Tag Archives: REI

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REI ranks 43 on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” 2018

Co-op has been honored as one of Fortune’s top employers every year in the ranking’s history

SEATTLE, 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the 21st consecutive year, REI was recognized as one of the nation’s top employers, ranking 43 on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. The honor celebrates the co-op’s more than 12,000 employees that work every day to connect REI members and customers with life outdoors.

Placement on the list is based on survey responses from a sampling of employees asked to rate their workplace culture. Final ranking is determined by more than 50 elements of the workplace, including trust in managers, compensation and camaraderie.

“It’s an incredible honor, in our 80th year as a co-op, that our employees feel so strongly about the work we do,” said Raquel Karls, REI senior vice president of human resources. “REI’s culture is built around the idea that a life outdoors is a life well lived, and our teams bring that to life every day for our millions of members in the communities across the country.”

A Great Place to Work
REI is a purpose-led organization that prioritizes stewardship of the outdoors. The co-op invests 70 percent of its profits annually in the outdoor community, including 400 nonprofits that create access to the outdoors for all.

In addition, REI remains committed to caring for the long-term health of the outdoors. The co-op continues to source 100 percent renewable energy for all REI locations and operates a LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy distribution center in Goodyear, Arizona. REI also plans to incorporate sustainable design into its new campus in Bellevue, Washington.

Employees share in the co-op’s commitment to the outdoor community. According to REI’s annual employee survey, 96 percent of employees fully support the co-op’s values and believe REI has a great reputation for its products and services. The co-op’s combined pay and benefits lead the retail industry and employees enjoy a number of unique perks:

  • Days off to play outside: Every year, co-op employees receive two paid “Yay Days” that allow them to enjoy their favorite outdoor activity, learn a new skill or help to maintain outdoor spaces through a stewardship project.
  • #OptOutside: Employees also receive an additional paid day off on Black Friday to spend time outdoors with family and friends. In 2017, thousands of employees chose to #OptOutside and more than 8 million people joined the movement.
  • Increased parental leave: In 2018, REI enhanced its parental leave policy so employees can continue to balance their life at home with their life at work. Parents now receive up to six weeks of paid leave when welcoming a new child into the family.
  • Deals on gear: REI employees enjoy deep discounts on gear and experiences making it easier for them to try new products and build expertise to share with members.  Through our Challenge Grant program, employees can also receive up to $300 in REI private brands products for any outdoor activity, as long as it’s deemed a challenge for them.

Join the REI Team
As the co-op continues to grow, REI is looking to add passionate individuals to its team, including staff for its new stores opening later this year in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Cleveland. REI looks for candidates who embody its values and have a genuine love for the outdoors. Interested candidates can visit http://rei.jobs/.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 17 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips and outstanding customer service. REI has 151 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/rei-garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

About The FORTUNE 100 Best Companies To Work For®
Great Place to Work based its ranking on a data-driven methodology applied to anonymous Trust Index™ survey responses from more than 310,000 employees at Great Place to Work-Certified organizations with more than 1,000 employees. To learn more about Great Place to Work Certification and recognition on Best Workplaces lists published with FORTUNE, visit greatplacetowork.com.

About Great Place to Work®
Great Place to Work is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through its certification programs, Great Place to Work recognizes outstanding workplace cultures and produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” and Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small & Medium Companies, industries and, internationally, countries and regions. Through its culture consulting services, Great Place to Work helps clients create great workplaces that outpace peers on key business metrics like revenue growth, profitability, retention and stock performance. Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Media Requests:

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI recognized top vendor partners during the 2018 Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show

NEMO, NRS, Osprey and Oboz recognized for their leadership and innovation

DENVER, 2018-Jan-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Each day, leading outdoor retailer REI offers top gear and apparel from thousands of established and up-and-coming outdoor brands. During the 2018 Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show this week, REI recognized vendor partners who have made a significant impact to the co-op’s mission with its Vendor Partner of the Year awards. This year, the co-op also recognized the second winner of the REI Root award, which celebrates industry-leading sustainable product design.

REI Vendor Partner of the Year Awards
NEMO Equipment, headquartered in Dover, New Hampshire, received the co-op’s overarching Vendor Partner of the Year award.
“With products like the Stargaze™ Recliner, NEMO continues to bring innovative product design to the outdoor industry,” said Susan Viscon, REI senior vice president, merchandising. “Not only did NEMO have one of the most popular products on the shelf in 2017, they kept up with increased customer demand and showed amazing leadership throughout our partnership.”

The following vendor partners were also named divisional winners for the year:

  • Action sports: NRS (Moscow, Idaho)
  • Outdoor wear: Oboz (Bozeman, Montana)
  • Camp/travel: Osprey (Cortez, Colorado)

The Vendor Partner of the Year awards program was established by REI in 1993. Each year, companies are nominated by the co-op’s three merchandising divisions – camp/climb, Action sports and outdoor wear – for partnering with REI to meet customer needs, raise the bar for product quality and drive sustainable business practices.

REI Root Award
The co-op’s Root Award was created in 2016 to celebrate the gritty, below-the-surface determination that drives sustainability innovation in the outdoor industry.

