 continue to be impacted by our inability to recognize additional deferred tax assets in various jurisdictions related to our current-year operating results. In addition, the effective tax rates in 2017 and 2016 continue to be impacted by withholding taxes associated with certain intercompany payments, including royalties, service charges and dividends, which in the aggregate are relatively consistent each year due to the need to repatriate funds to cover U.S.-based costs, such as interest on debt and corporate overhead. These factors resulted in unusually high effective tax rates in 2017 and 2016.

41



The effective tax rate in 2017 was impacted by an approximate net $30 benefit recognized as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in U.S., a release of valuation allowances of approximately $26 associated with a number of markets in Europe, Middle East & Africa as a result of a business model change related to the headquarters move, and an approximate $10 benefit as a result of a favorable court decision in Brazil, partially offset by a charge of approximately $16 associated with valuation allowances to adjust deferred tax assets in Mexico. The effective tax rate in 2017 was also impacted by a loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan and CTI restructuring, both for which tax benefits cannot currently be claimed.
The effective tax rate in 2016 was impacted by the deconsolidation of our Venezuelan operations, valuation allowances for deferred tax assets outside of the U.S. of approximately $9 and CTI restructuring, partially offset by a benefit of approximately $29 as a result of the implementation of foreign tax planning strategies, a net benefit of approximately $7 primarily due to the release of a valuation allowance associated with Russia and a benefit from the net proceeds recognized as a result of a legal settlement.
In addition, the effective tax rates and the Adjusted effective tax rates in 2017 and 2016 were negatively impacted by the country mix of earnings.
See Note 10, Income Taxes on pages F-33 through F-37 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on tax items, Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the loss contingency related to a non-U.S. pension plan, Note 17, Restructuring Initiatives on pages F-53 through F-56 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on CTI restructuring and "Venezuela Discussion" in this MD&A and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information for further discussion of our Venezuelan operations.
Impact of Foreign Currency
As compared to the prior-year period, foreign currency in 2017 impacted our consolidated financial results in the form of:
foreign currency transaction net gains (classified within cost of sales, and SG&A expenses), which had an immaterial impact to operating profit and Adjusted operating profit, and operating margin and Adjusted operating margin;
foreign currency translation, which had a favorable impact to operating profit and Adjusted operating profit of approximately $20, or approximately 30 basis points to operating margin and approximately 20 basis points to Adjusted operating margin; and
foreign exchange net gains on our working capital (classified within other expense, net) as compared to net losses in the prior year, resulting in a year-over-year benefit of approximately $28 before tax on both a reported and Adjusted basis.
Discontinued Operations
There were no amounts recorded in discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2017. Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax was approximately $14 for the year ended December 31, 2016. See Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report for further discussion.
Venezuela Discussion
Avon Venezuela operates in the direct-selling channel offering Beauty and Fashion & Home products. Avon Venezuela has a manufacturing facility that produces the Beauty products that it sells. Avon Venezuela imports many of its Fashion & Home products and raw materials and components needed to manufacture its Beauty products.
Currency restrictions enacted by the Venezuelan government since 2003 impacted the ability of Avon Venezuela to obtain foreign currency to pay for imported products. In 2010, we began 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 (loss) (shareholders' deficit).
Venezuela's restrictive foreign exchange control regulations and our Venezuelan operations' increasingly limited access to U.S. dollars resulted in lack of exchangeability between the Venezuelan bolivar and the U.S. dollar, and restricted our Venezuelan operations' ability to pay dividends and settle intercompany obligations. The severe currency controls imposed by the Venezuelan government significantly limited our ability to realize the benefits from earnings of our Venezuelan operations and

