Nike, Inc., is one of the world’s largest suppliers of athletic shoes and apparel, as well as a major manufacturer of sports equipment. Founded on January 25, 1964, as Blue Ribbon Sports by Bill Bowerman, a track-and-field coach, and Phil Knight, a middle-distance runner from the University of Oregon, the company initially operated as a distributor for the Japanese shoemaker Onitsuka Tiger (now ASICS). The company officially became Nike, Inc., on May 30, 1971.

The name „Nike“ is derived from the Greek goddess of victory, reflecting the brand’s aspiration to inspire and empower athletes to achieve greatness. Since its inception, Nike has been at the forefront of innovation in athletic footwear and apparel. One of its earliest successes came with the introduction of the waffle-soled running shoe, designed by Bowerman, which revolutionized the running shoe industry with its improved traction and performance.

Throughout its history, Nike has consistently pushed boundaries in design and technology, introducing numerous iconic products and innovations. In 1985, Nike made history with the launch of the Air Jordan line of basketball shoes, endorsed by NBA superstar Michael Jordan. The Air Jordan series not only revolutionized basketball footwear but also became a cultural phenomenon, transcending the world of sports to become a fashion statement.

Nike’s marketing strategies have also been instrumental in its success. The company’s „Just Do It“ slogan, introduced in 1988, has become one of the most recognizable and enduring slogans in advertising history. This campaign, along with high-profile endorsements from athletes across various sports, helped solidify Nike’s position as a leader in the athletic apparel industry. In addition to its focus on innovation and marketing, Nike has also been a pioneer in corporate responsibility and sustainability. The company has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including using sustainable materials in its products and minimizing waste in its manufacturing processes.

Over the years, Nike has expanded its product line to include a wide range of athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment for sports such as running, basketball, soccer, and tennis, among others. It has also diversified its business through acquisitions, including the purchase of brands like Converse and Hurley.

Today, Nike continues to be a dominant force in the global sports market, with a presence in over 190 countries and a diverse portfolio of products catering to athletes of all levels. Despite facing challenges such as competition from rivals and controversies related to labor practices, Nike remains committed to its mission of inspiring and innovating for every athlete, with the belief that „if you have a body, you are an athlete.“