Nike to cut 775 employees as it accelerates ‘automation’ at U.S. distribution centers

Nike is cutting 775 employees as the company looks to boost its bottom line and accelerate its use of “automation,” CNBC has learned. 

The layoffs, which are in addition to the 1,000 corporate job cuts the company announced last summer, primarily impact distribution center roles in Tennessee and Mississippi, where the sneaker giant operates large warehouses, people familiar with the matter said. 

In a statement to CNBC, Nike said the layoffs primarily affect its U.S. distribution operations and are designed to “reduce complexity, improve flexibility, and build a more responsive, resilient, responsible, and efficient operation.”

“We’re taking steps to strengthen and streamline our operations so we can move faster, operate with greater discipline, and better serve athletes and consumers,” Nike said in the statement. “We are sharpening our supply chain footprint, accelerating the use of advanced technology and automation, and investing in the skills our teams need for the future.” 

Source: [https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/26/nike-to-lay-off-775-employees-at-us-distribution-centers.html](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/26/nike-to-lay-off-775-employees-at-us-distribution-centers.html)