Nike acquired Umbro in 2008 to expand its position in football, known as soccer in the United States.
Umbro was founded in England in 1924 and became closely associated with football clothing, team kits, and equipment. Its heritage gave Nike access to a well-established specialist brand with strong recognition in the sport’s traditional market.
The acquisition is sometimes confused with Nike’s purchases of other brands. Nike bought Converse in 2003, while Cole Haan was acquired earlier and later sold. Umbro therefore represents a distinct part of Nike’s expansion into international football apparel.
Nike later sold Umbro in 2012 to Iconix Brand Group. The sale reflected a shift in Nike’s portfolio toward its core Nike brand and selected major subsidiaries, even though football remained an important category for the company.