Fascinating Puma Facts: The “Forever Faster” Sportswear Brand

Puma, the German sportswear manufacturer with the “Forever Faster” slogan, has been a formidable competitor to global giants Nike and Adidas since its inception. Founded by Rudolf Dassler in 1924, Puma’s history is filled with interesting facts and milestones.

The Dassler Brothers and the Birth of Puma

Rudolf Dassler, the elder son of Christoph Dassler, who worked at a shoe factory, started Puma along with his younger brother Adolf. The two brothers founded their company in 1924, but their disagreements and misunderstandings eventually led to a split in 1948. While Rudolf named his company “Ruda,” it was soon changed to Puma, inspired by the strong, agile, and fast characteristics of the puma animal.

The Creation of the Iconic Puma Logo

Lutz Backes, a famous caricaturist at the time, designed the Puma logo in 1948. The company offered to pay him a cent for every Puma item sold, but Backes refused and demanded upfront payment instead. He was given a pair of shoes and a sports bag in exchange.

Puma vs. Adidas: The Rivalry Continues

Despite the split, Puma and Adidas continued their rivalry in the footwear industry. Their hometown, Herzogenaurach, was famously divided, with residents inspecting each other’s shoes as a sign of loyalty.

Record-Breaking Women Empowerment Campaign

In 2012, Puma launched a women empowerment campaign, challenging participants to hold the abdominal plank position for over a minute. Over 1,600 women successfully completed the challenge.

First Soccer Boots with Screw-In Studs

Puma’s Super Atom soccer boots, the first to feature screw-in studs, were worn by several West German national team members in the late 1940s.

Working Conditions and Controversies

Puma’s working conditions have faced scrutiny, with reports of labor issues in Cambodia and China. In 2012, a protestor was shot during a demonstration against the company’s practices, while 30 workers in China reportedly fainted due to harsh working conditions.

Legendary Partnerships and Sponsorships

Puma has sponsored notable soccer stars like Neymar, Marco Reus, Christian Pulisic, and Antoine Griezmann. It also holds a 5% stake in Borussia Dortmund and supplies the team with kits. In athletics, Puma sponsors teams from Brazil, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and Portugal.

Celebrity Collaborations

Puma has collaborated with various celebrities, including Rihanna (appointed as creative director for the womenswear line in 2014), The Weeknd, and Selena Gomez.

Innovations Before Their Time: Fitness Trackers and ai

Puma introduced fitness trackers in the late 1980s, featuring computer chips to record steps and calories. Puma also entered the E-Sports market by partnering with professional gaming organizations.

Global Recognition and Impact

Puma is the third largest sportswear manufacturer globally, known for designing athletic and casual accessories, apparel, and footwear.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Influence: Fascinating Puma Facts

The Dassler Brothers’ Split and the Birth of Puma

Rudolf Dassler, the older son of a shoemaker, founded Puma in 1948 after his split from his younger brother Adolf and their shoe company. Initially named “Ruda,” the brand was later changed to Puma based on consumer feedback, emphasizing strength, endurance, agility, and speed.

The Creation of the Iconic Puma Logo

Lutz Backes, a caricaturist at the time, designed the Puma logo. Although he was offered a penny per Puma item sold, he declined and demanded upfront payment, potentially missing out on significant earnings.

The Town of Bent Necks: The Rivalry Between Puma and Adidas

Despite the split, the rivalry between Puma and Adidas continued to intensify. In Herzogenaurach, Germany, individuals would inspect each other’s shoes due to their allegiance to one of the brands.

Puma’s Influence in Soccer: The Pele Pact and Iconic Moments

In the soccer world, Puma sponsored Brazilian legend Pele during the 1970 FIFA World Cup. The “Pele Pact” between Adidas and Puma was broken when Puma reneged on their agreement, leading to a marketing coup.

Puma’s Commitment to Women: Empowering Campaigns and Records

Puma’s #DoYou campaign encouraged thousands of women to hold the abdominal plank position for a minute, setting a world record in 2014.

Innovative Products and Technological Advancements

Puma has a history of technological innovation, including the introduction of the first soccer boots with screw-in studs in 1948 and the development of smart footwear in 1986.

Expanding Horizons: Partnerships with Celebrities and E-Sports

Puma has collaborated with various celebrities, including Rihanna, The Weeknd, and Selena Gomez. Additionally, the brand has entered the E-Sports market by partnering with organizations to reach new audiences.

Puma’s Global Impact: A Third Largest Sportswear Manufacturer

Today, Puma is the third largest sportswear manufacturer in the world and continues to influence the market with its commitment to sports and innovation.

Did you know that Puma, one of the world’s leading sportswear brands, was founded by Rudolf Dassler in 1924? Initially, the company was a part of the Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik, where Rudolf and his younger brother Adolf both worked. However, sibling rival