What began in 2016 with two childhood friends, 5,000 Swiss francs in start-up capital, and a great passion for nature gradually developed into NIKIN. This page tells the story behind our brand and the people who made it possible.
Everything starts with an idea.
Robin and Nicholas have known each other since childhood and spent many years together in the scouts. Even then, they shared a passion for nature. During their studies, this developed into the idea of building a brand that makes a connection to nature visible and simultaneously gives something back.
The first 60 winter hats.
With a starting capital of 5,000 Swiss francs, the first winter hats and gym bags were produced. There was no large warehouse or office. The first orders were shipped directly from home. Nobody knew back then where the journey would lead.
A shoot for 30 francs.
In the early years, much was improvised. The first photoshoot took place in Robin's parents' garage. The budget was a mere 30 francs. Today, we smile about it; back then, it was simply the next step.
After work, to the warehouse.
As the first orders came in, so did the need for space. The first "proper" warehouse was established in Seengen, in the canton of Aargau. Lester, Nicholas's brother, went straight there after work, packed orders, and helped build NIKIN step by step.
The first Tree-Planting Day.
On March 30, 2019, our first TreePlantingDay took place. Together with our community, we planted the first trees in Switzerland. What began as a small initiative grew over the years into many more TreePlanting Days, Neophyte Days, and nature projects.
The millionth tree.
In 2020, we reached a very special milestone: our millionth tree. Instead of planting a new sapling, we deliberately chose to protect and adopt a over 100-year-old beech tree in Lenzburg Forest. Because sometimes the most valuable tree is one that has already been growing for generations.
Partnerships that last.
products further, visit each other, and have become friends beyond our collaboration. Just like Albert from Poland, with whom we even shared a raclette dinner in Lenzburg.
A home for our community.
In 2025, we opened our first flagship store, the TreeHouse, in the heart of Aarau. A place for encounters, inspiration, and shared experiences. For us, the TreeHouse is much more than just a store. It is a home for our community.
Our story in moving pictures.
To the YouTube channel YouTube channel
The story continues.
A lot has happened since 2016. Yet we still feel like we're just at the beginning. New ideas, products, and projects emerge every day. Together with our community, we continue to write the story of NIKIN. Step by step. Tree by tree.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
How was NIKIN founded?
NIKIN was founded in 2016 from an idea by two childhood friends. With 5,000 Swiss francs in start-up capital, the first winter hats, and a lot of initiative, a journey began that continues to this day.
What were the first NIKIN products?
Our first products were winter hats and gym bags. They were produced in small quantities and shipped directly from home.
What does the name NIKIN mean?
The name NIKIN originated from the previous project NIKIT, which had to be renamed for trademark reasons. The new name just sounded good. Only later did Robin and Nicholas realize that NIKIN also combined their two first names: NIcholas and RoBIN.
How much was the initial capital?
NIKIN was founded with initial capital of 5,000 Swiss francs. In the early years, every franc earned was reinvested into new products and building the brand.
Where was the first camp?
The first "proper" warehouse was located in Seengen in the canton of Aargau. There, the first orders were packed and shipped by hand after work.
What was the biggest milestone so far?
There have been many special moments in recent years. These include milestones reached with the number of trees planted, more than 4,000 co-owners, the opening of the TreeHouse, and many other milestones that we were able to achieve together with our community.