MAS Holdings: Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility in the Apparel Industry

MAS Holdings is a family-owned manufacturer of women's apparel, founded by three brothers who have built the firm into a US$570 million business. Clients include the biggest brands in lingerie and sportswear. The textile industry makes up 50% of Sri Lankan exports, especially from China. The case is about using corporate social responsibility as a strategic tool in global competition.

This is a multi-purpose case. At firm level, the emphasis is on leadership, corporate social responsibility, manufacturing strategy, and the development of corporate capabilities. MAS faced tough challenges in global markets, as China was taking market share in textiles. But the big brands were also concerned about compliance with the UN Millennium Goals. The global politics of the textile industry is therefore a central issue. Students are invited to consider future policy directions for MAS Holdings.