Nike told retailers that their way of stocking its goods was ‘no longer aligned’ with its distribution strategy

Nike has thrown the future of dozens of independent retailers into doubt by terminating their supply agreements, as the world’s most powerful sports brand takes greater control of its distribution.

In a letter seen by The Sunday Times, Nike notified the retailers that access to its products would end in two years, stating that their way of stocking its goods was “no longer aligned” with Nike’s distribution strategy. The terminations could begin as early as next year.

Retailers are fearful that Adidas will follow suit. The two brands dominate the industry and between them raked in about £50bn of sales worldwide last year.

“All those companies that built a business on the back of Nike and Adidas are toast — there’s no way they can