Avon

Direct-seller begins construction on $40 mil. manufacturing facility near Narofominsk, Russia to support firm's beauty business in the region. Russia is one of Avon's fastest growing markets, with sales expected to reach $500 mil. in 2007, firm says. The 250,000 square foot facility, expected to open in mid-2004, will employ over 800 workers and produce 185 mil. units of cosmetic products, Avon says. Items manufactured at the plant will be sold in Russia through Avon's 194,000 consultants, and in Ukraine and Kazakhstan. Avon has had a presence in Russia since 1995, with regional sales of $142 mil. in 2002...