You are on page 1of 27

19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

Home
Explore

Search
Submit Search

Upload
H
You

HoiPhng21

My Clipboards
My Uploads
My Comments
Analytics
Account Settings

Support
Logout

H
You
HoiPhng21

Home
Explore

My Clipboards

Support
Logout

Search

Successfully reported this slideshow.


We use your LinkedIn profile and activity data to personalize ads and to show you more relevant ads. You can change your ad preferences anytime.

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 1/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 2/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 3/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 4/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 5/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 6/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 7/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 8/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)


10
Under Jung leadership,
Avon had experienced great growth and expansion...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
11
To sum up, it was clear that
all those issues rise because of manageme...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
12
3.2.3 Sheri McCoy as the
Replacement of Andrea Jung
When Seri McCoy, t...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
13
4.0 External Forces
4.1
PESTEL Analysis of Avon
PESTEL analysis is one...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
14
4.1.2 Economic Situation
Analysis of Avon
Economic situation is mixed ...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
15
4.1.3 Social Situation
Analysis of Avon
PESTEL analysis include the co...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
16
4.1.5 Environmental
Situation Analysis of Avon
Environmental situation...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
17
4.2 Porter’s 5 Forces Model
Analysis
Five forces model was developed b...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
18
Cosmetics and beauty
products industry is a very competitive market wh...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
19
decrease. There are many
competitors in cosmetic industry include Olay...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
20
In cosmetic industry, this is
not the issue because there is huge numb...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
21
Further, most of the
customers are informed about seller’s products, p...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
22
5.0 Strategy
5.1 Existing
Strategy in Avon
5.1.1 Direct Selling
Direct...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
23
The legacy of Avon
Founder David H. McConnell, and the core priority o...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
24
5.1.3 Expansion of the
Company into Other Industries
One clear advanta...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
25
6.0 Organizational and
Environmental Analysis
SWOT and TOWS analysis a...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
26
analysis, the strongest
associations that customers have with Avon are...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
27
was supported by Andrea
Jung to begin this company. Andrea Jung is Sen...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
28
6.1.3 Opportunities
6.1.3.1
Embrace Technology Advantages
In a modern ...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
29
6.1.4 Threats
6.1.4.1
Competitive Environment
Avon faces competition i...

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 9/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
30
6.2 TOWS Analysis
For the
purpose of formulation of strategy, TOWS ana...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
31
7.0 Recommendation
After
performing extensive research on the company ...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
32
8.0 References
Adamkasi.
(2017, September 14). Porter’s five forces mo...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
33
Rouse, M. (n.d.). Definition
SWOT analysis. Retrieved on December 5, 2...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
34
9.0 APPENDIX
Logo of
Avon Products Inc.
Andrea Jung
Executive Chairman...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
35
Sheri McCoy
Chief
Executive Officer, Avon Product
Avon Cosmetics Produ...
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
36
Avon Fashion Products
Jewelry Products of Avon
Upcoming SlideShare

Loading in …5
×


5 of 36

1
of 36

Next SlideShares

Upcoming SlideShare
What to Upload to SlideShare
Next
Download Now
Download to read offline and view in fullscreen.
Education
Jan. 11, 2018
26,062 views

14 Likes

Share

Download Now
Download

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 10/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
Download to read offline

Avon case study solution


Download Now
Download

Download to read offline

Education
Jan. 11, 2018
26,062 views

Avon is facing the issue of management changeover and severe financial loss due to the global bribery charged in China.

Tairos Sman
Following
Follow
Finance Student

Recommended

Differences between-islamic-and-conventional-laws
Tairos Sman

Islamic house financing Bai Bitaman Ajil & Musharakah Mutanaqisah


Tairos Sman

Differences between islamic and conventional law (1)


Tairos Sman

Real estate market in cambodia 1


Tairos Sman

Short selling, et fs, reits, shariah screening


Tairos Sman

Islamic House Financing BBA & MM


Tairos Sman

Should kroger pay now for what ralphs employee did then
Tairos Sman

Simple future tense


Tairos Sman

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 11/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

What to Upload to SlideShare


SlideShare

Be A Great Product Leader (Amplify, Oct 2019)


Adam Nash

Related Books

Free with a 30 day trial from Scribd

See all
Carousel previous

Fighting Forward: Your Nitty-Gritty Guide to Beating the Lies That Hold You Back
Hannah Brencher
(3.5/5)
Free

Let's Talk About Hard Things


Anna Sale
(4/5)
Free

Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in an Age of Infinite Browsing


Pete Davis
(5/5)
Free

Average Expectations: Lessons in Lowering the Bar


Shep Rose
(3/5)
Free

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 12/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

No One Succeeds Alone: Learn Everything You Can from Everyone You Can
Robert Reffkin
(4/5)
Free

Keep Sharp: Build a Better Brain at Any Age


Sanjay Gupta
(4.5/5)
Free

High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out


Amanda Ripley
(5/5)
Free

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed
Lori Gottlieb
(4.5/5)
Free

Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are so You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be
Rachel Hollis
(3.5/5)
Free

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 13/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely
Lysa TerKeurst
(4.5/5)
Free

Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It


Chris Voss
(4.5/5)
Free

Boundaries Updated and Expanded Edition: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life
Henry Cloud
(4/5)
Free

Dry: A Memoir
Augusten Burroughs
(4.5/5)
Free

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Personal Workbook


Stephen R. Covey
(4/5)
Free

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 14/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

Less Fret, More Faith: An 11-Week Action Plan to Overcome Anxiety


Max Lucado
(4.5/5)
Free

Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals
Rachel Hollis
(3.5/5)
Free
Carousel next

1 2 3 4

Related Audiobooks

Free with a 30 day trial from Scribd

See all
Carousel previous

Necessary Conversations: Changing Your Mindset to Communicate Confidently and Productively


Liz Nolley Tillman
(5/5)
Free

Impact Players: How to Take the Lead, Play Bigger, and Multiply Your Impact
Liz Wiseman
(5/5)
Free

Out with the Old, In with the You


Tess Brigham
(5/5)
Free

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 15/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
A Body to Love: Cultivate Community, Body Positivity, and Self-Love in the Age of Social Media
Angelina Caruso
(5/5)
Free

10 Rules for Resilience: Mental Toughness for Families


Joe De Sena
(4/5)
Free

Empath Up!: How to Embrace the Gift of Empathy


Cheryl Hutchinson
(4.5/5)
Free

Getting More Done: Wielding Intention and Planning to Achieve Your Most Ambitious Goals
Michelle Loucadoux
(4.5/5)
Free

The Authentic Leader: Five Essential Traits of Effective, Inspiring Leaders


Merinda Smith
(5/5)
Free

My Friend Fear: How to Move Through Social Anxiety and Embrace the Life You Want
Rose Berry
(5/5)
Free

Extraordinary Awakenings: When Trauma Leads to Transformation


Steve Taylor
(3.5/5)
Free

Bloom Forward: Healing from Trauma


Emmy Marie
(4/5)

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 16/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
Free

Power, for All: How It Really Works and Why It's Everyone's Business
Julie Battilana
(4.5/5)
Free

Checking In: How Getting Real about Depression Saved My Life---and Can Save Yours
Michelle Williams
(4.5/5)
Free

Live Your Life: My Story of Loving and Losing Nick Cordero


Amanda Kloots
(4.5/5)
Free

The Full Spirit Workout: A 10-Step System to Shed Your Self-Doubt, Strengthen Your Spiritual Core, and Create a Fun & Fulfilling Life
Kate Eckman
(4/5)
Free

Minimal Finance: Forging Your Own Path to Financial Freedom


Sam Dixon Brown
(3.5/5)
Free
Carousel next

1 2 3 4

14 Likes
Statistics
Notes

Kayla Levy
, I like this service ⇒ www.HelpWriting.net ⇐ from Academic Writers. I don't have enough time write it by myself.
4 days ago

