Nike Inc. footwear and apparel

Nike’s journey began in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, founded by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight in Eugene, Oregon. Originally a distributor for Japanese running shoes, the company transitioned into an independent brand in the early 1970s, adopting the name Nike—after the Greek goddess of victory—and its iconic 'Swoosh' logo. This heritage of innovation, initially rooted in track and field, has expanded into a global cultural phenomenon spanning nearly every sport and lifestyle category.

Today, Nike is the world's largest supplier of athletic shoes and apparel. While the brand is quintessentially American, its manufacturing footprint is truly global. The vast majority of Nike products are manufactured by independent contractors in Asia, with significant production hubs located in Vietnam, Indonesia, and China. This diverse supply chain allows Nike to distribute high-performance gear to athletes and consumers worldwide while maintaining its position at the forefront of sportswear technology and design.

Ownership of the brand remains centralized under Nike, Inc., a publicly traded multinational corporation headquartered at its expansive World Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. As a powerhouse in the industry, Nike, Inc. also manages a portfolio that includes the Jordan Brand and Converse, solidifying its status as the ultimate owner of its brand ecosystem. The company continues to dominate the market through strategic athlete endorsements, digital innovation, and a robust global retail network.