Rapid Response: On's 16-year overnight success: Zendaya, Federer, and outrunning competition
Saturday, 12 September 2026 · 1 min read · Listen to the episode ↗
In this episode, explore how On has evolved from a startup to a nearly four billion dollar brand in just 16 years, driven by its innovative CloudTec technology and strategic celebrity partnerships with figures like Zendaya and Roger Federer. The discussion highlights On's commitment to sustainability and its ambitious growth strategy, including plans to expand into new sports and open over 80 retail stores. Tune in to understand how On aims to outrun competition in the dynamic athletic footwear market.
On is positioning itself as a leading global sports brand through a focus on innovation and design, particularly with its proprietary CloudTec technology. The company recognizes a societal shift where health is increasingly viewed as a form of wealth, creating fertile ground for new brands in the sports and lifestyle markets.
Over its 16-year history, On has transformed from a startup to a nearly four billion US dollar brand, with revenue projections exceeding $3 billion by 2025. The company’s growth strategy hinges on embracing risk and innovation, exemplified by the opening of over 80 retail stores aimed at boosting brand visibility and sales.
Partnerships with high-profile celebrities like Zendaya and Roger Federer have been cultivated organically, with Federer receiving equity stakes instead of traditional endorsement deals. This strategy underscores On's commitment to innovation and aims to forge a deeper emotional connection with consumers through thoughtful design.
In a highly competitive athletic footwear market, On is committed to continuous innovation and is actively exploring expansion into new sports, including tennis. The company also prioritizes sustainability, implementing initiatives that significantly lower its environmental impact, such as a light spray shoe that boasts a CO2 footprint over 75 percent lower than conventional manufacturing methods.
Despite experiencing stock price volatility that does not accurately reflect its operational success, On's leadership, under co-CEOs David and Casper, has maintained a collaborative approach. This hands-on leadership style is integral to the company’s culture and strategic direction.
Looking to the future, David anticipates that the next decade will be pivotal for On, with numerous initiatives expected to yield significant results. The company is poised to leverage its innovative capabilities and strong brand partnerships to navigate the evolving landscape of the sports industry.
This summary was generated from the episode transcript and can contain mistakes.