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Founded in 1964 by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, Nike has grown from a small startup to a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel. Originally named Blue Ribbon Sports, the company officially became Nike, Inc. in 1971, inspired by the Greek goddess of victory, Nike.
Bowerman, a track and field coach at the University of Oregon, and Knight, a middle-distance runner under Bowerman, shared a vision to improve athletic performance through better footwear. Their partnership began with a simple handshake, and they started selling running shoes imported from Japan. However, Bowerman soon began experimenting with shoe designs in his garage, leading to the creation of innovative and high-performance footwear.
In 1971, Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student, designed the now-famous Nike Swoosh logo for a mere $35. The logo symbolized motion and speed, perfectly capturing the essence of the brand. Years later, in 1988, Nike introduced its iconic slogan, "Just Do It," which has since become one of the most recognizable motivational phrases in the world, resonating with athletes and non-athletes alike.
Nike has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, introducing groundbreaking technologies such as Air Max, Flyknit, and React foam. These advancements have not only enhanced athletic performance but also revolutionized the fashion industry. Additionally, Nike's partnerships with legendary athletes like Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, and Cristiano Ronaldo have solidified its status as a cultural and athletic powerhouse.
Today, Nike operates in over 190 countries, employing thousands of people worldwide. Beyond sportswear, the company is committed to sustainability, aiming to reduce its environmental footprint through initiatives like the "Move to Zero" campaign, which focuses on achieving zero carbon and zero waste.
As Nike continues to innovate and inspire, the brand remains dedicated to empowering athletes and creating products that blend performance, style, and sustainability. With a legacy built on passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence, Nike's story is far from over.