Nike has confirmed that it will not be reopening a long-closed location in Portland, Oregon due to the repeated thefts the store has experienced. The store, which quietly closed in fall 2022, has been plagued by brazen shoplifting incidents where criminals would walk out with armfuls of merchandise. Nike cited “deteriorating public safety conditions and rapid escalation in retail theft” as the reasons for the closure.
In February, Nike had asked Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler if off-duty police officers could work security for the store and offered to pay for their services. However, the mayor stated that the city did not have any officers to spare. Nike is now exploring the possibility of finding a new location as part of the community’s long-term revitalization plan.
Mayor Wheeler expressed his disappointment in Nike’s decision, but explained that the city is unable to provide off-duty officers to any Portland business due to staffing shortages.
The Nike store originally opened in 1984 and moved to its current location in 2000.
My Perspective:
High theft rates can be detrimental to businesses, leading to closures and loss of revenue. Nike’s decision to abandon the reopening of its Portland store is a clear indication of the impact that theft can have on retailers. This situation highlights the importance of addressing and tackling the issue of retail theft to ensure the safety and sustainability of businesses.
