Manufacturer of performance footwear and athletic apparel for women, men, and children New Balance reaches its centennial year this week.

From its establishment in 1906 as New Balance Arch, the company has developed numerous innovative products including the Trackster (the world's first performance running shoe in multiple widths) in the 1960s.

"Our mission has never been to be the biggest, but to be the best, and that will not change as we enter our second century of business," said Jim Davis, chairman and CEO. "We are most proud that the core values New Balance was founded on remain relevant today through our focus on integrity, teamwork and total customer satisfaction."

The company grew in the early 1980's through new manufacturing facilities in New England and international distributors, and in 1982 reached the $60 million mark and debuted the well-received 990 running shoe, the first athletic shoe priced at $100.