LEADING PRACTICE

Grievance Mechanisms
VF discloses it provides multiple channels for stakeholders to raise complaints or concerns about violations of the company's code of conduct. VF states that its supply chain workers and communities, including workers in the second or third tier of its supply chain, have access to its Ethics Helpline, and it prohibits suppliers from taking retaliatory action against workers using the mechanism. Further, VF encourages suppliers to establish their own grievance mechanisms.
Audit Process and Disclosure
VF discloses that its audits include a review of documents such as payroll and employee records, as well as interviews with workers on aspects such as wages and freedom of movement. The company is one of few providing details on the worker interviews, stating that interviews provide added insight into a facility's working conditions, including hiring practices, wages and hours, worker-management communications, worker treatment, and environmental issues. Notably, VF includes subcontractors like cutting facilities, screen printers, embroiderers, laundries, and packaging locations in its audits. In addition, the majority of its garment suppliers purchase fabrics through suppliers recommended by VF, which are covered in VF's audit process. VF discloses that it audits 100% of its first-tier suppliers and approximately 70% of its second-tier suppliers annually.