Nike is one of the world’s most well-known and successful brands. The company’s success is largely due to the vision of its founder, Phil Knight. In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of Nike and how it all began. We’ll explore how Knight’s passion for running and business acumen created a worldwide powerhouse that has since become a symbol of athleticism, style, and success.
Nike was founded on January 25, 1964, as Blue Ribbon Sports, by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, and officially became Nike, Inc. on May 30, 1971. The company takes its name from Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. It is headquartered near Beaverton, Oregon, in the Portland metropolitan area. Initially, Nike only sold athletic shoes, but it has since expanded its product line to include clothing, accessories and sports equipment.
The History of Nike
Nike, Inc. is an American multinational corporation that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories for a wide range of sports and fitness activities. Founded in 1964, the company is now one of the world’s most successful sporting goods brands.
The Origin of Nike
Nike was originally founded as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964 by University of Oregon track athlete Philip Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman. The company officially adopted the Nike name in 1971, after the Greek goddess of victory.
Nike’s Expansion
The company experienced rapid growth in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of the largest suppliers of athletic footwear and apparel in the world. Its successful “Just Do It” advertising campaign, launched in 1988, helped make Nike one of the most recognizable brands in the world.
Key Milestones
Nike has achieved many milestones since its founding:
- 1971: The company officially adopts the Nike name.
- 1978: Nike introduces the Tailwind, its first shoe with an air cushioning system.
- 1987: Nike becomes the first company to use computer-aided design (CAD) technology to design shoes.
- 1988: Nike launches its “Just Do It” advertising campaign.
- 1995: Nike introduces the Air Max 95, its first shoe with visible air cushioning.
- 1998: Nike launches its SNKRS app, allowing customers to purchase Nike products with their phones.
- 2020: Nike launches its first-ever sustainability report.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
What year did Nike start?
Nike was founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight. It was originally called Blue Ribbon Sports and the first shoe was released in 1971. The name Nike was adopted in 1978 and the iconic logo was introduced in 1971.
How did Nike start?
The beginnings of Nike can be traced back to Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. In the early 1960s, Knight was a student at Stanford University when he wrote a paper on the prospects of importing low-cost running shoes from Japan. The paper inspired him to ask his former track coach, Bill Bowerman, to join him in starting a business that would import and sell running shoes from Japan. The two men formed Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964, and officially launched Nike, Inc. in 1971.
What were the first Nike shoes?
The first Nike shoes were called the Nike Cortez and were based on a design from the Onitsuka Tiger company. The Cortez was a lightweight running shoe with a comfortable fit and cushioning that made it popular with athletes. It was also the first shoe to feature the iconic Nike “Swoosh” logo, which was designed by Carolyn Davidson in 1971.
What did Nike’s founders do before starting the company?
Before starting Nike, Phil Knight was a student at Stanford University, while Bill Bowerman was a track coach at the University of Oregon. After Knight wrote a paper on the prospects of importing low-cost running shoes from Japan, the two men decided to join forces and launch a business that would import and sell running shoes from Japan.
Who owns Nike?
Nike is a publicly traded company, so it does not have a single owner. The majority of Nike’s shares are owned by institutional investors, such as banks, pension funds, and mutual funds. Phil Knight is the largest individual shareholder, with a 10% stake in the company.
What is Nike’s mission statement?
Nike’s mission statement is: “To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world.” This mission statement reflects the company’s commitment to helping athletes succeed in their respective sports, as well as its focus on developing innovative products that will help athletes reach their full potential. Nike also aims to make a positive impact in the communities where it operates, by creating jobs and inspiring people to live active and healthy lifestyles.
Nike is a company that has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1964. Its founders, Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, had a vision to create a brand that would revolutionize the world of sports. That vision has come to fruition as Nike has become a global leader in the athletic world. With its innovative designs, quality craftsmanship, and consumer-focused marketing campaigns, Nike has been able to inspire athletes and sports fans from all around the world. With its dedication to excellence and innovation, Nike will continue to be a leader in the sports industry for years to come.
