VF Corporation announced the dedication of its new Central Distribution Center at an event held at the facility in Kunshan, China. Local and regional government officials, dignitaries and special guests joined VF Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Eric Wiseman to celebrate this important addition to VF's global supply chain platform.
“The Central Distribution Center in Kunshan demonstrates our commitment to continued growth in China and persistent focus on operational excellence in our global supply chain,” said Wiseman. “With the expectation that our business in China will nearly double during the next four years, this represents a significant milestone in our ability to manage long-term costs and inventories, while providing measurable increases in speed-to-market for both our customers and consumers.”
Representing an investment of more than $60 million (Yen372 million RMB), the Kunshan distribution center is VF's largest infrastructure investment in China. When operating at capacity, the 85,000-square-meter facility is expected to handle 30 million units of product each year and employ nearly 400 people. The facility was designed to be environmentally friendly and is LEED Bronze certified because of its low carbon footprint. Also, to support future growth, VF has acquired the option for additional land at the Kunshan location for expansion as needed.
In 2013, total revenues in China were more than $500 million. By 2017, VF expects China to contribute nearly $1 billion to total company revenues. VF brands sold in China include: The North Face, Lee, Vans, Timberland, Kipling, 7 For All Mankind, Wranglerand Nautica.
During the past year, VF has added four new distribution centers strategically located to competitively manage costs and source closer to end markets. In addition to the China facility, new VF distribution centers have been added in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium; Mexico City, Mexico; Los Angeles, Calif.; and the company reopened its Hackleburg, Ala. facility, which was destroyed as a result of a tornado in April 2011.
VF Corporation's five largest brands are The North Face, Vans, Wrangler, Timberland, and Lee. Other brands include 7 For All Mankind, Bulwark, Eagle Creek, Eastpak, Ella Moss, JanSport, Kipling, lucy, Majestic, Napapijri, Nautica, Red Kap, Reef, Riders, Splendidand SmartWool.
