V F CORP
For the period ended Mar 29, 2025. Filed May 22, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2025 · Filed May 22, 2025
VFC$20.35+0.1%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-03-30; filed 2024-05-23.
0000103379-24-000008
ITEM 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2025-03-29; filed 2025-05-22.
0000103379-25-000023
ITEM 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 192 previous paragraphs and 191 current paragraphs.
85 unchanged; 87 reworded; 5 added; 5 removed; 15 previous and 14 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (5)
Current report
•fuel modern marketing and marketplace strategies to enable deeper consumer connections that lead to enhanced engagement with our brands and increased purchases of products;
Current report
•We may not be able to successfully implement “The VF Way” operating principles.
Current report
On July 17, 2024, we announced that we entered into a definitive agreement for EssilorLuxottica to acquire the Supreme® brand business from VF for $1.5 billion in cash, subject to customary adjustments for cash, indebtedness, working capital and transaction expenses. On October 1, 2024, we completed the Supreme® brand sale.
Current report
There continues to be uncertainty in the current global trade regime due to recent changes in, and proposals and declared intentions to change trade policy, including trade restrictions, the negotiation, renegotiation or termination of trade agreements, and the imposition of new tariffs or increases in existing tariffs on imports into the affected countries. Tariffs and other changes in trade policy have triggered in the past, are currently triggering and could continue to trigger retaliatory actions by affected countries, including through the use of counter tariffs and other measures, which has resulted in higher costs, and may result in higher future costs, or restrictions, on the importation of the products we sell. Our supply chain is geographically diverse, and we continuously identify alternative sourcing manufacturers and countries to minimize reliance on a single source. We may be unable to shift sourcing locations timely, if at all, to relocate production from a country when new or increased duties, tariffs, taxes or other charges are imposed. In addition, higher costs in sourcing from other countries, including because others in the industry seek to shift production for the same reason, may make such a sourcing shift cost-prohibitive. We may not be able to, or could choose not to, pass the entire cost increase resulting from tariffs, duties, taxes or other expenses onto consumers and customers. Any increase in prices to consumers could have an adverse impact on our sales to consumers and customers. Any adverse impact on such sales or increase in our cost of goods sold could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Current report
In May 2025 VF executed a resolution to terminate VF's U.S. qualified defined benefit pension plan, which is frozen and no longer accrues benefits. As of March 2025, the fair value of the plan's assets exceeded its benefit obligation. The termination of the plan is anticipated to be effective in July 2025, is subject to the appropriate regulatory approvals, and is expected to be completed in Fiscal 2026. VF's ultimate settlement obligations will depend upon both the nature and timing of participant settlements and prevailing market conditions.
Removed paragraphs (5)
Previous report
•We may have difficulty completing divestitures to reshape our portfolio, and we may not be able to achieve the expected benefits from such divestitures, or it may disrupt our current business.
Previous report
We experienced a significant data security breach in December 2023 which could result in a number of potentially unknown outcomes, including but not limited to, litigation, regulatory investigations or enforcement actions, or reputational harm, any of which could have a material impact on our business operations, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous report
The cybersecurity incident we experienced in December 2023 included the encryption of certain information technology systems and the theft of certain personal information and business information through unauthorized access to our information technology systems. As a result of the cybersecurity incident, we may be subject to governmental investigations, private litigation or other claims, which could result in fines, other monetary relief, or injunctive relief that could materially increase our data security costs, adversely impact how we operate our systems and collect and use personal information. If, as a result of any such governmental investigation, other investigation or claim, we are found to be in violation of applicable laws and regulations including, without limitation, any applicable data privacy and information security laws or regulations, we could be subject to legal risk, including government enforcement action and civil litigation, which could adversely affect our business, reputation, financial condition or results of operations. Defending any such litigation claim or enforcement action, regardless of merit, and whether successful or unsuccessful, and cooperating with regulatory investigations, could be expensive and time-consuming and adversely affect our business, reputation, results of operations or financial condition. In addition, we may be adversely impacted by reputational harm or a loss of confidence in the security and integrity of our information technology systems among consumers, customers, employees and business partners.
Previous report
The Supreme® brand employs a different business model than the rest of our brands and is subject to unique risks because of its focus on frequent, weekly and limited product drops through the direct-to-consumer channel. The Supreme business model has different characteristics from the business models which VF and its brands have historically employed. These different characteristics may include product volume requirements, product seasonality, product design and production rates, and consumer concentrations and demand. VF's failure to make the necessary adaptations to its operations to address these different characteristics, complexities and market dynamics could adversely affect VF's revenue, business condition and results of operations.
Reworded paragraphs (87)
Previous wording
VF’s revenues and profits depend on the level of consumer spending for apparel and footwear, which is sensitive to global economic conditions and other factors. A decline in consumer spending could have a material adverse effect on VF.
Current wording
VF’s revenues and profits depend on the level of consumer spending for apparel, footwear and accessories, which is sensitive to global economic conditions and other factors. A decline in consumer spending could have a material adverse effect on VF.
Previous wording
The success of VF’s business depends on consumer spending on apparel and footwear, and there are a number of factors that influence consumer spending, including actual and perceived economic conditions, disposable consumer income, interest rates, consumer credit availability, inflationary pressures, recessions or economic slowdowns, unemployment, stock market performance, weather conditions and natural disasters (including potential effects from climate change), energy prices, public health issues (including the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic), geopolitical instability (such as the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine and related economic and other retaliatory measures taken by the United States, European Union ("EU") and others, the current tensions between the U.S. and China, and the current conflict in the Middle East), consumer discretionary spending patterns and tax rates in the international, national, regional and local markets where VF’s products are sold. Decreased consumer spending could result in reduced demand for our products, reduced orders from customers for our products, order cancellations, lower revenues, higher discounts, increased inventories and lower gross margins. The uncertain state of the global economy continues to impact businesses around the world. If global economic and financial market conditions do not improve, adverse economic trends or other factors could negatively impact the level of consumer spending, which could have a material adverse impact on VF.
