Nike celebrates anniversary

JAKARTA (JP): Footwear producer Nike Inc Indonesia, a subsidiary of giant footwear producer Nike International, celebrates 10 years in Indonesia this month.

Nike Inc Indonesia's country manager Tony Nava said that during its 10 years here, the company has become a pioneer in the footwear manufacturing industry for improving workplace conditions and benefits for its workers.

"Nike is committed to continuing its support of Indonesian development through its local and international partnership companies," he said.

"We believe that Nike's existence in Indonesia has encouraged the establishment of other multinationals. The athletic shoe industry in Indonesia has grown rapidly, and at the same time, Nike, especially its shoes, has become one of the leading brands produced in Indonesia."

According to Nava, Nike contributed 50 percent of the total export value of the Indonesian shoe industry last year. He also said that Nike has created work opportunities for over 70,000 Indonesians in its footwear factories alone, and has indirectly created thousands more job opportunities through its vendors and supply chains. (gis)