42



access the resulting liquidity provided by those earnings. We expected that this lack of exchangeability would continue for the foreseeable future, and as a result, we concluded that, effective March 31, 2016, this condition was other-than-temporary and we no longer met the accounting criteria of control in order to continue consolidating our Venezuelan operations. As a result, since March 31, 2016, we account for our Venezuelan operations using the cost method of accounting.
As a result of the change to the cost method of accounting, in the first quarter of 2016 we recorded a loss of approximately $120 in other expense, net. The loss was comprised of approximately $39 in net assets of the Venezuelan business and approximately $81 in accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments within AOCI associated with foreign currency movements before Venezuela was accounted for as a highly inflationary economy. The net assets of the Venezuelan business were comprised of inventories of approximately $24, property, plant and equipment, net of approximately $15, other assets of approximately $11, accounts receivable of approximately $5, cash of approximately $4, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities of approximately $20. Our Consolidated Balance Sheets no longer include the assets and liabilities of our Venezuelan operations. We no longer include the results of our Venezuelan operations in our Consolidated Financial Statements, and will include income relating to our Venezuelan operations only to the extent that we receive cash for dividends or royalties remitted by Avon Venezuela.
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Other comprehensive loss, net of taxes was approximately $104 in 2018 compared with other comprehensive income of approximately $108 in 2017. The year-over-year comparison was unfavorably impacted by unrealized losses on the revaluation of long-term intercompany balances of $58 compared to unrealized gains of $62 in the prior-year period. These long-term intercompany balances are denominated in Brazilian real and the British Pound. Foreign currency translation adjustments unfavorably impacted other comprehensive loss by approximately $69 as compared to 2017, primarily due to the unfavorable year-over-year comparison of movements of the Polish zloty and Argentinian peso for the first half of 2018, before highly inflationary accounting was applied for our Argentinian subsidiary from July 1, 2018.
Other comprehensive income, net of taxes was approximately $108 in 2017 compared with approximately $333 in 2016. The year-over-year comparison was unfavorably impacted by the recognition of losses of $259 from other comprehensive income into our Consolidated Statements of Operations in 2016 as a result of the separation of the North America business, primarily related to unamortized losses associated with the employee benefit plans, and the approximate $82 impact of the deconsolidation of Venezuela. The remaining approximate $116 benefit to the year-over-year comparison was primarily due to foreign currency translation adjustments, which benefited by approximately $117 as compared to 2016 primarily due to the favorable year-over-year comparison of movements of the Polish zloty and Mexican peso, partially offset by the unfavorable year-over-year comparison of movements of the Brazilian real.
See Note 3, Discontinued Operations and Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale on pages F-24 through F-26 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on the separation of the North America business, see "Venezuela Discussion" in this MD&A and Note 1, Description of the Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies on pages F-11 through F-19 of our 2018 Annual Report for a further discussion of our Venezuelan operations, and Note 14, Employee Benefit Plans on pages F-42 through F-50 of our 2018 Annual Report for more information on our benefit plans.
Segment Review
We determine segment profit by deducting the related costs and expenses from segment revenue. In order to ensure comparability between periods, segment profit includes an allocation of global marketing expenses based on actual revenues. Segment profit excludes global expenses other than the allocation of marketing, CTI restructuring initiatives, certain significant asset impairment charges, and other items, which are not allocated to a particular segment, if applicable. This is consistent with the manner in which we assess our performance and allocate resources. See Note 15, Segment Information on pages F-50 through F-52 of our 2018 Annual Report for a reconciliation of segment profit to operating profit.
Summarized financial information concerning our reportable segments was as follows:
Years ended December 31
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
Total revenue
 
Segment profit
 
Total revenue
 
Segment profit
 
Total revenue
 
Segment profit
Europe, Middle East & Africa
 
$
2,093.8

 
$
267.5

 
$
2,126.5

 
$
329.6

 
$
2,138.2

 
$
322.8

South Latin America
 
2,146.9

 
314.6

 
2,222.4

 
195.7

 
2,145.9

 
201.1

North Latin America
 
809.3

 
70.4

 
811.8

 
83.4

 
829.9

 
116.1

Asia Pacific
 
470.8

 
42.0

 
471.9

 
50.8

 
494.0

 
62.5

Total from reportable segments
 
$
5,520.8

 
$
694.5

 
$
5,632.6

 
$
659.5

 
$
5,608.0

 
$
702.5


43



Below is an analysis of the key factors affecting revenue and segment profit by reportable segment for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2018. Foreign currency impact is determined as the difference between actual growth rates and Constant $ growth rates. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in this MD&A for more information.
Europe, Middle East & Africa – 2018 Compared to 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
%/Point Change
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
US$
 
Constant $
Total revenue
 
$
2,093.8

 
$
2,126.5

 
(2
)%
 
(1
)%
Segment profit
 
267.5

 
329.6

 
(19
)%
 
(18
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Segment margin
 
12.8
%
 
15.5
%
 
(270
)
 
