Avon's 3d quarter revenue

Beauty Sales Grow 16%; Active Representatives Increase 10% Third-Quarter Earnings of $.32 per Share

Avon Products, Inc. (NYSE: AVP) today reported that third-quarter 2007 total revenue grew 14% year over year (8% in local currency) to $2.3 billion with all six operating regions contributing to the company's revenue growth. Sales of Beauty products rose 16% and Active Representatives increased 10%. Units sold increased 8% versus the prior-year quarter.
Net income in the third quarter 2007 was $139 million compared with $86 million in the year-ago quarter. Earnings per share were $.32 versus $.19 per share in the prior-year quarter, representing a 68% increase.


The quarter's results included $96 million in advertising expense, a 44% increase over prior year, to support the launch of new products as well as Representative recruitment advertising in several markets. The 2007 quarter also included an incremental $37 million of costs for initiatives to improve Avon's Representative Value Proposition (RVP), including continued implementation of Avon's multi-level Sales Leadership program, increased incentives and the roll-out of a more frequent, three-week selling cycle in the company's Central & Eastern Europe region.

Andrea Jung, chairman and CEO, commented, "We are pleased with Avon's progress in the third quarter as we continue to implement our turnaround plan. The 14% revenue increase - including the 16% growth in Beauty sales and a 10% advance in Active Representatives - reflects the benefits of significantly increased investments we've made in advertising and the Representative Value Proposition over the last two years. For full-year 2007, we remain on track to our targeted spending of $375 million in advertising and an incremental $100 million in Representative Value Proposition initiatives.


"Looking ahead to 2008, our analytics suggest that we are approaching the right levels of investment spending on advertising and the Representative Value Proposition needed to support long-term sustainable growth. Accordingly, we expect our investments next year will grow roughly in line with sales growth.


"This more stabilized level of investment, together with the projected benefits from our major initiatives of restructuring, Product Line Simplification and Strategic Sourcing, and decreased costs to implement those programs, support our expectation of an operating margin in 2008 that approaches 2005's level," Jung said.

In the third quarter, sales of Beauty products recorded another quarter of double-digit growth, with increases in all categories: fragrance up 23%, color cosmetics up 18%, personal care up 18%, and skin care up 5%.

Third-quarter operating profit of $224 million rose 33% from 2006's level of $168 million, while operating margin was 9.5%, versus 8.1% in the prior- year quarter. In addition to investments in advertising and RVP, third- quarter 2007 operating profit included $33 million of costs associated with the company's ongoing restructuring and Product Line Simplification (PLS) programs, including a new restructuring initiative to outsource information technology applications development and maintenance. 2006's third quarter included $16 million of costs to implement restructuring and $40 million of initial costs associated with PLS.

The quarter's effective tax rate of 33.0% was lower than 2006's rate of 41.3%, primarily due to the impact of repatriation of international earnings in 2006.

The company continued to repurchase its shares during the third quarter, buying approximately $148 million of stock, to bring repurchases for the first nine months of 2007 to $558 million. With total program purchases of $904 million under the current $1 billion authorization, Avon's board of directors, earlier this month, authorized a new $2 billion, five-year stock repurchase program to take effect upon completion of the current authorization.
At quarter end, Avon's net debt had increased $788 million from the 2006 year-end level. Net cash provided by operating activities was $63 million through nine months of 2007, compared with $439 million of cash provided by operations in the same period of 2006, due primarily to increased payments in 2007 for inventory purchases and incentive-based compensation. The company said that it expects fourth-quarter cash flow provided by operating activities to be substantially higher than in the prior-year period; however, it expects full-year 2007 cash flow provided by operating activities to be somewhat lower than that of full-year 2006.

Third-Quarter Regional Highlights

In the North America region, third-quarter revenue grew 6% over that of the prior year. Active Representatives increased 6% as the company continued to implement initiatives to improve the Representative Value Proposition, and units sold were 10% higher. Operating profit increased 156% versus the 2006 quarter, primarily due to lower inventory obsolescence as well as higher sales, and the region's operating margin was 6.9%.
In Latin America, third-quarter revenue rose 21% year over year (13% in local currency), with Brazil being the largest contributor to the region's expansion with revenue growth of over 30%. Revenue in Venezuela and Colombia grew 40% and over 20%, respectively, in the quarter. Mexico continued to progress on its turnaround as Active Representatives increased mid-single digits year over year, and revenue was flat with that of the prior year. The region's Active Representatives grew 11%, and units sold were up 8%. Operating profit increased 14% versus the 2006 quarter as revenue growth and lower obsolescence expense more than offset higher spending on RVP and advertising. Latin America's third-quarter operating margin was 16.8%.
Western Europe, Middle East & Africa achieved revenue growth of 12% (3% in local currency), due to continued strength in Turkey, with revenue up close to 30%, and the U.K., where revenue increased close to 10%. The region's Active Representatives rose 3% and units sold increased 1%, versus the prior-year period. Operating profit improved to $11 million compared with a loss of $28 million in the prior-year quarter, due to a large expense associated with the resolution of a VAT-tax dispute recorded in 2006, and higher sales and lower obsolescence expense in 2007. Third-quarter 2007 operating margin was 3.6%.

In Central & Eastern Europe, third-quarter revenue rose 22% (12% in local currency). Russia was the largest contributor to the region's growth, with revenue up 25%. The 2006 results were impacted by the company's inability in the prior-year quarter to ship fragrance orders due to a change in Russia's importation laws. The region's third-quarter 2007 Active Representatives grew 17%, benefiting from one additional sales campaign in the quarter due to a recent move to offer more frequent selling opportunities to Representatives. Units sold during the quarter increased 6%. Operating profit grew 19% year over year, as benefits of higher revenue more than offset higher spending on advertising and RVP, and the operating margin was 20.9%.
Asia-Pacific revenue increased 3% (decreased 2% in local currency), with the Philippines contributing strong revenue growth driven by Sales Leadership. Third-quarter revenue in Japan decreased 9% due to lower sales from direct- mailing programs and flat sales from direct selling, as that market continues to implement its turnaround. The region's Active Representatives were 9% higher and units sold were down 2% as compared with the prior year. Operating profit decreased 41% versus the 2006 quarter, due in part to higher spending
on consumer incentives, RVP and advertising. Operating margin in the quarter was 6.0%.
Revenue in China grew 23% (17% in local currency) in the third quarter. Active Representatives were up 44% year over year, and units sold were 32% higher. As of the end of September, Avon China had nearly 680,000 certified Sales Promoters. During September, approximately 130,000 of those Sales Promoters fit Avon's definition of an Active Representative, reflecting a program that made it more advantageous for Representatives with small orders to delay their orders until October. As a consequence, the number of Active Representatives for the month of October is expected to be closer to 200,000. This shift in orders has no significant impact on revenue in either the third or fourth quarters. In the third quarter, China had an operating loss of $5 million compared with an operating loss of $3 million in the prior-year quarter due to a continued high level of investment to continue to build direct selling in the market. The region's third-quarter operating margin was (7.9%).

Avon will conduct a conference call at 9:30 A.M. today to discuss the quarter's results. The dial-in number for the call is (800) 843-2086 in the U.S. or (706) 643-1815 from non-U.S. locations (conference ID number: 19636587). The call will be webcast live at www.avoninvestor.com and can be accessed or downloaded from that site for a period of two weeks.

Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with almost $9 billion in annual revenue. As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in well over 100 countries through over five million independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line includes beauty products, fashion jewelry and apparel, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Avon Solutions, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, Mark, and Avon Wellness. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" STATEMENT UNDER THE

PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

Statements in this release that are not historical facts or information are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "estimate," "project," "plan," "believe," "may," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "planned," "potential," "expectation" and similar expressions, or the negative of those expressions, may identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on management's reasonable current assumptions and expectations. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievement of Avon to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from management's expectations. Such factors include, among others, the following: -- our ability to implement the key initiatives of and realize the projected benefits from our global business strategy, including our
multi-year restructuring initiatives, product mix and pricing
strategies, enterprise resource planning, customer service initiatives,
product line simplification, strategic sourcing initiative, zero
overhead growth and cash management, tax, foreign currency hedging and
risk management strategies;

-- our ability to realize the anticipated benefits (including our
projections concerning future revenue and operating margin increases)
from our multi-year restructuring initiatives or other strategic
initiatives on the time schedules or in the amounts that we expect, and
our plans to invest these anticipated benefits ahead of future growth;
-- the possibility of business disruption in connection with our multi-
year restructuring initiatives or other strategic initiatives;
-- our ability to realize sustainable growth from our investments in our
brand and the direct selling channel;
-- the inventory obsolescence and other costs associated with our product
line simplification program;
-- our ability to achieve growth objectives, particularly in our largest
markets and new and emerging markets;
-- our ability to successfully identify new business opportunities and
identify and analyze acquisition candidates, and our ability to
negotiate and consummate acquisitions as well as to successfully
integrate or manage any acquired business;
-- the effect of political, legal and regulatory risks, as well as foreign
exchange or other restrictions, imposed on us, our operations or our
Representatives by governmental entities;
-- our ability to successfully transition our business in China in
connection with the resumption of direct selling in that market, our
ability to operate using the direct selling model permitted in that
market and our ability to retain and increase the number of Active
Representatives there over a sustained period of time;
-- the impact of substantial currency fluctuations on the results of our
foreign operations;
-- general economic and business conditions in our markets, including
social, economic and political uncertainties in Latin America, Asia
Pacific, Central and Eastern Europe and the Middle East;
-- the risk of disruption in Central and Eastern Europe associated with a
change to a more rapid selling cycle with more frequent brochures;
-- a general economic downturn, information technology systems outages,
disruption in our supply chain or manufacturing and distribution
operations, or other sudden disruption in business operations beyond
our control as a result of events such as acts of terrorism or war,
natural disasters, pandemic situations and large scale power outages;
-- the risk of product or ingredient shortages resulting from our
concentration of sourcing in fewer suppliers;
-- the quality, safety and efficacy of our products;
-- the success of our research and development activities;
-- our ability to attract and retain key personnel and executives;
-- competitive uncertainties in our markets, including competition from
companies in the cosmetics, fragrances, skin care and toiletries
industry, some of which are larger than we are and have greater
resources;
-- our ability to implement our Sales Leadership program globally, to
generate Representative activity, to increase Representative
productivity, to improve Internet-based tools for our Representatives,
and to compete with other direct selling organizations to recruit,
retain and service Representatives;
-- the impact of the seasonal nature of our business, changes in market
trends, purchasing habits of our consumers and changes in consumer
preferences, particularly given the global nature of our business and
the conduct of our business in primarily one channel;
-- our ability to protect our intellectual property rights;
-- the risk of an adverse outcome in our material pending and future
litigations;
-- our access to financing and ability to secure financing at attractive
rates; and
-- the impact of possible pension funding obligations, increased pension
expense and any changes in pension regulations or interpretations
thereof on our cash flow and results of operations.