Ivan Louis
2 weeks ago

RoseMarieBulatao
2 weeks ago

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 17/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

NellieManimog
2 months ago

Xavérnà Black
6 months ago

Ronnel Rayala
7 months ago

ann ramirez
1 year ago

Gohar Khan
1 year ago

Megasabatini Sinambela
1 year ago

Reah Odono
2 years ago

Afees Oseni
, Student at University of Ibadan
at Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria
2 years ago

MUAZSYIHABUDDINMUSTA
2 years ago

Ysabel Eza
2 years ago

Afrina Danial
, Student at UMK
3 years ago

Show More
Views
Total views
26,062
On SlideShare
0
From Embeds
0
Number of Embeds
9
Actions
Shares
0
Downloads
330
Comments
0
Likes
14
No notes for slide

Avon case study solution


1. 1.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
1
Table of Contents
1.0
Introduction................................................................................................................................3
2.0 Company Profile (Internal
Forces)..............................................................................................4
2.1 Company’s Name
....................................................................................................................4
2.2 Company’s Type and
Industry................................................................................................4
2.3 Vision,Mission, Objectives and
Strategies...............................................................................4
2.3.1 Vision.................................................................................................................................4
2.3.2 Mission...............................................................................................................................5
2.3.3 Objectives and Strategies
....................................................................................................5
2.4 The List ofBoard of Director
(BOD).......................................................................................6
2.5 The List of Top Management Team.........................................................................................6
https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 18/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
2.6 Organizational Structure.........................................................................................................7
3.0 Case Analysis of Avon Product
Inc..............................................................................................8
3.1 Avon Strategic
Issues...............................................................................................................8
3.2 Issues in Avon Product Inc.
.....................................................................................................9
3.2.1 Poor Management
Strategy.................................................................................................9
3.2.2 Global Bribery Investigation in
China..................................................................................11
3.2.3 Sheri McCoy as the Replacement of Andrea Jung................................................................12
4.0 External Forces.........................................................................................................................13
4.1 PESTEL Analysis of
Avon.....................................................................................................13
4.1.1 Political Situation Analysis of
Avon.....................................................................................13
4.1.2 Economic Situation Analysis of Avon..................................................................................14
4.1.3 Social Situation Analysis of Avon........................................................................................15
4.1.4 Technological SituationAnalysis of Avon
............................................................................15
4.1.5 Environmental Situation Analysis of Avon...........................................................................16
4.1.6
Legal SituationAnalysis of Avon.........................................................................................16
4.2 Porter’s 5 Forces Model Analysis
..........................................................................................17
4.2.1 Threat of New Entrants .....................................................................................................17
4.2.2 Threat of Substitute Products ............................................................................................18
4.2.3 Bargaining Power of
Suppliers............................................................................................19
4.2.4 Bargaining Power of
Buyers...............................................................................................20
4.2.5 Intensity of Rivalry among
Competitors..............................................................................21
5.0
Strategy.....................................................................................................................................22
2. 2.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
2
5.1 Existing Strategy in
Avon......................................................................................................22
5.1.1 Direct
Selling.....................................................................................................................22
5.1.2 Women
Empowerment.....................................................................................................22
5.1.3 Expansion of the Company into Other
Industries.................................................................24
6.0 Organizational and Environmental Analysis.............................................................................25
6.1
SWOT Analysis .....................................................................................................................25
6.1.1
Strengths..........................................................................................................................25
6.1.2
Weaknesses......................................................................................................................27
6.1.3 Opportunities
...................................................................................................................28
6.1.4
Threats.............................................................................................................................29
6.2 TOWS
Analysis.....................................................................................................................30
7.0
Recommendation.......................................................................................................................31
7.1 Market
Penetration...............................................................................................................31
7.2 Eco-friendly
products............................................................................................................31
8.0
References.................................................................................................................................32
9.0
APPENDIX...............................................................................................................................34
3. 3.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
3
1.0 Introduction
Avon is a powerhouse in the beauty industry in sales and claims its
stake as being the
largest direct seller in the world. In 1886, thirty four years before women in the U.S. had even had
the right to vote, a visionary entrepreneur
named David H. McConnell had the extraordinary idea
to found a business based on the premise of giving women an opportunity to earn money outside
of the
home and build financial independence. From that one idea to a company of over six million
representatives in over 100 countries across the globe, the
company has grown and prospered
(Avon, 2010). As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100
countries through 6.2 million
independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line
includes beauty products, as well as fashion and home products, and features such well-
recognized
brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, and Mark.
Ticker AVP (Avon, 2010).
Avon was established
in America in 1886 with distinctive approach of selling women
cosmetics with the name of Avon calling. This idea of business was initiated by David
McConnell
from New York. The main merchandise of business was not perfume and creams but at the age of
sixteen McConnell started to sell books through
door to door selling. He found out he was not able
to entice the consumers to buy the books so he initiated the campaign by offering free gifts as
perfumes
which he produced with the collaboration of the pharmacist. Subsequently, this turned
out to be an incentive that became a mainline product for Avon and the
books were abolished,
paving the way for Avon cosmetics’ existence.
4. 4.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
4
The door to door selling was made specifically to specification and later by 1887
McConnell hired around 13 women representatives. As the firm grew, so did the product line. In
1920, the company introduced a line of products called Avon
that consisted of a toothbrush,
cleanser, and vanity set. The Avon name was inspired by the area about the company’s laboratory
at Suffern, New York, which
Mr. McConnell thought resembled the countryside of William
Shakespeare’s home, Stratford-on-Avon, England. The name of the line became so popular that
in
1929, the company officially became Avon. By 1929, the company was selling low-cost home
care and beauty products, door-to-door and through
catalogues in all 48 states.
2.0 Company Profile (Internal Forces)
2.1 Company’s Name
Avon Product Inc. Founded by David H. McConnell in 1886. Avon is
the world’s largest
direct seller with 6.4 million representatives until year 2012 all over 100 countries.
2.2 Company’s Type and Industry
Avon Product Inc. is
the world's leading seller of cosmetics and beauty-related items.
Avon always build global brand and attract more consumers to buy its products. Direct sales
remain as the main marketing channels, but sales through the website and catalogue are also
carried out. Their product categories include cosmetics,
fragrances, apparel and home
furnishings. Avon also used the women empowerment strategy from the beginning to create
their own brand image. Avon uses
both door-to-door sales people and brochures to advertise
its products to the users.
2.3 Vision, Mission, Objectives and Strategies
2.3.1 Vision
The vision of
Avon is to be the company that best understands satisfies the product,
service and self-fulfillment needs of women globally. The vision of the company is
clearly
describes what the company want to become in the future. Well-developed visions of a
company express the company’s aspirations in a clear manner.
5. 5.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
5
2.3.2 Mission
A mission of a company describes the reasons for the existence of the
particular
company and elaborates what functions the company plays in the group of society. The
mission statement of Avon Company states that the company
will build a beauty portfolio
that is unique and related brands, so that it can exceed its rivals in the level of excellence,
innovation and value. Then, it can build
on its image, so that it can become the best
company and be a leader in global beauty that every woman turns to. Second, Avon wants
to be women’s choice
for buying. This is because Avon is the company that sells all the
things that woman need such as cosmetics like mascara, lipstick and may more. Third,
Avon
wants to be a premier direct-selling company. Avon is the second largest direct
selling enterprise in the world after Amway. Direct selling has been the major
marketing
strategy of the company.
Fourth, Avon want to be the most admired company among all consumers even
from different kind of people, such as
teenagers or adults. Sixth, Avon also wants to a best
place to work. Avon will become the destination store for women, which offering the
convenience of
multiple brands and channel, and providing a high touch shopping
experience that helps create lifelong customer relationship. Lastly, Avon want to have the
largest foundation dedicated to women’s causes, which will expand it presence in direct
selling and lead the reinvention of the channel, offering an
entrepreneurial opportunity
that deliver superior earnings and elevating the image of it industry.
2.3.3 Objectives and Strategies
The objectives of the Avon
Company include strengthening the direct sales, to enter
new markets, to increase its revenue margins, to increase the range of its products, to
enhance the
organization effectiveness and to cut on costs by 400 million dollars.
Avon Company has adopted a number of strategies that are appropriate for the
achievement of some of the goals it has set. It has mainly majored in adopting marketing
strategies, which are include the internet marketing strategy that the
company promote its
products through writing informative articles about its products on its website. Therefore,
this promotes can increase of its sales because
people become aware about the products
6. 6.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
6
of the company offers. The company offers shipping services as a marketing strategy,
which they deliver the products a customer has purchased online to places where the
customers will find convenient to pick them. So, customer base is