This year, REI recognized the La Sportiva Mythos Eco climbing shoe for its use of 95 percent pre-and post-consumer recycled materials (including the sole, laces and webbing) and its reduced impacts in manufacturing (including metal-free leather tanning and water-based adhesives). In addition, the Mythos Eco can be re-soled, allowing customers to use them for an extended period of time.

“The Root Award honors outdoor products that break down barriers and move the industry toward more sustainable ways of making gear,” says Alex Thompson, REI brand stewardship and impact vice president. “La Sportiva has shown it’s possible to make a climbing shoe almost entirely of recycled materials, and to use a lower-impact process for manufacturing leather, all while maintaining excellent performance and durability.”

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 152 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/rei-garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner-to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Media Requests:

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI expands 2018 REI Outessa series with retreats and festivals

Series expands in 2018 with retreats and fests to grow the community of women in the outdoors

SEATTLE, 2018-Jan-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI, the nation’s largest consumer co-op and leader of outdoor experiences that inspire a life outside, announces the expansion of the 2018 REI Outessa series – outdoor events designed to grow and strengthen the community of women in the outdoors. The REI Outessa property now offers three unique event series beginning this summer, including retreats, festivals, and a virtual join in so women can select the experience that’s best for them, whether close to home or a destination location.

For the third year, REI Outessa will offer retreats for women who want to push their limits and learn new skills through immersive experiences during a three-day weekend. In 2018, there will be two Outessa retreats held in inspiring mountain settings: a new location in North Lake Tahoe at Squaw Valley, California from Aug. 2-5 and, for the second time due to its popularity with participants, the White Mountains of Waterville Valley, New Hampshire from Sept. 13-16.

Women can fully customize their retreat experience. For example, participants can join workshops like Wilderness Survival, Map and Compass Navigation, Sunrise Yoga, and Reframe on Goal Setting, and activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, standup paddle boarding, and introduction to backpacking, taught by top REI Outdoor School female instructors and brand partners. The day starts with a full breakfast before heading out to the trail, crag, or water, while evenings are filled with chef-inspired meals and fireside relaxation complete with s’mores, wine, inspirational speakers, and conversation. In 2017 the retreat series brought close to 1,000 women together to experience the outdoors and find their community of likeminded women.

New for 2018 will be REI Outessafest. These one-day festivals will take place near urban centers and will bring together thousands of people to connect through female-forward music, art, wellness, and adventure. Inspired by women but open to families, friends, and allies, REI Outessafest celebrates life outside by spending a full day in nature. REI Outessafest tickets will go on sale in late spring.

In order to provide many different ways in which women can engage with REI Outessa, REI will also host a virtual join in for the first time. For a low entry fee, participants from all over the country will come together on one day to pledge miles and work toward a collective goal REI will set. Women, their friends, families, and allies can conquer these miles on their own time while empowering women in their communities and potentially meeting new friends that have the same common goals. Women can engage with others through hiking, walking, paddling, or running to reach a milestone achievement. Additional details will be announced this summer.

“From experienced adventurers to women completely new to the outdoors, to women who are traveling with a crew to those who are participating alone with an interest to find their community, REI Outessa offers something for everyone,” said Sally Johnson, senior manager, events marketing at REI. “REI Outessa celebrates a life outside and helps break down some of the barriers women face to spending time outside. The growth of the series will allow women to choose the best experience for them while tapping into the inspiration and empowerment that comes through being in nature. We’re so excited to welcome everyone in 2018.”

REI Outessa partners include some of the best outdoor brands and products. These organizations share an interest to inspire more women to have an active outdoor life. Top partners include Garmin, Osprey, Sea to Summit, Smartwool, The North Face, Hydro Flask, PROBAR, Salomon, Maui Jim, and Yakima.

Outessa is part of REI’s broader effort called Force of Nature to advance gender equity in the outdoors. Force of Nature aims to ensure women are just as inspired and equipped as men to embrace life outside. Launched in 2017, Force of Nature featured four components: over 1,000 events designed for women, a comprehensive marketing effort to change the male-dominated imagery of people in the outdoors, an increased effort to develop and offer high-quality technical gear and apparel for women, and a $1 million commitment to support nonprofits that create opportunities for women in the outdoors.

Visit www.Outessa.com to learn about the retreat locations and dates. Tickets for the REI Outessa retreats will go on sale on Feb. 5. On this day, participants can also begin to build their schedules for the three-day weekend.
The 2017 REI Outessa recap video can be viewed HERE and 2017 photos can be found HERE. Like REI Outessa on Facebook for news and updates on 2018 dates.

About REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 152 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Contact:
Media Requests:
For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI introduces eight new adventure touring and recreational transit bikes to the 2018 Co-op Cycles brand line-up

  • REI confirms successful growth of its in-house cycling brand
  • Member and employee feedback aids in design inspiration for new bikes

Kent, Washington, 2017-Oct-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — Drafting off a successful first year with the introduction of its Co-op Cycles brand, REI, the nation’s largest outdoor co-op, will introduce eight new adventure touring and recreational transit bikes to the 2018 brand line-up. The ADV and CTY lines will debut four new bikes each. Along with the rest of the Co-op Cycles line, the redesigned ADV series, crafted for riders who enjoy longer touring adventures, and the redesigned CTY series, built for around-the-neighborhood and city commuting, were built from the ground up with inspiration and input from the co-op’s most passionate members and employee cyclists.

