Fit Niche

Entering the competitive sports and fitness industry nearly 36 years ago, Nike is a major manufacturer of athletic shoes, apparel and sports equipment. The company takes its name from the Greek goddess of victory, Nike. Nike s acquired companies extend its reach within and beyond sports, and include Cole Haan, Bauer Nike Hockey, Hurley International and Converse, in addition to Exeter Brands Group, based in New York, includes the Starter, Team Starter and Asphalt brand names and is the master licensee of the Shaq and Dunkman brands. Operating on six continents, Nike employs approximately 24,300 associates. The company operates facilities in Oregon, Tennessee, North Carolina and The Netherlands, and operates leased facilities for more than 15 Niketowns, 200 Nike Factory Stores, a dozen NikeWomen stores and approximately 100 sales and administrative offices. Nike maintains its international headquarters in Beaverton, Ore. The global company reported net revenues exceeding $13.5 billion in 2005. Nike maintains a store in Ellenton, Fla.