enhanced and the sales
of the company increase because customers feel it is convenient to trade with the company
2.4 The List of Board of Director (BOD)
Name Position
Andrea Jung Executive Chairman & CEO
Sheri McCoy Chief Executive Officer, Avon Product
Kimberly A. Ross EVP and Chief Finance
2.5
The List of Top Management Team
Name Position
Donagh Herlihy SVP and CIO
Jeff Benjamin SVP and General Counsel
John Owen SVP and Global
Supply Chain
Scott Crum SVP human resource and CIO
Bob Briddon SVP and President, Avon Asia Pacific
Mike Schwartz SVP and Global Insights &
Marketing Intelligence
Cheryl Heinonein GVP and Global Corporate Relation
Jorge Martinez Quiroga SVP and President, North America
John Higson SVP
and President Europe, Middle East, Adr
Fernando J. Acosta SVP and Avon Latin America & Central, Eastern Europe
7. 7.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
7
2.6 Organizational Structure
Figure 1: Organizational Structure of Avon and the
Functions of Positions
Andrea Jung
Executive Chairman
& CEO
Jeff Benjamin
SVP, General
Counsel
Donagh
Herlihy
SVP, CIO
Kimberly A. Ross
EVP,
Chief Finance
Sheri McCoy
Chief Executive Officer,
Avon Product
Fernando J. Acosta
SVP, Avon Latin
America & Central,
Eastern Europe
Bob Briddon
SVP and President,
Avon Asia Pacific
Scott Crum
SVP human
resource, CIO
John Owen
SVP, Global
Supply Chain
John Higson
SVP & President
Europe,
https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 19/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
Middle
East, Adr
Jorge Martinez
Quiroga
SVP & President,
Norty America
Cheryl Heinonein
GVP,Global
Corporate Relation
Mike Schwartz
SVP, Global
Insights &
Marketing Intelligence
8. 8.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
8
Figure 2: Chart of Avon Company Structural Design
This is the chart of the Avon
Company structural design of organizational structure
of this company. Chief Executive Officer is at the heart or operating system of the
company. Under
C.E.O have their sub ordinates that control the overall business activities
of the company. Avon has Executive Vice President which is Chief Operating Officer
and
Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President which is General Counsel and Chief Ethics
& Compliance Officer, Human Resources & Chief Human
Resources Officer, and lastly
Global President.
3.0 Case Analysis of Avon Product Inc.
In this part, we would like to look in deepen in the case of Avon in
order to figure out what
are the strategic issues that the company is facing. Moreover, this chapter also will discuss the
causality of the problems confronted by
the company Avon.
3.1 Avon Strategic Issues
Nowadays, the business environment is highly competitive and the success depends
on a strong business
strategy. Both entrepreneurs and their employees need to make sure
that the business is in the front line where quality of customer care is the main focus and
ensure customer satisfaction by offering a variety of products. Like any business industries,
the beauty industry is highly competitive. Avon, the world largest
leading direct seller
confronts tight competition from various competitors such as Mary Kay, P&G, Arbonne
and L’Oréal.
9. 9.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
9
Avon historically had enjoyed great success as a leading global beauty company.
However, this world largest beauty care products is now suffering from range of strategic
issues. Strategic issue is the fundamental challenge faced by the
company which required
attention and careful decision to resolve in order to achieve the business goals (Ambler,
2017). However, identifying the strategic
issue is one of the most difficult steps to be taken
in strategic planning. At Avon, the issues triggered after the CEO step down, Andrea Jung
at the end of 2011
which caused many challenges for the company future. For instance, the
company’s share price dropped more than 50 percent. The company was also facing
bribery
charges in some its overseas operation particularly in China as well as undergone with SEC
internal investigation which force Avon to spend huge of
money.
Therefore, the strategic issues confronted by the company can be summarized as
Avon is struggling to recover from poor management strategies that
led to a CEO
changeover and global bribery investigations that incurred huge spending of funds.
3.2 Issues in Avon Product Inc.
3.2.1 Poor Management
Strategy
Avon is struggling to recover from poor management strategies that led to a
CEO changeover. Avon has been facing lots of problem due to the
mismatch of
position with the experts. In December 2011, the Executive Chairman and CEO
of Avon, Andrea June announced that she would step down from
her position as
soon as her replacement was found. According to the Fortune reported that “The
company had surprised the Street, missing analysts’ estimates,
and reporting that
it would no longer hit its revenue-growth and operating-margin targets for 2011.”
(Kowitt, April 11, 2012). Consequently, the management
misstep caused the beauty
products company at vulnerable and brand image declined. The share price had
decreased for more than 50 per cent and Avon faced
the threat of takeover by its
competitors. A private held Coty, majority-owned by German holding company
Joh. A. Benckiser GmbH, made an unsolicited
offer for Avon at the end of March,
2012 for $10 billion.
10. 10.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
10
Under Jung leadership, Avon had experienced great growth and expansion in
the early
years of her execution. As in June 2004, Avon’s stock price rose to $46
per share and the profit increased from $287 million in 1999 to $846 million in
2004.
Moreover, Avon embraced into international markets and non-US which
contributed up to 70 percent of sales. However, the enjoyment was not long last
due
to the management misstep of Jung and emerging of potential competitors
which pursuing Avon’s customer such as P&G. Many analysts criticized that Jung
was taking Avon away from what it used to be. The company did not have clear
defines of strategic vision which confused the employee of the company’s
objectives. During Jung leadership years, Avon adopted a slogan “The Company
for Women,” which faded away from its long-term ad campaign “Ding Dong,
Avon
calling.” The old tagline emphasized the direct selling strategy but Jung did not
embrace the direct selling strategy as she was taking Avon to new arena
which is
retail.
Avon reached to the top and implemented a half-billion-dollar restructuring,
downsizing 30% of managers and cutting its 15 layers down to 8.
This restructuring
created a revolving door at Avon that left employees demoralized and confusion
around Avon’s strategic direction. Further, Jung started
looking at acquisitions as a
way to restart expansion. Avon had acquired Silpada, a silver jewelry direct seller
for $650 million. It was a bad move to acquire
Silpada and Avon had to write-down
amount to $263 million due to plunged in the silver price in the commodity market
in 2011. Moreover, Avon products in
international markets, Brazil was also
struggling to compete with a strong regional brand, Natura. The problem occurred
due to poor management in products
packaging and delivery. The products were
delivered late, order went unfilled and shipment to the representative delayed. This
problem dragged Avon’s sale to
drop about 8 percent. The situation becomes worse
in China when Avon was found to be in charge of violations of the Foreign Corrupt
Practices Act (FCPA).
11. 11.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
11
To sum up, it was clear that all those issues rise because of management
misstep under
the leadership of Andrea Jung. Avon suffered huge losses in both
local and international markets and product brand declined. Number of
shareholders pressure
Avon to have quick rejuvenation of the company. Finally,
Avon’s board announced in December 2011 that Jung would step down as CEO
with two years
contract to stay as executive chairman.
3.2.2 Global Bribery Investigation in China
Avon entered into China market in 1990 and the company effectively sold
its
beauty products due to high demand in the mass market. Unfortunately, the Chinese
government banned the direct selling in 1998 which forced Avon to
open the
Beauty Boutique as required. Avon received a license to continue direct selling in
China in 2006 and it ran its operation via hybrid mode namely
maintaining selling
in boutique plus direct selling via representatives. According to Wahba (2014), a
senior writer of Fortune reported that Jung had close
relationship with the Chinese
government officer which indulges her business, Avon to sell the beauty products
efficiently in the restricted marketplace.
However, in 2008 Jung received a whistleblower that disclosed her secret
bribe to the Chinese government in order to pursue a direct selling in China. The
allegation of violation of Foreign Corrupt Practice Act (FCPA) which drove Avon
to begin an internal investigation by SEC that cost large amount of fund. It
was
reported that Avon spent more than $225 million on legal fee and professional fee
related to the FCPA inquiry and compliance reviews.
The revenue
plunged from 35% to 145% in China operation and the reputation
of the Avon left at face down (Kowitt, 2012). In the end, Jung left Avon at bruised
as it
suffered great financial lost to undergo the internal investigation and also
caused the company products’ brand at bad reputation. According Avon annual
report 2012, company’s revenue decreased by 1% as the fourth quarter of 2012.
Moreover, Avon loss from continuing operation in the fourth quarter of 2012
was
amount up to $160 million.
12. 12.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
12
3.2.3 Sheri McCoy as the Replacement of Andrea Jung
When Seri McCoy, the new
CEO of Avon, took-over the position, many
public views arose as if she is the right match for the challenge? Specially, is she
the strategic leader who can
work with others to find out ways to facilitate Avon’s
efforts to create value for all stakeholders and perhaps especially for shareholders?
Is the plan she is
putting into place going to lead to the turnaround at Avon that
many believe is necessary?
In fact, the company Avon had suffered severe losses under the
leadership of
former CEO, Andrea Jung, hence Seri McCoy came to fix the company is a great
challenge for her. McCoy was actually trying to turnaround the
business by
downsizing and abandoning some of foreign markets to cut the costs. The
restructuring plan initiative with new corporate strategy which is
transnational
strategy to maintain the standardization of products as well as to optimize the local
responsiveness would help Avon to enhance sales and
performance. However, at
this short period of time Avon would not be able to recover immediately since the
cost-cutting initiative by McCoy would have
many things to be restored. For
instant, company ad campaign and engaging in e-commerce incurred spending for
$125 million in order to upgrade the
software. Hence, McCoy is having a hard time
to restore the company sustainability.
Further, Hrebiniak the Warton Management professor expressed that
McCoy
is clearly qualified with her profession and skills in Johnson & Johnson to recover
the company Avon as an innovative customer-centric cosmetics
organization.
However, he added that McCoy needs some times to turnaround the business since
she has no experience in direct selling and it could be big
challenge after the mess
created by Jung’s uncertain strategic management of the company. Certainly,
McCoy is facing the daunting lists of challenges in order
to restore Avon to what it
used to be.
13. 13.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
13
4.0 External Forces
4.1 PESTEL Analysis of Avon
PESTEL analysis is one of the
main tools used by the companies to track the external
environment in which they are operating their business activities. PESTLE is one of the effective
ways
of analyzing the external environment of a business which covers political, economic, social,
technological, legal and environmental analysis (Hutchins,
2010). Therefore in this project of
Avon case study analysis we would like to use the PESTLE analysis in order to know farther about
the external
environments of Avon Company. By using the PESTLE analysis it is easy to get a
bird’s eye view of Avon Company from different angles and also from
different prospective which
might affects the performance of Avon Company.
4.1.1 Political Situation Analysis of Avon
Political situation of a particular
country where the company is operating its
business is very important because it determines the extent to which a government can
influence the business
activities of a particular industry. Avon Company which mainly
based in United States has extended its business of beauty products in more 100 countries.
Thus as a multinational business company, Avon have to be aware of the political situation
of a country where it conducts its business. Further, the long term
profitability of the
company also depends highly on the political stability and certain policy implemented by
the government of the country (Palade, 2011). In
case of Avon, it needs to take care of the
following political factors that can affect its business operation and level of profitability.
 The level of political
stability of the country and the level of corruption in a
particular country where Avon is operating.
 The level of safety provided by the industry safety
regulation in term of
consumer goods sector.
 Avon has to know the policy and regulation implemented by the government
in consumer goods sectors.