“We launched Co-op Cycles with a clear purpose – to engage our members and build bikes that reflect how they actually live and ride. It was clear they value simplicity, versatility and reliability, and the team ventured to reflect those values in the design of the initial line,” said Paul Calandrella, REI director of cycle strategy. “The approach is clearly resonating with both our members and employees, and Co-op Cycles has exceeded sales goals well beyond expectations in its first year.”

With design inspiration gleaned from passionate members and employees, Co-op Cycles leans into a “trail-first” approach to focus on mountain (DRT), all-road (ARD), adventure (ADV), pavement (CTY) and youth (REV) bikes along with a related line of apparel.

“The unique way our members integrate the bicycle into their outdoor lives continues to inspire us to go deeper into our mission, and build a more relevant bike for them. Our cooperative design approach helps us to deeply understand their experience and guides our thinking, designs and product decisions,” Calandrella said. “The 2018 lineup is the next great chapter in this adventure.”

CO-OP CYCLES ADVENTURE TOURING BIKES
REI has a long history as a go-to for passionate touring cyclists, who often have specific needs for their bikes and related gear. The new ADV bikes released this year build on that legacy, with the introduction of bikes made for riders looking to take their adventures to the end of the pavement and onto the trail. The bikes can haul gear, carry packs and operate reliably – no matter the surface or distance.

New 2018 Adventure Touring Bikes:

  • ADV 1.1 This bike was designed for fully loaded smooth riding over miles of pavement and mountain passes. It features a double butted chromoly frame, a chromoly fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, Shimano Deore LX drivetrain with bar-con shifters and 700 x 38 touring tires, cable actuated hydraulic disc brakes and front and rear racks. $1,299.
  • ADV 3.1 This bike was designed for trail touring enthusiasts with a double-butted chromoly steel frame, rugged chromoly fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, plentiful rack mounts, 20 speed Shimano Deore drivetrain with bar-con shifters, dual piston mechanical disc brakes, and burly puncture-resistant 650 x 50 Xplor MSO tires. $1,199.
  • ADV 3.2 Designed for rugged mileage and trail touring, this bike features a triple butted aluminum frame, a sturdy aluminum fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, a bevy of rack mounts, a tried and true Shimano Deore XT 20 speed drivetrain with bar-con shifters, TRP Hylex hydraulic disc brakes and puncture-resistant 650 x 50 Xplor MSO tires. $1,699.
  • ADV 4.2 Designed for overland adventurers, this burly off-road touring bike comes equipped with 27.5 x 2.8 tubeless-ready tires, Shimano’s SLX component set, burly front and rear racks, 22 gears, Cane Creek Thudbuster suspension seat post, Jones H-Bar® handlebar, and Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes. $1,899.

CO-OP CYCLES CITY TOURING BIKES
Sometimes the trail is just too far away, so Co-op Cycles ventures to support riders whose time outdoors is spent pedaling around their neighborhood, on urban paved paths or along city streets. For fun, fitness or as their transportation alternative, the CTY line is all about a confident, heads-up riding position, versatile carrying capacity and 360-degree visibility.

New 2018 City Bikes:

  • CTY 1.1 This bike is designed for urban outings. It features an aluminum frame and fork with rack and fender compatibility, a versatile 24-speed Shimano drivetrain with trigger shifters, puncture-resistant 700 x 40 tires and mechanical disc brakes. Also available in a step-thru design. $499.
  • CTY 1.2 This bike is great for longer jaunts including trips to work or the store. It features a double butted aluminum frame and fork with rack and fender compatibility. It comes with a versatile 27-speed Shimano drivetrain, flat handlebar design, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and a gel saddle. $799.
  • CTY 1.3 A no-fuss belt-drive option for serious coffee shop stops and low-maintenance maneuvering around the city. It features a double butted aluminum frame, an aluminum fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, Shimano Alfine 8 speed drivetrain paired with the Gates CenterTrack belt-drive system, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, a gel saddle and rack and fender compatibility. $1,199.
  • CTY 3.1 This sturdy companion sports a double butted chromoly frame, chromoly fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, Sram NX 1x 11 speed drivetrain with twist shifter, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, 650 x 47 WTB Horizon tires, a “batwing” style handlebar and rack and fender compatibility. $899.

SUPPORTING LOCAL CYCLING COMMUNITIES

REI continues to partner with nonprofits in local communities across the country to help build cycling infrastructure, improve trails and increase access to areas that are important to its member riders and the riding community at large.


Local and national nonprofit partners include the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, New England Mountain Bike Association, Colorado Mountain Bike Association, PeopleForBikes, the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), and many more. The co-op has provided more than $1.5 million over the last 10 years to support cycling efforts. These national partners build awareness of bicycle safety and create miles of connected cycle trails across the country.
REI also powers a leading digital hub for riders looking to dream and scheme about their next big adventure, MTB Project. With photos and descriptions for more than 80,000 miles of trail, the crowd-sourced website and app is the most complete guide to mountain bike terrain in the country.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 151 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally trained, expert instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

SOURCE: REI

Media Requests

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at

(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

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REI invested $1 million in organizations that create opportunities to connect women and girls to nature

  • New $500,000 Force of Nature Fund supports 26 nonprofits across the country 
  • Over 500 organizations responded to REI’s call for submissions

SEATTLE, 2017-Aug-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its commitment to create access to the outdoors for all, REI has invested $1 million in organizations across the country that are creating opportunities to connect women and girls to nature.

