The 12 worst investments of 2014, #12: Avon Products Inc
Mismanagement, declining sales and the long arm of the law each played their part in a terrible year for Avon, the world’s largest direct seller of beauty products.
Decline in 2014: -44.81%
See all 12of 2014's worst investments here
What happened?
Huge slumps in sales worldwide also contributed to Avon's woes: North America saw sales fall 17% year on year, while sales in Asia-Pacific dwindled by 16%, thanks in part to Avon's withdrawal from their failing businesses in South Korea and Vietnam.
Who are the losers?
Who are the winners?
$10.7Bn offer for Avon rejected in 2012
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
What have we learned?
See all 12of 2014's worst investments here
Sign up for MoneyWeek's newsletters
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
-
Sir David McMurtry: Renishaw founder and Concorde engineer
Sir David McMurtry, co-founder of Renishaw, made a unique contribution to Britain. We look back at his legacy
By Jamie Ward Published
-
How to transfer an ISA
We explain everything you need to know about transferring an ISA
By Rebekah Evans Published