Trade regulations, tariffs, tax rates and incentives provided by the government
to the consumer goods and personal care products sectors.
14. 14.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
14
4.1.2 Economic Situation Analysis of Avon
Economic situation is mixed of macro-
economic situation and micro economic
situation in an economy where Avon is performing it task. Avon should take care of the
macro economic factors like
inflation rate, savings rate, interest rate, foreign exchange rate
and to a great extent Avon should be aware of the economic cycle of the particular country
https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 20/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
where is operating or where is plans to open its new subsidiary. Further it is important for
the Avon to be aware of the foreign exchange rate since it is a
multinational country thus a
little bit change in the foreign exchange rate can affects Avon either positively or negatively
(Dilwa, 2015).
Nevertheless,
microeconomic factors are also similarly important like macro-
economic factors which Avon should take into consideration in order to keep its
performance
better. In addition the microeconomic factors like competitive advantage of
the firm are very important factors for Avon in order to do compete with its rivalry.
As one
of the main competitive advantages of the Avon is the direct selling thus Avon should put
more efforts to keep their competitive advantage. The
economic situation which Avon
should take care of is given below:-
 Exchange rate and stability of host country’s currency. For example Avon
currently
focusing on the China as it is having emerging economy. So in
this case is the exchange rate between China currency and US currency
stable or not.

