Founded by German immigrants in Portland, Oregon in 1938, Columbia Sportswear Company™ has grown from its humble beginnings as a small family-owned hat distributorship to an internationally renowned sportswear manufacturer, employing more than 2,700 people around the world and boasting net sales of over a billion dollars annually. Heading the company for nearly forty years is 83 year-old matriarch Gert Boyle, Chairman of the Board, and her son, Tim Boyle, President and Chief Executive Officer. Columbia Sportswear Co., named for the river that ran outside Mrs. Boyle's parent's hat shop in Oregon, has become one of the world's largest providers of waterproof, breathable performance products designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. Columbia's commitment to quality and innovation has allowed the company to grow to include the brands Montrail, Mountain Hardwear, Pacific Trail, and Sorel. Columbia remains committed to community-minded projects, and provides both financial and volunteer support to several organizations that specialize in direct human assistance, environmental conservation, and promotion of the arts and education. Columbia's rugged products are now available at more than 13,000 retailers in 72 countries world-wide.