Nike Partners with Syre to Accelerate Circular Polyester Innovation

According to a joint announcement by Syre, a textile impact company specializing in large-scale textile-to-textile recycling, and Nike Inc., the two have entered a multi-year strategic partnership to integrate circular polyester into Nike’s core performance lines. The collaboration signals a major step toward building a global closed-loop apparel system.

Under the agreement, Syre will become Nike’s lead strategic supplier of textile-to-textile recycled polyester. The first Nike products using this circular material are expected to reach the market within the next few years, marking a significant milestone in the sportswear giant’s sustainability journey.

As reported by Syre, this collaboration represents more than a single initiative — it embodies a systemic transformation toward true material circularity. Dennis Nobelius, CEO of Syre, said the partnership “signals the moment when circular materials move from concept to commercial reality at scale.” He added that Nike’s engagement “sends a powerful signal to the entire industry.”

For Nike, the partnership aligns with its broader sustainability and innovation strategy. Sitora Muzafarova, Nike’s Vice President of Materials Supply Chain, emphasized that “textile-to-textile recycled polyester is essential in our ambition to design and produce breakthrough products that both perform to the highest standards that our athletes expect and are more sustainable at the same time.”

According to Syre, the partnership also coincides with its global expansion plans. The company is preparing to construct its first large-scale recycling plant in Vietnam by 2027, laying the groundwork for a worldwide network capable of transforming post-consumer textiles into high-performance materials.

Earlier this year, Syre also announced collaborations with GAP Inc., Houdini Sportswear, and Target, highlighting its growing role in helping fashion and retail brands transition toward circular supply chains.

Circular polyester is emerging as one of the most promising solutions in reducing textile waste and dependency on virgin petroleum-based materials. Global apparel producers are under increasing pressure from tightening regulations in the EU and the U.S. to improve recycling rates and lower carbon emissions. Strategic partnerships such as this one between Nike and Syre are likely to accelerate innovation, enhance traceability, and influence sourcing practices across the fashion industry.

Source: Syre

SUNSHINE Spotlight: Nike and Syre are turning circularity into action, linking innovation with real production capacity to make textile recycling commercially viable.