The distribution of the Avon Crusade Tote Bag that Marimekko designed for Avon Products, Inc. in 2009 will expand this year to include over 20 countries in addition to the US. The tote bag that instantly became very popular in the US will be available through Avon Sales Representatives in a number of Central European countries as well as Finland, Turkey and Brazil.

The bag – a pink ribbon fundraising product featuring Marimekko’s famous “Unikko” (poppy) pattern in a bright, cheerful colourway – is sold to raise money and awareness for the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade; 100% of the net profits from the sales are donated to the cause. World-renowned actress Reese Witherspoon is Honorary Chairman of the Avon Foundation for Women. She has also lent her support to the launch of the Avon Crusade Tote Bag designed by Marimekko. The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has since 1992 raised funds and awareness for advancing access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer. In the US, the Tote Bag has raised almost $2.4 million since its launch last year.

Marimekko is very happy about the success of the fundraising bag and for being able to support such an important cause with its design. As part of its view on social responsibility, Marimekko wants to support and advance the wellbeing of people around the world by participating directly or indirectly in charity work and campaigns.

MARIMEKKO CORPORATION
Marketing Communications

Tiina Alahuhta-Kasko
Head of PR
Tel. +358 9 758 7328
Fax: +358 9 759 1676               
E-mail: tiina.alahuhta-kasko@marimekko.fi

Further information:                 

Marimekko Corporation:                       
Päivi Lonka
Director / International Sales and Licensing
Tel. +358 9 758 7430                            
E-mail: paivi.lonka@marimekko.fi

Avon Products, Inc.:     
Karyn Margolis
Sr. Manager, PR & Communications
Tel. +1 212 282 5666
E-mail: karyn.margolis@avonfoundation.org

Marimekko is a leading Finnish textile and clothing design house which through its timeless and individual, practical and beautiful products wants to create aesthetic experiences for every moment in life for people of all ages. The array of Marimekko design embraces household goods ranging from furnishing fabrics to tableware as well as clothing, bags, jewellery and other accessories. When Marimekko was founded in 1951, the unparalleled patterns and colours of its printed fabrics gave it a strong and unique identity. In 2009, Marimekko’s net sales were EUR 72.5 million, of which international sales accounted for 27.3%. Marimekko products are available in roughly 40 countries. The company employs around 370 people. Marimekko’s shares are quoted on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki Ltd.

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. The Avon Foundation for Women, founded in 1955, is committed to the mission to improve the lives of women and their families through two key areas of focus: breast cancer and domestic violence. Avon is the largest corporate supporter of the breast cancer case, and the largest corporate-affiliated foundation for women’s causes. The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade launched in 1992 in the UK and now includes breast cancer programs in over 50 countries focused on advancing access to care and finding a cure. Through 2009 the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has raised and awarded more than $640 million worldwide for awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and scientific research. Learn more about Avon Foundation and Avon Breast Cancer Crusade at www.avonfoundation.org.
For more information about Avon and its products, please see www.avoncompany.com.