At the head of the company that introduced the breakthrough Columbia Interchange System, where a shell and liner combine for multiple wearing options, is 80- year-old Gert Boyle, chairman of the board. In 1937 her parents bought a small hat distributorship in Portland, Ore., whose unreliable deliveries prompted the couple to manufacture their own products. Now Columbia is one of the world's largest outerwear brands and the leading seller of skiwear in the U.S. The product line includes outerwear, sportswear, rugged footwear and accessories.
Tim Boyle, CEO said in an April 28,2005 press release, "Our first-quarter results reflect the continued strong momentum in our spring- related sportswear and footwear product categories. Net sales increased in every geographic region in which we operate and in each of our product categories, with particular strength in the U.S. market, which accounted for the majority of our overall sales growth during the quarter. We are pleased with the continued strength of our spring business."
IW 50 Best Manufacturing Company
