Sakma Hayek sighned as new star of Avon advertising

NEW YORK - Avon has picked Mexican actress Salma Hayek to appear in global advertising and promotions starting later this year.

Avon said that she would appear in television and print advertising, pushing new cosmetic and fragrance launches, and would also feature in the company's brochures, PR efforts and on its site. She will also be backing the Avon Foundation's initiative on domestic violence. The Avon Foundation is a charity that has a mission to improve the lives of women by supporting programmes offering economic opportunity and research into breast cancer. Andrea Jung, chairman and CEO of Avon, said: "Our upcoming colour and fragrance launches signal a true evolution in our beauty growth strategy and Salma's universal beauty will appeal to our broad and diverse customer base." Hayek became famous in her native Mexico as a soap opera star, before crossing over to appear in American films. Starting with small roles in 'Desperado' and 'Dogma', she has steadily increased her standing in Hollywood. She was nominated for an Oscar for best actress for her starring role in 'Frida' in 2002. Hayek said: "I'm very optimistic that in joining forces with Avon, we can truly make a difference to the important cause of domestic violence and bring hope and empowerment to women around the world."