Just doing it

Article Abstract:

Leading athletic shoe manufacturer Nike Inc was founded by Philip Knight in 1972 as an importer of high-quality running shoes. He believed that if he could get a few 'cool guys' to use his products, then his business would be a success. This astoundingly simple strategy began to pay off in the mid-1980s when Nike managed to recruit leading basketball player Michael Jordan to endorse its products. The Oregon-based firm has stuck to this strategy ever since and has gone on to become the industry leader. Nike now has a 40% share of the US market and a 37% of the European market. However, 1998 had not been an easy year for the company even though it posted annual sales of more than $9.5 billion. It has had to contend with the Asian crisis, public relations problems due to its use of cheap labor in Southeast Asia, and the departure of key executives Robert Falcone and Rudy Chapa. Knight does not seem to be overly concerned about these issues and is in fact looking forward to the challenge of pursuing true globalization.

Other Footwear Manufacturing, Athletic Footwear ex Canvas, Footwear, except rubber, not elsewhere classified, Management, Nike Inc., Company Profile, Athletic shoes, Athletic shoe industry, NKE, Knight, Phil (New Zealander musician)

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The lottery of competition

Article Abstract:

The council of Berkshire, England does not adhere to the UK government's policy of compulsory competitive tendering (CCT) for the public contracting of services due to a lack of competitors within the region. Although it supports the policy, the council's prior experience with CCT was characterized by higher costs, misquotes of tenders and lack of expertise. Berkshire 's non-adherence to CCT has allowed it to spur competition. This, in turn, has led to financial reform reforms, the adoption of a business style of management,and the improvement of public service provision. The Berkshire council wants to procure better services without the attendant worries of competitive bidding. The government should recognize this and allow regions optional flexibility.

Standards, Services, Contracts, Municipal services, Independent contractors, Government purchasing, Berkshire, England

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