Nike opens Community Store in East LA

Los Angeles - Popular footwear retailer Nike just recently opened its first Community Store in California. Debuting in East Los Angeles, the new space just opened its doors making it Nike’s sixth Community Store.

The space boasts over 19,000 square foot in its new home on Whittier Boulevard. The entrance to the store is defined by its iconic arch, notifying all neighboring inhabitants of the new development. Although it will be the first of its kind in Los Angeles, Nike has Community Stores already in cities such as Portland, New Orleans, Brooklyn, Washington D.C. and Chicago. The new store format is part of Nike’s growth strategy to help build more direct-to-consumer business. “Community stores are an important part of our retail strategy in North America and build on a 20-year history and commitment to deepening our community connections around the world,” said Christiana Shi, president of Direct-to-Consumer relations for Nike. The location of East Los Angeles from the local surrounding communities. “We’ve built great partnerships with the local Boys and Girls Club, the Eastmont Community Center and nearby high schools, and [we] are excited about the future we’ll build together,” said Blanca Gonzales, general manager of North America West Territory for Nike.

Nike’s Community Stores serve as a way for the company to build and empower local communities through unifying locals through sport and activities. The Nike locations provide volunteer hours each month for Nike Community Ambassadors, store athletes who are trained to teach children sports. Also, volunteer hours are rewarded by Nike directed at nonprofits chosen by the participating employee.

Nike is known as the largest apparel company in terms of market capitalization according to Fashion United's Top 100 list. Currently based in Oregon, the brand is known for its authentic, athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories for athletes. The company was founded in 1972 by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. As an international business, Nike employs over 44,000 people worldwide.

Photos: Nike