In May, REI launched an expansive, consumer-facing effort called Force of Nature to advance gender equity in the outdoors and encourage millions of its members to embrace the outdoors as “the world’s largest level playing field.” As part of the effort, REI committed $500,000 to three national, women-focused nonprofits with whom it already had a relationship, including Camber Outdoors ($400,000), GirlTrek ($50,000) and the YMCA’s GOLD initiative ($50K). It also launched the $500,000 Force of Nature Fund, which extends the co-op’s existing work with women-focused nonprofits into new territory.

Twenty-six nonprofits were selected from over 500 organizations that responded to REI’s open call for submissions. Those 26 investments announced today, will help address obstacles the co-op found in a national study it commissioned on women and the outdoors.

“We believe a life outdoors is a life well lived for all. That means we support equality from the backcountry to the boardroom,” says Jerry Stritzke, REI’s president and CEO. “REI works with hundreds of nonprofits annually to help communities connect with the outdoors, and protect the places we love. A core part of our business model links the co-op’s health to investments in the outdoor community. As we thrive, we share this success. This year, with Force of Nature, we added a specific focus on groups that are creating new and inspiring ways to advance gender equity and inclusion using the outdoors as a platform. The Force of Nature Fund helped us identify hundreds of organizations doing incredible work, and we’re proud to partner with our new grantees to learn and be inspired.”

REI selected the following 26 nonprofit organizations to receive grants totaling $500,000. Awards were based on the fund’s eligibility criteria. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000.

This investment is part of REI’s broader community investment strategy, which contributed more than $9M in 2017 to nonprofits at the heart of the outdoor community. Since 1976, REI has invested more than $80 million to steward our nation’s public lands, trails, and waterways, and to promote youth development, health and wellness in the outdoors. REI continues to support these efforts through invitation-only grants. For more information, visit:  https://www.rei.com/stewardship/creating-access.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 150 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Source: REI

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Momentum ™ Indoor Climbing and REI launch destination for the best climbing gear, programming and events at Momentum’s new gyms

SEATTLE, 2017-May-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — Momentum ™ Indoor Climbing and national outdoor co-op REI announce the launch of REI Co-op Climb, a destination for the best climbing gear, programming and events at each of Momentum’s new gyms. REI Co-op Climb will debut inside Momentum Katy when the 36,000 square foot gym opens its doors on Saturday, July 15, 2017. Momentum Silver Street will also feature an REI Co-op Climb; the 40,000 square foot bouldering gym near downtown Houston is slated to open later this year.

“REI is a visionary company dedicated to improving people’s lives through outdoor experiences and education,” said Jeff Pedersen, Momentum CEO and co-founder. “Momentum is committed to building better climbers at our world-class climbing facilities, and we look forward to aligning our Climbing School offering with that of REI Outdoor School. The co-op is an ideal partner to further our vision, by providing Momentum climbers with a gateway to memorable outdoor experiences.”

REI Co-op Climb will serve as a destination for the best climbing gear, programming and events at each of Momentum’s new gyms. Expert instructors from REI’s Outdoor School will help Momentum members and guests gain skills and confidence through gym to crag classes. Classes range from beginner to advanced levels and include Learn to Climb, Learn to Rappel, Sport Climbing Anchors and Climbing Rescue Techniques. REI members who participate in the Learn to Climb program will receive two weeks free climbing at Momentum so that they can fully experience the new gyms. To register for a class or program, visit https://www.rei.com/katy-climb-shop.

“REI has a rich climbing heritage thanks to our founders’ vision to be among the first to bring world class climbing equipment to the American market. We are excited to partner with Momentum to introduce REI Co-op Climb. These gyms are an important resource for avid climbers, and they’re an onramp for getting more people into the sport,” said John Sheppard, REI’s divisional vice president, experiential programs and new ventures. “As a respected climber’s gym, Momentum also shares our ethos around education, and we look forward to introducing more individuals and youth to the growing climbing community.”

REI has had a retail presence in the Houston area since 1996 and today operates three stores in the region, including downtown Houston, Baybrook and Willowbrook. The company also has three locations in the Austin area. REI Outdoor School offers a range of classes and events, including introductory rock climbing at Reimers Ranch Park, a popular destination near Austin for outdoor climbing.

Education is at the core of REI’s purpose. Last year REI Outdoor School helped 350,000 people learn a new activity, brush up on their skills, or experience the outdoors in a unique way. As a different kind of company, the co-op shares the majority of its annual profits with the outdoor community, including local nonprofits working to increase access to and steward inspiring outdoor places.

According to Climbing Business Journal, 188 of the 414 indoor climbing gyms in the U.S. opened between 2010 and 2016, a rate of growth that is projected to continue.

