(NYSE: JNY) announced today a direct selling initiative called Million Wishes that will bring accessories into a home selling environment. Million Wishes is a nationwide party plan program that provides significant sales opportunity. Million Wishes will bring the latest accessory trends directly to the consumer and at the same time offer a one-of-a-kind business opportunity for entrepreneurial women to bring a great shopping experience to their network of friends and neighbors. For decades, Jones Apparel Group has been listening to women and researching their shopping preferences. Women have been wishing for a convenient, edited selection of the latest trends in accessories combined with fashion advice and know-how that only a leader in the industry can offer. Women also wish for the flexibility, financial freedom, and independence that Million Wishes will deliver. Million Wishes style consultants will sell jewelry, handbags, belts, scarves and other key accessories of the season, while educating women on the latest fashion trends. Million Wishes style consultants will demonstrate multiple ways to wear the items and how to make them work for each individual, emphasizing a feeling of confidence and polish, all in the comfort of a hostess's home. The first catalog will debut in March 2006 with 200 to 300 items. New product will be introduced in semi-annual catalogs in March and September. Rhonda Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer, Footwear, Accessories and Retail Group, stated, "Million Wishes provides the Company with an alternative distribution channel, providing a network to target consumers who wish to combine the shopping experience with a social setting. We are optimistic that this could provide attractive profitable growth as we build our presence in the channel." "Women are often overwhelmed with fashion choices," said Betty Palm, President of Million Wishes. The solution is Million Wishes; women can now experiment with the latest fashion trends by trying on products and experimenting with new looks while getting positive feedback from their friends." A corporate website will enable style consultants to conduct all business transactions online. Personal websites for consultants will be available as an additional business management tool. The goal is to make the business end as user-friendly and streamlined as possible, so the consultant can concentrate on sales and education. Unlike other party plan companies, Million Wishes will ship direct to consumers, reducing the burden on the hostess. "Million Wishes will offer women nationwide the opportunity to become entrepreneurs and still enjoy the freedom of having a personal life," added Ms. Palm. Million Wishes plans to recruit 3,000 style consultants in 2006. A host of advertising, launch events and other public relations tools will be involved in launching Million Wishes. Research has proven that direct selling can be a profitable entity for Jones Apparel Group, and Million Wishes is expected to have 9,000 consultants in 3 years.
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