(280
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in Active Representatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(4
)%
Change in units sold
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(5
)%
Change in Ending Representatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(10
)%
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
Total revenue decreased 2% compared to the prior-year period, unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, revenue decreased 1%. Revenue and Constant $ revenue included a benefit of approximately 3% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. Revenue and Constant $ revenue were negatively impacted primarily by a decrease in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order. The decrease in Ending Representatives was driven primarily by declines in Russia.
In Russia, revenue decreased 6%, unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, Russia's revenue increased 1%. Russia's revenue and Constant $ revenue included a benefit of approximately 4% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. Revenue and Constant $ revenue in Russia were negatively impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives, partially offset by higher average order. Revenue and Constant $ revenue in Russia was also negatively impacted by lower consumption in the market.
In the UK, revenue decreased 6%, despite the favorable impact of foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, the UK's revenue decreased 9%. The UK's revenue and Constant $ revenue included a benefit of approximately 4% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. Revenue and Constant $ revenue in the UK were negatively impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives, driven by underlying field issues and temporary service issues in the fourth quarter of 2018, partially offset by higher average order.
In South Africa, revenue decreased 4%, despite the favorable impact of foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, South Africa's revenue decreased 5%. South Africa's revenue and Constant $ revenue included a benefit of approximately 2% due to the impact of adopting the new revenue recognition standard. Revenue and Constant $ revenue in South Africa were negatively impacted by a decrease in Active Representatives, resulting from the challenging macroeconomic environment and the application of strict credit requirements for the acceptance of new Representatives as compared to the requirements in the prior year.
Segment margin decreased 270 basis points, or 280 basis points on a Constant $ basis, including a decline of approximately 30 basis points due to the impact of the new revenue recognition standard. The decrease in reported and Constant $ segment margin was primarily as a result of:
a decline of 70 basis points from higher advertising expense, primarily due to increased investments in the UK, South Africa and Russia;
a decline of 50 basis points from higher rep and sales leader investments primarily in Russia and Poland and Turkey;
a decline of 50 basis points due to higher fixed expenses, primarily due to the impact of the Constant $ Adjusted revenue decline causing deleverage of our fixed expenses;
a decline of 40 basis points from higher transportation costs, driven by further increases in delivery rates in Russia and increased flexibility in order processing in the UK;
a decline of 40 basis points from higher variable distribution cost primarily relating to increased flexibility in order processing in the UK; and
a benefit of 40 basis points due to lower net bad debt expense, driven by Russia, South Africa and the UK. Bad debt expense in Russia in the prior-period was negatively impacted by a payment facilitation agency that had not remitted to us the funds it received from certain Representatives. The year-over-year bad debt expense comparison in South Africa and the UK benefited from improved credit control and enhancement of collections processes.

44



Europe, Middle East & Africa – 2017 Compared to 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
%/Point Change
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
US$
 
Constant $
Total revenue
 
$
2,126.5

 
$
2,138.2

 
(1
)%
 
(4
)%
Segment profit
 
329.6

 
322.8

 
2
 %
 
(3
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Segment margin
 
15.5
%
 
15.1
%
 
40

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in Active Representatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2
)%
Change in units sold
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(7
)%
Change in Ending Representatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3
 %
Amounts in the table above may not necessarily sum due to rounding.
Total revenue decreased 1% compared to the prior-year period, despite the favorable impact of foreign exchange which was primarily driven by the weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Russian ruble and to a lesser extent, the South African rand, partially offset by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Turkish lira and the British pound. On a Constant $ basis, revenue decreased 4%, most significantly impacted by declines in Russia and the UK, partially offset by growth in South Africa. The segment's Constant $ revenue decline was primarily driven by a decrease in Active Representatives and lower average order. The increase in Ending Representatives was primarily driven by increases in Russia, Turkey and South Africa, partially offset by a decline in the UK.
In Russia, revenue increased 5%, benefiting significantly from the favorable impact of foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, Russia's revenue declined 8%, primarily due to lower average order along with a decrease in Active Representatives. During the first half of 2017, the Constant $ revenue decline in Russia was impacted by the comparison to strong volume growth in the prior-year period, which benefited primarily from a pricing lag during an inflationary period. The Constant $ revenue decline in Russia was also impacted by competitive pressures, innovation issues and a continued difficult macroeconomic environment, primarily in the second half of 2017. These issues also negatively impacted Active Representatives, despite the increase in Ending Representatives.
In the UK, revenue declined 14%, which was unfavorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, the UK's revenue declined 11%, primarily due to a decrease in Active Representatives, and to a lesser extent, lower average order.
In South Africa, revenue grew 20%, which was favorably impacted by foreign exchange. On a Constant $ basis, South Africa’s revenue grew 9%, primarily due to an increase in Active Representatives, partially offset by lower average order.
Segment margin increased 40 basis points, or was relatively unchanged on a Constant $ basis, in each case primarily as a result of:
a decline of 70 basis points from higher transportation costs, driven primarily by new delivery rates in Russia;
a decline of 70 basis points primarily due to the impact of the Constant $ revenue decline causing deleverage of our fixed expenses, partially offset by lower fixed expenses. Fixed expenses benefited from lower expenses associated with employee incentive compensation plans, which were partially offset by higher other administrative costs;
a decline of 40 basis points from higher bad debt expense, primarily in South Africa and Russia. Higher bad debt expense in South Africa was driven primarily by lower collection of receivables as a result of deteriorating economic conditions, and in Russia was driven primarily by a payment facilitation agency that has not remitted to us the funds it received from certain Representatives;
a decline of 30 basis points primarily related to the net impact of declining revenue with respect to Representative, sales leader and field expense; and
a benefit of 180 basis points due to higher gross margin caused primarily by 100 basis points from the favorable net impact of mix and pricing primarily driven by Russia, and 70 basis points due to lower supply chain costs. Supply chain costs benefited primarily from lower material and distribution costs, partially due to productivity initiatives.

45



South Latin America – 2018 Compared to 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
%/Point Change
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
US$
 
Constant $
Total revenue
 
$
2,146.9

 
$
2,222.4

 
(3
)%
 
13
 %
Brazil IPI tax release
 
(168.4
)
 

 
 
 
 
Adjusted revenue
 
1,978.5

 
2,222.4