Momentum Katy will be the one of the largest climbing gyms in the United States. The 36,000 square foot facility will offer over 29,000 square feet of rope climbing, bouldering, training walls and kids climbing. Industry leader Walltopia is building the gym’s climbing walls, which were designed by Momentum’s Salt Lake City design team. Momentum Katy will accommodate hundreds of climbers at once, and includes a 5,500 square foot cross training area, dedicated yoga studio, locker rooms and laptop work spaces. The second floor mezzanine will offer “auto-belay” climbing and party space, doubling as a viewing area for local and national level climbing competitions.

Momentum Silver Street is located at less than two miles from downtown Houston in a reconditioned warehouse surrounded by art studios, dining options and residential lofts. The facility will include bouldering, training space, a cardio room, and a yoga studio. The gym will also feature a youth specific climbing area, locker rooms and workspaces. As one of the largest bouldering gyms in the county, Momentum Silver Street will host major competitions.

About Momentum Indoor Climbing
For the last decade, Momentum™ Indoor Climbing has been developing innovative indoor climbing gyms to serve local communities. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, the Momentum brand is fueled by a passion to evolve and share the sport of rock climbing through inspired wall design, modern training facilities, effective coaching and education programs and amenities that enhance the indoor experience. Momentum is committed to building better climbers and cultivating lasting communities. For more information about Momentum, visit www.momentumclimbing.com or connect with Momentum on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Vimeo.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:

REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI Englewood, Colorado store to relocate to Greenwood Village in the fall of 2017

Co-op will continue to invest in local outdoor places, including $160,000 in local Colorado nonprofits this year

SEATTLE, 2017-May-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Outdoor co-op REI today (05.08.17) announced plans to relocate its Englewood, Colorado store to nearby Greenwood Village in the fall of 2017. After nearly two decades in its current location, the new store will carry a larger assortment of gear and apparel to make it easier for the more than 365,000 active co-op members throughout the region to get outside. At its new location, REI will continue to support the local outdoor community by investing $160,000 in Colorado nonprofits this year to make a positive, lasting impact on trails, parks and waterways.

“The REI Englewood team is very excited to continue to serve our members and customers in the southern Denver metro communities at our new Greenwood Village store this fall,” said store manager Kris Reale. “To be able to support this outdoor community in a larger space just a couple miles from our current location will help all of us to inspire each other to get outside. This new store will show how we bring the outdoors in and connect the local community to a life outdoors. We can’t wait for this fall when we can join the community at the new Greenwood Village co-op.”

The new store will be located in Greenwood Village on Arapahoe Road and I-25, less than five miles from the current location. At 45,000 square feet, the store will offer a wider selection of gear for the region’s most popular outdoor activities, including mountain biking, climbing and snow sports. The store will feature a bike shop and ski and snowboard shop for maintenance and repairs from highly trained experts. REI has eight other stores throughout Colorado, with nearby locations in Denver (15 miles away), Lakewood (20 miles) and Colorado Springs (49 miles). The co-op also opened a new store in Dillon, Colorado on May 5.

REI Outdoor School will continue to offer a robust schedule of in-store and field classes and experiences for mountain biking, hiking, climbing, backpacking, snow-sports and more. In addition the store will host presentations by well-known authors and athletes. The majority of programming will be free, as is the case at REI stores across the country. Across the Front Range, REI Outdoor School’s programming increased by more than 28% over the last year in its focus to help people live a life outside. This summer, join REI Outdoor School across the Front Range for an array of programs designed for women, including Force Wednesday events at the co-op’s flagship in Denver.

REI opened its Englewood location in 1998 and has developed strong relationships throughout the Colorado outdoor community since first coming to Denver in 1983. In 2017, REI plans to invest $160,000 in local nonprofits that steward and increase access to nearby outdoor places. REI teams will support a series of trail service projects this summer, leading up to the co-op’s sponsorship of the Golden Giddyup mountain bike festival in September. REI also partners with nonprofits that impact some of the state’s most iconic outdoor places, including the Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, Colorado Youth Corps Association and the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, and most recently the Friends of Dillon Ranger District.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

SOURCE: REI

Contact:

REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

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REI launched a comprehensive effort to advance gender equity in the outdoors

  • Long-range effort will advance gender equity outdoors
  • Women will be front and center in REI storytelling for rest of 2017
  • $1M will support nonprofits that create opportunities for women in the outdoors

SEATTLE, 2017-Apr-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Outdoor co-op REI today (03.30.2017) launched a comprehensive effort to advance gender equity in the outdoors, encouraging millions of its members to embrace the outdoors as “the world’s largest level playing field.” From gear to experiences and from nonprofit partnerships to powerful women-first storytelling, Force of Nature aims to ensure that women are just as inspired and equipped as men to embrace life outside. Force of Nature features four components: a comprehensive effort to change the male-dominated imagery of people in the outdoors; a $1 million commitment in 2017 to support nonprofits that create opportunities for women in the outdoors; a stepped-up effort to develop and offer high-quality technical gear and apparel for women; and the launch of over 1,000 events designed for women, beginning May 6.

Force of Nature is a public-facing effort that builds on nearly eight decades of REI work to create more access to the outdoors for women. The co-op has a balanced leadership team. Women hold more than 40 percent of senior leadership roles, including the current chief financial officer, chief information officer, and the heads of human resources, merchandising and strategy. One third of the REI board of directors are women.

