As recently as four months ago, Nike was giving
"serious thought" to developing its own line of tennis
racquets, according to Dick Squires of TENNIS WEEK. But
contrary to rumors that had it acquiring Wilson or Prince in
entering the racquet business, Squires writes Nike's plan
was to "research and develop their own unique frames."
However, those plans were "put on hold" after the success of
Tiger Woods, and Nike's tennis interest was put to the side
"for at least two years." But Nike's recent hiring of
former Prince and Head racquet marketeer Ian Arthur has
"once again" fueled rumors that Nike may be getting into the
tennis business (TENNIS WEEK, 9/18 issue).
DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT: Nike has begun issuing
wallet-sized Code of Conduct cards in the native languages
of its contract factory workers and managers in Asia. Over
100,000 Nike workers will receive cards featuring health and
safety tips in 11 languages. Nike says the cards "represent
one of the first key initiatives [it] has implemented in
response to recommendations" by former UN Ambassador Andrew
Young in his GoodWorks report from earlier this year (Nike).
AIR REECE: Nike will begin distribution of Gabrielle
Reece's new shoe, the Air Zoom GRII, beginning October 1.
Suggested retail price is $115 (Nike).