Additional information identifying such factors is contained in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.

AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)
(In millions, except per share data)
Three months Nine months
ended Percent ended Percent
September 30 Change September 30 Change
-------------- ------ ------------- ------
2007 2006 2007 2006
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net sales $2,326.1 $2,038.1 14% $6,795.8 $6,079.4 12%
Other revenue 23.0 20.5 67.4 61.9
------- ------- ------- -------
Total revenue 2,349.1 2,058.6 14% 6,863.2 6,141.3 12%
Cost of sales(1) 893.0 814.8 2,654.7 2,371.0
Selling, general
and administrative
expenses(1)(2) 1,232.6 1,076.3 3,560.3 3,291.3
------- ------- ------- -------
Operating profit 223.5 167.5 33% 648.2 479.0 35%
------- ------- ------- -------
Interest expense (29.2) (23.9) (83.8) (74.3)
Interest income 10.2 10.9 32.8 40.8
Other income
(expense), net 3.2 (5.5) 1.4 (7.9)
------- ------- ------- -------
Total other expenses (15.8) (18.5) (49.6) (41.4)
Income before taxes
and minority interest 207.7 149.0 39% 598.6 437.6 37%
Income taxes (3) (68.6) (61.5) (195.2) (142.6)
------- ------- ------- -------
Income before
minority interest 139.1 87.5 403.4 295.0
Minority interest - (1.1) (1.6) (1.5)
------- ------- ------- -------
Net income $139.1 $86.4 61% $401.8 $293.5 37%
======= ======= ======= =======
Earnings per share:
Basic $.32 $.19 68% $.92 $.65 42%
======= ======= ======= =======
Diluted $.32 $.19 68% $.92 $.65 42%
======= ======= ======= =======
Average shares
outstanding:
Basic 430.03 446.36 435.13 448.80
Diluted 433.03 447.93 438.38 450.40

(1) For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, costs to
implement restructuring initiatives impacted cost of sales by ($0.4)
and $0.3, respectively, and selling, general and administrative
expenses by $27.6 and $57.1, respectively. For the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2006, costs to implement restructuring
initiatives impacted cost of sales by ($0.5) and ($0.8), respectively,
and selling, general and administrative expenses by $16.1 and $185.9,
respectively.

(2) For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2006, selling,
general and administrative expenses included $21.0 associated with
the resolution of a long-standing dispute regarding value-added tax
in the U.K.

(3) For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2006, income taxes
were impacted by an increase in tax expense due to the repatriation of
international earnings by $12.2 and $21.6, respectively. For the nine
months ended September 30, 2006, income taxes were impacted by a
reduction in tax expense of $12.6, due to audit settlements and the
closure of tax years by expiration of the statute of limitations, as
well as $11.8 due to tax refunds.

AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(In millions)
Sep 30 Dec 31
2007 2006
------- -------
Cash and equivalents $840.5 $1,198.9
Accounts receivable, net 752.7 700.4
Inventories 1,229.2 900.3
Prepaid expenses and other 640.0 534.8
------- -------
Total current assets 3,462.4 3,334.4
Property, plant and equipment, net 1,166.0 1,100.2
Other assets 852.1 803.6
------- -------
Total assets 5,480.5 5,238.2
======= =======
Debt maturing within one year 1,042.7 615.6
Accounts payable 700.9 655.8
Other current liabilities 1,150.8 1,253.8
------- -------
Total current liabilities 2,894.4 2,525.2
Long-term debt 1,172.9 1,170.7
Other noncurrent liabilities 796.5 751.9
Total shareholders' equity 616.7 790.4
------- -------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $5,480.5 $5,238.2
======= =======
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(In millions)
Nine Months Ended
September 30
---------------------
2007 2006
------ ------
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net income $401.8 $293.5
Depreciation and amortization 126.9 120.4
Provision for doubtful accounts 113.9 104.3
Provision for obsolescence 141.6 120.7
Asset write-off restructuring charges 0.2 7.7
Share-based compensation 48.1 46.5
Deferred income taxes (8.1) (45.2)
Other 27.2 9.5
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable (129.8) (96.4)
Inventories (415.4) (278.7)
Prepaid expenses and other (73.5) (50.0)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 13.4 234.1
Income and other taxes (61.4) (10.9)
Noncurrent assets and liabilities (122.0) (17.0)
-------- --------
Net cash provided by operating activities 62.9 438.5
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Capital expenditures (139.9) (97.9)
Disposal of assets 10.3 11.1
Other investing activities (20.2) (48.4)
-------- --------
Net cash used by investing activities (149.8) (135.2)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Cash dividends (244.4) (239.0)
Total debt, net change 422.0 176.1
Repurchase of common stock (555.7) (233.4)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options,
net of excess tax benefits 64.8 26.8
Book overdrafts 0.8 (1.4)
-------- --------
Net cash used by financing activities (312.5) (270.9)
Effect of exchange rate changes on
cash and cash equivalents 41.0 11.7
Net (decrease) increase in -------- --------
cash and cash equivalents $(358.4) $44.1
======== ========
AVON PRODUCTS, INC.
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE
(Unaudited)
(In millions)
THREE MONTHS ENDED 9/30/07
REGIONAL RESULTS
-----------------
$ in Millions Total Revenue
Total in Local Operating Op. Active
Revenue US$ Currency Profit US$ Margin Units Reps
-------------- -------- ---------- ------ ------ -----
% var. % var. % var. % var. % var.
vs vs vs 2007 vs vs
3Q06 3Q06 3Q06 percent 3Q06 3Q06
------- ---- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ -----
North America $605.2 6% 6% $42.0 156% 6.9% 10% 6%
Latin America 854.8 21 13 143.5 14 16.8 8 11
Western Europe,
Middle East
& Africa 292.8 12 3 10.6 * 3.6 1 3
Central &
Eastern Europe(1) 327.4 22 12 68.5 19 20.9 6 17
Asia Pacific 208.1 3 -2 12.4 -41 6.0 -2 9
China 60.8 23 17 (4.8) * -7.9 32 44
Total from
Operations 2,349.1 14 8 272.2 44 11.6 8 10
Global Expenses - - - (48.7) -120 - - -
Consolidated(1) $2,349.1 14% 8% 223.5 33% 9.5% 8% 10%
CATEGORY SALES (US$)
--------------------
Consolidated
------------------
% var. vs
3Q06
-------------------
Beauty
(cosmetics/fragrances/skin care/toiletries) $1,656.7 16%
Beauty Plus
(fashion jewelry/watches/apparel/accessories) 432.1 13
Beyond Beauty
(home products/gift and decorative products) 237.3 7
-------- -------
Net Sales $2,326.1 14%
Other Revenue 23.0 12
-------- -------
Total Revenue $2,349.1 14%
NINE MONTHS ENDED 9/30/07
REGIONAL RESULTS
----------------
$ in Millions Total Revenue
Total in Local Operating Op. Active
Revenue US$ Currency Profit US$ Margin Units Reps
------------- -------- ---------- ------- ----- -----
% var. % var. % var. % var. % var.
vs vs vs 2007 vs vs
9M06 9M06 9M06 percent 9M06 9M06
-------- ---- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ -----
North America $1,855.6 3% 3% $160.7 39% 8.7% 5% 3%
Latin America 2,309.2 17 12 345.9 19 15.0 7 7
Western Europe,
Middle East
& Africa 874.4 14 5 39.5 * 4.5 4 7
Central &
Eastern Europe 1,019.2 18 9 191.8 1 18.8 4 11
Asia Pacific 610.9 4 - 49.5 60 8.1 1 2
China 193.9 34 28 (3.9) * -2.0 22 *
Total from
Operations 6,863.2 12 7 783.5 34 11.4 6 8
Global Expenses - - - (135.3) -29 - - -
Consolidated $6,863.2 12% 7% $648.2 35% 9.4% 6% 8%
CATEGORY SALES (US$)
--------------------
Consolidated
---------------------
% var. vs
9M06
---------------------
Beauty
(cosmetics/fragrances/skin care/toiletries) $4,832.5 13%
Beauty Plus
(fashion jewelry/watches/apparel/accessories) 1,309.6 9
Beyond Beauty
(home products/gift and decorative products) 653.7 6
-------- -------
Net Sales $6,795.8 12%
Other Revenue 67.4 9
-------- -------
Total Revenue $6,863.2 12%

* Calculation not meaningful
(1) Central & Eastern Europe Active Representative growth for the three
months ended September 30, 2007, benefited from increased ordering
opportunities as a result of a move from a four-week campaign cycle to
a three-week campaign cycle. This change had a minimal impact on
Consolidated Avon.