Government intervention in the free market especially in the consumer
goods. For instance, in China the government does not allow the direct
selling method
so Avon should have other strategy to sell their products.
 Another main factor for economic analysis is the interest rate and inflation
rate of the country
where Avon is operating. Because due to certain level of
inflation it can affects the price of the products of Avon.
 Efficiency of financial markets – Does
Avon Products, Inc. needs to raise
capital in local market or they can get it from the parent company.
15. 15.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
15
4.1.3 Social Situation Analysis of Avon
PESTEL analysis include the consideration of
social situation which is very crucial
because to extend the business into a new country, Avon should be aware of the social and
cultural norms of that country.
Understanding the beliefs and attitudes of the people in a
particular country where there are potential customers of Avon play a great role for Avon
Products
Inc. By understanding this, Avon able to produce the products which can fulfill
the demand of the customers. Usually, the market of Avon beauty products is
huge in USA
and UK because the culture over there for women is always in an outfits and outlooks
which is fashionable. Further, Avon should be responsive
to the change in the fashion and
lifestyle of the people in a country where is operating. The factors that Avon should take
care regarding social situation are
given below-:
 Demographic culture and attitude of the people towards beauty products and
fashion. For Avon as its mostly operating in European countries
where
fashion and beauty is highly treasured by the female thus it gives positive
impacts on Avon Products Inc.
 Entrepreneurial spirit among the people of
the country. As Avon Products
Inc is based on the direct selling where it representative works as
entrepreneurs who sells the products door to door.
4.1.4
Technological Situation Analysis of Avon
Innovation in technology is one of the main factors that any business company
should aware of since due to the
innovation in technology easily drives any products to be
obsolete. Technological advancement can affects a company from three main prospective
such as
new ways of producing good and service where some companies use modern
technology to produce more products with less time, efforts and cost. Further,
innovation
in technology can also affects a company in term of distribution of goods, for instance in
case of Avon where Avon is based on direct selling thus
due to the innovation of internet
shopping it has highly affected the distribution strategy of Avon Products Inc. In addition,
innovation of technology also
affects the Avon in term of communication with the target
customers.
16. 16.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
16
4.1.5 Environmental Situation Analysis of Avon
Environmental situation is one of the
most important factor since Avon is a beauty
products company. Thus, Avon should be aware of the environment of particular country
so that it can offers
products which is suitable for the skin according to the environment.
Further, in producing products different countries can have different types of law in order
to protect the environment. For instance, Avon USA is headquarter however there is certain
environment law for example in producing goods the company
should not cross the limit
of carbon emission. Thus, in producing products Avon should oblige this law other than
that it might cause problem for the company.
Furthermore, another main market of Avon
Products Inc is the Europe where a lot of countries give healthy tax breaks to the company
which can operate in
renewable sectors.
4.1.6 Legal Situation Analysis of Avon
Legal situation is another main factor that should be considered during doing the
PESTEL analysis
for any particular company. In case of Avon company the legal situation
also plays very important role since Avon is operating its business in more than one
country
where the legal system might not be the same as other countries. Avon should carefully
evaluate before entering such markets as it can lead to theft of
organization’s secret sauce
thus the overall competitive edge. Further in whatever country Avon is operating, it should
consider whether the country has sound
legal system or not which can protect the
intellectual property rights of the Avon products. Below are the legal factors that Avon
should consider as:-
 The
country where Avon has opened its subsidiary should have the
copyright law in personal and beauty products which helps Avon to
maintain its own
intellectuality.
 In the market where Avon is operating should have the employment law
which help Avon to solve any dispute that takes place in the working
environment.
17. 17.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
17
4.2 Porter’s 5 Forces Model Analysis
Five forces model was developed by Michael
Porter in 1979 to understand how five key
competitive forces are influencing an industry and to analyze the competitive environment in
which a product or
company works. These forces determine an industry structure and the level of
rivalry in that industry. Porter Five Forces is a holistic strategy framework that
took strategic
decision away from just analyzing the present competition. In Avon contextual analysis, Porter
Five Forces focus on how Avon Products, Inc.
can build a sustainable competitive advantage in
Personal Products industry. The five forces identified are:
Figure 3: Porter’s 5 Forces Model
4.2.1 Threat of
New Entrants
Identifying new entrants is important since they can threaten the market share of
existing competitors. Basically, new entrants have a keen
interest in gaining a large market
share. As a result, new competitor may force existing firms to be more productive and to
learn on how to compete in new
dimensions such as Internet-based distribution channel.
According to Wilkinson (2013), explained the threat of new entrants as the threat from new
competitors pose to existing competitors in a particular industry. Hence, the profitable
industry tends to attract more competitors which lead to increase in
competition and
production capacity without an increase in consumer demand and therefore less profit
earning.
18. 18.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
18
Cosmetics and beauty products industry is a very competitive market where
companies might loss the opportunity of gaining a large market share. Any such industry
is vulnerable of entry of new competitor in the market. Avon operates
at a high market
share in the cosmetics industry but has to face many competitors already existing in the
form of strong brand names available internationally
such as Mary Kay, L’Oreal, P&G,
Arbonne and Olay. These competitors manufacture and sell broad product lines through
various types of retail
establishments. This beauty products industry has lucrative profit
line with high consumer demand, hence, there is a high threat of new entrants for such
beauty products companies including Avon company. The threat is high and Avon should
keep that in consideration when it comes to redesigning policies to
face the challenges.
The new entrants in Personal Products bring innovation, better approaches and put
pressure on Avon Products, Inc. through lower pricing
strategy, diminishing costs and
providing new value propositions to the customers. Avon Products, Inc. has to manage all
these challenges and construct
effective barriers to defend its aggressive or competitive
edge. In addition to compete against strong competitors, Avon competes in product
differentiation
which is the fashion and the home business as well. According to Avon, it
competes in the gift and decorative products and apparel industries globally. The
new
products not only bring new customers to the fold but also give old customer a reason to
buy Avon’s products rather than other competitors.
4.2.2 Threat
of Substitute Products
Substitute products are good or service from outside a given industry that perform
similar or the same functions as a product that the
industry produces. This force is
especially threatening when buyers can easily find substitute products with attractive prices
or better quality and when buyers
can switch from one product or service to another with
little cost. When it comes to cosmetic or beauty product industry, substitutes are available
in terms of
price as well as a quality and range of products.
In case of Avon, the threat of product substitute is quite high. This is due to access
availability of customers to
substitute product in the market that can satisfy their needs and
the relative price offered by substitute products drops and consumer’s switching costs
19. 19.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
19
decrease. There are many competitors in cosmetic industry include Olay, Arbonne and
Mary Kay. Therefore, there is a high threat of substitute products for Avon. If
manufacturers sell their products at higher prices, or if the products are of low
quality, then
consumers are able to purchase substitutes from many competitors who are present in the
market environment (Gregory, 2003). These issues also
happen in Avon industry.
Customers have many substitutes available in case they are not satisfied with
Avon’s price or quality of product. This is because
customers love to compare the price
among cosmetic products and they will choose a lower price with good quality. One of the
competitors of Avon is Olay.
Olay provides the product with a low price. The rise of
organic and traditional cosmetic products also affect Avon company. For example, Mary
Kay. Mary
Kay is an organic and natural product. Although the price is higher than Avon
products, but customer still buy it because it has high value and offer advantages
to user.
However, product substitutes present a strong threat to firms when the firms
differentiate their products along dimensions that are valuable to the
customers such as
quality, innovativeness and the distribution channel besides reduces a substitute’s
attractiveness. In this term, Avon distinguishes its
products through their innovativeness
and the distribution channel used to sell the firm’s products. The increased personalization
that goes hand-in-hand with
direct selling creates customer loyalty. It should be kept in
mind that when customers become a loyal to a product, they do not shift to another brand
easily.
Keller (2003) also has mentioned that “in order for suppliers to tackle the challenge
of threat of substitutes, they have to innovate products which meet the
needs of their target
market segments.”
4.2.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
Increasing prices and diminishing the quality of products are potential means
suppliers use to exert power over firms competing within industry. In industry, when
suppliers are less and the companies are dependent on the suppliers then
the suppliers will
use this power to manipulate the companies and negotiate the price.
20. 20.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
20
In cosmetic industry, this is not the issue because there is huge number of suppliers
available in both large and small scale companies. Almost all companies in the cosmetic
products industry buy their raw material from numerous suppliers.
Thus, the bargaining
power of supplier is low due to high number of market players in the industry and large
supply of diverse products in the market. Avon
relies on numerous suppliers for the raw
material of its products specifically essential oil, chemicals, containers and packaging. So,
Avon has the power to
influence the market prices.
Besides, Avon tackle bargaining power of supplier by developing dedicated
suppliers whose business depends upon the firm. One
of the lessons Avon Products, Inc.
can learn from Wal-Mart and Nike is how these companies developed third party
manufacturers. Most of Avon’s fashion
https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 21/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
and home segment products are purchased from a
variety of third party suppliers. The loss of any one supplier would not have a material
impact on ability to
source a raw material for Beauty products on fashion and home
categories.
