Marimekko Corporation and Avon Products, Inc., a leading global beauty company, have today entered into an agreement whereby Marimekko licenses its Unikko pattern to Avon's new cosmetics collection. The Marimekko for Avon Color Collection will be launched globally, debuting in the U.S., Europe, Mexico and Asia in the fourth quarter of 2008. The Marimekko for Avon Color Collection embodies Marimekko's unique philosophy - design that brings beauty into people's everyday lives. The collection features Marimekko's iconic Unikko pattern designed by Maija Isola in 1964. Her daughter Kristina Isola re-interpreted Unikko with a unique look and fresh colouring for Avon. The collection contains four limited edition colour products, including eye shadow, face powder, lip gloss and mascara, as well as accessories. “Avon is committed to the vision that all women should have access to great style and fashion. We're thrilled to partner with global design powerhouse Marimekko - we are so impressed with their great reputation for creating fun, lively, fashion-forward designs. Collaboration with the legendary Finnish textile and clothing design company will bring the bold, creative and avant-garde Marimekko design to Avon consumers worldwide. We feel confident that our customers will enjoy the merger of Marimekko's energetic design with the innovation of the Avon Color Brand,” says Geralyn Breig, Senior Vice President and Brand President for Avon Products, Inc. “Marimekko's vision for the future remains consistent - producing superior and innovative designer products by partnering with inventive, inspiring designers and companies that support the brand's image around the world. Licensing cooperation with Avon is Marimekko's first foray into the world of beauty and will enhance the Marimekko brand's recognition worldwide. With Avon, we are able to reach millions of women and share the Marimekko creations, as well as superior beauty products,” says Mika Ihamuotila, President and CEO of Marimekko Corporation. MARIMEKKO CORPORATION Group Communications Marja Korkeela Tel. +358 9 758 7238 Fax: +358 9 759 1676 Email: marja.korkeela@marimekko.fi Further information: Marimekko Corporation: Päivi Lonka, Export Director, tel. +358 9 758 7430, paivi.lonka@marimekko.fi Avon Products, Inc.: Claudia Shaum, tel. +1 212 282-8195, claudia.shaum@avon.com DISTRIBUTION: OMX Nordic Exchange Helsinki Principal media Marimekko's website www.marimekko.com Marimekko is a leading Finnish textile and clothing design company that was established in 1951. The company designs, manufactures and markets high-quality clothing, interior decoration textiles, bags and other accessories under the Marimekko brand, both in Finland and abroad. Marimekko products are also manufactured under license in various countries. In 2007, the company's net sales amounted to EUR 77.3 million. Exports and income from international operations accounted for 26.5% of the Group's net sales. The Group employs about 400 people. The company's share is quoted on the OMX Nordic Exchange Helsinki. For further information, visit www.marimekko.com Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with USD 10 billion in annual revenue. As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100 countries through 5.4 million independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line includes beauty products, fashion jewelry, apparel and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, and Mark. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com
MARIMEKKO IS LICENSING ITS UNIKKO PATTERN TO AVON PRODUCTS, INC.'S COSMETICS
| Source: Marimekko Oyj
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