Luxury handbags

Luxury Institute provides jewelry for over 26 brands of handbags. On the list we can find brands like: Burberry, Channel, Cole Haan, Yves Saint Laurent and Prada.
Luxury Institute Press Release:

High net-worth consumers rated Leiber the most prestigious handbag brand in the 2007 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI) survey from the independent New York-based Luxury Institute. Leiber's handcrafted bejeweled creations were praised by respondents as perfect show-stopping accessories for that special occasion. The brand scored highly with women over age 45 and those with net worth in excess of $5 million. Hermes and Prada handbags were ranked second and third, respectively.

"Handbags have evolved from utilitarian accessories to coveted collectables. Not only do today's wealthy women want to communicate their sense of style and sophistication, but also their individuality. By carrying a handcrafted handbag, they show they can afford to be uniquely exclusive," said Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute.

"Individualization and customization is a trend that is popping up in a range of diverse categories and serves to separate the mass-class from the truly wealthy," Pedraza added. "Our 'voice of the high net-worth consumer' surveys from the impartial Luxury Institute provide important endorsements for luxury brands and the consumers they serve."

Following are the 26 handbag brands that were rated (in alphabetical order):

1. Bottega Veneta
2. Brighton
3. Burberry
4. Chanel
5. Chloe
6. Coach
7. Cole Haan
8. Dior
9. Dolce & Gabbana
10. Dooney & Bourke
11. Fendi
12. Ferragamo
13. Furla
14. Gucci
15. Hermes
16. Kate Spade
17. L.A.M.B.
18. Leiber
19. Longchamp
20. Louis Vuitton
21. Marc Jacobs
22. Michael Kors
23. Miu Miu
24. Prada
25. Ralph Lauren
26. Yves Saint Laurent

The proprietary Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI) survey is the only measure of the prestige of leading brands among wealthy Americans. A national sample of 783 wealthy American consumers, with an average income of $305K and average net worth of $2.2 million, was surveyed online. Survey results are weighted to match demographic and net worth profiles of the same audience according to the latest Survey of Consumer Finances from The Federal Reserve.

About the Luxury Institute

The Luxury Institute is the uniquely independent and impartial ratings, reviews and research institution that is the trusted and respected voice of the high net-worth consumer. The Institute provides a portfolio of proprietary publications and research that guides and educates high net-worth individuals and the companies that cater to them on leading edge trends, high net-worth consumer rankings and ratings of luxury brands, and best practices. The Luxury Institute also operates the Luxury Board, the world's first global, membership-based online community for luxury goods and services executives, professionals and entrepreneurs.

Source: Luxury Institute

Nike's campaign with LeBron

Nike announced her newest campaign with LeBron. The campaign was realized with the agency Wieden & Kennedy et shows us how much LeBron has worked and that he still work for his job and love: basketball!

Nike Press Release:

Launching the Zoom LeBron V with a provocative and inspirational message, LeBron says in the new campaign that he's still improving his game, and he wants to encourage young basketball players to not just aspire to be him, but to be better than him. "I am LeBron James," he says at the end of the TV spot. "You don't want to be me. You want to be better than me."

The spot, which was produced by Nike in cooperation with advertising agency Wieden & Kennedy, is narrated by LeBron and features basketball highlights from his high school and NBA career. Throughout the ad, LeBron acknowledges that he's driven by the fact that he still has work to do and more challenges to face in order to be as good as he can be.

The commercial will be executed in 30-second and 60-second versions and will air on national networks as well as during NBA televised games on TNT, ESPN, ABC and Fox Sports Net. The spots will also appear on key digital sites and a print execution will appear in national sport publications as well as on billboards in Cleveland and New York City.

The Zoom LeBron V is engineered specifically for LeBron's game, and is available in the U.S. beginning November 15. The Zoom LeBron V provides ultimate lightweight protection and features full length Zoom Air cushioning and double stacked Zoom Air heel cushioning for optimum response. In addition to providing superior cushioning, the shoe has many design features that tie directly to LeBron such as a map of his hometown Akron, Ohio, on the inside of the tongue; a milk crate pattern on the ankle strap that is reminiscent of the "basket" LeBron used in his youth; and words from his inspired message "FAMILY", "PASSION" and "FEARLESS" stitched on the inside of the ankle strap.

Available for a suggested retail price of $140, the Zoom LeBron V will be sold in white, midnight navy-metallic gold. A second colorway of black-varsity crimson will be available on December 13.

In addition to unveiling a new commercial and the launch of the Zoom LeBron V, Nike will unveil a 110-foot high by 212-foot wide billboard in Cleveland featuring James looking skyward, with his arms outstretched and the tag line "We Are All Witnesses." The new LeBron billboard will be unveiled near Quicken Loans arena on October 31st just hours before LeBron and the Cleveland Cavaliers take to the court to open the new NBA season. The new billboard replaces a previous LeBron James billboard by Nike which captured LeBron delivering one of his signature dunks taken during his rookie season.

NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include Cole Haan Holdings Incorporated, a leading designer and marketer of luxury shoes, handbags, accessories and coats; Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear, apparel and accessories; Exeter Brands Group LLC, which designs and markets athletic footwear and apparel for the value retail channel; Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories and NIKE Bauer Hockey Inc., a leading designer and distributor of hockey equipment.

Source: NIKE, Inc.

Holiday shopping gift cards

On line gift cards were negociated by the Shopping. com for them holiday customers. Top retailers signed few days ago deals with Shopping.com.

Shopping.com Press Release:

Easy yet thoughtful holiday shopping is in the cards – gift cards, that is – beginning this year for Shopping.com patrons. Leading online comparison shopping site, Shopping.com has signed deals with some of the nation’s top retailers to offer their gift cards online this season, all from one convenient place. Shoppers will be able to easily compare brand name cards in various increments for everyone on their holiday list.

"Gift cards are the most convenient way to buy the perfect gift for anyone on your holiday shopping list," says Alisa Weiner, general manager of online comparison shopping at Shopping.com. "No matter who you’re shopping for, Shopping.com can help you quickly find and purchase the right gift cards from your favorite stores all in one place."

In the past few years, gift card popularity has soared both with gift givers and recipients. A recent consumer survey commissioned by Shopping.com in October 2007 found that 77 percent of consumers would prefer to receive a gift card from their favorite retailer or restaurant over a tangible gift this holiday. Fifty-nine percent of respondents said they prefer to give gift cards as presents, and 85 percent of gift givers plan to spend between $11 - $50 on each gift card they purchase.

As more time-starved consumers opted for the convenience of giving gift cards, related sales topped $28 billion in 2006, a 55 percent increase year-over-year according to the National Retail Federation. Archstone Consulting predicts that gift card sales will continue to surge, jumping 25 percent in 2007 to a record $35 billion in sales.

The recent Shopping.com consumer survey also named gift cards for apparel and shoes as the most popular cards desired by recipients, followed by electronics and online music gift cards.

Shopping.com helps visitors easily search for cards by category, price range or by store, from one convenient destination. Shoppers can find and compare gift cards this holiday season from merchants such as Beauty.com, Bloomingdale’s, Brookstone, Frontgate and Neiman Marcus, among others.

About Shopping.com

Shopping.com, an eBay company, pioneered online comparison shopping and today is one of the fastest growing shopping destinations on the Internet with items from thousands of trusted stores from across the Web. With a singular focus on shopping, Shopping.com offers shoppers easy-to-use search tools, engaging content, time-saving navigation, along with millions of product and merchant reviews from the Epinions community, all in one place. The Shopping.com Network powers the shopping experience for hundreds of websites.

Source: Shopping.com

Charity Auction to Benefit UNIFEM by TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer will auction off one- of-a-kind portraits taken by the world's top female photographers in benefit of the United Nations Development Fund for Women. TAG Heuer hosts a gala in New York where the collected works were unveiled.

Press release:

Underscoring its commitment to improving the lives of women around the world, TAG Heuer will auction off one- of-a-kind portraits of 15 esteemed women taken by the world's top female photographers. Proceeds from the exclusively online auction will benefit the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM).The auction is a culmination of the year-long international tour of TAG Heuer's "Strength & Beauty Embodied by Avant-Garde Women" photography exhibit. In 2006, the company joined forces with UNIFEM to bring together extraordinary female artists, authors, business leaders and academics with renowned female photographers to create a unique collection of portraits.

The collected works were unveiled in New York at a gala hosted by TAG Heuer and its brand ambassador, Uma Thurman. The exhibit then traveled to each continent. "As a woman, I feel that it is incredibly important to fully support all efforts to combat poverty, violence, discrimination and inequality of female victims around the world," said Thurman. "One of the biggest concerns that UNIFEM is fighting is violence against women. One out of every three women around the world will be beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime -- with the abuser usually someone known to her. Violence against women and girls is a global problem of epidemic proportions. Today as an ambassador for TAG Heuer, I am proud of the commitment we are making together with UNIFEM to be involved in improving the daily lives of those who need help and safety."

Opening bids for the 32 original "Strength & Beauty" prints will be taken beginning on Monday, Oct. 29 at 9 AM EDT and end at the same time on Monday, Nov. 5. The photographs will be sold in 14 lots, each consisting of two or three portraits of an avant-garde woman as well as a limited-edition TAG Heuer ladies' Aquaracer autographed by Thurman. Each lot will open at $1,800 with a "Buy It Now" option that allows a bidder to end the auction at a fixed price of $3,500.The eBay-style auction will be conducted by Antiquorum, the world's premier specialized auctioneer, renowned for its sale of watches, clocks and other fine art. The Geneva-based auction house is generously selling the lots at hammer price and will not take a commission from the bidders or clients.

