NIKE, Inc., named for the Greek goddess of victory, is the world's leading designer, marketer, and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Operating segments for the Nike brand are: North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Greater China, Asia Pacific and Latin America. Wholly-owned subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets, and distributes casual footwear, apparel and accessories. The company was founded by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight in 1972 and is headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon.