VF Corp. enhanced its traceability mapping program by disclosing Tier 1 through Tier 4 supplier information. The company said offering supply chain visibility through Tier 4 suppliers demonstrates its continued improvement and transparency outlined in its corporate sustainability and responsibility strategy, Made for Change.
“Traceability is foundational to building an ethical and sustainable supply chain and drives improvements for both people and our planet,” explained Shanel Orton, Director, VF Responsible Materials and Traceability. “The new data helps us further validate adherence to VF’s policies and supplier requirements throughout our supply chain, giving our teams, stakeholders and consumers greater confidence that our products are manufactured in a responsible manner.”
VF has prioritized traceability and invested in an initiative to map 100 of its brand’s iconic products by December 2021. The company has 46 product maps published online.
VF Supply Chain Tiers
The data collection allows VF to trace its full end-to-end supply chain from raw materials conversion to product distribution. The company’s teams can use the data to identify opportunities for sustainability or worker well-being improvements within its global supply chain.
Also, the data is translated into geographical maps and a traceability disclosure list published on the company’s website. The disclosures give stakeholders and consumers visibility into tiers of VF’s supply chain that were previously unavailable for insights into the origins of VF products.
“We’re on a journey to drive positive change throughout our global supply chain while simultaneously strengthening the trust between VF and its suppliers, stakeholders and consumers,” said Orton. “We believe this bold action improves our practices and sets an even higher standard in our industry,” stated Orton.
The disclosed data will be updated on a regular basis with new product maps published throughout 2021. More information is available here.