This discussion dives into the intriguing collaboration between Nike and Kim Kardashian's Skims, exploring its impact on the activewear market. The hosts also delve into the ominous yet fascinating future of gene editing, including attempts to resurrect extinct species like mammoths. Plus, they unpack the implications of Howard Lutnick's new role as Commerce Secretary and what's ahead for the commerce landscape. With tales of glowing pets and ethical dilemmas in bioengineering, the conversation is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
The partnership between Nike and Skims aims to innovate women's performance wear, addressing cultural shifts in the athleisure market.
The Los Angeles Project's gene editing ambitions spark ethical debates about biotechnology and the emerging frontier of synthetic life.
Deep dives
The Art and Science of Ad Creation
Creative advertising relies on a balance of artistic expression and analytical data. Media buyers often lean toward data-driven decision-making, using tools such as pivot tables, while creative teams trust their instincts. This discrepancy can hinder organizational growth and the ability to identify successful advertising concepts. Solutions, like those proposed by Motion, aim to bridge this gap by integrating visual reporting, allowing teams to synchronize their efforts and enhance ad performance.
Nike and Skims Collaboration
A notable partnership was announced between Nike and Kim Kardashian's brand, Skims, set to launch in spring 2025. This partnership aims to create women's performance wear that emphasizes body-sculpting while maintaining high-quality technical performance. Analysts suggest that this collaboration could benefit Nike, which appears to be experiencing a cultural downturn, as it aligns with the upward trajectory of Skims in the women's athleisure market. The early financial response from investors, including a share price increase for Nike, underscores Wall Street's confidence in this brand integration.
Genetic Engineering and the Los Angeles Project
The Los Angeles Project, led by biohacker Josie Zaner, is focused on gene editing to create entirely new species of pets, including the ambitious goal of producing unicorns. This venture has sparked discussions about the ethical implications of genetic modification and the potential to blur the lines between practicality and fantasy. Previous similar efforts have generated public intrigue and concern, particularly around the idea of designer pets that combine aesthetics with emotional engagement. As the project unfolds, it signals a bold step in biotechnology and the future of synthetic life.
Emerging Trends in Commerce
The introduction of the 'Heroes and Villains' segment sheds light on influential figures and controversial topics in commerce. Nike and Kim Kardashian are highlighted as industry heroes for their strategic partnership, while concerns about excessive genetic editing position biohackers, like Josie Zaner, as villains in a cautionary tale. This segment encapsulates the broader narrative surrounding the ethical landscape of commerce, where technological advancements must be balanced against their societal impacts. Through these discussions, the evolving relationship between culture and commerce becomes increasingly apparent as each influences the other.
We unpack the market reactions from the NikeSkims turnout, the fantastical and terrifying future of gene editing, and Howard Lutnick’s first moves as Commerce Secretary. PLUS: Future Commerce is headed to Shoptalk! Phillip and Brian bring the heat from Palm Springs!
Coming Up: Don’t miss our coverage of Howard Lutnick’s First 100 Days. Follow our show wherever you listen to podcasts, subscribe to our weekly newsletters, and join us on Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X.
We Almost Never Doubted You, Nike
Key takeaways:
[:03:00] Howard Lutnick sworn in – twice, for good measure – as Secretary of Commerce. Track his first months in the job, follow our series First 100 Days.
[09:00] Nike partners with Kim Kardashian-owned brand, Skims, tapping into a new corner of the activewear market.
[25:00] The Los Angeles Project is the latest bold attempt at gene-editing and foresees a future where “life itself is brought under human design.”
“There’s so much happening with Lutnick at the helm, and it’s worth keeping an eye on what the expanded responsibilities mean for commerce and beyond.” — Phillip
“I think Nike is making good moves. I think they're making smart financial decisions, and they're partnering with the right people.” — Brian
“For everything I’ve ever thought about Kim K, she continues to absolutely defy expectations as the ultimate business person.” — Phillip
“The first movie studio to get the dragons wins.” — Brian
“One company has made pigs with 69 gene edits to make their organs more compatible for human transplants... But are glowing rabbits really where we need to go next?” — Phillip
Have any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners!
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