Current wording
The success of VF’s business depends on consumer spending on apparel, footwear and accessories, and there are a number of factors that influence consumer spending, including actual and perceived economic conditions, disposable consumer income, interest rates, consumer credit availability, inflationary pressures, recessions or economic slowdowns, unemployment, stock market performance, weather conditions and natural disasters (including potential climate risks and impacts), energy prices, public health issues, geopolitical and political instability (such as the current tensions between the U.S. and China, and the current conflicts in Europe, the Middle East and Asia), trade wars, consumer discretionary spending patterns and tax rates in the international, national, regional and local markets where VF’s products are sold. Decreased consumer spending could result in reduced demand for our products, reduced orders from customers for our products, order cancellations or returns, lower revenues, higher discounts, increased inventories and lower gross margins. The uncertain state of the global economy continues to impact businesses around the world. If global economic and financial market conditions do not improve, or if they worsen, adverse economic trends or other factors could negatively impact the level of consumer spending, which could have a material adverse impact on VF.
Previous wording
The apparel and footwear industries are highly competitive, and VF’s success depends on its ability to gauge consumer preferences and product trends, and to respond to constantly changing markets.
Current wording
The apparel, footwear and accessories industries are highly competitive, and VF’s success depends on its ability to gauge consumer preferences and product trends, and to respond to constantly changing markets.
Previous wording
VF competes with numerous apparel and footwear brands and manufacturers. Competition is generally based upon brand name recognition, the price, design, quality, innovation and selection of product, service and purchasing convenience. Some of our competitors are larger and have more resources than VF in some product categories and regions. In addition, VF competes directly with the private label brands of its wholesale customers. VF’s ability to compete within the apparel and footwear industries depends on our ability to:
Current wording
VF competes with numerous apparel, footwear and accessories brands and manufacturers. Competition is generally based upon brand name recognition, the price, design, quality, innovation and selection of product, service and purchasing convenience. Some of our competitors are larger and have more resources than VF in some product categories and regions. In addition, VF competes directly with the private label brands of its wholesale customers. VF’s ability to compete within the apparel, footwear and accessories industry depends on our ability to:
Previous wording
•anticipate and respond to changing consumer preferences and product trends in a timely manner;
Current wording
•anticipate, respond to, and potentially influence changing consumer preferences and product trends in a timely manner;
Previous wording
•adapt to a more digitally driven consumer landscape, including the effective re-creation of the in-store experience through digital channels.
Current wording
•adapt to a more digitally driven consumer landscape, including the effective re-creation of the in-store experience through digital channels and reaching consumers on social media.
Previous wording
In addition, our ability to compete is also dependent on our ability to reach consumers effectively and efficiently in an evolving media landscape, including digital, which is subject to evolving and increasingly restrictive privacy requirements. Failure to compete effectively or to keep pace with rapidly changing consumer preferences, markets, technology, business model and product trends could have a material adverse effect on VF’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, there are significant shifts underway in the wholesale and retail (e-commerce and retail store) channels, which have been accelerated because of the COVID-19 pandemic. VF may not be able to manage its brands within and across channels sufficiently, which could have a material adverse effect on VF’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Current wording
In addition, our ability to compete is also dependent on our ability to reach consumers effectively and efficiently in an evolving media landscape, including digital, which is subject to evolving and increasingly restrictive privacy requirements. Failure to compete effectively or to keep pace with rapidly changing consumer preferences, markets, technology, business model and product trends could have a material adverse effect on VF’s business, financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, there are significant shifts underway in the wholesale and retail (e-commerce and retail store) channels. VF may not be able to manage its brands within and across channels sufficiently, which could have a material adverse effect on VF’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Previous wording
There have been consolidations, reorganizations, restructurings, bankruptcies and ownership changes in the retail industry. These events individually, and together, could have a material, adverse effect on VF's business. These changes could impact VF’s opportunities in the market and increase VF’s reliance on a smaller number of large customers. In the future, retailers are likely to further consolidate, undergo restructurings or reorganizations or bankruptcies, realign their affiliations or reposition their stores’ target markets. In addition, consumers have continued to transition away from traditional wholesale retailers to large online retailers. These developments could result in a reduction in the number of stores that carry VF’s products, an increase in ownership concentration within the retail industry, an increase in credit exposure to VF or an increase in leverage by VF’s customers over their suppliers.
