Research

NIKE

Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, helped others succeed in times of war. NIKE, the world's #1 shoemaker, does more dominating than assisting, to capture more than 20% of the US athletic shoe market. It designs and sells shoes for a variety of sports, including baseball, cheerleading, golf, volleyball, hiking, tennis, and football. NIKE also sells Cole Haan dress and casual shoes and a line of athletic apparel and equipment. In addition, it operates NIKETOWN shoe and sportswear stores, NIKE factory outlets, and NIKE Women shops. NIKE sells its products throughout the US and in more than 180 other countries. In 2006 NIKE veteran Mark Parker succeeded Bill Perez as president and CEO. It's buying Umbro.

Timberland

Even non-hikers can get a kick out of Timberlands. The Timberland Company is best known for making and marketing men's, women's, and kids' footwear. The firm's footwear includes its popular yellow hiking boots, boat shoes, dress and outdoor casual footwear, and sandals. Its merchandise also includes apparel (outerwear, shirts, pants, socks) and accessories, such as sunglasses, watches, and belts. Timberland has about 200 company-owned and some 550 franchised stores in Asia, Canada, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and the US, and it sells worldwide in department and athletic stores. The founding Swartz family, including CEO Jeffrey Swartz, controls about 70% of Timberland's voting power.

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