This comes as a shock to many with the news that Nike has decided to relinquish its relationship with Cole Haan and Umbro today in a report in efforts to focus on their sports brands, including Nike, Converse, Hurley and Jordan.
“We see tremendous opportunity to accelerate profitable growth around the world by continuing to deliver innovation and inspire consumers through the NIKE brand.” said Mark Parker, President & CEO of NIKE, Inc. “We also see significant potential in Jordan, Converse and Hurley, which have unique consumer relationships that complement the NIKE Brand.”*
“Divesting of Umbro and Cole Haan will allow us to focus our resources on the highest-potential opportunities for NIKE, Inc. to continue to drive sustainable, profitable growth for our shareholders.”*
Cole Haan, which specializes in casual and dress leather footwear and bags, was acquired by NIKE, Inc. in 1988. The company is based in New York. Umbro is a football (soccer) specialist brand based in Manchester, UK, acquired by NIKE, Inc. in 2008. The process of divesting of these two businesses will begin immediately, and is expected to be complete by the end of NIKE, Inc.’s fiscal 2013 (May 31, 2013).”
