Nike is the world leader in athletic footwear and apparel. The Nike swoosh is one of the most recognized logos, as well as one of the most reputable athletic sponsors in the world. Nike employed approximately 56,500 people and operated more than 850 retail stores worldwide in 2014. Much of Nike's success can be attributed to the brands worldwide marketing campaign which uses sponsorship agreements with celebrity athletes, professional sports teams and college athletic programs to use their products for the promotion of their technology and design.