What Companies Does Nike Own?

Michael Weinstein

Entrepreneur

Michael Weinstein is a seasoned writer and a dedicated expert in work safety, footwear, and popular shoe brands. With years of research and expertise, he's...Read more

Michael Weinstein

Entrepreneur

Michael Weinstein is a seasoned writer and a dedicated expert in work safety, footwear, and popular shoe brands. With years of research and expertise, he's...Read more

If you’ve ever wondered what companies Nike owns, then you’re in the right place! Nike, known for its iconic swoosh logo and top-notch athletic gear, has expanded its empire over the years. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Nike and discover the companies it proudly calls its own.

So, what’s in Nike’s corporate family? Well, one of the notable companies under its umbrella is Converse. Yep, that’s right, the cool and classic sneaker brand that’s been around for decades. With its own unique style and legacy, Converse perfectly complements Nike’s sporty aesthetic.

But wait, there’s more! Nike also owns Hurley, a brand specializing in surf and beach apparel. If you’re a fan of the sun, sand, and waves, Hurley’s trendy designs will have you looking the part as you catch those epic waves or lounge by the shore.

Get ready to uncover even more exciting facts about the companies Nike owns. From iconic sneakers to beach-ready threads, Nike’s ownership extends to brands that cater to diverse styles and interests. So, let’s keep exploring to see what other surprises await us in the world of Nike’s acquisitions.

What Companies Does Nike Own?

Nike, the global leader in athletic footwear and apparel, has grown to be a powerhouse in the sports industry. But did you know that Nike owns several other companies? These subsidiaries play a crucial role in expanding Nike’s reach and influence. From footwear brands to technology companies, Nike has strategically acquired businesses that complement its core mission. In this article, we will explore some of the key companies that Nike owns and how they contribute to the overall success of the Nike brand.

Nike’s Portfolio: A Look at the Brands

One of the most well-known subsidiaries of Nike is Converse. Acquired by Nike in 2003, Converse is an iconic American shoe brand that specializes in casual and athletic footwear. While Converse operates as a separate entity, it benefits from Nike’s resources and distribution channels. Converse’s classic Chuck Taylor All-Star sneakers remain a popular choice among consumers worldwide.

Another notable brand in Nike’s portfolio is Hurley International. Founded in 1979 as a surfboard brand, Hurley has evolved into a lifestyle and sportswear label. Nike acquired Hurley in 2002, aiming to tap into the growing market of action sports apparel. With its focus on surfing, skateboarding, and snowboarding, Hurley brings a unique and authentic perspective to Nike’s offerings.

Additionally, Nike owns Jordan Brand, a subsidiary dedicated to the iconic basketball legend Michael Jordan. Established in 1984, Jordan Brand produces a wide range of basketball shoes, apparel, and accessories bearing Michael Jordan’s name and logo. The Jordan Brand has become synonymous with basketball culture, attracting athletes, sneaker enthusiasts, and fashion-forward individuals alike.

Tech and Innovation: Nike’s Acquisitions

Beyond footwear and apparel brands, Nike has also made strategic acquisitions in the technology and innovation space. One notable acquisition was the purchase of TraceMe, a Seattle-based tech startup focused on sports technology and fan engagement. By acquiring TraceMe in 2018, Nike aimed to leverage their expertise to enhance its digital capabilities and create more interactive experiences for fans.

Nike’s interest in technological advancements is further demonstrated by its acquisition of Invertex, an Israeli computer vision company. Invertex specialized in creating 3D scanning software for footwear and apparel, allowing for custom product solutions. This acquisition highlights Nike’s commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology to provide personalized experiences for its customers.

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is another area where Nike has focused its attention. The company acquired Morf Labs, a 3D printing startup, with the goal of incorporating 3D printing technology into its manufacturing processes. Nike believes that 3D printing can revolutionize the production of athletic footwear by offering customization, improved performance, and reduced waste.

Expanding Product Offerings: Nike and its Subsidiaries

Nike’s commitment to expanding its product offerings is evident in its acquisition of Celect, a retail analytics company. Celect specializes in providing data-driven insights to help retailers optimize their inventory and improve customer experiences. Nike plans to leverage Celect’s capabilities to enhance its own direct-to-consumer strategies, ensuring that customers have access to the right products at the right time.

In the fast-growing market of athleisure and sportswear, Nike acquired the American brand APL (Athletic Propulsion Labs) in 2020. APL is known for its innovative athletic shoes, with a focus on performance and style. With this acquisition, Nike aims to strengthen its presence in the luxury athletic footwear segment, catering to consumers who prioritize both fashion and functionality.