Current CEO Jerry Stritzke, who succeeded previous CEO Sally Jewell, has publicly led the effort to advance women’s leadership across the outdoor industry. One of his first acts as CEO was to launch a five-year, $1.5 million effort with Camber Outdoors that sparked women’s innovation and leadership in the outdoor industry.

REI board chair, Cheryl Scott, said:

“The leaders of REI have been pushing to change the way things are done in the outdoor industry since I got on the board 12 years ago. This moment makes me proud to serve REI because it’s not about putting women above men – it’s about creating equal opportunity and levelling-up in areas where there are still obvious gaps. I hope millions of REI members will embrace this because more balance outdoors means our kids, our families and our society will benefit.”

REI president and CEO, Jerry Stritzke, said:

“At REI, we believe a life outdoors is a life well lived for all. That means we support equality from the backcountry to the boardroom. As a man and a CEO, I believe it is important for every leader in an organization, regardless of gender, to champion equality and we are doing the hard work here at REI to make that happen. This isn’t about elevating one group above another or pivoting REI to serve one gender over another. This is about ensuring women are just as inspired and equipped as men to embrace life outside. Everyone should expect to get the same level of expert service, gear and experiences, and we need to get better as an industry at doing that.”

REI senior vice president of merchandising and board chair of Camber Outdoors, Susan Viscon, said:

“Strong women leaders have helped REI thrive since 1938. Force of Nature is rooted in that proud heritage. We’re taking an even harder run at ensuring women have access to the same high-end gear men do, which I’m particularly proud of. That’s been a consistent part of my mission here at the co-op ever since I joined 20 years ago, and it’s inspiring to see how our vendor partners have stepped up.”

Today, REI also published a national study commissioned to better understand the role the outdoors plays in women’s lives and how the outdoors is perceived today. The study revealed that 7 out of 10 women believe that women are under more pressure to conform than men, and that they also view the outdoors as an antidote to that pressure. Additionally, the study found that more than 85 percent of women see the outdoors as key to better physical and mental health, and overall well-being, and 73 percent say they would like to spend more time outdoors.

Changing the Male-Dominated Imagery of People Outdoors
The co-op has committed to putting women first and foremost in all of its storytelling for the remainder of 2017. The effort will “take over” REI’s digital marketing, social media content and media partnerships, and storytelling across member communications, REI Adventures, Outdoor School, REI Adventure Projects and internal communications. REI will host a film festival this fall focused on women in the outdoors, and partnered with Outside magazine to help them create their first ever all-women’s issue, due on newsstands April 11.

$1M to Support Community Organizations that Create Opportunities for Women Outdoors
As part of its annual commitment to create access to the outdoors for all, the co-op will invest over $1 million in community organizations that create more opportunities for women and girls to get outside in 2017. Roughly $500,000 will support organizations such as Camber Outdoors, GirlTrek and the YMCA’s BOLD/GOLD initiative. REI also unveiled a new $500,000 fund, available through an open call submission process, for additional organizations that create opportunity for women and girls in the outdoors. Up to $300,000 of this fund will be fueled by a custom-designed bandana, an artist collaborative T-shirt and member-exclusive REI Flash pack.

Outfitting Women for Outdoor Adventure
REI will continue to work with its partners to elevate and invest in companies that are creating the world’s best outdoor gear for women. For decades, REI has pushed the outdoor industry to put the “pink-it-and-shrink-it” philosophy aside and offer high performance women-specific outdoor gear. Women-specific product has improved dramatically, but in certain product categories, there remains a gap between the quality of high end men’s and women’s gear available. Several brands have stepped up as partners with an increased focus on world class women’s gear, particularly in women-specific fit and assortment, including Osprey, GHOST, Oiselle, Arc’teryx, Terry, Oboz, Darn Tough, Outdoor Research and prAna.

Over 1,000 Events Designed to Get Women Outside
Beginning today, REI opened registration to hundreds of REI Outdoor School classes and experiences across the country designed for women. On May 6, the co-op will offer a full day of Force of Nature experiences and programs hosted by its Outdoor School’s expert instructors and community partners. These events will continue throughout the summer, with more than 1,000 events, many of them happening weekly on “Force Wednesdays” in select markets.

The co-op will also host three REI Outessa retreats at breathtaking mountain settings. These immersive, three-day outdoor adventures enable women to find their outdoor community, do what they love and try something new in the country’s most beautiful outdoor playgrounds. Retreats are scheduled at Kirkwood Mountain Resort in California from July 14-16, Mt. Hood in Oregon from August 18-20 and Waterville Valley Resort in New Hampshire from September 22-24.

REI Adventures has also launched a collection of 19 Women’s Adventures in Africa, Europe, Latin America, New Zealand and North America. These extraordinary journeys are designed specifically for all-women groups and led by female guides.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:

REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI to open new store in Chattanooga, Tennessee

New co-op store at Waterside development to open fall 2018

SEATTLE, 2017-Apr-03 — /EPR Retail News/ —  In the fall of 2018, outdoor co-op REI will open a new store in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The new co-op location will offer a wide assortment of quality gear and local REI experts to help members and customers get outside. With iconic places such as the Chattahoochee National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cumberland Plateau and the Appalachians all within approximately 100 miles, REI will partner with local nonprofit, business and community leaders to support the growing outdoor community in and around Chattanooga.