Current wording
There have been consolidations, reorganizations, restructurings, bankruptcies and ownership changes in the retail industry. These events individually, and together, could have a material, adverse effect on VF's business. These changes could impact VF’s opportunities in the market and increase VF’s reliance on a smaller number of large customers. In the future, retailers are likely to further consolidate, undergo restructurings or reorganizations or bankruptcies, realign their affiliations or reposition their stores’ target markets. In addition, consumers have continued to transition away from traditional wholesale retailers to large online retailers. These developments could result in a reduction in the number of stores that carry VF’s
Previous wording
Further, the global economy periodically experiences recessionary conditions with rising unemployment, rising inflation and interest rates, reduced availability of credit, increased savings rates and declines in real estate and securities values. These recessionary conditions could have a negative impact on retail sales of apparel, footwear and other consumer products. The lower sales volumes, along with the possibility of restrictions on access to the credit markets, could result in our customers experiencing financial difficulties including store closures, bankruptcies or liquidations. This could result in higher credit risk to VF relating to receivables from our customers who are experiencing these financial difficulties. If
Current wording
Further, the global economy periodically experiences recessionary conditions with rising unemployment, rising inflation and interest rates, rising tariffs, reduced availability of credit, increased savings rates and declines in real estate and securities values. These recessionary conditions could have a negative impact on retail sales of apparel, footwear and accessories and other consumer products. The lower sales volumes, along with the possibility of restrictions on access to the credit markets, could result in our customers experiencing financial difficulties including store closures, bankruptcies or liquidations. This could result in higher credit risk to VF relating to receivables from our customers who are experiencing these financial difficulties. If these developments occur, our inability to shift sales to other customers or to collect on VF’s trade accounts receivable could have a material adverse effect on VF’s financial condition and results of operations.
Previous wording
commodity and conversion costs, inflation, rising freight costs, rising labor costs, pressure from retailers to reduce the costs of products, changes in consumer demand and shifts to online shopping and purchasing. Customers may increasingly seek markdown allowances, incentives and other forms of economic support. If these factors cause us to reduce our sales prices to retailers and consumers, and we fail to sufficiently reduce our product costs or operating expenses, VF’s profitability will decline. This could have a material adverse effect on VF’s results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.
Current wording
The apparel, footwear and accessories industry is subject to significant pricing pressure caused by many factors, including intense competition, consolidation in the retail industry, rising commodity and conversion costs, inflation, tariffs levied on component and finished goods, rising freight costs, rising labor costs, pressure from retailers to reduce the costs of products, changes in consumer demand and shifts to online shopping and purchasing. Customers may increasingly seek markdown allowances, incentives and other forms of economic support. If these factors cause us to reduce our sales prices to retailers and consumers, and we fail to sufficiently reduce our product costs or operating expenses, VF’s profitability will decline. This could have a material adverse effect on VF’s results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.
Previous wording
VF’s business and the success of its products could be harmed if VF is unable to maintain the images of its brands.
Current wording
VF’s business and the success of its products could be harmed if VF is unable to maintain the image of its brands.
Previous wording
VF’s success to date has been due in large part to the growth of its brands’ images and VF’s consumers’ connection to its brands. If we are unable to timely and appropriately respond to changing consumer demand, the names and images of our brands may be impaired. Even if we react appropriately to changes in consumer preferences, consumers may consider our brands’ images to be outdated or associate our brands with styles that are no longer popular. In addition, brand value is based in part on consumer perceptions on a variety of qualities, including merchandise quality, corporate integrity, and environmental, social and governance practices, including with respect to human rights, diversity, equity and inclusion, and our impact on the environment. Negative claims or publicity regarding VF, its brands or its products, including licensed products, or its culture and values, or its employees, endorsers, sponsors or suppliers could adversely affect our reputation and sales regardless of whether such claims are accurate. The rapidly changing media environment, including our increasing reliance on social media and online marketing, which accelerates the dissemination of information, can increase the challenges of responding to negative claims. In addition, we have sponsorship contracts with a number of athletes, musicians and celebrities and feature those individuals in our advertising and marketing efforts. Failure to continue to obtain or maintain high-quality sponsorships and endorsers could harm our business. In addition, actions taken by those individuals associated with our products could harm their reputations, which could adversely affect the images of our brands. Our reputation and brand image also could be damaged as a result of our support of, association with or lack of support or disapproval of certain political or social issues or catastrophic events, as well as any decisions we make to continue to conduct, or change, certain of our activities in response to such considerations.
Current wording
VF’s success to date has been due in large part to the growth of its brands’ image and VF’s consumers’ connection to its brands. If we are unable to timely and appropriately respond to changing consumer demand, the names and image of our brands may be impaired. Even if we react appropriately to changes in consumer preferences, consumers may consider our brands’ image to be outdated or associate our brands with styles that are no longer popular. In addition, brand value is based in part on consumer perceptions on a variety of qualities, including merchandise quality, corporate integrity, and environmental, social and governance practices, including with respect to human rights, responsible business practices, and our impact on the environment. Negative claims or publicity regarding VF, its brands or its products, including licensed products, or its culture and values, or its employees, endorsers, sponsors or suppliers could adversely affect our reputation and sales regardless of whether such claims are accurate. The rapidly changing media environment, including our increasing reliance on social media and online marketing, which accelerates the dissemination of information, including misinformation and disinformation, can increase the challenges of responding to negative claims. In addition, we have sponsorship contracts with a number of athletes, musicians and celebrities and feature those individuals in our advertising and marketing efforts. Failure to continue to obtain or maintain high-quality sponsorships and endorsers could harm our business. In addition, actions taken by those individuals associated with our products could harm their reputations, which could adversely affect the image of our brands. Our reputation and brand image also could be damaged as a result of our support of, association with or lack of support or disapproval of certain political or social issues or catastrophic events, as well as any decisions we make to continue to conduct, or change, certain of our activities in response to such considerations.
Previous wording
We may be adversely affected by weather conditions, including any potential effects from climate change.
Current wording
We may be adversely affected by weather conditions, including any potential effects from extreme environmental conditions.
