The aim of the study is to assess whether or not the outsourcing of production at the Lever Ponds Maydon Wharf factory has been successful from a financial and operational perspective. Chapter one gives a background as to why outsourcing has been essential at the Maydon Wharf factory. The chapter also outlines what potential dangers Lever Ponds may be exposed to as a result of outsourcing production to outsourcing companies. Chapter two is a literature review of studies that have been undertaken in instances where production has been outsourced. Chapter three outlines the research methodology of the study. Chapter four gives a numerical breakdown and a brief overview of the findings. Chapter five is a detailed discussion of the findings. Chapter six sets out the recommendations of the study and provides a conclusion to the study. / Thesis (MBA)-University of Natal, Durban, 2003.