Your deep dive into the Nike universe: cool, bold and completely on brand!
We hope you're ready to lace up your sneakers. Don't worry, you're not in for a marathon. But we're unraveling the mystery behind one of the world's strongest brands: Nike. Because thanks to Nike, we know that "Just Do It" is more than just a slogan. It's an attitude - that's in every single fiber of the branding.
Nike and the running revolution
In the early 70s, jogging was not yet a widespread popular sport. Then Bill Bowerman, the co-founder of Nike, came along and reinvented the running shoe with his book "Jogging" and a waffle iron (yes, you read that right!). Even back then, this contained the spirit that still defines Nike today:
Be different, think differently and above all - just do it!
☁️ Walking on clouds: the Air story
Thanks to Nike, we've literally known what it feels like to walk on clouds since 1978 - with the introduction of Air technology. Inspired by a NASA engineer, the brand combined innovation with a big load of craziness. And the result? A running sensation as if you were floating. It was a truly radical approach that revolutionized running and cemented Nike's reputation as an innovator. 🧠
Remember: The best and most sustainable branding is that which is based on genuine core values. Nike stands for innovation. The brand demonstrates this not only in communication and products, but also on many marketing levels.
Swoosh - a symbol becomes a global icon
Carolyn Davidson probably didn't know that the swoosh she designed for 35 dollars would become a global branding icon. The swoosh is a prime example of how a simple design can achieve worldwide recognition. The Swoosh is not just a logo; it is a symbol of movement, freedom and the constant pursuit of success.
Simple but powerful - just like good branding should be. An absolute recognition value legend!
"Just Do It" - Three words that changed everything
Nike's iconic slogan "Just Do It" is a masterpiece of brand communication. In just three words, it captures the essence of the brand philosophy: Action, Determination and Overcoming Obstacles. "Just Do It" is not just a slogan, it's a way of life.
These three little words have the power to get us out of bed, push our limits and make the world a little braver. A daily motivation for people around the world.
Incidentally, this ties in wonderfully with our last newsletter issue: Powerful branding strategies can thus go far beyond advertising and even become part of our everyday language.
🙌🏼 More than sport - Nike is a cultural phenomenon
Nike has managed to establish itself not only as a sports brand, but also as part of global culture. By collaborating with artists, musicians and fashion designers, Nike has extended its brand image beyond the world of sport. Campaigns such as the one with Colin Kaepernick show Nike's commitment to social issues and underline the brand identity as bold and opinionated.
NikeID makes it super personal
Okay, how hot are shoes with your own name or wording? YES, EBEN! With NikeID, the brand has ushered in a new era of personalization. Giving customers the opportunity to design their own shoes was a hot move. 🔥 It shows how Nike uses its branding to build a personal connection with its customers and involve them directly in the creative process.
By the way, the child now has a new name: Nike By You. You choose your favorite shoe and can customize the colors and materials in the 3D builder. A Nike By You shoe is not just a sneaker. A Nike By You shoe is an expression of individuality. How personal can you make it?
The legends of Nike: more than just athletes
What can't Nike actually do? 🤔 Well... after all, the brand feels like it leads every ranking of the top storytelling brands. And rightly so! Because you know what Michael Jordan, Serena Williams and countless other sports legends have in common, right? Exactly. They are all part of the Nike family. A key factor that has catapulted Nike to the forefront of branding is its smart partnerships with top athletes. From Michael Jordan, whose collaboration with Nike not only revolutionized the basketball world, but also made the Air Jordan line a cultural phenomenon (Editor's note: Chantalle LOVES Air Jordans and Caro Michael Jordan ♥️), to Serena Williams, who leads not only on the tennis court, but also in terms of equality and empowerment.
These partnerships not only reinforce Nike's image as a leading sports brand, but also anchor the brand deeply in pop culture. Each athlete brings their own story, which Nike skillfully interweaves with its branding to deliver authentic, inspiring and motivational messages. This collaboration demonstrates how Nike lives and breathes its core values of performance, innovation and inspiration.
These partnerships are not just marketing - they are proof that Nike believes in the stories, dreams and hard work of every single athlete. ✨
Nike in the digital age: Always one step ahead
With its entry into Web3, Nike shows once again that the brand always has its finger on the pulse. Digital sneakers? Virtual worlds? Nike is on board and proves that real branding knows no boundaries.
Nike has proven that strong branding goes far beyond a logo or a slogan. It's about telling a story that touches, inspires and motivates people. Nike has managed not only to sell products, but to create a brand movement that unites millions worldwide. An absolute prime example of strong branding - whether in the store, on the website, when unpacking the shoes... Nike speaks one language. A brand that creates a feeling when we think of it. Chapeau and a real inspiration!
Inspo of the day 😎
Train with Nike: Of course, the inspiration today can only come from Nike. We love training with the Nike apps ourselves. If you don't know it yet, check out the Nike Training Club app - workouts, training plans and cool coaches for individual training. (And a great example of branded touchpoints, by the way. 😉)