Previous wording
Our business is adversely affected by unseasonable weather conditions, including those resulting from climate change. A significant portion of the sales of our products is dependent in part on the weather and is likely to decline in years in which weather conditions do not favor the use of these products. For example, periods of unseasonably warm weather in the fall or winter can lead to reduced consumer spending that negatively impacts VF's direct-to-consumer business, and inventory accumulation by our wholesale customers, which can, in turn, negatively affect orders in future seasons. In addition, abnormally harsh or inclement weather can also negatively impact retail traffic and consumer spending. As the effects of climate change increase, we expect the frequency and impact of weather and climate related events and conditions to increase as well. Any and all of these risks may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Current wording
Our business is adversely affected by unseasonable weather conditions, including those resulting from extreme environmental conditions. A significant portion of the sales of our products is dependent in part on the weather and is likely to decline in years in which weather conditions do not favor the use of these products. For example, periods of unseasonably warm weather in the fall or winter can lead to reduced consumer spending that negatively impacts VF's direct-to-consumer business, and inventory accumulation by our wholesale customers, which can, in turn, negatively affect orders in future seasons. In addition, abnormally harsh or inclement weather can also negatively impact retail traffic and consumer spending. As the effects of extreme environmental conditions increase, we expect the frequency and impact of weather and environmental related events and conditions to increase as well. Any and all of these risks may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Previous wording
VF may not succeed in its business strategy, including its Reinvent turnaround strategy.
Current wording
VF may not succeed in its business strategy, including the Reinvent turnaround program and “The VF Way” operating principles.
Previous wording
Following the appointment of our new CEO during Fiscal 2024, we introduced the Reinvent turnaround program, which aims to reinvent how VF operates as an organization across our brands, geographies and integrated enterprise functions. As part of Reinvent, we are taking measures to streamline and right-size our cost base, identify and capture efficiencies in our business model, and strengthen the balance sheet while reducing leverage. During Fiscal 2024, a new operating model was introduced with the establishment of a global commercial organization. This includes the creation of an Americas regional platform, modeled on VF's operations in Europe and Asia-Pacific, all of which support VF’s global brands. We also created the new role of Chief Commercial Officer, with responsibility for go-to-market execution globally. As we remain focused on our turnaround, we have also identified areas, particularly in brand building and product innovation, into which we will reinvest a portion of the savings generated to fuel sustainable and profitable growth in the future. However, there is no assurance that we will be able to achieve our Reinvent priorities, that such measures will result in the intended outcomes, or that even if such measures are successfully accomplished, they will be effective in fueling sustainable and profitable growth in the future.
Current wording
10 VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K base, identify and capture efficiencies in our business model, and strengthen the balance sheet while reducing leverage. We established a new operating model, including a new global commercial organization with an Americas regional platform, modeled on VF's operations in Europe and Asia-Pacific, all of which support VF’s global brands. We also created the role of Chief Commercial Officer, with responsibility for go-to-market execution globally. As we remain focused on our turnaround, we have also identified areas, particularly in brand building and product innovation, into which we will reinvest a portion of the savings generated to fuel sustainable and profitable growth in the future. However, there is no assurance that we will be able to achieve our Reinvent priorities, that such measures will result in the intended outcomes, or that even if such measures are successfully accomplished, they will be effective in fueling sustainable and profitable growth in the future.
Previous wording
We are supporting our Reinvent priorities by building our brands, leveraging our supply chain and information technology capabilities across VF and expanding our direct-to-consumer business, including opening new stores, remodeling and
Current wording
We are supporting our Reinvent priorities by building our brands, enhancing and leveraging our capabilities such as supply chain and information technology across VF and bolstering our direct-to-consumer business, including strategically opening new stores, remodeling and trying new formats for our existing stores and growing our e-commerce business. In addition, we have introduced “The VF Way” operating principles, a set of standardized processes across brands and regions which will allow us to leverage our multi-brand competitive advantages to drive improved performance. However, we may not be able to turnaround and grow our business. For example:
Previous wording
•We may not be able to offset rising commodity or conversion costs in our product costs with pricing actions or efficiency improvements.
Current wording
•We may not be able to offset rising commodity, conversion or other costs in our product costs with pricing actions or efficiency improvements.
Previous wording
Our supply chain may be disrupted due to factors such as political instability, inflationary pressures, macroeconomic conditions, pandemics, and other factors including reduced freight availability and increased costs, port disruption, distribution center closures, severe weather due to climate change or otherwise, natural disasters, military conflicts,
Current wording
Our supply chain may be disrupted due to factors such as political instability, inflationary pressures, macroeconomic conditions, pandemics, trade wars, and other factors including reduced freight availability and increased costs, port disruption, distribution center closures, extreme weather conditions due to climate change or otherwise, natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, military conflicts, terrorism, or labor supply shortages or stoppages. Any significant disruption in our supply chain could impair our ability to procure or distribute our products, which would adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Previous wording
VF relies significantly on information technology. Any inadequacy, interruption, integration failure or security failure of this technology could harm VF’s ability to effectively operate its business.
Current wording
VF relies significantly on information technology. Any inadequacy, interruption, operational failure or security failure of this technology could harm VF’s ability to effectively operate its business.
