Case 24: Everlane: Ethical Chic and Radical Transparency in Global Supply Chains
1. What are the ethical and social issues in this case?
Everlane sought to promote radical transparency. It wanted to provide fashion that was ethically
produced but trendy as well as cost-conscious for the consumer. In order to do business with
2. How difficult is it for a company like Everlane to follow through on its mission? What are the
challenges to its commitment to radical transparency in global supply chains?
It is difficult to maintain this level of transparency, given that Everlane must find good, but
3. What are the different ways that a fashion company can be ethical?
Fashion companies can be ethical by doing due diligence on the companies in their supply chain
and making sure that they only partner with companies that promote ethical and safe work
4. What interest groups might support an ethical fashion group like Everlane? How could they
do this?
Consumer groups interested in promoting ethical workplaces and supply chains could endorse
fashion groups like Everlane by giving them public endorsement. Nonprofit groups like Fair
5. What are the other stakeholder groups that are involved with Everlane? How would each
stakeholder view Everlane’s quest for transparency and ethical production?
Stakeholder groups involved with Everlane include manufacturers, employees, shareholders, and
investors and consumers. Manufacturers may find the increased scrutiny by Everlane to be
6. How does Everlane’s approach to their supply chain differ from a large global buyer like
Nike?
Everlane does not have the same buying power as a large company like Nike; therefore it may be
7. Is the Everlane business model sustainable? Or, is it just temporarily popular because it is
unique? Are competitors likely to follow?
The business model that Everlane follows does appear to be sustainable with mission-driven
firms that have an interest in social issues and ethical business practices. It will be a popular