Having been released in countless colourways and collaborations, Nike’s iconic Air Force 1 has been a staple in sneaker culture for over two decades, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.
Yet, for 2024, Nike plans to produce fewer Air Force 1s, signaling a shift in strategy to protect the shoe’s esteemed reputation.
This was disclosed by CFO Matt Friend during Nike’s third-quarter earnings call last week.
The Swoosh brand intends to reduce Air Force 1 production to accommodate new products and prevent market oversaturation. CFO Matt Friend stressed the importance of balancing lifestyle and performance franchises while introducing fresh designs, without eliminating the sneaker entirely.
“Given the way consumers are responding to our newest product journeys, even amid a more promotional environment, we have decided to accelerate our actions,” said Friend.
“For example, we are pulling back supply of classics, such as the Air Force 1, and we’re reducing supply of Pegasus ahead of launching new innovation into Peg 41. We’ve been here before,” he added.
The strategy involves being more selective in Air Force 1 releases to preserve its cultural significance and align with changing consumer tastes.
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