Previous wording
Our ability to effectively manage and operate our business depends significantly on information technology systems. We rely heavily on information technology to track sales and inventory and manage our supply chain. We are also dependent on information technology, including the Internet, for our direct-to-consumer sales, including our e-commerce operations and retail business credit card transaction authorization. Despite our preventative efforts, our systems and those of third partieson which we rely are frequently targeted by cyber-attacks of varying levels of severity, including the incident reported by VF in December 2023. These systems may be vulnerable to damage, failure or interruption, and the data that they hold may be vulnerable to encryption or theft, due to cyber-attacks, malicious programs, data security incidents, technical malfunctions, natural disasters or other causes, or in connection with upgrades to our system or the implementation of new systems. Some of our systems are older and are no longer supported by the original manufacturer. The failure of our systems and those of third parties on which we rely to operate effectively or remain innovative, our inability to keep up with rapid technological change (including the successful utilization of data analytics, artificial intelligence ("AI") and machine learning), problems with transitioning to upgraded or replacement systems, difficulty in integrating new systems or systems of acquired businesses or a breach in security of these systems has, and could continue to, adversely impact the operations of VF’s business. These impacts could affect, among other things, our reputation, management of inventory, ordering and replenishment of products, sourcing and distribution of products, retail store and e-commerce operations, retail business credit card transaction authorization and processing, corporate email communications and our interaction with the public on social media, and did affect our management of inventory, ordering and replenishment of products, sourcing and distribution of products, e-commerce operations, and corporate email communications. Moreover, failure to provide effective digital (including omni-channel) capabilities and information technology infrastructure could result in an inability to meet current and future business needs and a resulting loss of brand competitiveness, leading to loss of revenue and market share and decreased business agility.
Current wording
Our ability to effectively manage and operate our business depends significantly on information technology systems. We rely heavily on information technology to track sales and inventory and manage our supply chain. We are also dependent on information technology, including the Internet, for our direct-to-consumer sales, including our e-commerce operations and retail business credit card transaction authorization. Despite our preventative efforts, our systems and those of third parties on which we rely are frequently targeted by cyberattacks of varying levels of severity, including the incident reported by VF in December 2023. These systems may be vulnerable to damage, failure or interruption, and the data that they hold may be vulnerable to encryption or theft, due to cyberattacks, malicious programs, data security incidents, technical malfunctions, natural disasters or other causes, or in connection with upgrades to our system or the implementation of new systems. Some of our systems are older and are no longer supported by the original manufacturer. The failure of our systems and those of third parties on which we rely to operate effectively or remain innovative, our inability to keep up with rapid technological change (including the successful utilization of data analytics, artificial intelligence ("AI") and machine learning), problems with transitioning to upgraded or replacement systems, difficulty in integrating new systems or systems of acquired businesses or a breach in security of these systems has, and in the future could again, adversely impact the operations of VF’s business. These impacts could affect, among other things, our reputation, management of inventory, ordering and replenishment of products, sourcing and distribution of products, retail store and e-commerce operations, retail business credit card transaction authorization and processing, corporate email communications and our interaction with the public on social media, and did
Previous wording
Cybersecurity threats and the techniques used in cyberattacks change, develop and evolve rapidly, including from emerging technologies, such as advanced forms of artificial intelligence. We may fail to adapt as quickly as necessary to meet the rapidly-changing threat environment.
Current wording
Cybersecurity threats and the techniques used in cyberattacks change, develop and evolve rapidly, including from emerging technologies, such as advanced forms of AI. We may fail to adapt as quickly as necessary to meet the rapidly-changing threat environment.
Previous wording
VF is subject to data and information security and privacy risks that could negatively affect its business operations, results of operations or reputation.
Current wording
VF is subject to cybersecurity, information security and privacy risks that could negatively affect its business operations, results of operations or reputation.
Previous wording
12 VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K theft and user privacy. Data and information security breaches are increasingly sophisticated, and can be difficult to detect for long periods of time. Accordingly, if unauthorized parties gain access to our networks or databases, such as with the incident reported by VF in December 2023, or those of third parties on which we rely, they have, and could continue to, be able to steal, publish, delete, hold ransom or modify our private and sensitive information, including payment information, personal information, and confidential or other proprietary business information.
Current wording
In the normal course of business, we collect, retain and transmit certain sensitive and confidential information, including payment information and personal information, over public networks. There is a significant concern by consumers and employees over the security of personal information, identity theft and user privacy. Cybersecurity and information security breaches are increasingly sophisticated and can be difficult to detect for long periods of time. Accordingly, if unauthorized parties gain access to our networks or databases, such as with the incident reported by VF in December 2023, or those of third parties on which we rely, they have, and could continue to, be able to steal, publish, delete, hold ransom or modify our private and sensitive information, including payment information, personal information, and confidential or other proprietary business information.
Previous wording
We are subject to frequent cyber-attacks of varying levels of severity and threats to our business from a variety of bad actors, many of whom attempt to gain unauthorized access to, steal or compromise our confidential information and systems. For example, we detected unauthorized occurrences on a portion of our information technology systems in December 2023. We have incurred, and may continue to incur, certain costs related to this attack which may not be covered by our cyber liability insurance. While we have implemented systems and processes designed to protect against unauthorized access to or use of personal information and other confidential information, and rely on encryption and authentication technologies to effectively secure transmission of such information, including payment information, there is no guarantee that they will be able to prevent unauthorized access to our systems and information in the future. Our facilities and systems, and those of third parties on which we rely, are frequently the target of cyber-attacks of varying levels of severity and have been, and may in the future be vulnerable, and we may be unable to prevent, anticipate or detect security breaches and data loss.
Current wording
We are subject to frequent cyberattacks of varying levels of severity and threats to our business from a variety of bad actors, many of whom attempt to gain unauthorized access to, steal or compromise our confidential information and systems. For example, we detected unauthorized occurrences on a portion of our information technology systems in December 2023. We have incurred, and may continue to incur, certain costs related to this attack, which may not be covered by our cyber insurance. While we have implemented systems and processes designed to protect against unauthorized access to or use of personal information and other confidential information and rely on encryption and authentication technologies to effectively secure transmission of such information, including payment information, there is no guarantee that they will be able to prevent unauthorized access to our systems and information in the future. Our facilities and systems, and those of third parties on which we rely, are frequently the target of cyberattacks of varying levels of severity and have been, and may in the future be vulnerable, and we may and have been unable to prevent, anticipate or detect security breaches and data loss.
