Founder: Wilson Sporting Goods Co. was founded by Thomas E. Wilson in 1913. Thomas E. Wilson, originally an executive at a meatpacking company, transitioned into the sporting goods industry, leveraging his business acumen to grow the company into a significant player in the sports equipment market.
History:
Early Years: The company was initially formed as the Ashland Manufacturing Company in 1913, producing meat by-products like tennis racket strings and violin strings. In 1915, under Thomas E. Wilson's leadership, the company expanded into the sporting goods market and was renamed Wilson Sporting Goods Co.
1920s: Wilson began focusing on producing a wide range of sporting equipment, including tennis rackets, baseball gloves, and footballs. The company quickly became known for its high-quality products.
1930s-1950s: Wilson continued to innovate and expand, introducing new technologies and materials in their products. They became a prominent name in sports like baseball, football, tennis, and golf.
1960s-Present: Wilson has maintained its reputation for quality and innovation. The company expanded globally and diversified its product offerings, becoming a leading brand in various sports.
Production and Products:
Tennis: Wilson is renowned for its tennis equipment, especially its tennis rackets. Famous players like Roger Federer and Serena Williams have endorsed Wilson rackets, highlighting their quality and performance.
Baseball and Softball: Wilson produces a wide range of baseball and softball equipment, including gloves, bats, and protective gear. The Wilson A2000 glove is particularly famous among professional and amateur players.
Football: Wilson is the official supplier of footballs for the NFL. The Wilson Duke football is known for its superior craftsmanship and performance.
Golf: Wilson manufactures golf clubs, balls, and accessories. Their golf products are known for their innovation and high quality.
Basketball: Wilson also produces basketballs and other basketball equipment. They supply basketballs to various leagues and organizations.
Innovations: Wilson has a long history of innovation in sports equipment. They introduced the first leather football in the 1920s, the first double-core tennis ball in the 1970s, and have continuously developed new materials and designs to enhance sports performance.
Global Presence: Wilson Sporting Goods Co. has a significant global presence, with products available in numerous countries. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a loyal customer base worldwide.