Nike is set to expand its retail presence with the opening of the first-ever Michael Jordan-branded store in the United States. This new “World of Flight” store will be located in Philadelphia, housed within a historic two-story building at 1617 Walnut St., which was constructed in 1921.
The store’s design aims to merge the city’s rich architectural heritage with the modern essence of the Jordan Brand, creating a space that honors the past while showcasing the latest in retail experience.
The Air Jordan brand, which began when the first shoe was released to the public on April 1, 1985, has since become a cultural icon, revolutionizing athlete endorsements and paving the way for lucrative sponsorship deals for other athletes. Michael Jordan’s partnership with Nike has been particularly profitable.
Last year alone, he made an estimated $150 million from the partnership, contributing to at least $1.5 billion earned since 1986. The success of the Air Jordan line was immediate, with sales surpassing $100 million within the first 12 months, far exceeding Nike’s initial projections.
The Philadelphia store will join other “World of Flight” locations around the globe, including those in Italy, Japan, and Dubai, as part of Nike’s strategy to enhance its retail experience for fans of the Jordan Brand.
The Jordan Brand continues to be a significant part of Nike’s portfolio, well-known among consumers of different generations, with a substantial percentage of Gen Z sneaker owners in the U.S. owning Jordan sneakers.
