Avon Products Inc on Monday won the dismissal of a securities fraud lawsuit accusing the cosmetics company of concealing its inability to stop workers from bribing officials in China to win business there.
U.S. District Judge Paul Gardephe in Manhattan found no showing that Avon, former Chief Executive Andrea Jung and former Chief Financial Strategy Officer Charles Cramb intended from 2006 to 2011 to deceive shareholders about the company’s knowledge of alleged bribery, such as through corrupt “dinner and karaoke” events, and dependence on bribes to boost sales.
In a 59-page decision, Gardephe also said Avon shareholders did not show the company intended to deceive them about its ability to comply with the federal Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits bribing foreign officials.
The lawsuit was brought on behalf of shareholders from July 31, 2006 to Oct. 26, 2011, and had claimed that Avon’s corporate culture was “actively hostile” to effective oversight. Gardephe said the plaintiffs may amend their complaint if they wish.
Gregg Levin, a partner at Motley Rice representing the lead plaintiffs, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Jennifer Vargas, an Avon spokeswoman, said the New York-based company does not discuss pending litigation.
Germany’s LBBW Asset Management Investmentgesellschaft mbH and SGSS Deutschland