Avon, the Beauty Giant, Faces Criticism Over Connections with Russia

Avon, the UK-based beauty giant, has been criticised for continuing operations in Russia amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The company, which began its Russian operations 30 years ago, is still recruiting new sales agents and maintaining production at a large plant in the Moscow region. Despite suspending exports from Russia to other markets, including Ukraine, at the start of the conflict, Avon continues to support its local sales agents. Critics argue that by doing so, Avon is indirectly funding Russia’s war efforts. Avon’s parent company, Brazilian firm Natura & Co, has previously stated that it is only maintaining local operations to support its sales agents. However, some have accused Avon of “moral-washing” for continuing some operations in Russia while expressing concern for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.