Vick Scandal

By Natalie Zmuda
Footwear News
July 30, 2007

With the release of NFL star Michael Vick’s Nike shoe postponed indefinitely, the question of his future marketability arises.

Mike Paul, president of New York-based MGP & Associates, which specializes in reputation management, said he believes Vick will either be suspended or face a “very long leave of absence,” neither of which bodes well for a future footwear release. “Nike has a history of supporting athletes who have been in a bit of trouble,” Paul said, referencing Kobe Bryant’s infamous sex scandal. “But sadly, our society gives a pass to adultery, in most cases. ... We don’t give people a pass when it comes to our pets.”

However, Paul did point out that there is a segment of society that would buy a Vick shoe, simply because it will be a collector’s item, following the scandal. “That is why Nike was considering releasing it and is still considering releasing it later,” he said, adding this piece of advice, “PETA is very good at getting national and international media attention, and those are the things that really hurt a brand.” ­