Nike's closed its long-time flagship store on 57th, next to Trump Tower, this past spring. But out with old, in with the new as the popular brand is on track to open a new flagship nearby at 650 Fifth Avenue at West 52nd Street.
A recent walk-by the shows that the store is well on track for its projected holiday 2018 opening. Situated in the base of a dour office building, the store distinguishes itself with black metal frames and a diagonally-rippled glass facade. According to building permits, CallisonRTKL is the architect of record.
Like its recently-opened Soho location that debuted in late 2016, this emporium promises to be "more than a store." According to a Nike press release from earlier this year, the five-story, 69,000-square-foot flagship will offer “a multi-sport selection of product innovation and services” as well as high-tech offerings that allow shoppers to scan a sneaker’s barcode to see availabilities in their size and preferred color. While the first four floors will be open to all, the fifth floor will have products, experiences, and customization options exclusive to NikePlus members, who will also be able to buy instantly through a digital checkout in the app.
Like its recently-opened Soho location that debuted in late 2016, this emporium promises to be "more than a store." According to a Nike press release from earlier this year, the five-story, 69,000-square-foot flagship will offer “a multi-sport selection of product innovation and services” as well as high-tech offerings that allow shoppers to scan a sneaker’s barcode to see availabilities in their size and preferred color. While the first four floors will be open to all, the fifth floor will have products, experiences, and customization options exclusive to NikePlus members, who will also be able to buy instantly through a digital checkout in the app.
The new flagship is the latest chapter in Nike's new business structure, which moves closer to the consumer through key cities like New York. To that end, it recently moved into an attention-grabbing new corporate office at 855 Sixth Avenue with amenities like an open-plan workspace, food and beverage areas, fitness studio, and a sixth-floor terrace. The piece de resistance is a 4,000-square-foot basketball court, which will host high school teams, local leagues, and community events.
Nike is part of a growing trend of athleticwear companies establishing Fifth Avenue presences. Retailers down the street include Adidas at 565 Fifth Avenue, Asics at 579 Fifth Avenue, and Lululemon in the Scribner Building at 597 Fifth Avenue. More recently, Puma announced plans to take a redesigned space at 609 Fifth Avenue. Nike's business models appear to be in the right direction, as the company's market value is at an all-time high following a thought-provoking new campaign.
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Michelle Mazzarella
Michelle is a contributing writer and editor for real estate news in New York City