Shevchenko, Anastasiia2026-06-262026-06-262026-05Shevchenko, Anastasiiaю (2026). VERTICAL INTEGRATION AND BRAND DIFFERENTIATION: A STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK FOR PRIVATE LABEL OF ELECTRIC BLANKETS IN OMNICHANNEL RETAIL. Kyiv: American University Kyiv. URI: https://er.auk.edu.ua/handle/234907866/192https://er.auk.edu.ua/handle/234907866/192Capstone investigates the strategic development of a vertically integrated Private Label (PL) within the Ukrainian electro-textile category, focusing on brand differentiation and omnichannel efficiency. The purpose of this study is to formulate a resilient market-entry framework that leverages localized agility to bypass the “commoditization trap” among global horizontal competitors. The relevance of the chosen topic is underscored by the structural volatility of the Individual Heating Electronics, especially Electric Blankets, which catalyzed a shift from a concentrated monopolistic baseline toward a highly competitive and multi-polar market. This transition created a distinctive “supply-side vacuum” for specialized heating solutions that prioritize verified technical reliability over traditional brand heritage. To ensure both strategic depth and statistical foundation, the study employs a mixed-methods approach. In order to create a data-driven hierarchy of technical requirements, a primary consumer survey and a longitudinal analysis of market share evolution over 2021 - 2025 fiscal cycles carried out, as quantitative analysis. SWOT and Ansoff Matrix are two examples of strategic analytical frameworks that used in qualitative analysis to assess the competitive environment and create a customized business plan, as a part for Differentiation strategy. The primary contribution of this work is to design a Private Label Implementation Plan. This framework integrates vertical sourcing with business model innovations, including installment-based ownership programs and seasonal risk-mitigation trials. This strategic approach provides a scalable model for establishing the Private Label as a “trust bridge” between high-priced legacy manufacturers and low-quality generic disruptors, facilitating a sustainable rise to a leading market position.en-USVertical IntegrationBrand DifferentiationPrivate LabelOmnichannel RetailConsumer BehaviorSeasonal ElectronicsCommoditization trapIndividual Heating DevicesThesis