Established in 1976, UNIFEM is dedicated to fostering women's empowerment and gender equality on a global scale. Its efforts in more than 100 countries have dramatically affected the lives of millions of women.

TAG Heuer is proud to play a part in UNIFEM's continued efforts by paying homage to one of the brand's key sources of inspiration: the determination, independence, modernity and success of today's women.
For more information on TAG Heuer's "Strength & Beauty" project and to view the 14 lots, visit antiquorum.com

TAG Heuer, the leader in prestigious sports watches and chronographs since 1860, is one of the largest and fastest growing luxury Swiss watch Brands. The Swiss watch making legend draws upon its active engagement in the world of sports to create the most accurate measuring instruments and sports watches in the world.
TAG Heuer is today the first watchmaker ever to master luxurious Chronographs with an unsurpassed precision of 1/10th, 1/100th and 1/1,000th of a second. From the Olympic Games in the 1920s toits role as official timekeeper to within 1/10,000th of a second for the legendary Indy 500, TAG Heuer, in a constant quest for innovation, excellence, performance and prestige, continues to aim ever higher, as reflected in its partnerships with Team Vodafone McLaren Mercedes in Formula 1 and its two aces: Fernando Alonso, youngest ever and already two times Formula 1 world champion and Lewis Hamilton, GP2 world Champion in 2006. With two times Formula 1 world vice- champion and Scuderia Ferrari F1 driver Kimi Raikkonen, with world number 1 golfer Tiger Woods and WTA star tennis player Maria Sharapova, with Nascar idol Jeff Gordon, Champcar three times world champion Sebastien Bourdais, promising talent Bruno Senna as well as Hollywood and Bollywood icons Brad Pitt, Uma Thurman and Shah RukhKhan, TAG Heuer more than ever epitomizes Sport and Glamour !


Source: PRNewswire

J. Jill styling secrets

J. Jill a national specialty retailer expresses the woman's need for clothes capturing the current fashion trends. J. Jill reveals a few styling secrets

Press Release:

From an artist's perspective, layering is a bit like creating a sculpture in the round, but with moving parts and a mind of its own. Recognizing this, J. Jill offers a selection of light, fluid layers that easily mold to a 35+ woman's contours without the weight of clay or inflexible heft of steel. From the essential underlayer to soft shirtings, simple vests, thirsty sweaters and more, J.Jill's choices for layering capture current fashion trends while expressing this woman's need for clothes that readily adapt to a changing thermostat ... inside, outside and sometimes within.

While similar to sculpture, layering doesn't require a potter's wheel or degree in art history. According to J. Jill, it's a mixture of art basics (easy shapes, blended colors) and simple math (plus one, minus one equation). Here are a few styling secrets from J. Jill:

-- With the exception of outerwear, layers should be light, not heavy. Fabrics should be soft and comfortable against the skin. A few examples this fall include cotton pincord, tumbled corduroy, ribbed cotton, cashmere, washable velvet and J. Jill's cozy yarn (a super soft blend of polyester and nylon).

-- Each layer should stand on its own. Having the ability to add or subtract a layer is essential. Best to make sure each layer is in good condition and fits you properly.

-- Choose styles that go on and off with ease - e.g., cardigans, oversized tunics, deep V-neck sweaters and vests are stylish and practical options.

-- Follow the light in, heavy out rule of thumb. For the smoothest look, start with a base layer or foundation piece that gently hugs the body - i.e., stretchy cami, tank or tee. Base layer should be lighter and fit closer to the body than outer layers. A shelf bra cami is the ultimate underlayer. J. Jill offers camis year-round in shades that blend perfectly with seasonal deliveries.

-- Look for layers that reveal a well-placed glimpse below. Layering is all about providing a peek at other layers, not covering them up. Looks that juxtapose varying necklines and lengths work well - e.g. scoop tank under a deep V; hip grazing menswear vest over a tunic-style shirt.

-- As you layer up, avoid the appearance of bulk by choosing styling details that deflect attention from any figure concerns - e.g., deep V necklines elongate the neck and bust line; tonal and monochromatic blends from shoulder to hem help create the illusion of height; asymmetrical details and off-centered gathers subtly capture the eye; a contoured belt with a distinctive buckle celebrates the waist.

-- When traveling, consider layers that are versatile and easy to carry.
A white t, for instance, is the perfect foil if you find yourself caught in an unexpected heat wave or cold front. It also comes in handy should something spill on you in transit. Additionally, a cashmere cardigan or tunic doubles as a soft jacket and becomes a comforting blanket on long drafty flights. Of course, the real key to traveling in style starts with the right fabric. Choose a "smart" synthetic blend that drapes beautifully, resists wrinkles and is machine washable in shapes that are fluid and versatile. Made of rayon and Lycra(R) spandex, J. Jill's Wearever Collection was designed with savvy road warriors in mind - the pieces mix, match and layer with pack-to-back ease.

About J. Jill

Established in 1987 as DM Management, J. Jill is a national specialty retailer, cataloger and e-tailer of women's clothing and accessories with over 250 stores throughout the U.S. J. Jill became a wholly owned subsidiary of The Talbots, Inc. in May 2006. J. Jill offers clothing service and a serene shopping environment for the 35+ woman who takes care of everyone else. J. Jill stores carry relaxed weekend wear and casual business attire in a spectrum of sizes. The clothes are marked by fluid lines, feel-good fabrics, artful styling details and a cohesive color palette culled from nature.
For more information, visit thetalbotsinc.com (corporate information) or jjill.com (online shopping site).

Source: PRNewswire

Karl Lagerfeld and Vaprio Stile

An Italian company operating in the fashion women's ready-to-wear business entered into an alliance with KARL LAGERFELD ready-to-wear collection to produce the KARL LAGERFELD Women's Collection.

Press Release:

KARL LAGERFELD announced today that Vaprio Stile entered into a licensing alliance to produce the KARL LAGERFELD Women's Collection starting with Fall 2008. The partnership will combine the design vision of Karl Lagerfeld with Vaprio Stile's expertise in manufacturing, sales and distribution.

"In Italy, there is a high quality capacity for ready-to-wear licenses because in that area it is a real tradition," said Karl Lagerfeld.

"This partnership with Vaprio Stile demonstrates our continued effort to build and expand the KARL LAGERFELD brand to become a true global business," states Fred Gehring, CEO, of the holding of KARL LAGERFELD. "Given Vaprio Stile's proven track record in producing and distributingwomenswear of exceptional quality, we are confident that we have found the best partner to enable the KARL LAGERFELD Collection to maximize its potential and to reach a broader consumer base worldwide."

"Karl Lagerfeld's creative experience, style and prestige will be a great contribution to our common goal in strategic development and success of the KARL LAGERFELD women's ready-to-wear collection worldwide," said Roberto Zanetto, Chairman of Vaprio Stile.

KARL LAGERFELD will continue to directly manage the aspects of design and marketing for the Collection. The first collection produced by VaprioStile will be shown on the runway during Paris fashion week in February2008 and will bow at retail for Fall 2008. The collection will be sold worldwide in select department stores and specialty stores.

KARL LAGERFELD:

KARL LAGERFELD designs, sources and markets the internationally acclaimed signature ready-to-wear collection KARL LAGERFELD, a high end luxury collection which is designed and shown in Paris and also offers an array of related accessories through strategic licensing agreements.

VAPRIO STILE:

Vaprio Stile controlled by Arner Private Equity Fund, is an Italian company operating in the fashion and luxury women's ready-to-wear business.The firm manages the license of Emanuel Ungaro as well as a collaboration on an exclusive basis with Givenchy collection.

Source: PRNewswire

Sport Chalet Utah's store

Friday, November 2nd is scheduled a grand opening with celebrity appearances, sports demonstrations for Sport Chalet new store in Utah.

Press release:

Sport Chalet, Inc. today announced that it will enter the Utah market with the opening of its new 42,000 sq. ft. store located at Jordan Landing, 7682 S. Campus View Drive, West Jordan, UT 84084. This location will feature an on-site SCUBA training pool. This is the Company's 49th store.

A grand opening celebration and sale is scheduled for Friday, November 2nd through Sunday, November 4th. Activities will include the Gale Webb Extreme Sports & Air Show, celebrity appearances, sports demonstrations, free introductory SCUBA lessons and free giveaways. On Friday at 9 a.m., Mayor David B. Newton, members of the West Jordan Chamber of Commerce and other guests, along with Sport Chalet General Manager Sean Olsen, will kick off the festivities with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. The Copper Hills High School band will perform at the opening ceremony. On Saturday at 11 a.m., professional skiers, Cody Townsend and Ashley Battersby and professional snowboarder, Louie Fountain, will be signing autographs.

Sport Chalet will have several parking lot activities, including a free Rock Climbing Wall, vendor booths showcasing new products and a KBER 101.1 FM radio station remote. Customers may enter to win a GRAND PRIZE Columbia Hiking Package, including a pair of sleeping bags, a tent, men's and women's apparel, shoes and hats. In addition, hourly prizes will be drawn all weekend long.

About Sport Chalet, Inc.

Sport Chalet, founded in 1959 by Norbert Olberz, is a leading operator of full service specialty sporting goods stores in California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. The Company offers over 50 services for the serious sports enthusiast, including backpacking, canyoneering, and kayaking instruction, custom golf club fitting and repair, snowboard and ski rental and repair, SCUBA training and certification, SCUBA boat charters, team sales, racquet stringing, and bicycle tune-up and repair throughout its 49 locations. The address for Sport Chalet's web site is sportchalet.com

Source: PRNewswire-FirstCall

Calvin Klein MAN fragrance

GQ announced the introduction of the new fragrance of Calvin Klein : Clavin Klein MAN. In order to celebrate "Year of the MAN" in 2008 five mans will be choose to express their stories and their look in all stores who will sell Clavin Klein MAN.

