Nike Abandons Reopening of Portland Store Amid High Theft Rates

Nike has confirmed that it will not reopen its long-closed location in Portland, Oregon, due to repeated thefts. The store was closed in fall 2022 after experiencing a series of brazen shoplifting incidents. According to local NBC affiliate KGW-TV, thieves would walk out of the store with armfuls of merchandise.

In February, Nike informed Mayor Ted Wheeler that the closure was due to deteriorating public safety conditions and the rapid escalation in retail theft. The sports retail giant had requested off-duty Portland police officers to work security for the store, and they offered to pay for the officers. However, the mayor stated that the city did not have any officers to spare.

In a statement, Nike said it is reimagining its retail space and permanently closing the current location. The company is considering future locations as part of the community’s long-term revitalization plan and will seek input from local community organizations and leaders to determine the best new location.

Mayor Wheeler expressed disappointment in Nike’s decision, citing staffing shortages that prevent the city from lending off-duty officers to any Portland business.

The Nike store originally opened in 1984 and moved to its current location in 2000.