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CASE ANALYSIS : DREAM CRAZY (NIKE)

When Nike released the 30th anniversary “Just Do It” campaign, Nike’s brand leadership team members were
taking a calculated risk. They knew full well how Kaepernick’s high profile protest might rub some of its
consumer base the wrong way, yet they moved forward with it anyway in 2018, Nike launched a new ad
campaign that was based on a strong political conflict capable of tearing apart the United States. The nation was
polarized as a result of increased racism, police brutality, and social injustice.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship, Jawaharlal Nehru University
In the midst of an era labelled as the Black Lives Matter movement, where African Americans felt
oppressed and helpless due to the violent attacks against black communities across the country, Nike
drew a great deal of attention with their new campaign strategy that showed support for black
communities, athletes, and civil liberties proponents. The ad featured professional football player
and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick, best known for taking a knee during an NFL game’s
national anthem to protest social injustice and police brutality. that were pushing boundaries in
society in some way.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship, Jawaharlal Nehru University
The advertisement image began with a quote that stated “Believe in something. Even if it means
sacrificing everything.” Since Nike is a sports gear and apparel company, their products fit well into
this campaign strategy because it highlights a celebrity athlete that is known worldwide. Their main
objectives were to bring headline attention to the campaign by highlighting athletes.

The Ad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBnseji3tBk&ab_channel=KPIXCBSSFBayArea

Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship, Jawaharlal Nehru University
To Think Over:
• What is the marketing strategy behind Nike’s deal with Colin Kaepernick?

• Is this a marketing move or truly a heartfelt and courageous backing of principle?

• If it is a marketing move, what are the risks, potential losses and potential gains?

• Some say Nike will appeal to millennials with this strategy? Will that work? What about other
market segments that may not appreciate this stand?

Recommendation: Analysis of reinstating ad of Nike titled Dream Crazier


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yvkf88eSTrI&ab_channel=CNBC
Related keywords: Cancel Culture
Case study source:- Pennsylvania State University

Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship, Jawaharlal Nehru University

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