The History of Avon: Empowering Beauty for Over a Century
For over 135 years, Avon has been a trailblazer in beauty, business, and empowerment. From its humble beginnings as a small perfume company to becoming a global leader in cosmetics and skincare, Avon has remained committed to innovation, quality, and opportunity. Let’s take a journey through the remarkable history of Avon and discover how it became the brand we know and love today!
The Birth of Avon (1886)
It all started in 1886 when a door-to-door book salesman named David H. McConnell realized that the free perfume samples he gave away with his books were more popular than the books themselves! Seeing an opportunity, he pivoted his business and founded the California Perfume Company (CPC) in New York. His vision? To create high-quality beauty products that women could sell directly to their communities—giving them financial independence at a time when job opportunities for women were scarce.
The Birth of a Name (1939)
As the company expanded beyond fragrances, the California Perfume Company officially rebranded to Avon in 1939—inspired by McConnell’s love for William Shakespeare and his birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon. The new name marked the beginning of a beauty revolution that would soon span the globe.
The Avon Lady & the Power of Direct Sales
One of Avon’s most iconic traditions began with the Avon Lady—a friendly neighborhood beauty expert who brought products directly to customers’ doors. This personal touch and community-driven sales approach became a signature part of Avon’s success, empowering countless women to start their own businesses and earn financial independence. The company’s motto, “Ding Dong, Avon Calling,” became one of the most recognizable advertising campaigns of the 1950s and ‘60s.
Innovation & Expanding the Brand
Throughout the decades, Avon continued to expand, offering skincare, makeup, jewelry, and wellness products. The brand has always been at the forefront of beauty innovations, from launching Anew, one of the first mass-market anti-aging skincare lines, to introducing bold new makeup collections.
Avon’s Commitment to Giving Back
Avon has never been just about beauty—it’s about empowerment and making a difference. The company has long supported important causes, including:
💗 The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade – Raising hundreds of millions for breast cancer research and support.
💄 Speak Out Against Domestic Violence – Helping survivors rebuild their lives.
🌍 Sustainability & Social Impact – Committing to cruelty-free beauty and responsible sourcing.
Avon Today & The Future
Now a part of LG Household & Health Care, Avon continues to redefine beauty and direct selling in the digital age. Representatives like myself are proud to carry on the tradition of bringing high-quality, affordable products to customers while also supporting great causes like Men Wear Pink and the American Cancer Society.
Want to be part of Avon’s legacy? Shop my store today and discover your new beauty favorites!
🛍️ www.avon.com/?rep=pmonroe
💬 What’s your first memory of Avon? Did your mom or grandma have a favorite product? Let’s chat in the comments! ⬇️
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