This case examines VF Brands global supply chain strategy. Historically,
VF has used a combination of in-house manufacturing and traditional
arms-length sourcing arrangements. At the time of the case, the company
is considering a third approach to supplier relations that involves much
closer cooperation and partnerships. The goal of this "third way"
approach is to create a sourcing relationship that combines some of the
virtues of vertical integration with the flexibility of sourcing. Such
arrangements are increasingly discussed in the operations literature and
in practice. This case provides students an opportunity to do an
in-depth analysis of such an arrangement, and develop an understanding
of the trade-offs involved.