Furthermore, Avon implemented its Strategic Sourcing Initiative (SSI). Under this
initiative, the company will shift its purchasing strategy toward a global supplier
orientation. In addition, Avon also implemented an Enterprise Resource
Planning (ERP)
System on a worldwide basis. The goal of ERP system is to increase the efficiency of
Avon’s supply chain, reduce costs and also reduce the
dependency of suppliers.
4.2.4 Bargaining Power of Buyers
Alternatively, buyers or customers of an industry want to buy products at the lowest
possible price.
When the customers have too many substitutes in the market for a certain
product, they can have the opportunity to shift to another substitute product.
The
bargaining power of buyers in Avon industry is high. This is because the
intense competition among existing competitors and the availability of the similar
products
offered from different manufacturer. Though, fixed prices are imposed by Avon company
to its valued customers, they have chances to weigh prices
from different prevailing
competitors that offer equal quality.
21. 21.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
21
Further, most of the customers are informed about seller’s products, prices, and
costs
and they have the discretion in whether and when to purchase the product. It is
important for Avon to innovate new products that attract customers to buy its
products and
be a loyal customer. Therefore, Avon takes an action by building a large base of customers
such as gives discounts on products. This will be
helpful in two ways. It will reduce the
bargaining power of buyers plus it will provide an opportunity to the firm to streamline its
sales and production process.
Customers often seek discounts and offerings on established
products so if Avon Products, Inc. keeps on coming up with new products then it can limit
the
bargaining power of buyers.
4.2.5 Intensity of Rivalry among Competitors
Many competitors existing in the cosmetic industry causes the rivalry is high and
this rivalry present globally as well as in the form of local competition in various market
in certain countries. Competitive rivalry increases when a firm is
challenged by a
competitor’s actions or when a company recognizes an opportunity to improve its market
position. The concentration of companies creating
cosmetic products is strong especially
in developed countries creating a high rivalry among existing firms. Typically, firms seek
to differentiate their products
from competitor’s offerings in ways that customers value and
in which the firms have a competitive advantage such as product differentiation.
Avon Products,
Inc. operates in a very competitive Personal Products
industry. However, the Avon industry growth rate is low. This is due to the numerous
competitors such as
Mary Kay and Arbonne. Avon, Mary Kay and Arbonne use their
resources, capabilities and core competencies to try win each other’s customers. The
instability in the market that results from these competitive engagements may reduce or
diminish the profitability for all firms engaging in such battles.
22. 22.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
22
5.0 Strategy
5.1 Existing Strategy in Avon
5.1.1 Direct Selling
Direct selling is a type
of sales channel where products are marketed directly to
customers, eliminating the need for middlemen which are wholesalers, advertisers and
retailers.
Direct selling can be conducted one-on-one, in a group or party format, or online.
A major characteristic of direct selling is the personal contact between a
sales person and
a customer, away from a retail store. Direct selling provides important benefits to
individuals who desire an opportunity to earn income and
build business of their own. It
offers the prospect of self-determination and financial interdependence.
Direct selling has been the major marketing strategy of
the Avon. Avon implements
door-to-door selling type of direct selling. For Avon, the "direct" part of direct selling also
refers to the personal component of this
sales channel. It is about building relationships
with people and offering them a high level of service and personal attention. Avon used
freelance salespeople
or ‘representative’ to visit people in their homes and to demonstrates
and explain the use of a range of beauty products.
According to Avon, direct selling
connected women who were otherwise isolated
and immersed in domestic life in what the company calls the original social network.
Through direct selling,
women could sample and purchase beauty products without having
travel miles to the nearest department or drug store. By focusing on personal relationships,
Avon’s sales exceeded $1 million by 1920, $1 billion by 1972 and $10 billion by 2008.
5.1.2 Women Empowerment
Women empowerment refers to
increasing and improving the social, economic,
political and legal strength of the women, to ensure equal-right to women and to make them
confident enough
to claim their rights. According to Avon, beauty is the journey and
empowerment is the destination.
23. 23.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
23
The legacy of Avon Founder David H. McConnell, and the core priority of the
company
today is the empowerment of women. This mission is as relevant today as it was in 1886
when the company was founded.
The Avon independent
Sales Representative earnings opportunity empowers
women by enabling Avon’s six million Avon independent Sales Representatives to support
themselves
and their families. Avon supports each Representative in her efforts to achieve
success and empower her to be self-sufficient by earning an income. The
company's direct-
selling model offers a low cost of entry, a wide range of training and development
opportunities, management support, and digital direct
selling tools that enable
representatives to manage and grow their businesses as never before. In field management,
as well as other representatives, provides
mentoring, training and support.
Besides, Avon also empowered women to make an impact. Avon has used women
empowerment strategy from the beginning
to create its brand image. Unique to Avon is
our woman-to-woman network of representatives combined with our capacity to educate,
engage and mobilize.
Representatives make up a powerful grassroots movement that
reaches across continents and time zones to raise awareness and funds for issues of health,
safety and well-being that are important to women. Avon does a lot of awareness
campaigns such as Breast Cancer awareness program. For the Avon Breast
Cancer Crusade
and Speak Out Against Domestic Violence initiatives, representatives have raised hundreds
of millions of dollars through sales of special
products and personal participation in walks,
runs and other events worldwide. For Healthy Forests, Beautiful World initiative,
representatives raised millions
of dollars to help restore endangered rain forests in Brazil
and Indonesia.
24. 24.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
24
5.1.3 Expansion of the Company into Other Industries
One clear advantage to
expanding a business into other industries is the opportunity
firm to create more value to the customers and also expand its business across the world.
Since
people are often recognized as the most important asset of a company, acquiring new
and talented personnel is a clear-cut advantage to business expansion.
This strategy can
help streamline processes, bring fresh ideas to the organization and bring a sense of
camaraderie to the organization.
Avon is one of the
largest and well known company producing cosmetic or beauty
products in the world. However, Avon faces competition in both the United States and
international markets from any competitors. Therefore, Avon ventured into other industries
to compete with numerous of competitors. In addition to compete
against strong
competitors within the industry, Avon expands of the company into the fashion and home
business industry as well. Avon competes in the gift
and decorative products and apparel
industries globally. Typical competitors in the fashion and home industries establish
themselves in retail establishments
principally department stores, gift shops and specialty
retailers and direct-mail companies specializing in these products. By introducing new
products to an
already loyal customer base, Avon can generates more sales.
25. 25.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
25
6.0 Organizational and Environmental Analysis
SWOT and TOWS analysis are used
to find out the strategic options in order to strengthen
the company’s competitive position and future strategic and financial performance.
6.1 SWOT Analysis
SWOT analysis commonly used in business entities and it part of strategic planning
exercise for company. SWOT analysis helps the business to gain insight
into its current
and future position in the marketplace or against a stated goal (Rouse). SWOT analysis has
four elements inside which are strength, weakness,
opportunity and threats. There is SWOT
analysis of AVON:
STRENGHTS WEAKNESSES
1. Strong brand image
2. Largest direct selling company
3.
Experience of Board of Director
1. Lack of innovative technology
2. Poor focusing product
3. OPPORTUNITIES 4. THREATS
1. Embrace Technology
advantages
2. New product innovation (Eco-green
products)
1. Competitive environment
2. Threat of taking over by other
companies
6.1.1 Strengths
6.1.1.1
Strong Brand Image
Avon is one of the oldest cosmetic companies of the US. The history of this
company dates back to 1886 founded by David H.
McConnell. This company has evolved
and now is engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of cosmetic products, fragrances,
fashion jewelry and
apparels under some well-known brands like Avon Color, Anew, Skin-
So-Soft, Avon Hair Care, Avon Wellness and Avon’s Prestige Fragrance.
A strong
brand recall and recognition enables this company to generate repetitive sales and
hence maintain its leadership position in the skincare products market.
Based on customer
26. 26.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
26
analysis, the strongest associations that customers have with Avon are ‘ding-dong’
and
Avon Lady’ (Kristen Arndt). This branding therefore has worked against them when trying
to compete in more high-end markets. This strong brand value,
however has allowed Avon
to further establish itself in emerging markets with ease.
6.1.1.2 Largest Direct Selling Company
Avon is one of the largest direct-
selling companies in the world. This company is
represented by nearly 6.2 million sales force and distributors worldwide, out of which 80%
are from the
overseas market. Seventeen countries now have more than $1 billion (US) in
sales annually through this channel of distribution (Kristen Arndt). Avon’s
company is
selling the product on a large scale and is now the global leaders of marketing technique
called Direct Selling. This company has large workforces
who are normally not the
employees of the business but the agents and contractors hired. The whole team is working
on fulfilling the needs and demands of
the customer. They give extra weight to the new
product offering and opportunities and also new markets that have emerged.
To achieve this company is
investing a higher amount in research and development domain
to hold it and to gain a competitive edge in health and beauty care. The representatives of
this
company market the product through brochures, advertising strategies and also by
contributing to the progress and advancing their global visual representation
to be famous
and known.
6.1.1.3 Experience Board of Director (BOD)
On April 2002, Sherilyn McCoy left her position as Vice Chairman of Johnson &
Johnson
and joined Avon. Sherilyn McCoy is the CEO and a director of Avon Products, Inc. McCoy
received a B.S. degree from Dartmouth, a master’s degree
from Princeton, and an MBA
from Rutgers University. Before moving to Avon, McCoy served 30 years at Johnson &
Johnson. She was the Vice Chairman of
the Executive Committee for pharmaceuticals and
consumer business. She has the experience of handling and leading a significant business,
as the
pharmaceuticals and consumer business contributes 60 percent of Johnson &
Johnson’s revenue.
She also has the experience of reinventing an organization
through restructuring and
integration, having done so within her segment at Johnson & Johnson. Sherilyn McCoy

