Avon to Offer Savings Plan to Sales Force

Avon Products Inc., the world’s largest direct seller of cosmetics, said it will offer a savings plan to its 450,000 U.S. sales representatives early next year to increase retention. The plan will let Avon’s door-to-door salespeople deduct funds from their commissions and invest with a financial services provider, said Avon spokesman Victor Beaudet. The program will be a special benefit for Avon’s sales force, independent contractors and dealers who do not receive the same perks as salaried workers. Avon shares closed up 75 cents at $39.25 on the New York Stock Exchange.