Process+Analysis

Writing Peyton Byrne Process Analysis Piece 10-20-11

How Are Nike Shoes __Really__ Made? Since the age of Michael Jordan, Nike shoes have been the “hot seller” for stylish new designs in shoes and clothing. Popularity for this specific brand has increased with each day. But what do we really know about Nike? How are their shoes really made? From being made, shipped, and sold, how does a high demand company keep up with all its customers? Back in the 1970’s, Nike primarily made its shoes in Taiwan and South Korea where labor laws were closely monitored. They looked for more places where laws about protective labor are not as strictly enforced. Nike then decided to go to China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. In these countries they have sweatshops. In these factories, Nike hires children, adults, teens, elderly, and anyone who is willing to work. Not only do they have KIDS working, but also they pay them very cheaply. The little ones get paid for working the machines that build the shoes, and maintaining the facility. So basically those “fly kicks” by Nike you’re sporting were possibly made by a poor 5-year-old in China. That’s how Nike shoes are made. After that they are shipped all over the world. Companies like Champ’s, Dick’s, Finish Line, and Footlocker, all place orders for Nike shoes. Once the factories get that order, they box up the shoe order placed and put it on a huge product truck. Depending on the distance of where the shoes need to go, they will drive it to a shipyard or airplane, load it onto said type of transportation, and send it off to the general area of where the destination for the shoe is. The products get put into another truck and are sent off to the store. At the store, they get ready to put it on sale. In the back of every store is a place where some other products are held. Some products go there while others go out for show. Then you, the customer, come into the store, see a shoe that fits your personality, and buy it. That’s it. Pretty simple. From the factories, to the store, Nike maintains their company by being efficient in the factories, transporting them expertly, and cunningly selling them. It is no wonder why they are a leading brand in the past, present, and probably the future.