I'm a small company and I can sympathize with VF trying to be all things to all customers! It's a tough situation trying to compete with a market that is dominated by major distributors that have a majority of the product lines "locked-up". Look at the VF prices and the quality of what they deliver and then ask about a level "playing field". They don't get to play on one, so how can they be faulted for trying to find an "edge".
I think a little patience will go a long way toward making everyone happy. I'm OK with your "vent" and hope you receive your order asap! But when a little company needs a break, cut them some "slack"!
Happy holidays and Good Landings!
Ray