The remaining 19 percentage points of the increase in NIKE Brand inventories were primarily a result of significantly higher product input costs. Relative to revenues and futures, current unit inventories remain broadly consistent with levels reported prior to the 2009 – 2010 economic downturn.
• Cash and short-term investments were $3.4 billion, $1.4 billion lower than last year as higher working capital investments reduced free cash flow from operations, while share repurchases, dividend payments and long-term debt payments also increased year-on-year.
Share Repurchases During the second quarter, a total of 7.6 million shares were repurchased for approximately $672 million as part of our four-year, $5 billion share repurchase program, approved by the Board of Directors in September 2008. As of the end of the second quarter, a total of 45.6 million shares were repurchased for approximately $3.6 billion under this program.
Futures Orders As of the end of the quarter worldwide futures orders for NIKE Brand athletic footwear and apparel, scheduled for delivery from December 2011 through April 2012, totaled $8.9 billion, 13 percent higher than orders reported for the same period last year. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates did not have a significant impact on reported futures orders.
NIKE Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities.