Supply Chain Optimization Program Connects Virginia Company with Strategic Suppliers

For growing Virginia-based companies, building a resilient and scalable supply chain often means expanding beyond existing suppliers, without disrupting what already works.

That was the case for Spire Collective, a leading retailer of storage and display solutions for board sports gear based in Fluvanna County. Working with VEDP’s Supply Chain Optimization Program (SCOP), the company sought to expand sourcing options for specialized product components not available through domestic suppliers. As the company continued to grow, leadership recognized the need to diversify its international supplier base to additional locations in Southeast Asia. 

Spire’s engagement began with a discussion with VEDP’s Global Network consultant in Southeast Asia, who shared valuable insights into the region’s supplier landscape. The conversation gave Spire a clearer understanding of market conditions, sourcing opportunities, and important factors to consider when evaluating potential suppliers in the region. 

This information ensured the company could pursue diversifying its Southeast Asia supplier base, support future growth, and build greater supply chain resilience while maintaining strong relationships with its existing suppliers.

A Targeted Approach to Supplier Identification
Spire first leveraged VEDP’s international research team to help identify Vietnam as a strong potential target market for sourcing this product. From there, Spire worked closely with SCOP to clearly define its ideal supplier profile for one of its core products. The company provided detailed input, including preferred partner qualifications, HS codes, and product specifications, to ensure a focused and efficient supplier search process.

Using this criteria, VEDP’s Global Network consultant in Southeast Asia developed a curated list of 15 qualified suppliers in Vietnam aligned with Spire’s needs. This long list provided a strong starting point, allowing Spire to evaluate options and narrow in on the best-fit suppliers.

After careful review, Spire selected two suppliers for in-person meetings, an important step in validating capabilities, building relationships, and assessing long-term fit.

Turning Insights into Action
SCOP’s support extended beyond research. The program’s in-country consultant coordinated the logistics for Spire’s visit to Vietnam, including scheduling in person meetings, arranging transportation, and providing translation services to ensure seamless communication.

The result was a well-organized, high-impact trip that allowed Spire’s team to engage directly with potential suppliers and gain deeper insight into their operations.

“The experience was extremely valuable, especially being there in person,” said Matt Winslow, director of product and brand at Spire Collective. “We nailed the right vendors to see and met exactly the right people, with a well thought-out itinerary, smooth transportation, and a great translator. The ultimate takeaway was the value of in-person engagement with the potential vendors in Vietnam.”

Building a More Resilient Supply Chain
Following the visit, SCOP’s consultant delivered a post-trip summary outlining key findings, insights, and recommended next steps, helping Spire translate its on-the-ground experience into actionable strategy.
Through SCOP’s research and hands-on global support, Spire turned its supplier diversification goals into an actionable strategy to expand its international supplier network, reduce sole sourcing risks, and support continued domestic and international sales growth. The project reflects the broader purpose of VEDP’s Supply Chain Optimization Program, the first program of its kind in the country, which helps Virginia companies evaluate and strengthen their supply chains through targeted counseling, training, funding, and research.