“Chattanooga and the surrounding region is a special place for people who love the outdoors. REI has been in Tennessee for nearly two decades, and during that time our local teams in Brentwood (Nashville) and Knoxville have helped our members get outside and enjoy this amazing state. We’ve watched as Chattanooga has become a hub for outdoor recreation because of its central location to so many trails, parks, forests and waterways. We can’t wait to join the community, hire a team of local outdoor experts and support local nonprofits who create access to and steward the outdoors,” said Gail Kirkland, REI’s retail director for the South district.

REI Chattanooga will be located at the intersection of I-75 and Shallowford Road in the Waterside development. The single-story, 25,000 square foot store will carry the top gear and apparel for the most popular outdoor activities in the area, including hiking, trail running, rock climbing and cycling. REI Chattanooga will be the co-op’s third store in Tennessee, with existing locations in Brentwood and Knoxville.

REI Outdoor School will offer a robust in-store schedule of educational programs about hiking, climbing, biking, backpacking, paddling and more. In addition the store will host presentations by well-known authors and athletes.

REI opened its first Tennessee location in Brentwood in 1999 and has partnered with several local nonprofits over the past two decades. In 2016, REI invested $65,000 in eight local nonprofits, which was part of the co-op’s $9.3 million investment in nonprofits throughout the country. The co-op invested nearly $30,000 in the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park to support the Alum Cave Trail and restoration efforts following the wildfires. On National Trails Day in early June, the co-op will partner with Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park to repair park areas devastated last year, and REI members and customers will be invited to lend their sweat equity. REI also supported organizations such as the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association, Friends of South Cumberland and Appalachian Mountain Bike Club. With its new store in Chattanooga, REI will foster new nonprofit partnerships to directly benefit the local outdoor community.

In addition, REI Adventures has guided small group active travel trips in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than five years and today operates four itineraries in the iconic park. The travel leader recently introduced a four-day Great Smoky Mountains Women’s Adventure led by a female guide where women hike the historic Appalachian Trail, raft and zip line.

Join the REI Team
Candidates interested in joining the REI team at any local store can apply online at REI.com/jobs. The co-op expects to hire 50 employees for the new store who receive a variety of benefits, including generous product and service discounts, competitive pay and retirement contributions. For 20 consecutive years, REI has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For.”

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and   outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:

REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI submitted designs for its new campus to the City of Bellevue for Design Review

Outdoor co-op submits application for Design Review to the City of Bellevue

SEATTLE, 2017-Mar-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (03.23.2017) REI, the outdoor co-op, submitted the designs for its new campus to the City of Bellevue for Design Review. The submission represents another step in the co-op’s vision to create a hub that is accessible, sustainable, and connected to the community. The review process typically takes 9-12 months and, once approved, REI can begin construction. REI still plans to relocate its campus in 2020.

“Our challenge is to build a world class, sustainable headquarters that brings the best of outdoor life into a collaborative work setting for our employees,” said Eric Artz, REI’s chief operating officer. “The Spring District gives us the opportunity to help build a neighborhood from the ground up and rethink how we work, commute and gather. We’re excited to work with the City of Bellevue, King County and other partners throughout the region.”

Sustainable Design
As a co-op that cares for the long-term health of the outdoors, REI incorporates sustainable design in all of its buildings across the country. For its new campus, REI and its partners will follow the United States Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) evaluation criteria—the preeminent program for the design, construction, maintenance and operations of high-performance green building. REI currently has more than 1.1 million square feet of LEED-certified buildings, including the co-op’s newest distribution center in Arizona, which achieved LEED Platinum and is the most sustainable distribution center in the country. The co-op will also use Salmon Safe as a guideline for environmental impact to local watersheds.

At this early stage in the design process, REI has made several sustainable design decisions, including:

  • The building is positioned for optimal solar orientation
  • Windows will be strategically placed to maximize daylight into the workplace
  • Energy efficiency features will be incorporated throughout the building
  • The landscape will feature edible garden species and native vegetation

Hub for REI and Community
REI’s vision is to create a campus that brings co-op employees and the local community together. The public can easily move across the campus on a series of three public pedestrian paths, linking nearby transit and residential areas. The space may also include public amenities such as a retail location, coffee shops and food options.

Co-op employees will enjoy several features intended to create a collaborative working environment. The building will feature connector bridges that span across the courtyard spaces, outdoor staircases, rooftop walkways and outdoor meeting spaces, offering alternate ways for employees to get around campus. There will also be outdoor space for employees to exercise and host community events.

REI is working with the City of Bellevue, King County and other partners to increase commuting options in Bellevue and throughout the Puget Sound region. The co-op publically supported Proposition 1 (also known as Sound Transit 3) last year, and continues to work with local government and community leaders to improve bike connectivity throughout the region.

Investing in the Community
REI continues to invest in local communities throughout the country and the Puget Sound region. In 2016, REI and The REI Foundation invested $9.3 million in more than 300 nonprofit partners, including more than $750,000 in outdoor places and causes in and around the Puget Sound region. The co-op’s new campus is located in the Mountains to Sound Greenway (MTSG), a linked network of green spaces and historic towns that REI has supported for years through its investment in the MTSG Trust.