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 22/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
27. 27.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
27
was supported by Andrea Jung to begin this company. Andrea Jung is Senior Advisor
to
Avon Products, Inc. since January 1, 2013. Jung graduated magna cumlaude from
Princeton University and served as the CEO of Avon from November
1999 to May 2012.
This company has very experience BOD and in the same way have supported by CEO who
has a lot of experience in Avon’s company.
6.1.2 Weaknesses
6.1.2.1 Lack of Innovative Technology
A problem that was evident for Avon was the inability of this company to change with the
new
technological world, which was fast emerging. As times were changing Avon did not
implement vital technological processes that could manage the firm’s
inventory and sales
more efficiently. Rather Avon continued with onerous paperwork which consequently
leads to the slow growth which occurred in 1998-
1999. The ability to move with changing
times illustrates a lack of strategy on the management’s behalf to meet their objective
outcomes.
The impact of poor
in innovative technology affected to Avon’s operating. For example,
the operation margins have gradually declined from 15.9% in 2004 to 8.9% in 2006,
driven
by intense competitive pressures in the North America and Asia Pacific regions. The
operating margins in North American region declined by 1.3% in
2009 compared to 2008.
6.1.2.2 Poor Focusing Product
Avon’s products include cosmetics, skincare, fragrance, personal care, hair care, and
jewelry. Avon
offers gift and decorative products, housewares, entertainment and leisure
products, and children’s and nutritional products through its home product category.
In
addition to these, this company also produces health and wellness products. However, this
company does not have a clear marketing and operational
strategy for its non-core product
line. The lack of strategic focus has affected this company’s non-core business in fashion
and home product lines. As a
consequence, the non-beauty products business have lagged
behind and reported a poor performance.
28. 28.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
28
6.1.3 Opportunities
6.1.3.1 Embrace Technology Advantages
In a modern era, run the
business through social media can assume as a trends. The
popularity of social media continues to gain ground with internet sites such as Facebook,
Twitter
and Instagram. Avon already has a presence on the social media giant Facebook‘s
site with their brand “Mark” but not use it effectively to gain sale. They
have been on the
forefront of leveraging this technology to produce more sales. There are currently more
than 500 million active users on Facebook, which is
about one person for every fourteen
in the world. Half of these users log on in any given day and Facebook users spend 700
billion minutes per month on
Facebook. Avon can take this opportunity to increase their
sale per day. Build a website that customer can purchase from website directly without
make any
deal with third party.
6.1.3.2 2. New product innovation (Eco-green products): Re-branding Strategy
In 2009, this company invested approximately $56
million incrementally in the
representatives through Representative Value Proposition program (RVP) by continued
implementation of the Sales Leadership
program, enhanced incentives, increased sales
campaign frequency, improved commissions and new e-business tools. The aggressive
marketing would help
the company in increasing the brand awareness and boost sales.
Besides, direct-selling 14 companies like Avon depend upon the motivation of its
representatives. Measures like RVP would help to boost their motivation levels and
encourage the sales.
This company can leverage the status of the celebrity
to effectively communicate the values
associated with Avon brand. Hence, this company through these aggressive advertising and
branding strategy can
effectually interact with its target consumer groups and strengthen
its position against rivals such as L’Oréal and Procter & Gamble Co. (P&G). In December
2012, McCoy announced plans to downsize by cutting 1,500 jobs and exiting from the
South Korea and Vietnam markets. On April 8, 2013, Avon announced
plans to downsize
further by cutting 400 additional jobs and restructuring or abandoning operations in Africa,
the Middle East, and Europe, including exiting
from Ireland, as it aims to save $400 million
by the end of 2016.
29. 29.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
29
6.1.4 Threats
6.1.4.1 Competitive Environment
Avon faces competition in both the
United States and international markets. In addition to
the products themselves, Avon competes with companies based on direct-selling strategies,
Internet, and
the mass-market channels of retail. Several direct-selling companies including
Mary Kay and Arbonne sell product lines similar to Avon and have
international operations
to compete with Avon globally. Aside from Mary Kay and Arbonne, Avon competes with
other beauty companies using a distinct
business model that relies heavily on the success
of its representatives for example L’Oréal and P&G. These companies have increased their
focus to gain
market share in beauty and personal care products in the US as well as
emerging markets. Also, in non-beauty segments, global brands such as Amway and
Party
Life have remained a cause of concern for the company.
6.1.4.2 Threat of taking over by other competitors
The beauty company faced an offer of taking
over by Coty, a Germany owned company at
$10 billion after a series of management changeover at Avon. However, it was refused
from the top management
since they believe that Avon can get up by itself to gain market
share as it used to do. The weakening in the top management drives company to the bottom
line of earning and incur heavy losses. Hence, the treat of taking over by other company in
the same industry is high.
30. 30.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
30
6.2 TOWS Analysis
For the purpose of formulation of strategy, TOWS analysis is an
important tool. Four kinds
of strategies are developed by the managers with the help of matching tool of “Threats-
Opportunities-Weaknesses-Strengths”. On
the basis of this analysis, the organizations may easily
develop the successful strategies for their business after seeing and analyzing the competitors
deeply.
SWOT STRENGHTS WEAKNESSES
1. Strong brand image
2. Largest direct selling
company
3. Experience of Board of
Director
1. Lack of innovative
technology
2. Poor focusing product
OPPORTUNITIES SO STRATEGIES WO STRATEGIES
1. Embrace Technology
Advancement
2. New product
innovation (Eco-
green products)
1. Make a strong brand
image by innovating
new product line (Eco-
green products) (S1,O2)
2. Maximizes direct selling
through increasing of
the use of internet
present. (S2, O1)
1. Increase innovative of
product by embracing
technology advancement.
(W1, O1)
2. Increase
awareness of efforts
to increase revenue by
adding new product line
which is eco-green product.
(W2, O2)
THREATS ST STRATEGIES WT STRATEGIES
1. Competitive
environment
2. Threat of taking
over by other
companies
1. Gain competitive
advantage by making a
strong brand image and
emphasizes
direct
selling system. (S1,
S2,T1)
2. Secure the company
sovereignty position by
having experience BOD
who can make wise
decision which benefits
to all
stakeholders.
(S3,T2).
1. Create the innovative and
unique product in order to
gain competitive advantage.
(W1, T1)
2. Implementing new product
line can
minimize the
weakness of poor focusing
product and attract more
customer which can also
helps Avon from being
taken-over.
31. 31.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
31
7.0 Recommendation
After performing extensive research on the company using
multiple online tools, journals,
articles and texts, we have collected enough evidence to make recommendations as to how Avon can
continue its global
expansion while still maintaining long and short term company objectives and
staying within core competencies. We believe Avon can and should expand
strategically into each of
the BRIC countries while also leverage the power of the technology and the Internet to increase
business through social networks.
There are some proposed strategies for Avon’s company which
is market penetration and eco-friendly product.
7.1 Market Penetration
Improved market
penetration this is an excellent way to boost sales and promote the brand.
Avon is already the market leader and people are aware of the brand. However,
through
more aggressive advertisement campaigns, sales promotions, mail-in discounts or coupons,
increase internet presence and bill boards. Avon will be
able to further heighten brand
awareness, build customer loyalty and create appeal for our products by new and existing
customers. To look Avon achieves this
over the first two years with an estimated amount
of 10 million dollars. With 5 million dedicated to further increase internet presence and the
remaining 5
million to cover the other activities.
7.2 Eco-friendly products.
Avon’s director or leader should take a part to more research about “green” product.
Improve
research and development to introduce more “green” products because customers
nowadays more refer to “green” product cosmetic. This will be achieved
through
investment in research and development. The demand for “green” products appears to be
a very viable market as consumers and distributors are
becoming more conscious about
protecting the environment. Thus creating a demand for these products, this also presents
the opportunity to increase brand
loyalty.
32. 32.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
32
8.0 References
Adamkasi. (2017, September 14). Porter’s five forces model of Avon.
Retrieved on November
20, 2017, from http://www.porteranalysis.com/porters-five-forces-model-porter-analysis-
of-avon/
Alkhafaji, A. (2003). Strategic
Management. Formulation, implementation, and control in a
dynamic environment. New York: The Haworth Press, Inc.
Ambler, T. (2017). What are strategic
issues in business? Retrieved on November 20, 2017,
from https://www.reference.com/business-finance/strategic-issues-business
cc4b64ab8c9067f8
AVON.
(2013, Feb 12). Avon Reports Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2012 results. Retrieved on
November 11, 2017, from
http://media.avoncompany.com/index.php?
s=10922&item=126205
Dagmar R. (2001). Porters 5 forces. Retrieved on December 2, 2017, from
http://www.themanager.org/Models/p5f.htm.
Dess, G. G.,
Lumpkin, G. T. & Eisher, A. B. (2006). Strategic Management. Text and cases.
International edition. London: McGraw-Hill.
Dilwa, E. (2015, March 23).
Avon company product analysis. Retrieved on November 20, 2017,
from https://www.ukessays.com/essays/marketing/avon-company-product-analysis-
marketing-essay.php
Hill, C. W. L and Jones, G. R. (2007). Strategic management theory: An integrated approach.
Seventh edition. New York: Houghton
Mifflin Company.
Hutchins, M. (2010, July 20). Marketing theories – PESTEL analysis. Retrieved on November 25,
2017, from
https://www.professionalacademy.com/blogs-and-advice/marketing-theories--
-pestel-analysis
Palade, A. (2011). Analysis of marketing mix on cosmetics
products. Annals of the University of
Petroşani, Economics, 233-244.
Pearce, J. A., II and Robinson, R. B. (2005). Strategic management formulation,
implementation,
and control. Ninth Edition, New York: McGraw-Hill.
Porter, M.E. (1985). Competitive advantage: Creating and sustaining superior
performance. The
Free Press, New York, NY.
Riley, J. (2012). Porter’s five forces model: Analyzing industry structure. Retrieved on
November 29, 2017,
from
http://www.tutor2u.net/business/strategy/porter_five_forces.htm.
33. 33.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
33
Rouse, M. (n.d.). Definition SWOT analysis. Retrieved on December 5, 2017, from
http://searchcio.techtarget.com/definition/SWOT-analysis-strengths-weaknesses-
opportunities-and-threats-analysis
UKessays. (2015, March 23). The history
of Avon Product Inc.Retrieved on Noveber 1, 2017,
from https://www.ukessays.com/essays/marketing/the-history-about-avon-products-inc-
marketing-
essay.php
Wheelan, T.L., & Hunger, J. D. (2008). Strategic management and business policy. 11th Ed.,
Prentice Hall, London.
34. 34.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
34
9.0 APPENDIX
Logo of Avon Products Inc.
Andrea Jung
Executive Chairman &
CEO
https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 23/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
35. 35.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
35
Sheri McCoy
Chief Executive Officer, Avon Product
Avon Cosmetics Products
36. 36.
BPMN3023 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Sman Tairos (2017)
36
Avon Fashion Products
Jewelry Products of Avon

