Columbia Sportswear 2011 Annual Report Download - page 14

of Manufacturing Practices (“SMP”). Columbia sources products around the world and values legal, ethical and
fair treatment of people involved in manufacturing our products. Each factory producing products for us is
monitored regularly against these standards. Additional information about SMP and corporate responsibility
programs may be found at www.columbia.com.
Competition
The markets for apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment are highly competitive. In each of our
geographic markets, we face significant competition from numerous and varying competitors. Some of our large
wholesale customers also market competitive apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment under their own
private labels. Our licensees operate in very competitive markets, such as those for apparel, footwear, sunglasses
and watches. In addition, our direct-to-consumer channels expose us to competitors who operate retail stores in
outlet malls and key metropolitan markets, as well as competitors who sell product online. We believe that the
primary competitive factors in the market for active outdoor apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment are
brand strength, product innovation, product design, functionality, durability and price.
Government Regulation
Many of our international shipments are subject to existing or potential governmental tariff and non-tariff
barriers to trade, such as import duties and potential safeguard measures that may limit the quantity of various
types of goods that may be imported into the United States and other countries. These trade barriers often
represent a material portion of the cost of the merchandise. Our products are also subject to domestic and foreign
product safety and environmental standards, laws and other regulations, which are increasingly restrictive and
complex. Although we diligently monitor these standards and restrictions, a state, federal or foreign government
may impose new or adjusted quotas, duties, safety requirements, material restrictions, or other restrictions or
regulations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or
cash flows.
Employees
At December 31, 2011, we had 4,161 full-time equivalent employees.
Available Information
We file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly
reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to those reports, proxy statements and
registration statements. You may read and copy any material we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference
Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain information on the operation of the
Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the SEC maintains an internet site at
http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding
issuers, including us, that file electronically. We make available free of charge on or through our website at
www.columbia.com our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form
8-K and amendments to these reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as
soon as reasonably practicable after we file these materials with the SEC.
Item 1A. RISK FACTORS
In addition to the other information contained in this Form 10-K, the following risk factors should be
considered carefully in evaluating our business. Our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash
flows may be materially adversely affected by these and other risks. Please note that additional risks not
presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business and operations.
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