Consumer >> CEO Interviews >> April 27, 1998
STEVEN NICHOLS is a veteran in the footwear business, having sold shoes
since his teen years, when he worked in his grandfather's shoe store.
Nichols purchased K-Swiss in 1987, taking the company public in 1990.
During that time, K-Swiss' product line expanded from the original
Classic leather tennis shoe to over 30 different styles, including
tennis, outdoor, nautical and children's shoes. Prior to acquiring K-
Swiss, Nichols spent seven years at Stride Rite Corporation. From 1982
to 1986, Nichols was president of Stride Rite Footwear, the
corporation's largest and most profitable division, which manufactured,
marketed and distributed shoes, sneakers and related products. At the
Stride Rite Corporation, Nichols was also director and vice president of
merchandise and marketing plans, overseeing the marketing of Sperry
Topsiders, Herman Survivors, Keds and Grasshopper shoes. From 1979 to
1982, Nichols was chairman of Stride Rite Retail Corporation, the
largest branded retailer of children's shoes in the United States.
During his tenure, Stride Rite's retail sales doubled. Nichols holds a
bachelor of science degree in banking and finance from New York
University. Profile
you see as the challenges and opportunities over the next few years for
your company.
Mr. Nichols: K-Swiss is a 32 year
