Nike Announces 1,400 Layoffs in Second Round of Job Cuts This Year Nike announced approximately 1,400 job cuts on Thursday, marking the second round of layoffs in 2026 as part of its ongoing “Win Now” turnaround strategy. The reductions are primarily concentrated in the company’s technology department and affect employees across North America, Asia, and Europe. The layoffs follow an earlier round in January that eliminated 775 roles, mostly at U.S.-based distribution centers. Together, the two rounds represent Nike’s efforts to streamline operations and position the company for future growth amid shifting market conditions. According to a note from COO Venkatesh Alagirisamy, the changes are designed to reshape Nike’s technology team, modernize air manufacturing, integrate Converse Footwear operations, and align materials supply chain work with footwear and apparel teams. Alagirisamy stated that the reductions will result in a more agile organization better equipped to respond to the current pace of sports and accelerate growth. Nike emphasized that the job cuts represent less than 2% of its total global headcount and are not a shift in strategic direction but rather the next phase of work already underway. Impacted employees began receiving notifications on Thursday. CEO Elliott Hill has led the turnaround effort since taking over, aiming to reverse years of declining sales. While initial progress has been made, the process has included challenges, prompting further organizational adjustments. The company said the layoffs are part of a broader initiative to improve operational efficiency and support long-term competitiveness in the global athletic wear market. Nike did not disclose specific financial savings from the cuts but affirmed that the moves are intended to strengthen its foundation for future innovation and expansion.
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