As the fences come down around the newly restored and renamed M Building, formerly The Bon Marche and Macy’s, Spokane’s historic retail landmark prepares to house a new shopping opportunity. Window decals have masked the activity hiding behind them, but their images quietly announced what many suspected – and hoped for – all along, Nike is coming.
Spokane residents and visitors will now have access to a wider variety of Nike footwear and athleisure clothing when the store opens to the public in downtown at the corner of Main and Howard on Thursday, June 14 at 10:00am.
Founded by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, the company officially became Nike, Inc. in 1971, taking its name from the Greek goddess of victory. Nike sponsors many high-profile athletes and sports teams around the world, known for “Just Do It” and the iconic Swoosh logo mark.
The streets of downtown Spokane are no stranger to the squeak and bounce of Air Jordans, Spokane Hoopfest has served as a special release weekend for premier Nike basketball brands, giving Hoopfest attendees the opportunity to purchase new releases, even ahead of online sales. “Hoopfest has been representing the Swoosh for many years and we are thrilled to finally have them in our community!” says Hoopfest Executive Director, Matt Santangelo.
Billed as a Nike Factory Store, the new location will serve as the pilot for a new hybrid Nike retail experience, offering a combination of outlet and full-priced items, featuring Zag collegiate gear.
Nike is the latest offering of specialty retailers in the downtown core at River Park Square, adding to a shopping experience that draws visitors from Idaho, Montana and Canada. The nearest Nike outlet is located 212 miles away in North Bend. “Urban retail is incredibly strong here, bucking national trends,” says Downtown Spokane Partnership President, Mark Richard. “Shopping now caters to individuals who want something over and above what you can get online, and downtown Spokane is benefitting from that model. Honestly, where else can you purchase a new pair of cross country shoes, gather with friends for dinner at a unique local eatery, and literally run out the door across the second largest urban gorge in the nation to access miles of natural trails?”
The first 200 customers through the door each day on Thursday June 14 through Sunday June 17 will receive a $10 Nike gift card.