GQ Press Release:

GQ has teamed up with Calvin Klein Fragrances to launch their newest fragrance, Calvin Klein MAN with a nationwide search. Five men will be chosen that best epitomize the Calvin Klein MAN: Sexy, Stylish, Sophisticated, Socially Aware and Smart. This first-ever nationwide search will be conducted in department stores nationwide and on-line. The five lucky winners will have their stories and photographs featured within a 2008 issue of GQ.

Now through November 30, consumers can log on to www.gqconnects.com and enter by submitting a photo and filling out an entry form. They can also view a listing of stores where they can enter during special in-store events, where men can sign up for the competition and have their photo taken by a professional photographer.

At the conclusion of the search, a panel of judges - comprised of representatives from GQ and Calvin Klein - will choose the five finalists who will be flown to New York for a photo shoot to be revealed in a 2008 issue of GQ that celebrates the "Year of the MAN".

On Tuesday, November 13 from 5pm-7pm, customers can visit Macy's Herald Square in New York City to enter the contest and meet Garret Neff, the exciting new face of Calvin Klein MAN.

About GQ:

GQ is the leading men's general-interest magazine and is published by Conde Nast Publications.

About Calvin Klein MAN:

Calvin Klein Fragrances introduces a bold, masculine new classic scent - Calvin Klein MAN. Calvin Klein MAN epitomizes Calvin Klein's cutting edge minimalism and sexy style, capturing the essence of the modern man in a signature fragrance. The fragrance is a crisp spicy wood, defined by its distinctly masculine aura and fine ingredients. It is the sophisticated blend of crisp freshness, exotic spices and rich woods that creates the quintessential Calvin Klein men's fragrance.

Source: GQ

Lucky Shops launch Bluefly

At the fourth annual lucky shops event was announced the on-line designer boutique Bluefly for fashion passionated shoppers.

Bluefly, Inc. Press Release:

Bluefly, the ultimate hook-up for the fashion obsessed, has teamed up with Lucky, the magazine about shopping and style, to launch LUCKY SHOPS @ Bluefly.com, a chic on-line designer boutique as part of the fourth annual LUCKY SHOPS event. As the exclusive on-line partner for LUCKY SHOPS, Bluefly is proud to offer passionate shoppers across the country unable to attend the three-day shopping extravaganza, fabulous designer merchandise from many of the 70 vendors who participated in the event.

LUCKY SHOPS @ Bluefly.com will not only sell designer goods from the sale, but the site will carry exclusive pieces that weren't available at the event - all discounted up to 70% off retail. Proceeds from select sales will benefit Baby Buggy(R), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing New York City's families in need with essential equipment, clothing and product for their infants and young children.

"We are thrilled to be able to extend the LUCKY SHOPS event at a national level and open it up to devoted shoppers everywhere who wouldn't be able to participate otherwise," said Bluefly President and CEO Melissa Payner. "Just because the event is over doesn't mean the shopping has to stop, and more importantly that the shopping benefits a tremendous charity such as Baby Buggy."

Like the pages of Lucky, LUCKY SHOPS, which took place on October 25th through 27th in New York City, featured a wide range of items from the editors' favorite designers and shops, offered at a variety of price points. The hugely popular event draws nearly 5,000 visitors from all over the country, all seeking extraordinary designer merchandise in a fun-filled lounge-like environment with music, cocktails and product giveaways.

Source: Bluefly, Inc.

Puma eco-friendly

Puma obtained one of the best application level A+ for social standards, environment protection and restricted substances. Puma was also recognized as a company who is involved in ecological life on the Earth.

Puma Press Release:

PUMA has issued its new Sustainability Report 2005/2006. For the first time, German Technical Service and Assurance Provider TÜV Rheinland verified and certificated the report. Greenpeace and Fair Labor Association (FLA) have explicitly recognized the social and ecological commitment of the Sportlifestyle company. The report is published in accordance with the demanding guidelines of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), a large multistakeholder network. PUMA’s Sustainability Report obtained the best GRI application level A+ - a first in the sporting goods industry. Moreover, according to Swiss Institute SAM (Sustainability Asset Management), PUMA will continue to be ranked in Dow Jones and STOXX Sustainability Index next year.

On a total of 84 pages, PUMA presents its extensive activities in the area of social standards, environment protection and restricted substances. The Sportlifestyle company clearly outlines the continuous improvement of S.A.F.E. (Social Accountability and Fundamental Environmental Standards)-activities. Their aim is not only to generate fair working conditions, protect the environment and manufacture ecologically compatible products. An active dialog with different stakeholders (and pressure groups) is also of great importance to PUMA.

TÜV Rheinland certifies that "PUMA has developed a significant and operational management system for environmental and social aspects." Results of the examination confirm that the Sportlifestyle company successfully implemented the "Code of Conduct", the "Code of Ethics" and the "Handbook for Environmental Issues". Those guidelines are generally binding, not only for all PUMA headquarters but also for the 369 independent suppliers and manufacturers named in the report.

The independent environmental organization Greenpeace confirms that PUMA’s commitment sets standards. Greenpeace has checked different companies regarding eco friendliness of their products, ranking them from red to green. After examination of PUMA’s product range, the Sportlifestyle company has obtained the best category "green". Fair Labor Organization (FLA) is in agreement with this positive appraisal: PUMA has been accredited this year as full member for the first time. FLA is a non-profit organization dedicated to improve working and production conditions. As accredited member, the Sportlifestyle company thoroughly supports the strict guidelines and unannounced audits by FLA.

Jochen Zeitz, CEO and Chairman, PUMA AG: "We are pleased that PUMA’s social and ecological commitment has been recognized not only by analysts and experts, but also by independent organizations such as TÜV Rheinland and Greenpeace. Through responsible and sustainable corporate governance, we want to ensure that our aim to be the most desirable Sportlifestyle company is not only oriented towards economical, but also towards social and environmental criteria."

In the course of its transparent ecological and social policy, PUMA’s social audits have been seen off by a journalist for the first time, describing his experiences in the Sustainability Report. Bernhard Bartsch, Asia-correspondent for German newspaper Berliner Zeitung and magazine brand eins, characterizes visits of suppliers in Turkey, Vietnam and China. He portrays how PUMA auditors inspect the realization of safety regulations in China or compliance of adequate wages in Vietnamese factories.

Corporate social responsibility is getting ever more important in today’s global business community. For many years now PUMA has continuously improved its S.A.F.E. activities to ensure high social and environmental standards along its entire supply chain. In order to maximise transparency in this sector the company publishes sustainability reports.

PUMA is the global Sportlifestyle company that successfully fuses influences from sport, lifestyle and fashion. PUMA’s unique industry perspective delivers the unexpected in Sportlifestyle Footwear, Apparel and Accessories, through technical innovation and revolutionary design. Established in Herzogenaurach, Germany in 1948, PUMA distributes products in over 80 countries.

Source: Puma

Tanda Skincare

On October, 11-14, 2007 took place the ASDS Annual Meeting in Chicago at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers.

What it's all about more exactley?

Tanda Press Release:

2007, Eclipse Medical Ltd., a leading distributor of advanced aesthetic
medical devices and supplies will feature the Tända Professional Skincare System in booth #423 at the ASDS Annual Meeting in Chicago, October 11-14th at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers. Eclipse offers their customers an opportunity to expand their aesthetic applications with the Tända Professional Skincare System. Physicians can now prescribe this adjunctive at home therapy to their patients for both Acne and Anti-aging applications; creating enhanced patient results and practice differentiation.

Developed with Pharos Life’s LiteCare technology, the Tända Professional Skincare System is a FDA cleared, noninvasive light therapy device available by prescription for safe and effective use at home. The Tända Professional Skincare System includes two treatment solutions; the Tända Clear is a 414nM blue LED treatment that is scientifically proven to kill the Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) bacteria that causes mild to moderate acne. The Tända
Regenerate is a 660nM red LED treatment that accelerates the skin's natural healing process as well as stimulates the production of collagen for skin rejuvenation. Tända Regenerate diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and gives the skin a natural healthy feel and appearance.

Pharos Life Corporation is known for its expertise in light technology. Under the Tända Skincare System banner, Pharos Life Corporation offers the only handheld clinically proven phototherapy device that is Health Canada licensed and FDA cleared for use in the home. Pharos Life is ISO 13485:2003 certified. For your Tända Experience visit the Eclipse Medical Booth #423 at the ASDS Annual Meeting at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers.

About Eclipse Medical Ltd.

Eclipse Medical Ltd. is a leading distributor of aesthetic high-tech medical devices and supplies. The company has been owned and managed by the original principals for 14 years. Through the years the company has established a reputation as a leader on the regional and national aesthetic market scene. The company has focused regionally on the sale of aesthetic medical lasers and other related devices. On the national scene, the company has focused primarily on
the sale of aesthetic home on the sale of aesthetic home devices dispensed through the aesthetic healthcare professionals.

About Pharos Life Corporation

Located in Cambridge, Ontario, Pharos Life Corporation is dedicated to the development of innovative light-based technologies that improves well-being and quality of life. Its science and technology provides the first non-invasive portable light therapy device to obtain Health Canada, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearances. Pharos Life Corporation is ISO 13485:2003 certified. Tända Professional Skincare System, Tända Clear, Tända Regenerate, LiteCare are registered trademarks of Pharos Life Corporation. All other trademarks acknowledged

Source: Tanda

2007 Holiday sales revenue

We founded about what to buy as gift this year, how to offer a gift and now we will learn the statistics made by a study of BDO Seidman, LLP who releves the sales orientation in 2007 : comparing 2006 this year sales gains will increase with 5% in holiday season.

