GETTING BACK TO ASICS: COMPANY TO REORGANIZE

     With sales down and employees "reeling from a layoff
announced" late last week, execs at Asics Tiger Corp. are meeting
today to "map out a new long-term strategy and figure out how to
slash expenses."  The sport shoe and athletic clothing maker is
looking to reduce spending in every phase of operation.  The
layoffs have been a result of "sluggish sales."  Last year, Asics
sales fell 10%, "though how many dollars that represents isn't
clear."  The company, which disclosed sales in the early '90s,
when it was growing at a rate of about 20% a year, now keeps
specific sales data private.  A spokesperson would only say that
Asics generates at least $250M in revenue a year.  Asics, like
other athletic shoe makers, "has been hurt by the popularity of
boots and sandals."  Asics spokesperson Lisa Brama:  "The hip-hop
trend has gone on longer than we anticipated.  Our hope and
belief is that athletic shoes will become fashionable again,
particularly next year with the Olympics" (Andre Mouchard, ORANGE
COUNTY REGISTER, 3/21).