I have read this site for a very long time, it is often painful to read, over these decades Knight has provided more direct and indirect compensation and wealth, than any Company in Oregon history. His philanthropy, known and unknown, I believe also ranks him at the top of his beloved State.
Nike has been the leader, in Athletic Footwear, and the largest Integrated Athletic wear maker in the United States and world, Nike has held this spot for a very long time. This winning race after race has long become expected, this leadership is very difficult to continue.
Sometimes it has worked, but Nike stayed ahead of the pack, because it had one leader and one controlling shareholder.
The Creative focus, the International Financial leverage, the vast Supply Chain, and Manufacturing Facilitation was appreciated by Knight, who throughout this Journey tried to find the talent, read the macro waves, prayed, gambled every season.
the Macro background that Nike is about to enter, prompts this reminder. Very few companies can perpetuate growth for this long.
Your industry is slowing, demographics, the dimming of "Fashion", a little competition, this is not the type of Macro wind that fills big sails.
Growth may no longer be possible, Innovation must create a different type of company, leaner, segments defined, and the all important customer dialog, that has served Nike so well, should be reignited, listen again, stop pi-ping.
Listen to your customers. Then create again the product leadership we customers expect and enjoy.
Winter is Coming.