BDO Seidman, LLP Press Release:

According to a new study by BDO Seidman, LLP, one of the nation’s leading accounting and consulting organizations, almost three-quarters (73%) of chief marketing officers at leading U.S. retailers believe discounting and promotions will be more plentiful this holiday season compared to 2006 due to the current credit crunch. These same credit concerns have led almost two-thirds (64%) of the CMOs to be more cautious in their sales and inventory purchase plans than in 2006. Despite a majority (54%) predicting flat sales this holiday season, overall the CMOs are forecasting a 5.03 percent increase in same store sales.

When you consider that discounting was widespread during the 2006 holiday shopping season, the forecast of even more discounting this season communicates both a growing anxiety among retailers about reaching sales goals and the potential for value buying for consumers,” said Al Ferrara, a Partner in the Retail and Consumer Product Practice at BDO Seidman. “The 5.03 percent holiday growth forecast is a full percentage point higher than the forecast of the National Retail Federation, but represents a large drop in optimism among retail CMOs when you consider this same group of professionals predicted 7.8 percent growth for the 2006 holiday season.”

These findings are from the most recent edition of The BDO Seidman Retail Compass Survey which examined the opinions of 100 chief marketing officers at leading retailers located throughout the country regarding their expectations of the 2007 holiday shopping season. The retailers in the study were among the largest in the country, excluding automotive dealers and restaurants, with revenues of more than $100 million, including 15 percent of the top 100 based on annual sales revenue. The survey was conducted in October of 2007.

Some of the major findings of The BDO Seidman Retail Compass Survey of CMOs:
A Flat Holiday Season. More than half (54%) of CMOs at leading retailers expect same store sales to be flat during the 2007 holiday shopping season. A sizable minority (41%) still expect increased sales results over the 2006 holiday shopping season, while only 5 percent are predicting a decrease in sales.

C-Level Forecasts. Overall, the CMOs are predicting a 5.03 percent increase in same store sales this holiday season, compared to 2006. In September of this year, a BDO Seidman survey of chief financial officers at leading U.S. retailers predicted sales growth of 5.6 percent for all of 2007.

A Crucial Season. According to the survey, these leading retailers generate 26 percent of their annual sales revenue during the holiday shopping season. Last year, the CMOs said they generated 24 percent.

Critical Concerns. Credit concerns have overtaken high energy costs as the most critical issue impacting holiday shopping sales this year. When asked to pick one external issue that will have the greatest impact on the holiday shopping season, more than a quarter (27%) of the CMOs cited credit concerns compared to 22 percent who focused on high energy costs. Other issues cited were the weak housing market (17%), product safety issues (15%) and the stock market (14%). In 2006, a majority (52%) of the CMOs viewed high energy costs as the clear number one issue impacting the holiday season.

The China Factor. More than one-quarter (26%) of the CMOs say the safety issues surrounding Chinese products has affected their planned inventory assortment and led them to focus more of their marketing efforts on U.S. made products. However, only 15 percent of the CMOs say they have made changes to their supply chain due to the much publicized product recalls linked to Chinese suppliers.

It’ll be a Green Christmas…More than a third (37%) of the CMOs say they are increasing their marketing focus on “green” products this holiday season compared to 2006.
The BDO Seidman Retail Compass Survey is a national telephone survey conducted by Market Measurement, Inc., an independent market research consulting firm, whose executive interviewers spoke directly to chief marketing officers, using a telephone survey conducted within a scientifically-developed, pure random sample of the nation's largest retailers, excluding automotive dealers and restaurants.

BDO Seidman, LLP has been a valued business advisor to retail and consumer products companies for almost 100 years. The firm works with a wide variety of retail clients, ranging from multinational Fortune 500 corporations to more entrepreneurial businesses, on a myriad of accounting, tax and other financial issues.

About BDO Seidman, LLP

BDO Seidman, LLP is a national professional services firm providing assurance, tax, financial advisory and consulting services to a wide range of publicly traded and privately held companies. Guided by core values including, competence, honesty and integrity, professionalism, dedication, responsibility and accountability for almost 100 years, BDO Seidman provides quality service and leadership through the active involvement of its most experienced and committed professionals.

BDO Seidman serves clients through 35 offices and more than 300 independent alliance firm locations nationwide. As a Member Firm of BDO International, BDO Seidman, LLP serves multi-national clients by leveraging a global network of resources comprised of 621 Member Firm offices in 107 countries. BDO International is a worldwide network of public accounting firms, called BDO Member Firms, serving international clients. Each BDO Member Firm is an independent legal entity in its own country.

Source: BDO Seidman, LLP

Big Ben Wallace Collection

Steve & Barry's announced the exclusive collection of Big Ben Wallace Collection with over 50 products: shorts, wallets, footwear, jersey...The collection is affordably priced and it was created on the request of Ben Wallace, Chicago Bulls player.

Source: Steve & Barry's Press Release:

Chicago Bulls All-Star Center Ben Wallace is best known for a strong work ethic that has resulted in an NBA title, four All-Star appearances and four Defensive Player of the Year awards. Now he’s putting that same work ethic into the design of his own affordably priced footwear and apparel line, the Big Ben Wallace Collection. Launching today in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles and on November 5th across the country, the Big Ben Wallace Collection is available exclusively at Steve & Barry’s stores.

The Big Ben Wallace Collection features over 50 items, including footwear, athletic jerseys and shorts, heavyweight hoodies, graphic t-shirts, hats, armbands and wristbands, all incorporating a specially designed Big Ben logo that Wallace helped design. In fact, Wallace served as creative director of the entire line, leading the design process of every piece of footwear and apparel. That includes Wallace’s new on-court sneaker, the Big Ben, that Wallace will wear during every game of the upcoming NBA® season and costs only $14.98.

Available in four color ways, including those Wallace will wear during all road and home games, the Big Ben was created by Wallace to exemplify the strength and toughness that Wallace brings to the court every night as one of the NBA®’s great defensive stalwarts. Wallace worked closely with Steve & Barry’s and leading athletic gear design firm Rocketfish to ensure the Big Ben delivers all the comfort and stability required for professional and recreational basketball players alike.

Having grown up the 10th of 11 children in the small town of White Hall, Alabama, Wallace often received hand-me-downs from his older brothers and rarely received new shoes and clothes to wear. That background played an important role in his decision to work with Steve & Barry’s on a collection of high quality sneakers and apparel that would be priced so affordably.

Wallace said, “What the Big Ben line is all about is getting kids to realize that great sneakers and clothes can be affordable and cool. That’s really important to me, and I’m looking forward to changing the mindset that you have to pay a lot of money for these types of things.”

On October 29th, at 5:00pm CT, Wallace will hold an autograph signing to celebrate the launch of the Big Ben Wallace Collection with shoppers at the Steve & Barry’s store in the Randhurst Mall in Mt. Prospect, Illinois. Wallace will wear his signature shoe for the first time in a regular season game on October 31st against the Nets.

NBA, the Chicago Bulls, and the New Jersey Nets are federally registered trademarks of their respective owners. The Big Ben Wallace Collection and Steve & Barry's are not associated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the National Basketball Association, Chicago Bulls, or the New Jersey Nets.

Source: Steve & Barry's

Holiday gift tips

Because you already had the occasion to see how to make smart shopping for holiday season, now you can see advices about what to buy and.... for who. Every holiday season I wonder what to buy for my mother, father, sister or boyfriend. Let's see what specialists recommand us and advice us to buy for impressionating gifts!

Florida Department of Citrus Press Release:

Every year shoppers struggle to find the ideal holiday present for everyone on their list. As shopper's ideas run stale, it gets even harder to find the perfect gift while following proper etiquette. Floridian etiquette expert Peggy Post, great-grand-daughter-in-law of Emily Post and author of "Excuse Me, But I was Next ... ," offers tips to help simplify holiday giving:
-- Don't stress about an unexpected gift.

The first and most important
thing to do is graciously thank the person for the gift. Then, you
must decide whether to get the person a gift or not. It's acceptable
to thank the person and leave it at that. Or you could say "I don't
have yours yet!" and buy a gift and deliver it later.

-- Stand-by gifts are good to have on hand. It's a smart idea to keep
some nice gifts on stand-by should you receive an unexpected visitor
or get invited to a last minute dinner party. Make sure that your
stand-by gifts are gifts that you would enjoy receiving also. Items
such as journals, cookbooks, holiday scented candles, and picture
frames serve as great stand-by gifts ideas.

-- Give the gift of Florida sunshine. Skip unhealthy holiday cookies and
send the gift of health with a beautiful gift basket of Florida
oranges, grapefruit and tangerines to friends and family. Juicy,
tasty and rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, folate and potassium,
Florida citrus offers a gift of good taste. Gift fruit can be
conveniently ordered online at www.pickfla.com and delivered to
a loved ones' doorstep.

-- Avoid re-gifting. Re-gifting is dangerous and should be avoided. The
potential to cause hurt feelings is the best argument against
re-gifting. That said, if you received a beautiful sweater that
doesn't fit you, you can certainly pass it along to your best friend,
just be honest where it came from.

-- Be cautious when exchanging gifts in the workplace. Don't give a gift
to your supervisor that's just from you. Other employees may resent
what they see as an effort on your part to curry favor. If you really
want to do something for the boss, get together with the others in
your department and give a gift from the group.

-- Communicate your thanks. Accompany any gift with a hand-written note
expressing thanks. If you've verbally thanked someone in person for a
gift, technically, a thank-you note isn't obligatory. But, it's never
wrong to write a thank-you note because hand-written notes are
remembered, and will stand out as warm and personal
relationship-enhancer.

The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs approximately 90,000 people, provides a $9 billion annual economic impact to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida's schools, roads and health care services.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

Smart holiday shopping

The holiday season represents one of the most important period of the year for most retailers but for customers also. The holiday season makes us to spend a lot of money for gifts. It's knew the fact that plenty of us spend in holidays period more than we can afford.

