Adidas The European alternative to Nike
German sporting goods manufacturer using recycled materials
About Adidas
The Bavarian corporation produces sportswear using recycled plastics and ocean plastic. Production follows a documented supply chain in accordance with EU transparency standards, in contrast to US competitors.
Highlights
- ✓ Founded in 1949 in Bavaria, European sports brand
- ✓ Parley collection made from recycled ocean plastic
- ✓ Stan Smith made from 50% recycled materials
- ✓ Technology research centre in Herzogenaurach, Germany
- ✓ Wide range: sport, lifestyle, outdoor
Why European?
- → European company rooted in Bavaria
- → Production under EU environmental and labour standards
- → Transparent sustainability reporting
- → European distribution centres for the EU market
Pricing
T-shirts from 25 € · Running shoes from 60 € · Performance collection 80 to 200 €
Frequently asked questions about Adidas
What is Adidas and what is it used for? +
Adidas is a German sporting goods company headquartered in Herzogenaurach (Bavaria), founded in 1949. Adidas AG produces sportswear, shoes, and accessories for football, running, basketball, training, lifestyle, and outdoor. Well-known product lines include Adidas Originals, Terrex (outdoor), and Adizero (running). The company is listed on the DAX and employed around 62,000 people worldwide in 2024.
Is Adidas manufactured in Europe? +
The majority of Adidas products are manufactured in Asia, primarily in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India. In Europe, there are production facilities in Turkey, Italy, France, and other countries, accounting for approximately 20 to 30 percent of production volume. In Germany, the historic Scheinfeld factory near Herzogenaurach still exists. Design, research, and brand management are entirely based at the Herzogenaurach headquarters.
What sustainability initiatives does Adidas pursue? +
Adidas has been working with Parley for the Oceans since 2015, producing shoes and jerseys from recycled ocean plastic. The "End Plastic Waste" initiative aims for pure recycled materials by 2030. Over 96 percent of the polyester used in 2024 was recycled according to the company. The "Made to be Remade" program includes fully recyclable products.
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Entry verified on 08.05.2026