Lesson 1: Trust trumps Excel
Long-term relationships cannot be planned, but they are priceless. Especially in working with partners, producers, and suppliers, it has become clear: trust pays off. Not immediately, but over the years. That's why we place particular emphasis on nurturing these relationships and sometimes going the extra mile. For example, when we at NIKIN made early payments to a producer so they could afford a machine, it wasn't a "business move," but simply fair. Today, we benefit from this trust, whether it's for spontaneous changes or quick productions. The shared raclette evenings with Albert, our Treeanie manufacturer from Poland, are perhaps the best memories that good partnerships are not just based on contracts, but on humanity, mutual respect, and a common goal.
Lesson 2: Standard does not equal sensible
From the beginning, we wanted to do many things differently. Not for the sake of rebellion, but because we questioned things, didn't want to copy anyone, and wanted to implement our own ideas. That's why we asked ourselves: Why does every T-shirt need a plastic wrapper? Just because "that's how it's done"? We never understood that – and to this day, no shirt or sweater from us comes in a polybag. Simply because it doesn't make sense. Sometimes, common sense is enough to make things better. And that's exactly how we want to continue thinking in the future, not how everyone else does it, but how it makes sense for us and for nature.
Lesson 3: Real impact looks different
Of course, we celebrate every tree we plant, and after 9 years, it's already over 2.5 million. But for us, the biggest impact is something else: inspiring people. When someone writes to us that they started to avoid single-use plastic because of us. Or that someone goes for walks in the forest more often because of NIKIN. These are the moments that count. Because real impact cannot only be counted, but felt, in small changes that can trigger something big. That's exactly why we continue.
Lesson 4: Values are more than words
A brand is only as strong as the values it lives – not those hanging on a poster, but those that are tangible in everyday life. In the last nine years, we have learned: honesty is more effective than perfection. And true trust is not created by words, but by actions. That's why we rely on clarity, openness, and shared persistence, within the team and with the Community. Because only when values are lived can they truly make a difference.
Lesson 5: Mistakes? They're part of it
Speaking of perfection: no master has ever fallen from the sky. Mistakes are part of it – in life as in business. Even at NIKIN, things didn't always go smoothly. But we are convinced: as long as you recognize mistakes, learn from them, and do better next time, they are not setbacks, but steps forward. Because without failed attempts, spontaneous decisions, or even a product that didn't catch on, we wouldn't be where we are today – and certainly wouldn't have grown as much.
Lesson 6: Just do it
Much of what works today didn't come from a perfect plan, but simply because we tried it. Especially at the beginning, our motto was: act instead of hesitate. Pragmatism, initiative, and the courage to start things imperfectly have paid off. Sure, we sometimes got lost or made mistakes – but precisely from this, many new things emerged. Because sometimes it's not about how much you can do, but how willing you are to get started.
Lesson 7: The community knows more than us
Never assume only what you think is right – after all, we don't make our products (only) for ourselves, but primarily for others. That's why we keep asking ourselves: What really resonates? What's missing? What works? Our community has often shown us the right path. And yes, sometimes that means: listen more rather than making hasty decisions. Because not everything can be logically explained; often it's the emotional things that make the difference.
Lesson 8: Rethinking growth
For us, growth today no longer just means bigger, faster, further – but above all, more conscious. It's about quality instead of quantity. About sustainability instead of speed. And about slowing down sometimes, if it feels right. Because true growth happens not just in numbers, but in attitude – and in the courage to go your own way.
Lesson 9: Staying true to yourself
After nine years and many developments, we have learned one thing above all: staying authentic still works best. It's not about being perfect, but honest. And sometimes a simple "Yes" is enough to get things rolling. Because those who remain true to themselves also remain in motion – step by step, together with everyone who walks the path with them.
9 years, many learnings – and even more ahead of us.
We look back with gratitude on everything that has been and on everyone who has accompanied us. Without you, NIKIN would not exist. And as we continue to grow together, we are already looking forward to the next chapter: In 2026, we will celebrate 10 years of NIKIN, and we can already tell you that something big is coming. Stay tuned, it's going to be special!
