Nike is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, with its instantly recognizable swoosh logo, its association with top athletes, and its ever-growing range of apparel and footwear. But where did it all begin? In this article, we will explore the history of Nike and find out exactly when it all started. From its humble beginnings in 1964 to the global powerhouse it has become today, Nike has come a long way since its founding. So, when did Nike start? Let’s find out!
Nike was founded in 1964 by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. The company initially started as a distributor for Japanese shoe maker Onitsuka Tiger (now known as Asics). In 1971, Nike released its first shoe, the Nike Cortez, which was designed by one of its co-founders, Bill Bowerman. The company’s iconic swoosh logo was created by Carolyn Davidson in 1971.
When Did Nike Start?
Nike, Inc. is an American multinational corporation that is engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, and worldwide marketing and sales of footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services. Nike was founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight as Blue Ribbon Sports. The company officially changed its name to Nike, Inc. on May 30, 1971.
Early History and Development
Blue Ribbon Sports, the predecessor of Nike, Inc., was founded by University of Oregon track and field coach Bill Bowerman and his former student and athlete Phil Knight in 1964. The two men founded the company to focus on importing and distributing low-cost, high-quality Japanese running shoes in the United States.
In 1966, the company hired its first employee, Jeff Johnson, who became the company’s first full-time salesperson. Johnson was responsible for organizing Nike’s first national sales meeting in 1967 and helped to develop the company’s iconic “swoosh” logo, which was designed by Carolyn Davidson in 1971.
Growth and Expansion
Nike’s growth over the decades has been remarkable. The company went public in 1980, and by 1990, Nike had become the global leader in the athletic footwear and apparel industry. Today, Nike is the world’s largest supplier of athletic shoes and apparel and a leading manufacturer of sports equipment.
Nike Today
Nike continues to be a leader in the industry, with revenue exceeding $37 billion in 2019. The company is committed to innovation and is constantly pushing the boundaries of performance and design. Nike’s products are now available in more than 170 countries around the world.
Related FAQ
When did Nike Start?
Answer: Nike was founded in 1964 by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. The company started off as Blue Ribbon Sports, a distributor of Onitsuka Tiger shoes. In 1971, the company was rebranded as Nike, a name derived from the Greek goddess of victory.
Who created Nike?
Answer: Nike was founded by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. Phil Knight was a Stanford graduate who had a vision of creating an American-made athletic shoe. Bill Bowerman was a track and field coach at the University of Oregon and an innovator in the development of athletic shoes. Together, they formed Blue Ribbon Sports, which later became Nike.
Where did Nike start?
Answer: Nike was founded in 1964 in Beaverton, Oregon. The company started as Blue Ribbon Sports, a distributor of Onitsuka Tiger shoes. In 1971, the company was relocated to its current headquarters in Beaverton and rebranded as Nike.
What was Nike’s original name?
Answer: Nike’s original name was Blue Ribbon Sports. The name was chosen by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman when they founded the company in 1964. The company changed its name to Nike in 1971, a name derived from the Greek goddess of victory.
When was Nike incorporated?
Answer: Nike was incorporated on January 25, 1968. Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman founded the company as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964 and it was rebranded to Nike in 1971. Nike went public in 1980 and has since become one of the world’s leading apparel and footwear companies.
How has Nike changed since it started?
Answer: Nike has come a long way since its inception in 1964. In the early years, Nike was focused solely on athletic footwear. Over the years, the company has expanded to include apparel, equipment, accessories, and technology products. Nike has also developed a strong presence in the digital space, launching innovative mobile apps and digital marketing campaigns.
Nike has become one of the most iconic brands in the world and their story began in 1964. Through the dedication of Nike’s founders, their innovative designs, and their commitment to excellence, Nike has become a beacon of success in the world of sports and fashion. As Nike celebrates its 56th anniversary this year, it is a testament to the power of hard work and determination that has kept the company at the forefront of the industry.