Read the advices below for a better shopping for the holiday season.

Jennifer Litwin Press Release:

Home shopping expert and Random House author Jennifer Litwin announced today five things consumers should consider when shopping for the holiday season. Litwin also researched name brand store credit/gift cards that achieve the biggest bang for the buck for the consumer.

"Holiday shoppers are always thinking about finishing their homes in time for the holidays, accommodating guests, and doing it all on a budget," said Shop Cop and Random House author Jennifer Litwin. "What consumers don't realize when finishing their homes in time for the holidays is the varying degrees of 'pay for play' benefits each name brand store credit and gift card will offer when making purchases. Some holiday shoppers may spend just a $100 to finish their home while others may spend $10,000; so knowing what store credit/gift cards can save them money and give them great deals can make all the difference in the world."

5 Things to consider when shopping this season:

1) If shopping online, look for free delivery. Many stores are offering
free delivery as an incentive. Otherwise, there is typically a charge
of about 10% for shipping big ticket items like furniture.

2) Beware of store credit card rebate/savings programs because most only
offer a 1-2% savings on the cost of your purchases, but you will still
incur financing charges, just as with a typical credit card.

3) If a price seems too good to be true, ask to see an assembly sheet to
find out how difficult it will be to actually assemble the piece.

4) Buy gift cards for your loved ones that can be used both in the store
and online. Many egift cards can only be used for online purchases,
and then merchandise needs to be returned to a non-store location.

5) If making a lot of purchases try to do it with a store credit card that
offers good discounts for large purchases, or free, desirable gifts.

Wondering where to shop this season? Here's the lowdown on the red flags and nice bonuses of shopping at your favorite retailers:

BED BATH & BEYOND(TM): Offers college savings plan, Upromise, which when you make purchases 1% is given to your child's Upromise college savings account. Upromise doesn't offer such a great reward as an incentive to shop here, but one benefit of shopping at Bed Bath & Beyond is that anything you buy online can be returned at anytime either in the store or by mail. This is great.

BEST BUY(TM): Best Buy's store credit card has a caveat: your interest rate will be "determined upon review of your credit history and application." It works like a regular MasterCard, requiring the holder to pay a minimum amount monthly. Like Circuit City, Best Buy offers a Rewards Program, but only credits you 4% of your purchases instead of 5% offered at Circuit City. Not a huge benefit. Online gift card purchases offer free shipping.

CIRCUIT CITY(TM): The Rewards Program here allows you to get back 5% of your purchases in the form of a coupon that can be used online or in the store. Doesn't seem like a great deal, unless you are buying big ticket items. Gift cards purchased either online or in the store may be used online or in the store. Free shipping on gift cards.

COST PLUS WORLD MARKET(TM): There is no shipping charge for gift cards. However, cards purchased online must be used for online purchases. Huge downside of shopping online: shipping costs can run more than 10% of the purchase price for a standard delivery of 5-7 business days -- very expensive. The World Market Credit Card offers perks such as 3-6 month free financing, from time-to-time, and you can earn Rewards Coupons for each dollar you spend.

CRATE & BARREL(TM): Free shipping on standard delivery gift cards. For 2 business day rushes, shipping charge is only $6. The low shipping charge is a great option for a rush-order gift. Housewares and furniture items can cost 10-25% of the purchase price -- this is no deal. Any item purchased online can be returned by mail or in the store. 90-day return policy for credit or refund, but must have valid receipt. Without a valid receipt you will get a store credit only.

ETHAN ALLEN(TM): 3-6 month free financing term. This is a good plan for new homeowners, but at the end of that period, though, pay in full or be subject to accrual of 23-27% APR interest (ouch). Don't finance here unless you can pay at the end of your free financing period.
HOME DEPOT(TM): Credit card has no annual fee, and even offers perks like discounts on travel and store products. Points accumulate to earn discounts and freebies. No interest for 6 months on purchases of $299 or more -- good holiday shopping perk.

LOWE'S(TM): Gift cards can be used both in the stores and online. Volume discounts are offered.

MENARDS(TM): 2% Rebates on Menards purchases (doesn't add up to enough of a savings to apply for their credit card), but $10 in-store certificate when you make your first $100 purchase on your Menards card. No annual fee. Returns for items purchased online through a gift card may be returned at the store (a perk).

PIER 1 IMPORTS(TM): Quantity shoppers will love the rewards that come with shopping here. Accumulating points gets you special cardholder discount days, and becoming a cardholder gets you 10% off your initial purchase(s).

ROOM & BOARD(TM): On unlimited purchases of furniture, a flat-rate shipping fee, ranging from $69-199, on small items $15 flat fee on unlimited items, on larger accessories and small furniture: $25-79 flat rate. Good shipping rates.

ROOMS TO GO(TM): Their store credit card is currently offering no payment, no interest payment and no down payment until January 2009, and many items come with free UPS ground shipping. These are great benefits as the holiday season draws near.

TARGET(TM): 2 Kinds of gift cards. The ecard can only be used for online purchases. The store-bought gift cards can also be used online. It pays to buy gift cards in the store. Save 10% when you open your Target credit card account. Another great perk of the Target credit card: get 10% off on pharmacy purchases.

WAL-MART(TM): Free shipping on gift returns -- very generous. However, return your items within 90 days to get a refund. One benefit of buying online is that you can have free shipping on items that can be shipped to a nearby Wal-mart. Thousands of items can be shipped directly to their stores. A HUGE perk. You will get an email telling you that your items have arrived and are ready for pick-up within 7-10 days, on average.

About Jennifer Litwin

Home shopping expert and personality, Jennifer Litwin, has spent more than 15 years making sense of the retail world. Since writing her two popular books, Furniture Hot Spots: The Best Furniture Stores and Websites Coast to Coast, and Best Furniture Buying Tips Ever! this Random House author has created segments for television telling what's hot and not in everything for your home. Jennifer Litwin also appears regularly in magazines, news shows and on radio programs.

Source: Jennifer Litwin

Nokia Prism inspires Aiisha

The Dubai Fashion Week is the opportunity of Aiisha to present her collection of clothes inspired by Nokia 7 900 Prism.

Aiisha Press Release:

In an unprecedented case of a mobile device inspiring fashion, local designer Aiisha last night unveiled her prêt-a-Porter collection of 35 dresses, each completely inspired by Nokia’s latest handset – the Nokia 7900 Prism.

The dresses were showcased on the catwalk at Dubai’s International Fashion Week - to a rapturous reception from the assembled audience, made up of local fashion houses and international industry leaders.

The UAE-based and Lebanese born designer Aiisha based her innovative collection on the cutting-edge colours, bold geometric patterns, materials and graphics which have gone into the unique design of Nokia’s 7900 Prism. Her collection, like the Prism’s iconic design, focuses on juxtapositions where matt meets shine and clear meets opaque, set within futuristic architecture-inspired plays of dark, steel and black materials with sharp lines, bevelled edges, asymmetry and geometry.“

Dubai Fashion Week was the perfect occasion for Aiisha to showcase her unique collection, created from her incomparable talent, which has been inspired by one of Nokia’s most fashionable handsets,” said Yolande Pineda, Communications Director, Nokia Middle East and Africa.

“We chose to support this exceptionally talented young woman at a forum like DIFW because she has an incredible flair for fashion, and will be a role model for other aspiring young, talented artists in the region. Our commitment to the region is not only in terms of promoting mobility, but in nurturing, inspiring and enabling people to explore their talents and their creativity,” added Pineda.




Aiisha commented; “This was an incredible opportunity to showcase my Prism line, especially to such a receptive and supportive audience." "The sheer inventiveness of Nokia’s Prism; the design, the colours, the texture and the patterns were an incredible inspiration that fitted with my personal taste and preference of modern and individualist styles that fit with a woman’s unique fashion taste. Factors like the geometric lines and contrasting materials on the Prism gave a lot of scope for designing pieces that were modern – almost futuristic, but still elegant.”

Fashion is playing an increasing role within the mobility industry, as consumers require mobile devices that fit into an even greater number of lifestyle needs. Consumers today look to personalized mobile experiences that add value and pleasure to their daily lives, while viewing their devices as an expression of identity. “The fact a mobile phone has inspired such an incredibly creative fashion collection, highlights the originality in the design of our Nokia devices,” continued Pineda.

“The idea that a designer has been so inspired by a fashionable device that it dictates the style of an entire fashion collection is a precedent. It is exciting that there is an exchange of creativity between the two industries; fashion inspires devices, and devices now inspire fashion. We expect this will be an emerging trend in both the fashion and mobility industries in the future,” Pineda concluded.

Born in Lebanon and residing in Dubai since 1983, Aiisha graduated from the American University in Dubai with a degree in Fashion Design and Marketing in 2002. She was the winner of the 'Young Designer of the Year' award in the 'Bride 2000' by Swarovski.

Source: Aiisha

Keune Red Hair

Do you want to obtain an intensive and real red? Do you like to know what to use to obtain the perfect color for your hair?

Keune company lanched the KEUNE RED BOOSTER for more intense, vibrant red shades for all those women who dream to have the haire real red. An extremely color cand be obtained using KEUNE RED BOOSTER . A short description of the product can be found below.

Keune Press Release:

The new revolutionary Color Infusion Technology for the professional colorist ensures optimal brilliant red results when added to the Tinta Color red shades.

The Keune Red Booster is a composition of intensifiers to enhance red colors. The Keune Red Booster will intensify the original red shades and create unlimited red intensity.
Tinta Color red shades - mixed with the Keune Red Booster - results in a vibrant intensive red color with super shine. Luminous red results can be accomplished even on dark levels.