Previous wording
In addition, we face amplified cybersecurity risks as a result of the number of employees we employ, including a number of employees working remotely. These amplified risks include increased demand on our information technology resources and systems and an increase in the number of points of potential attack on networks that we do not control, such as home WiFi networks. Employees may intentionally or inadvertently cause cybersecurity breaches that result in the unauthorized access to our systems or the unauthorized release of personal or confidential information.
Current wording
In addition, we face amplified cybersecurity risks as a result of the number of employees we employ, including a number of employees working remotely. These amplified risks include increased demand on our information technology resources and systems, and an increase in the number of points of potential attack on networks that we do not control, such as home WiFi networks. Employees may intentionally or inadvertently cause cybersecurity breaches that result in unauthorized access to our
Previous wording
VF and its consumers and customers could suffer harm if valuable business data, or employee, consumer, customer and other confidential and proprietary information were corrupted, lost, accessed or misappropriated by third parties due to a cyber-attack, a security failure in VF’s systems, or due to one of our third-party service providers or our employees. Any such breach, including, without limitation, the incident reported by VF in December 2023, has and could require significant expenditures to remediate; could cause damage to our reputation, to confidence in our e-commerce platforms and to our relationships with customers, consumers, employees and third parties on whom we rely; has and could result in business disruption, negative media attention and lost sales; and could expose us to risks of litigation, liability and increased scrutiny from regulatory entities. In addition, as a result of recent security breaches at a number of prominent retailers and other companies, media and public scrutiny of information security and privacy has become more intense and the regulatory environment has become increasingly uncertain, rigorous and complex. As a result, we may incur significant costs to comply with laws regarding the privacy and security of personal information and we may not be able to comply with new data protection laws and regulations being adopted around the world.
Current wording
VF and its consumers and customers could suffer harm if valuable business data, or employee, consumer, customer and other confidential and proprietary information were corrupted, lost, accessed or misappropriated by third parties due to a cyberattack, a security failure in VF’s systems, or due to one of our third-party service providers or our employees. Any such breach, including, without limitation, the incident reported by VF in December 2023, has and could require significant expenditures to remediate; could cause damage to our reputation, to confidence in our e-commerce platforms and to our relationships with customers, consumers, employees and third parties on whom we rely; has and could result in business disruption, negative media attention and lost sales; and has and could expose us to risks of litigation, liability and increased scrutiny from regulatory entities. In addition, as a result of recent security breaches at a number of prominent retailers and other companies, media and public scrutiny of information security and privacy has become more intense, and the regulatory environment has become increasingly uncertain, rigorous and complex. As a result, we may incur significant costs to comply with laws regarding the privacy and security of personal information, and we may not be able to comply with new data protection laws and regulations being adopted around the world. Any failure to comply with the laws and regulations and consumer expectations surrounding the privacy and security of personal information could subject us to legal and reputational risk, including significant fines and/or litigation for non-compliance in multiple jurisdictions, negative media coverage, diminished consumer confidence and decreased attraction to our brands, any of which could have a negative impact on revenues and profits. In addition, while we maintain cyber insurance policies, those existing insurance policies may not adequately protect VF from all of the adverse effects and damages that could be caused by a security breach, including the incident reported by VF in December 2023. Moreover, if our employees or business partners, intentionally or inadvertently, misuse consumer data or are not transparent with consumers about how we use their data, our brands, reputation and relationships with consumers could be damaged.
Previous wording
The development and use of AI, and the failure to use AI, present risks and challenges that may negatively impact our business.
Current wording
The development and use or misuse of AI, and the failure to use AI, present risks and challenges that may negatively impact our business.
Previous wording
Our business is highly-competitive, and our success may require the adoption of new and emerging technologies, such as AI, and specifically generative AI, by us or our business partners. Failure to adapt to a rapidly-changing technological environment could result in negative impacts to our business.
Current wording
Our business operates in a highly-competitive space, and our success may require the adoption of new and emerging technologies, such as AI, and specifically generative AI, by us or our business partners. Failure to adapt to a rapidly-changing technological environment or failure to adopt emerging technologies in a timely manner could result in negative impacts to our business.
Previous wording
We also face risks from the adoption of new technologies such as AI if we or our business partners use them incorrectly or in ways that introduce new risks. Our business partners may incorporate AI tools into their offerings which may not meet existing or rapidly-changing regulatory or industry standards
Current wording
We also face risks from the adoption of new technologies such as AI if we or our business partners use them incorrectly or in ways that introduce new risks. Our business partners may incorporate AI tools into their offerings which may not meet existing or rapidly-changing regulatory, ethical or industry standards and may inhibit our or our business partners' ability to maintain an adequate level of service.
Previous wording
The development of AI technologies is complex, and there are technical challenges associated with achieving the desired level of accuracy, efficiency, and reliability. The algorithms and models utilized in generative AI systems may have limitations, including biases, errors, or inability to handle certain data types or scenarios. Furthermore, there is a risk of system failures, disruptions, or vulnerabilities that could compromise the integrity, security, or privacy of data inputs or the generated content. These limitations or failures could result in reputational harm, legal liabilities, or loss of consumer, customer, employee or business partner confidence.
Current wording
12 VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K algorithms and models utilized in generative AI systems may have limitations, including biases, errors, or inability to handle certain data types or scenarios. Furthermore, there is a risk of system failures, disruptions, or vulnerabilities that could compromise the integrity, security, or privacy of data inputs or the generated content. These limitations or failures could result in reputational harm, legal liabilities, or loss of consumer, customer, employee or business partner confidence.
