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November 3, 2009

Ageless endeavor in business

At 80, Cowan continues to sell cosmetic products from home

By Robby Robertson Staff Writer

When you think of longevity in the business world, Lois Cowan has experienced it first-hand. She has been in business for more than 30 years – right from her home.

Cowan turned 80 years-young last week, and she celebrated, not only with family and friends, but also with some of her loyal customers in her Avon business.

“I have a lot of great customers,” Cowan said. “I couldn’t dream of doing anything else. I love the people to much.”

This mother and grandmother began her Avon business on April 23, 1979, while she was working at the phone company.

“Back then the phone company was called Palestine Telephone Company, and then it changed to Gulf Shore, and then maybe United Telephone,” Cowan said. “I just wanted some extra money, so I started selling to women I worked with and a few other people.”

She said it started growing by word-of-mouth around town. She would drop off a few catalogs, and then people would just call, and place their orders.

“I never really went door-to-door,” she said. “I just started talking to people that I ran into and places I went, and it just grew from there.”

Cowan now has more than 100 customers that order on a regular basis. Her sales reach over $40,000 per year. She has made the President’s Club for 12 years, and the Rose Circle of the company for just as long.

“I’ve done very well in the company,” she said. “People in Athens have been good to order every couple of weeks. The company has given us dinners and gifts for our sales every year.”

Cowan say her age will not slow her down. She loves to stay active, and this is a way she gets to see all of her friends, and work at the same time.

“I really think as long as I can drive and see well, I’ll continue to do this,” she said. I love to see all my friends, and they continue to order, and this keeps me active. Well, I just don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have Avon.”

Even in the tough economy, Cowan said Avon has provided a good income for her to help pay her bills.

“It’s been a very good business for me,” she said. “I have seen some good times, and then not-so-good times. The economy has hurt a lot, and some people don’t order as much any more. I still have good orders though.”

Cowan said she would like to thank all the people who came to celebrate with her at her birthday party.

“I had the best time, and it was the best party I have ever been to,” she said. “I want to thank my friends for coming, and having a good time with me. I am very blessed.”

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