Keune Red Booster contains a composition of color intensifiers and easily mixes into the Tinta Color formula. No additional steps are needed. Add 1 or 2 capsules, depending on color level and desired intensity, with the Tinta Color shades.

Red Booster is available in 10 pre-packed capsules.

Source: Keune

Avon Skin softening products

Avon Skin So Soft introduce a new formula in order to make your skin even more beauty as she already is and more soft all day long. How to make your softenesse to last all day long? How to have a beautiful skin who smells good? Read the ....

... Avon Products Press Release:

Double the formulas, triple the results! Introducing another innovation in beauty from Avon – Skin So Soft Fusions Dual Softening Body Wash. This is the first body wash created with a fusion of two unique formulas that benefit the skin in three specific ways. A sensual way to embrace skin from the inside out!

It’s easy to cleanse skin while in the shower, but hard to make the softness last after you’ve finished toweling off. That’s because in order for softness to last all day, a body wash needs to work on two levels – on and below the skin’s surface. Avon Skin So Soft Fusions does just that, going above and beyond other body washes by cleansing, exfoliating AND conditioning – resulting in a skin softening transformation that you can’t wash away.

Avon fused two unique formulas together – an exfoliator and an ultra-conditioning cleanser – and combined them in one tube. Simply squeeze the center of the tube to dispense a small amount of the two formulas onto a wet shower pouf. Work into a lather and put both of these beauties to work at the same time.

The Exfoliating Formula – Smoothbrasion Beads transform the surface of the skin by smoothing, softening, stimulating skin renewal and lifting residue.

The Ultra-Conditioning Cleanser – As dead skin cells are buffed away by the exfoliator, this rich formula is absorbed below the skin’s surface, softening, hydrating and nourishing with a blend of ultra conditioners and Jojoba Oil, providing 24-hour moisturization.

The end result? Skin that is touchably soft, moisturized and supple all day long. In fact, a test conducted by Avon found that*:

After one day of use, 84% of women agreed that Skin So Soft Fusions immediately wraps the skin in lasting moisture that doesn’t towel off.

After three days of use, 88% of women agreed that Skin So Soft Fusions leaves skin feeling sensually soft and irresistible to the touch.

*Based on a consumer study

Avon Skin So Soft Fusions Body Wash is available in three classic scents:
Soft & Sensual – a soft floral scent with notes of rose, jasmine and ylang-ylang
Light & Lush – a light citrus scent with notes of lemon and grapefruit
Renew & Refresh – a green floral scent with notes of lily petals and rose
Avon Skin So Soft Fusions Dual Softening Body Wash (6.7 oz.) will be available for $6.50 beginning in February 2007. With over 500,000 Avon Representatives nationwide, it’s easier than ever to shop for Avon products.

Source: Avon Products

Benetton's Shanghai exhibition

Betwen October 19, 2007 and November 11, 2007 The Centre Pompidou’s Fabrica presents an exhibition at Shanghai Art Museum. The exhibition porpuse is to show to entire world the panorama of research made by Fabrica, Benetton Group’s communication research centre.

United Colors of Benetton Press Release:

The Centre Pompidou’s Fabrica: les yeux ouverts exhibition goes to China following an invitation by the Shanghai Cultural Development Foundation. The exhibition will be open from 19 October to 11 November at the Shanghai Art Museum as part of the Shanghai eArts Festival. It thus continues on its journey which started in Paris in October 2006 and went on to the Milan Triennale in summer 2007.

“The Centre Pompidou was honoured to accept the Shanghai Cultural Development Foundation’s invitation. The exhibition has already received many visitors in its previous locations. Visitors have appreciated the interactive universe, which invites them to participate in a sensorial experience allowing them to see through Fabrica’s eyes, which are always focused on the rest of the world”, says Marie-Laure Jousset, Head of the Centre Pompidou’s Design Department and curator of the exhibition Fabrica: les yeux ouverts.

Housed in the rooms of the Shanghai Art Museum, dating back to the Twenties, the exhibition presents a panorama of the work done over the years by Fabrica, the Benetton Group’s communication research centre. Visitors will see both documentary projects (Colors magazine and photo reportages) and experimental work (videos, visual communication, interactive installations where visitors can take an active part in the exhibition, thereby giving a personal contribution).

Fabrica is a centre for experimentation and innovation set up in 1994 by Luciano Benetton and Oliviero Toscani with the aim of combining “culture” and “industry” in an unprecedented experiment, exploiting the experience of a group which operates in over one hundred nations around the world. Based near Venice in Italy, in a historical architectural complex restored and enlarged by Tadao Ando, Fabrica offers one-year grants to young creative artists from all over the world so they can develop their projects – in fields such as graphics, films, industrial design, publishing, new media or photography – under the guidance of an international team of experts.
The Fabrica: les yeux ouverts exhibition’s Far East tour continues in January when the Milan Triennale will host it in the area devoted to Italian design in Tokyo’s Shiodomeitalia Creative Center.

Source: United Colors of Benetton

Swarovski fall/winter 2008/2009

For the season fall/winter 2008/2009 Swarovski announced briliance and glamour for all its products. The color of the sensuality and style, the green has a strong presence in the future collection of Swarovski house.

Swarovski International Press Release:

For Autumn/Winter 2008/09, Swarovski has created new opal colours, effects, stone
cuts and Semi-finished Products to bring brilliance and stylish understated glamour
into seasonal garments, jewellery and interior design pieces. The world leader in
precision-cut crystal again releases trend-oriented additions to its product range, allowing designers to explore their creativity to suit the Autumn/Winter 2008/09 trend themes that are all about creating your own identity.

New Opal Colours for Sensuality and Style

Green is the colour of life and of nature’s rebirth. The new colour Palace Green Opal is
symbolic of an era where people show increased ecological awareness and seek ways to
live harmoniously in a tumultuous and fast-moving world. Palace Green Opal, a perfect
complement to the other opal colours within the CRYSTALLIZED – Swarovski Elements
assortment, is inspired by precious stones and available in a whole range of Crystal
Elements and Semi-finished Products. The colour Light Grey Opal is a beautiful and

discrete addition to the opaline collection and is symbolic of consensus, compromise and
harmony. In times where black and white opinions dominate society, Light Grey Opal
creates a subtle elegance and exudes sophistication and mystery. This new colour is available in a range of Crystal Elements and Semi-finished Products including Crystal Yarn.

New Crystal Pearl Effect

Crystal Antique Brass Pearl is a new extension to the range of classic effects that are
subtle, versatile and refined. Crystal Pearls are an expression of the harmony, romantic and
glamour themes for the Autumn/Winter 2008/09 season and are perfect for everything from
ready-to-wear to haute couture and accessories. Crystal Antique Brass Pearl is also
reminiscent of the metal tones in all nuances that are still present on the catwalks.

Swarovski Explores New Product Design Language

The Galactic Family explores Swarovski’s new design language and features unique
shapes that seem to be inspired by outer space and are characterised by brilliant, irregular
cuts. Very appealing in a unisex way, these asymmetric, yet regular shapes open up
interesting design possibilities. The collection includes Galactic Sew-on Stone, Galactic
Fancy Stone, Galactic Bead, Galactic Vertical Pendant and Galactic Horizontal
Pendant.

These eye-catching cuts come in a range of inspiring colours and effects.
The Twist Family features a classic, round shape with a subtle twist that adds a modern
touch. The beautiful facets create a high brilliance. The Twist Family includes Twist Bead,
Twist Pendant and Twist Sew-on Stone, which can also be used as a joining element
between Beads, Pendants and Crystal Pearls due to its large hole.

Other exciting innovations for the Autumn/Winter 2008/09 season include the XILION
Square, a stylish graphic cut with dazzling brilliance.

Among the Semi-finished Products, Crystal Transfabric – a fusion of XILION and Flat
Backs Crystal Fabric – is an ideal product, especially for sports- and casualdesigns. The
Chaton- and Flat Back Bandings feature smaller stones, so there are more crystals on the
surface to create a "Mesh Look" suitable for textiles and accessories.

112 years ago, in 1895, Daniel Swarovski I, a Bohemian inventor and visionary, moved to
the village of Wattens, Tyrol in Austria, with his newly-invented machine for cutting and
polishing crystal jewellery stones. From these beginnings, which revolutionised the fashion
world, Swarovski has grown to be the world’s leading producer of precision-cut crystal, for
fashion, jewellery and more recently lighting, architecture and interiors. Today, the
company, still based in Wattens, family-owned and run by 4th and 5th generation family
members, has a global reach, with some 20,000 employees, a presence in over 120
countries and a turnover in 2006 of 2,37 billion Euros. Swarovski comprises two major
divisions, one producing and selling loose crystals to the industry and the other creating
design-driven finished products. Swarovski crystal components, known by their product brand names CRYSTALLIZE– Swarovski Elements for fashion and STRASS.

Swarovski Crystal for architecture and light, have become an essential ingredient of
international design. Showing the creativity that lies at the heart of the company,
Swarovski’s own-brand lines of accessories, jewellery and home décor are sold through
more than 1150 Swarovski stores and concessions in all major fashion capitals, while the
exclusive Daniel Swarovski accessories collection has become the company’s Couture
signature.

The Swarovski Crystal Society has close to 400,000 members worldwide, keen
collectors of the celebrated crystal figurines. And in Wattens, Crystal Worlds, the multimedia
crystal museum, has attracted over 7 million visitors since it was opened in 1995, as
a celebration of Swarovski’s universe of innovation and inspiration, of crystal as the ultimate
creative material. The Swarovski corporation also includes four industrial brands, Tyrolit®,
manufacturing grinding tools, Swareflex, for road safety reflectors, Optik, producing
precision optical instruments and Signity, Swarovski’s brand for genuine and created
gemstones.

Illuminating Fashion and Culture, Home and Leisure www.swarovski.com
Source: Swarovski International