Case Study: Oxford Industries - Buttoning Up The Supply Chain

Founded in 1942, Oxford Industries, Inc.'s focus on profitable, long-term growth has led to a transformation in recent years from its historical domestic manufacturing roots to a focus on designing, sourcing and marketing apparel products bearing prominent trademarks. Today, Oxford Industries is an international apparel company that features a diverse portfolio of owned and licensed lifestyle brands, company-owned retail operations and a collection of private-label and licensed-apparel businesses. In 2003, Oxford Industries acquired the islandinspired Tommy Bahama operations as part of its brand-focused business strategy, followed by the 2004 acquisition of Ben Sherman – a well-known London-based brand made famous by the popularity of its button-down shirts among British rock stars.

Oxford Industries' legacy business consists of its Lanier Clothes and Oxford Apparel lines. As one of the leading suppliers of men's tailored clothing to retailers, Lanier Clothes designs and markets branded and private-label suits, sports coats, suit separates and dress slacks that span a wide range of price points. Licensed brands include Geoffrey Beene®, Kenneth Cole® and Dockers® to name a few, and the division's clothing is sold at national chains, department stores, specialty stores and discount retailers throughout the United States. Oxford Apparel's products range from dress shirts and western wear to suit separates and golf apparel. The clothing line encompasses private-label customers such as Lands' End, Federated Department Stores and Men's Wearhouse.