About Avon

A Story Worth Telling

For over 135 years, Avon has stood at the forefront of empowering individuals worldwide, combining beauty with purpose. Founded in 1886 with a pioneering vision, Avon has grown into one of the most recognised and respected beauty brands globally, connecting millions through innovative products, meaningful opportunities, and a commitment to enriching lives.

Avon's History

Learn how it all started and where Avon is today.

1886

David H. McConnell founded the California Perfume Company.

David H. McConnell founded the California Perfume Company, a business specialising in fragrances and cosmetics that later became known as Avon Products.

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1886
1886

First Sales Representative Joins the Team

Mrs. P.F.E. Albee became the company's first sales representative, pioneering its direct-selling approach.

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1886
1896

Launch of the First Brochure

The California Perfume Company released its first product brochure, marking the start of its direct-to-consumer marketing strategy.

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1896
1914

First International Expansion

The company expanded internationally by beginning operations in Montreal, Canada.

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1914
1929

Avon Brand Makes its Debut

The Avon name and logo were introduced for the first time on a new cosmetics product line.

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1929
1939

California Perfume Company Becomes Avon

The company officially changed its name from the California Perfume Company to Avon.

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1939
1946

Avon Goes Public

Avon became publicly traded with its listing on the New York Stock Exchange.

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1946
1954

First Overseas Expansion

The company commenced operations in Venezuela, marking its initial expansion beyond North America.

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1954
1955

Avon Foundation for Women Established

The Avon Foundation for Women was founded in the US, initially awarding a single scholarship grant of US$400.

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1955
1961

Launch of Skin-So-Soft Brand

The company introduced its iconic Skin-So-Soft brand, beginning with the original bath oil formulated to soften skin using natural oils.

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1961
1971

Avon Enters the Jewellery Market

The company expanded its product range by introducing jewellery for the first time.

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1971
1978

Avon Reaches One Million Representatives

Avon's representative network expanded to one million members, driving sales exceeding US$2 billion.

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1978
1986

Avon's Skincare Breakthrough

Avon pioneered the use of stabilised retinol in the patented BioAdvance Beauty Recovery System, revolutionising skincare with this age-defying innovation.

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1986
1992

Avon UK's Breast Cancer Crusade Begins

Avon UK launched the Breast Cancer Crusade, introducing a fundraising pin to boost awareness and financial support for breast cancer initiatives.

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1992
1992

Avon Introduces AHA Technology with Anew

Avon became the first company to introduce Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) anti-ageing technology to the mass market through its groundbreaking Anew skincare range.

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1992
1999

Avon Introduces Stabilised Vitamin C Serums

Avon introduced stabilised Vitamin C in its serums, targeting skin discoloration by reducing pigment cell production and promoting collagen synthesis.

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1999
2004

Avon Foundation Tackles Domestic Violence

The Avon Foundation launched its first domestic violence initiative, "Speak Out Against Domestic Violence," to raise awareness and support survivors.

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2004
2005

Avon Opens Advanced R&D Facility

Avon opened a 225,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art research and development centre in Suffern, New York.

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2005
2016

Avon Splits into Two Companies

Avon Products, Inc. and New Avon LLC, handling the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico markets, became two distinct companies.

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2016
2016

Avon Foundation Hits US$1 Billion Milestone

Together with the Avon Foundation, the company achieved a landmark total of US$1 billion in charitable contributions.

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2016
2018

Launch of 'Future of Beauty' Report

Avon introduced the Future of Beauty, an annual report highlighting emerging trends and insights shaping the beauty industry.

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2018
2019

Avon Launches Protinol™ Technology

Avon introduced its exclusive skincare innovation, Protinol™, first available in ANEW Skin Reset Plumping Shots, clinically proven to restore both types of collagen to replicate the ideal collagen balance of baby skin.

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2019
2020

Avon Joins Natura &Co Family

Avon became part of the Natura &Co group, joining a collective of purpose-driven brands focused on building the leading global beauty company dedicated to sustainability and social impact.

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2020
2020

"Isolated, Not Alone" Campaign Launches

In 2020, Avon introduced the "Isolated, Not Alone" programme to highlight the dramatic rise in domestic violence during Covid lockdowns, donating over $1 million to support essential services.

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2020
2023

Avon's Reverse Make-up Tutorial Launches

Avon introduced its multi-award-winning reverse make-up tutorial, aiming to highlight and raise awareness about gender-based coercive control.

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2023
2024

Avon Opens New R&D Labs in Poland and Brazil

Avon expanded its research capabilities by opening new state-of-the-art laboratories in Garwolin, Poland, and Cajamar, Brazil.

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2024
2024

Avon Achieves Cruelty-Free Leaping Bunny Approval

Avon's beauty products received the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny certification, confirming their commitment to ending animal testing globally.

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2024
A Unique, Kinder Beauty

What Makes Avon Different

Avon’s Commitment to Social Responsibility

Avon has long championed causes central to women’s empowerment, dedicating over US$1 billion through the Avon Foundation to global initiatives like breast cancer research, domestic violence prevention, and sustainability efforts. Notable campaigns include the pioneering Breast Cancer Crusade, the groundbreaking Speak Out Against Domestic Violence programme, and recent environmental initiatives, underscoring Avon’s enduring commitment to making a meaningful social impact.

A Commitment To Charity & Improving Lives
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