Recommended

Differences between-islamic-and-conventional-laws
Tairos Sman

Islamic house financing Bai Bitaman Ajil & Musharakah Mutanaqisah


Tairos Sman

Differences between islamic and conventional law (1)


Tairos Sman

Real estate market in cambodia 1


Tairos Sman

Short selling, et fs, reits, shariah screening


Tairos Sman

Islamic House Financing BBA & MM


Tairos Sman

Should kroger pay now for what ralphs employee did then
Tairos Sman

Simple future tense


Tairos Sman

What to Upload to SlideShare


SlideShare

Be A Great Product Leader (Amplify, Oct 2019)


Adam Nash

KaylaLevy2

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 24/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
Nov. 30, 2021

IvanLouis5

Nov. 20, 2021

RoseMarieBulatao

Nov. 20, 2021

NellieManimog

Oct. 5, 2021

XavrnBlack

May. 22, 2021

RonnelRayala

Apr. 29, 2021

annramirez8

Jul. 21, 2020

GoharKhan33

Jun. 21, 2020

MegasabatiniSinambela

Mar. 3, 2020

ReahOdono

Nov. 14, 2019

AfeesOseni

Sep. 19, 2019

MUAZSYIHABUDDINMUSTA

Apr. 18, 2019

YsabelEza

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 25/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution
Apr. 17, 2019

afrinadanial

Mar. 27, 2018

Avon is facing the issue of management changeover and severe financial loss due to the global bribery charged in China.

Views

Total views

26,062

On Slideshare

From embeds

Number of embeds

Actions

Downloads

330

Shares

Comments

Likes

14

Share your thoughts...


Post
14 Likes Statistics Notes

About
Support
Terms
Privacy
Copyright

English

© 2021 SlideShare from Scribd

English
Español
Português
Français
Deutsch

Share Clipboard

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Link

Public clipboards featuring this slide

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 26/27
19:48, 05/12/2021 Avon case study solution

No public clipboards found for this slide

Select another clipboard

Looks like you’ve clipped this slide to already.

Search for a clipboard

Create a clipboard

You just clipped your first slide!

Clipping is a handy way to collect important slides you want to go back to later. Now customize the name of a clipboard to store your clips.

Name*
Best of Slides

Description
Add a brief description so oth

Visibility
Others can see my Clipboard

Cancel
Save

Report as inappropriate

Select your reason for reporting this presentation as inappropriate.

There was an error while reporting this slideshow. Please try again.

None
Flag

×
Special Offer to SlideShare Readers
×

Wait! Exclusive 60 day trial


to the world's largest digital library.
The SlideShare family just got bigger. You now have unlimited* access to books, audiobooks, magazines, and more from Scribd.

Activate your free 60 day trial


Cancel anytime.

https://www.slideshare.net/tairossman/avon-case-study-solution 27/27

You might also like