NIKE

Description

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 a hefty share 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, as well as athletic apparel and equipment. In addition, NIKE 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 bought Umbro in 2008.

Billabong

Description

If a surfer says, "Dude, pass me my Billabong," he's just asking for his T-shirt. Billabong International makes Billabong brand surf and extreme sports (skateboarding and snowboarding) apparel and accessories. Products sporting its wave logo include board shorts, swimwear, T-shirts, jackets, backpacks, watches, and footwear. Board riders and wannabes can buy the firm's gear at specialty sport stores and a few Billabong stores in more than 100 countries. The company sponsors surfers, skaters, and pro surfing tournaments in Australia, South Africa, and Spain. Founder Gordon Merchant owns about 16% of Billabong, which bought US skateboard company Sector 9 in July 2008.