Nike is saying goodbye to one of its most iconic flagship stores, the NikeLab 21 Mercer store in New York City. The store has launched some of the most hyped releases in recent times and has hosted A-list parties with superstar endorsers.
Complex was told by industry sources that the lease on the 21 Mercer address was coming to an end in January 2023 and the brand has no plans of renewing said lease. With rising rent costs across the country and the transition from storefront to e-commerce becoming ever so common, it's no surprise why Nike came to this decision. When Nike was hit with an inquiry on the subject, a representative responded and confirmed that the store front would close January 2023.
Nike has encouraged the employees at the location to apply for other positions within the brand to continue employment through Nike. “While we’ll be closing 21 Mercer as a physical space, we will carry its community-focused vision through key activations and our existing NYC retail locations, our digital ecosystem, as well as our marketplace partners.”
In August 2008, the store opened its doors with a bang hosting a block party with guests like Spike Lee and Roger Federer. The bespoke service is what really put NikeLab 21 Mercer store on the map, the service gave shoppers the ability to design their own Air Force or Air Max 1 by appointment. At its peak, the store brought in a new era for sneaker culture. It brought community for sneakerheads and was a hub for more than just buying sneakers.
In recent years the store has not garnered the traction it was accustomed to in the past. In 2016, the Nike SoHo opened and has attracted sneaker heads and tourists alike with its massive space. The brand still puts an emphasis on its "Nike Lab" with in store pick up options, the Nike SNKRS app and celebrating the history of Nike through multiple exhibits. For more news on Nike and to stay up to date with the latest drops connect with us on Twitter or Instagram.