Lastly, we cannot overlook the impact of Nike’s acquisition of The Umbro Group in 2007. Umbro is a British sportswear and football equipment supplier with a rich heritage in soccer. By acquiring Umbro, Nike solidified its position in the football industry, gaining access to a vast global market and expanding its influence in the world’s most popular sport.

Taking Sports and Fashion to New Heights: Nike’s Ventures

Apart from acquisitions, Nike also supports innovative startups and ventures through its Nike Ventures division. Nike Ventures focuses on investing in companies that align with Nike’s strategic goals and values. One notable investment is in the shoe customization platform, shoes.com. This partnership allows Nike customers to design and customize their own shoes, further enhancing the brand’s commitment to personalization.

Another fascinating venture by Nike is the launch of the Nike Adapt line of self-lacing shoes. This groundbreaking technology uses sensors and motors to adjust the fit of the shoe automatically. The Nike Adapt shoes have gained significant attention and further solidify Nike’s reputation as a leader in technology-driven athletic footwear.

The ever-expanding portfolio of companies, brands, and ventures that Nike owns demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovation, athletic performance, and consumer-driven experiences. From iconic footwear brands like Converse and Jordan to technological advancements in 3D printing and retail analytics, Nike continues to push the boundaries of sports and fashion, shaping the future of the industry.

The Future of Nike’s Expansion

As Nike continues to grow and evolve, we can expect further strategic acquisitions and partnerships that align with the company’s vision. Whether it’s exploring new technologies, expanding into untapped markets, or collaborating with innovative startups, Nike will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of the sports industry. With a relentless focus on performance, style, and customer experience, Nike’s portfolio of companies will continue to shape the future of athletic footwear and apparel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about the companies that Nike owns.

1. Who are some of the companies that Nike owns?

Nike owns several well-known companies in the sports and fashion industries. Some of the companies under the Nike umbrella include Converse, Hurley, and Jordan Brand. These brands help Nike expand its reach and cater to a wider range of customers. Converse, for example, is famous for its iconic Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers, while Hurley specializes in surfwear and boardshorts. Jordan Brand, as the name suggests, focuses on basketball products and is endorsed by NBA legend Michael Jordan.

2. How does Nike benefit from owning these companies?

By owning these companies, Nike is able to tap into different markets and target various consumer segments. Each brand has its own unique identity and target audience, which allows Nike to offer a diverse range of products to meet different customer needs. This diversification also helps Nike reduce its reliance on a single brand, making the company more resilient to market fluctuations. Moreover, Nike can leverage the expertise and reputation of these subsidiary companies to enhance its overall brand image and attract new customers.

3. Are there any other notable companies that Nike owns?

Aside from Converse, Hurley, and Jordan Brand, Nike also owns several other companies. One notable brand is Cole Haan, which specializes in premium footwear and accessories. Umbro, a British sportswear company known for its association with soccer, is another brand under the Nike umbrella. Additionally, Nike owns the skateboarding brand Nike SB, as well as the athletic apparel company Starter. These subsidiary companies further contribute to Nike’s global presence and market dominance.

4. How does Nike maintain the individual brand identities of its subsidiary companies?

Nike understands the importance of preserving the unique brand identities of its subsidiaries. While there may be shared resources and synergies between the brands, Nike allows each company to operate with a level of autonomy. This enables the brands to maintain their distinct personalities, design aesthetics, and target markets. By doing so, Nike ensures that each brand can cater to its specific customer base without diluting its authenticity. This approach has been successful in helping Nike not only retain loyal customers of the subsidiary companies but also attract new customers who resonate with each brand’s identity.

5. Does Nike acquire new companies frequently?

Nike has a history of acquiring companies that align with its strategic goals and complement its existing portfolio. While the frequency of acquisitions can vary, Nike has made strategic acquisitions over the years to expand its product offerings and strengthen its market presence. These acquisitions are carefully evaluated to ensure they align with Nike’s brand image and strategic direction. By acquiring new companies, Nike can tap into emerging trends or target specific consumer segments, ensuring the company continues to evolve and meet the ever-changing demands of consumers.

Summary

Nike owns several popular companies that you might have heard of. One of them is Converse, which makes cool sneakers. Another is Hurley, a brand known for its surf and skate clothing. If you’re into sports equipment, you might be familiar with Bauer, a company that specializes in hockey gear. Nike also owns Jordan Brand, named after the famous basketball player Michael Jordan. And finally, there’s Nike Golf, which produces golf apparel and equipment. So, next time you see these brands, remember that they are a part of the Nike family!