Nike, Inc., founded in 1964 as "Blue Ribbon Sports" by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, is one of the world’s leading sportswear and athletic equipment companies. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike has become a global brand synonymous with sports innovation, style, and performance. With its iconic “Swoosh” logo and the “Just Do It” slogan, Nike has built a lasting legacy in both professional and amateur sports, as well as in the fashion world.
Nike is best known for its wide range of products, including footwear, apparel, and sports equipment, catering to athletes across various sports like basketball, soccer, running, and more. The brand is also heavily involved in athlete endorsements, working with top stars such as Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, and Cristiano Ronaldo, which has contributed to its global appeal. Nike's focus on innovation and sustainability continues to drive the company forward, making it a dominant force in the sportswear industry.
CEO and Founder of Nike
Nike was co-founded by Bill Bowerman, a track-and-field coach at the University of Oregon, and his former student Phil Knight. The company was initially created to distribute Japanese running shoes in the U.S. market. In 1971, they rebranded as Nike, named after the Greek goddess of victory. Phil Knight, as the driving force behind Nike's global expansion, played a pivotal role in turning the company into a multibillion-dollar empire. He served as the CEO of Nike until 2004, after which Mark Parker took over. Currently, John Donahoe is the CEO, leading Nike into a new era of digital transformation and sustainability initiatives.
List of Top Companies Under Nike
Over the years, Nike has made several strategic acquisitions to expand its product range and influence within the sports and lifestyle industry. Here is a list of the top companies owned by Nike, along with their approximate valuations:
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Converse | 2003 (Acquired) | $3 Billion | Footwear and Apparel |
| Hurley International | 2002 (Acquired) | $200 Million (Sold in 2019) | Surfwear and Action Sports |
| Jordan Brand | 1984 (Founded) | $10 Billion+ | Basketball Footwear/Apparel |
| Cole Haan | 1988 (Acquired, Sold in 2013) | $570 Million | Luxury Footwear (Former) |
| Umbro | 2007 (Acquired, Sold in 2012) | $225 Million | Soccer Apparel/Footwear (Former) |
| Nike Golf | 1984 (Founded) | Valuation under Nike's Umbrella | Golf Equipment and Apparel |
| Nike Vision | 2003 (Founded) | Valuation under Nike's Umbrella | Eyewear and Vision Products |
FAQs About Nike
Q1: When was Nike founded, and by whom?
A: Nike was founded in 1964 as "Blue Ribbon Sports" by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight. It was officially rebranded as Nike in 1971.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of Nike?
A: John Donahoe is the current CEO of Nike, taking over from Mark Parker in January 2020.
Q3: What is Nike’s most valuable subsidiary?
A: The Jordan Brand, which originated from Nike's partnership with basketball legend Michael Jordan, is one of Nike’s most valuable subsidiaries, with an estimated valuation of over $10 billion.
Q4: What are some of Nike’s key acquisitions?
A: Nike acquired Converse in 2003 for $305 million, Hurley International in 2002 (sold in 2019), and previously owned brands like Umbro and Cole Haan, which were sold in the 2010s.
Q5: Does Nike focus on sustainability?
A: Yes, Nike has committed to sustainability through initiatives like the "Move to Zero" campaign, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and waste in their manufacturing processes.
Q6: What is Nike’s role in the sports industry?
A: Nike is a leader in the global sports industry, providing high-performance athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment to athletes across numerous sports, including basketball, soccer, running, and more.