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Reebok started in the 1890's by Joseph William Foster in England. The original mission of the company was to enhance performance in long-distance track events by improving equipment. The business started on a very low-scale, where all shoes were hand-made. The ever increasing demand for athletic apparel and shoes has made the company grow into a highly diversified operation with its products distributed in 28 countries.
Reebok USA., Ltd was formed in 1979 by Paul Fireman. The original marketing strategy was aimed at prestige and at high prices. In the beginning, the company had little luck in penetrating the market, and in 1981, PLC, a British wholesaler of footwear acquired 56 percent of the common stock in exchange for $77,500 in cash. Fireman and PLC agreed that neither party would sell its stock to third parties.
A few years later, Reebok's sales exceeded $1.5 million and the company contracted with a South Korean firm to manufacture the shoes. In 1982, the company introduces the first woman's athletic shoe. Sales rose to $3.5 million in 1982, and in 1983 the sales increased to $12.8 million. By 1985, Reebok's sales reached $307 million. The same year, Reebok International and Reebok USA., Ltd merged and Reebok International, Ltd was formed. Stock was issued to the public at $6, and in 1986 the price of one share rose to stunning $38.
In 1986, Reebok gave PLC the exclusive right to control, inspection and shipment of finished goods from South East Asia. Reebok pays the subsidiary 4% on the first sales of $100 million, 3% on the second, 2% on the second and finally 1% on of all purchases exceeding $300. At the same time, Fireman was elected chairman of the company.
In 1987, Fire ...