Export networks consist of brand name companies, trading companies and overseas buying offices who are in charge of distributing the finished shoes to retailers.

The major companies who control this part of the supply chain are brand named companies like Nike and adidas.

Nike and adidas only design and market their shoes.

Once Nike and adidas complete their designs, they are sent to overseas buying offices which contract to Asian factories that produce the shoes.

This practice gives these companies a decided advantage within the industry.