Previous wording
Cybersecurity threat actors may use AI tools, including generative AI, to deploy increasingly advanced attacks on our and our business partners' information technology systems. The increasing sophistication of cybersecurity attacks, including through the use of AI, may create a demand for us to use more and more sophisticated AI in our cybersecurity defense efforts. We face risks that we will fail to combat the offensive use of AI sufficiently or that we will fail to deploy defensive tools using AI adequately, either because we are unable to anticipate the risks accurately in a rapidly-evolving landscape or because we lack the knowledge or resources to adequately address the cybersecurity threats and opportunities associated with AI.
Current wording
Cybersecurity threat actors may use AI tools, including generative AI, to deploy increasingly advanced attacks on our and our business partners' information technology systems. The increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, including through the use of AI, may create a demand for us to use more and more sophisticated AI in our cybersecurity defense efforts. We face risks that we will fail to combat the offensive use of AI sufficiently or that we will fail to deploy defensive tools using AI adequately, either because we are unable to anticipate the risks accurately in a rapidly-evolving landscape or because we lack the knowledge or resources to adequately address the cybersecurity threats and opportunities associated with AI.
Previous wording
Uncertainty in the legal regulatory regime relating to AI may require significant resources to modify and maintain business practices to comply with U.S. and non-U.S. laws, the nature of which cannot be determined at this time. Several jurisdictions around the globe, including the EU and certain U.S. states, have already proposed or enacted laws governing AI. Other jurisdictions may decide to adopt similar or more restrictive legislation that may render the use of such technologies challenging. These obligations may make it harder for us to conduct our business using AI, lead to regulatory fines or penalties, require us to change our business practices, or prevent or limit our use of AI. If we or our business partners cannot use AI, or that use is restricted, our business may be less efficient, or we may be at a competitive disadvantage. Any of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Current wording
Uncertainty in the regulatory regime relating to AI may require significant resources to modify and maintain business practices to comply with U.S. and non-U.S. laws, the nature of which cannot be determined at this time. Several jurisdictions around the globe, including the European Union (“EU”) and certain U.S. states, have already proposed or enacted laws governing AI. Other jurisdictions may decide to adopt similar or more restrictive legislation that may render the use of such technologies challenging. These obligations may make it harder for us to conduct our business using AI, lead to regulatory fines or penalties, require us to change our business practices, or prevent or limit our use of AI. If we or our business partners cannot use AI, or that use is restricted, our business may be less efficient, or we may be at a competitive disadvantage. Any of these factors could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Previous wording
There are risks associated with VF’s acquisitions, divestitures and portfolio management.
Current wording
There are risks associated with VF’s acquisitions, divestitures and portfolio management, including our recently completed sale of the Supreme® brand to EssilorLuxottica.
Previous wording
Any acquisitions, divestitures or mergers by VF will be accompanied by the risks commonly encountered in acquisitions or divestitures of companies, businesses or brands. These risks include, among other things, higher than anticipated acquisition or divestiture costs and expenses, the difficulty and expense of
Current wording
Any acquisitions, divestitures or mergers by VF, including our completed sale of the Supreme® brand business to EssilorLuxottica, will be accompanied by the risks commonly encountered in acquisitions or divestitures of companies, businesses or brands. These risks include, among other things, higher than anticipated acquisition or divestiture costs and expenses, the difficulty and expense of integrating or separating the operations, systems and personnel of the companies, businesses or brands, the loss of key employees and consumers
Previous wording
integrating or separating the operations, systems and personnel of the companies, businesses or brands, the loss of key employees and consumers as a result of changes in management or ownership, and slower progress toward environmental, social and governance goals given challenges with data acquisition and integration, the difficulty of accessing and disclosing sufficient environmental, social and governance data to comply with current and emerging environmental, social and governance regulations, and integration of environmental, social and governance initiatives overall. In addition, geographic distances may make integration of acquired businesses more difficult. We may not be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered in connection with any acquisitions or divestitures. Moreover, failure to effectively manage VF’s portfolio of brands in line with growth targets and shareholder expectations, including acquisition choices, integration approach, transaction pricing and divestiture timing could result in unfavorable impacts to growth and value creation.
Current wording
as a result of changes in management or ownership, and slower progress toward environmental, social and governance goals given challenges with data acquisition and integration, the difficulty of accessing and disclosing sufficient environmental, social and governance data to comply with current and emerging environmental, social and governance regulations, and integration of environmental, social and governance initiatives overall. In addition, geographic distances may make integration of acquired businesses more difficult. We may not be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered in connection with any acquisitions or divestitures. Moreover, failure to effectively manage VF’s portfolio of brands in line with growth targets and shareholder expectations, including acquisition choices, integration approach, transaction pricing and divestiture timing could result in unfavorable impacts to growth and value creation.
Previous wording
Our acquisitions may cause large one-time expenses or create goodwill or other intangible assets that could result in significant impairment charges. We also make certain estimates and assumptions in order to determine purchase price allocation and estimate the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If our estimates or assumptions used to value these assets and liabilities are not accurate, we may be exposed to losses that may be material.
Current wording
Our acquisitions and divestitures may cause large one-time expenses or create goodwill or other intangible assets that could result in significant impairment charges. We also make certain estimates and assumptions in order to determine purchase price allocation and estimate the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If our estimates or assumptions used to value these assets and liabilities are not accurate, we may be exposed to losses that may be material.
