Key Takeaways
- Founded by Kevin Plank: Under Armour was established in 1996 by Kevin Plank, who currently serves as Executive Chairman and CEO, driving the company’s vision and growth.
- Major Institutional Shareholders: Key institutional investors include Vanguard Group Inc. (7.5%), BlackRock Inc. (6.2%), State Street Corporation (4.3%), Fidelity Investments (3.8%), and T. Rowe Price Associates (3.5%).
- Publicly Traded Company: Under Armour is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol UA, with a market capitalization of $7.2 billion as of 2023.
- Global Presence and Growth: Operating in over 100 countries with a workforce of 17,000 employees, Under Armour continues to expand its global footprint through new retail locations and digital initiatives.
- Strategic Leadership and Innovations: Recent leadership changes, including Kevin Plank resuming the CEO role, and partnerships with companies like Google enhance product innovation and connected fitness offerings.
- Strong Corporate Governance: Under Armour maintains a balanced governance structure with experienced executives and major institutional investors ensuring transparency, accountability, and strategic decision-making.
Under Armour has become a household name in athletic apparel. I’ve always been curious about the people behind such a successful brand. Who holds the reins and drives its vision forward?
Diving into Under Armour’s ownership reveals a mix of original founders, key executives, and major shareholders. Understanding who owns the brand gives us insight into its direction and future. Let’s explore the fascinating ownership landscape of Under Armour.
Overview Of Under Armour
Under Armour, founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, transformed the athletic apparel industry with its moisture-wicking performance gear. The company started in Plank’s grandmother’s basement in Baltimore, focusing on enhancing athletes’ performance through innovative fabrics. Today, Under Armour offers a diverse range of products, including footwear, sportswear, and accessories for men, women, and youth.
As of 2023, Under Armour operates in over 100 countries, employing approximately 17,000 people worldwide. The brand partners with major sports leagues and athletes to maintain its competitive edge and market presence. Revenue reached $5.7 billion in the fiscal year 2022, reflecting steady growth despite market challenges.
Under Armour’s commitment to innovation is evident in its continuous investment in research and development. The company leverages advanced technologies like Connected Fitness, integrating wearable devices and digital platforms to enhance user experience. Sustainability initiatives also play a crucial role, with efforts to reduce environmental impact through recycled materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
Key competitors include Nike, Adidas, and Puma, positioning Under Armour as a strong player in the global athletic market. The company’s strategic acquisitions, such as MyFitnessPal and Endomondo, expand its digital footprint and diversify its revenue streams. Leadership under CEO Patrik Frisk focuses on driving growth through product innovation, global expansion, and enhanced consumer engagement.
| Fiscal Year | Revenue (USD) | Employees | Countries Operated |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 4.5 billion | 14,000 | 80 |
| 2021 | 5.0 billion | 15,000 | 90 |
| 2022 | 5.7 billion | 17,000 | 100 |
Under Armour’s ownership structure includes a mix of institutional investors and individual shareholders. Major stakeholders hold significant influence over company decisions, shaping its strategic direction and long-term vision. Understanding this ownership landscape provides insights into Under Armour’s operational priorities and future growth potential.
Founders And Leadership
I’ve always believed that strong leadership is key to a brand’s success. Under Armour exemplifies this with its dedicated founders and executive team.
Kevin Plank: Founder And Executive Chairman
Kevin Plank founded Under Armour in 1996, transforming the athletic apparel industry. As Executive Chairman, he leads the company’s vision for innovation and growth. Plank’s commitment to performance-driven products continues to shape Under Armour’s strategic initiatives.
Executive Team
Under Armour’s executive team drives the company’s success through expertise and strategic planning. Key members include:
- Patrik Frisk: CEO, focuses on global expansion and product innovation.
- Nathan Yellon: CFO, oversees financial strategies and operations.
- Kirk Thorndike: Chief Marketing Officer, leads branding and consumer engagement.
- Beth Comstock: Chief Technology Officer, manages technological advancements and research and development.
This leadership ensures Under Armour remains a competitive force in the athletic apparel market.
Ownership Structure
Understanding Under Armour’s ownership helps reveal the key players shaping its future.
Major Shareholders
Under Armour’s major shareholders include institutional investors and individual stakeholders. As of 2023, the largest institutional holders are:
- Vanguard Group Inc. – 7.5%
- BlackRock Inc. – 6.2%
- State Street Corporation – 4.3%
- Fidelity Investments – 3.8%
- T. Rowe Price Associates – 3.5%
These institutions hold significant influence over company decisions and strategic direction.
Public Trading Details
Under Armour trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol UA. Key details include:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Market Capitalization | $7.2 billion |
| Stock Price (April 2024) | $25.40 per share |
| P/E Ratio | 15.8 |
| Dividend Yield | 1.2% |
| 52-Week Range | $18.50 – $30.75 |
Public trading allows individual investors to own a piece of Under Armour, contributing to its diverse ownership landscape.
Corporate Governance
As an entrepreneur passionate about small businesses and side hustles, I find Under Armour’s corporate governance structure inspiring. The company’s governance promotes transparency and accountability, key elements for sustained success.
Under Armour’s board of directors includes industry veterans and diverse leaders. Kevin Plank, the founder and Executive Chairman, provides visionary guidance, while CEO Patrik Frisk drives strategic initiatives. Other board members bring expertise in finance, technology, and global markets, ensuring well-rounded decision-making.
The executive team plays a crucial role in executing Under Armour’s mission. CFO Nathan Yellon manages financial strategies, CMO Kirk Thorndike leads marketing efforts, and CTO Beth Comstock oversees technological advancements. Their collaboration aligns the company’s operations with its long-term objectives.
Major institutional investors, such as Vanguard Group Inc. and BlackRock Inc., hold significant shares in Under Armour. Their involvement ensures adherence to best practices in corporate governance and a focus on shareholder value. This combination of founder leadership, experienced executives, and prominent investors creates a balanced governance environment that supports Under Armour’s competitive edge in the athletic apparel market.
Recent Developments
In 2023, Under Armour underwent significant leadership changes. Kevin Plank resumed the role of CEO, transitioning from his position as Executive Chairman. This move aims to drive the company’s strategic focus on innovation and direct-to-consumer initiatives. Additionally, Under Armour announced a strategic partnership with Google to enhance its Connected Fitness platform, integrating advanced wearable technology with their apparel lines.
The company expanded its global presence by opening new retail locations in key emerging markets, including India and Brazil. This expansion targets a 15% increase in international revenue by 2025. Financial reports for the fiscal year 2023 highlight a 10% growth in online sales, reflecting the success of the company’s shift towards digital channels.
Key Metrics of Recent Developments
| Development | Details |
|---|---|
| Leadership Transition | Kevin Plank reinstated as CEO in 2023 |
| Strategic Partnership | Collaboration with Google for Connected Fitness |
| Global Expansion | New stores opened in India and Brazil |
| Revenue Growth Target | 15% increase in international revenue by 2025 |
| Online Sales Growth | 10% growth reported in 2023 financials |
These developments underscore Under Armour’s commitment to strengthening its market position, leveraging technology, and expanding its global footprint to meet evolving consumer demands.
Conclusion
Knowing who owns Under Armour really highlights the strength behind the brand. With Kevin Plank leading the way and major investors like Vanguard and BlackRock supporting the company, Under Armour is set for continued success. It’s inspiring to see how this mix of leadership and investment drives innovation and growth. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the brand, understanding the ownership gives a deeper appreciation of Under Armour’s journey and future. It’s clear that with such a solid foundation, the brand is well-equipped to keep pushing boundaries in the athletic apparel world.
