Foundation of adidas
Adidas was founded by Adolf Dassler in Herzogenaurach, Germany. The company was officially registered on August 18, 1949, marking the beginning of its journey in the sportswear industry.
1949
1954
World Cup Innovation
Adidas gained international recognition when the German national football team won the 1954 FIFA World Cup wearing adidas boots with revolutionary screw-in studs, which provided better traction on the wet pitch.
1960
Introduction of the Three-Stripes Logo
Adidas introduced its iconic three-stripes logo, which was initially used for practical purposes to provide stability to the shoe but eventually became a symbol of the brand.
1970
Adidas Telstar Football
Adidas designed the Telstar football, which became the official ball for the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico. This marked the beginning of adidas's long-standing relationship with FIFA.
1984
Introduction of the ZX Series
Adidas launched the ZX series, a line of running shoes that combined innovative technology with stylish design, becoming popular among athletes and casual wearers alike.
1986
Partnership with Run-D.M.C.
Adidas formed a groundbreaking partnership with hip-hop group Run-D.M.C., which helped bridge the gap between sportswear and street fashion, significantly boosting the brand's cultural relevance.
1993
Acquisition by Robert Louis-Dreyfus
Robert Louis-Dreyfus took over as CEO and initiated a series of changes to revitalize the brand, including streamlining operations and focusing on core products.
1997
Acquisition of Salomon Group
Adidas acquired the Salomon Group, a French company specializing in outdoor sports equipment, which led to the formation of the Adidas-Salomon AG group.
2004
Launch of Adidas 1
Adidas introduced the world's first intelligent shoe, the Adidas 1, which featured a microprocessor that adjusted the shoe's cushioning based on the wearer's activity.
2005
Rebranding to Adidas Group
The company rebranded itself from Adidas-Salomon AG to Adidas Group, reflecting its diverse portfolio and global presence.
2006
Acquisition of Reebok
Adidas acquired Reebok, a major competitor in the sportswear market, for $3.8 billion, significantly expanding its market share and product offerings.
2011
Launch of Adidas miCoach
Adidas launched miCoach, a digital fitness platform that combined wearable technology with personalized coaching, enhancing the brand's presence in the digital fitness space.
2013
Introduction of Boost Technology
Adidas introduced Boost technology, a revolutionary cushioning material that provided superior energy return and comfort, becoming a staple in their running and lifestyle shoes.
2015
Partnership with Kanye West
Adidas partnered with rapper Kanye West to launch the Yeezy line, which became a cultural phenomenon and significantly boosted the brand's profile in the fashion industry.
2020
Sustainability Initiatives
Adidas committed to sustainability by launching initiatives such as the use of recycled ocean plastics in their products and setting goals for carbon neutrality.
2021
Launch of the Stan Smith Mylo
Adidas introduced the Stan Smith Mylo, a shoe made from mycelium (mushroom-based material), showcasing the brand's commitment to sustainable innovation.
2023
Expansion of Digital Presence
Adidas expanded its digital presence with enhanced e-commerce platforms and virtual experiences, adapting to the growing trend of online shopping and digital engagement.