Previous wording
•imposition of duties, taxes and other charges on imports; and
Current wording
•imposition of duties, tariffs, taxes and other charges on imports;
Previous wording
•public health issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have resulted in (or could continue to result in) closed factories, reduced workforces, scarcity of raw materials and scrutiny or embargoing of goods produced in infected areas;
Current wording
•public health issues such as pandemics could result in closed factories, reduced workforces, scarcity of raw materials and scrutiny or embargoing of goods produced in infected areas;
Previous wording
•disruption at ports of entry, could cause delays in product availability and increase transportation times and costs;
Current wording
•disruption at ports of entry has caused, and in the future could cause, delays in product availability and increase transportation times and costs;
Showing the first 40 of 87 pairs. Open the source sections for the rest.
Rearranged current paragraphs (14)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K 9 products, an increase in ownership concentration within the retail industry, an increase in credit exposure to VF or an increase in leverage by VF’s customers over their suppliers.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
During Fiscal 2024, we introduced the Reinvent turnaround program, which aims to reinvent how VF operates as an organization across our brands, geographies and integrated enterprise functions. As part of Reinvent, we have taken, and continue to take, measures to streamline and right-size our cost
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K 11 affect our management of inventory, ordering and replenishment of products, sourcing and distribution of products, retail store and e-commerce operations, and corporate email communications. Moreover, failure to provide effective digital (including omni-channel) capabilities and information technology infrastructure could result in an inability to meet current and future business needs and a resulting loss of brand competitiveness, leading to loss of revenue and market share and decreased business agility.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
systems or the unauthorized release of personal or confidential information.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The development of AI technologies is complex, and there are technical and talent challenges associated with achieving the desired level of accuracy, efficiency, and reliability. The
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K 13 deliveries or impoundment of goods for extended periods;
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
In addition, although we audit our third-party material suppliers and contracted manufacturing facilities and set strict compliance standards, actions by a third-party supplier or manufacturer that fail to comply could result in such third-party
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
14 VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K loss of services of one or more of these individuals or the inability to effectively identify a suitable successor to a key role could have a material adverse effect on VF.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
A significant portion of our revenues are direct-to-consumer sales through VF-operated stores. In order to generate consumer traffic, we locate many of our stores in prominent locations within successful retail shopping centers or in fashionable shopping districts. Our stores benefit from the ability of the retail center and other attractions in an area to generate
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
There have been, and there may in the future be, opposition and cancellation proceedings from time to time with respect to some of VF's intellectual property rights. In some cases, litigation may be necessary to protect or enforce our trademarks and other
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
disruptions in VF’s distribution facilities. In addition, VF’s distribution capacity is dependent on the timely performance of services by third parties, including the transportation of product to and from its distribution facilities. If we encounter problems with our distribution system, our ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory, complete sales and achieve operating efficiencies could be materially adversely affected.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
16 VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K retaining cross-border talent, which could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
focus on income earned in no- or low-tax jurisdictions or income that is not taxed in any jurisdiction. Tax authorities have also become skeptical of special tax rulings provided to companies offering lower taxes than may be applicable in other countries.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2025 Form 10-K 19 have important consequences on its business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, they could:
Rearranged previous paragraphs (15)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
10 VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K these developments occur, our inability to shift sales to other customers or to collect on VF’s trade accounts receivable could have a material adverse effect on VF’s financial condition and results of operations.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
The apparel and footwear industry is subject to significant pricing pressure caused by many factors, including intense competition, consolidation in the retail industry, rising
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K 11 expanding our existing stores and growing our e-commerce business. However, we may not be able to grow our business. For example:
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
terrorism, or labor supply shortages or stoppages. Any significant disruption in our supply chain could impair our ability to procure or distribute our products, which would adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
In the normal course of business, we collect, retain and transmit certain sensitive and confidential consumer information, including payment information, and employee information, over public networks. There is a significant concern by consumers and employees over the security of personal information, identity
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Any failure to comply with the laws and regulations and consumer expectations surrounding the privacy and security of personal information could subject us to legal and reputational risk, including significant fines and/or litigation for non-compliance in multiple jurisdictions, negative media coverage, diminished consumer confidence and decreased attraction to our brands, any of which could have a negative impact on revenues and profits. In addition, while we maintain cyber insurance policies, those existing insurance policies may not adequately protect VF from all of the adverse effects and damages that could be caused by a security breach, including the incident reported by VF in December 2023. Moreover, if our associates or vendors, intentionally or inadvertently, misuse consumer data or are not transparent with consumers about how we use their data, our brands, reputation and relationships with consumers could be damaged.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K 13 and may inhibit our or our business partners' ability to maintain an adequate level of service.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
14 VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
products purchased from VF could substantially reduce revenues and have a material adverse effect on VF’s financial condition and results of operations.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K 15
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
16 VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
As a global company, we determine our income tax liability in various tax jurisdictions based on an analysis and interpretation of U.S. and international tax laws and regulations. This analysis
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
18 VF Corporation Fiscal 2024 Form 10-K sanctions or other penalties that could negatively affect our reputation, business and operating results.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
During the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2024, due to the continued downturn in financial results and weakness in the wholesale channel, combined with expectations of a slower recovery, VF determined that a triggering event had occurred requiring additional impairment testing of the Timberland reporting unit goodwill and indefinite-lived trademark intangible assets. As a result of the impairment testing performed, VF recorded an impairment charge of $211.7 million related to the Timberland reporting unit goodwill. The impairment related to lower financial projections.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
are manufactured in other countries and declines in the values of the U.S. dollar may result in higher manufacturing costs. In the future, VF may not be able to offset cost increases with other cost reductions or efficiencies or to pass higher costs on to its customers. This could have a material adverse effect on VF’s results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.