REI is a strong supporter of the Eastside Rail Corridor (ERC), a 42-mile multi-use trail that will stretch from Renton to Woodinville when complete. The new campus and recently-opened Bellevue store are both located along the ERC, and the co-op recently invested $20,000 in the Eastside Greenway Alliance for their ongoing work in collaboration with King County. REI is also working closely with city, state and federal leaders to improve safe bike lane connectivity. This work includes partnering with the city on the implementation of the Bicycle Rapid Implementation Plan—a 57-mile network of new and improved bike lanes—and support of the public and private effort to transform the Wilburton Trestle into an elevated pedestrian bridge as part of the ERC.

Notes to editors:

  • REI currently has more than 1,400 headquarters employees in five office areas in the Puget Sound region.
  • REI recently made Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list for the 20th consecutive year—one of 12 companies to be included on the annual top employer list since 1998.
  • Similar to its existing campus, REI will own the eight acres of land in a section of the Spring District, located between SR 520 and Bel-Red Road.
  • REI’s partners include Wright Runstad & Company (developer), NBBJ (architect), GGN (landscape architect) and Howard S. Wright (builder).
  • REI’s existing Kent campus is for sale. For inquiries about the Kent campus, please contact Doug Larson (dlarson@htland.com) or Matt Anderson (manderson@htland.com) at Heartland.
  • Renderings are available at Newsroom.REI.com.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:

REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI ranked number 28 on this year’s Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list

Outdoor co-op is one of 12 companies to be included on annual top employer list since 1998

SEATTLE, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the 20th consecutive year, REI employees earned the co-op a spot on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, according to global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work® and Fortune magazine. REI is ranked number 28 and is one of 12 companies to be included since the annual list began in 1998. This year, the co-op is one of four companies headquartered in Washington state to be recognized on the top employer list.

“This is an amazing honor and we are all very proud to be recognized for 20 straight years. Our placement on this list for the past two decades is a reflection of our employees throughout the country, so I want to thank all of them for making REI a great place to work,” said Jerry Stritzke, REI CEO and president. “At REI, we put our purpose above profits and I think that’s a huge reason why people love working here, stay here for a long time and do such great, impactful work. Our employees have had a passion for the outdoors since our founding in 1938, and that passion continues to unite and inspire us, giving each of us a strong sense of what matters most, no matter where we live or work.”

A Great Place to Work
The co-op’s more than 12,000 employees make REI a great place to work by being highly engaged with and committed to serving the outdoor community. Engagement scores routinely exceed 85 percent. Fully 93 percent of co-op employees believe in REI’s vision, based on the results of the Trust Index, a survey sent by the Great Places to Work Institute to a random sample of REI employees. REI’s combined pay and benefits lead the industry, and retail turnover is almost half the industry standard and retention of full-time employees is 90 percent.

REI is a purpose-led organization that prioritizes stewarding the outdoors and sustainability. Eighty-seven percent of all employees said in a recent survey they believe that REI is an environmentally responsible company, citing actions such as the co-op’s new LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy distribution center, nearly flat energy use (+4.2%) since 2008 even though sales grew by nearly 70 percent, and the use of 100 percent renewable energy at all REI locations.

More than a Job: Joining the Co-op Community
REI looks for people who love the outdoors and want to align their skills and experience with the co-op’s core values: authenticity, quality, service, respect, integrity and balance. REI is currently seeking applicants for a number of positions at its headquarters, including information technology and merchandising roles. The retail team is looking to fill positions for at many locations, including new stores opening later this year. Interested candidates can visit http://rei.jobs/.

REI offers a number of unique perks and programs designed to help employees lead balanced lives and enjoy the outdoors:

  • Pay to go outdoors: Every single co-op employee receives paid time off to go outside and play—two Yay Days a year where they can participate in a favorite activity, learn something new or help create inspirational places through an outdoor stewardship project.
  • #OptOutside: Employees also receive an additional paid day off on Black Friday to spend time outdoors with family and friends. In 2016, thousands of employees chose to #OptOutside and more than 6 million people and more than 700 organizations joined the movement.
  • Commuting support: REI provides showers, towels, lockers and bicycle storage to commuters at most locations nationwide. The co-op also offers a 50% pre-tax subsidy on public transit expenses, parking subsidy and subsidized vanpooling and ride-sharing options.
  • Deals on gear: REI has discount programs for the gear sold in stores, making it easier for employees to try new gear and build experience to share with members. Employees can also receive up to $300 in REI private brands products for any outdoor activity, as long as it’s deemed a challenge for them.
  • Health and well-being: REI offers a benefit package to full- and part-time employees that covers the majority of medical plan costs and the full cost for basic life and disability coverage for employees averaging 20 hours or more per week.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and   outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

About The Fortune 100 Best Companies To Work For®
To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For®, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. The ranking is based on feedback from more than 276,000 employees at Great Place to Work–Certified™ companies with more than 1,000 employees.

Winning a spot on this list indicates the company has distinguished itself from peers by creating a great place to work for employees – measured and ranked through our analysis of the results of our Trust Index© survey and Culture Audit© questionnaire.

Through the Trust Index©, employees anonymously assess their workplace, including the honesty and quality of communication by managers, degree of support for employees’ personal and professional lives and the authenticity of relationships with colleagues. Results from the survey are highly reliable, having a 95% confidence level and a margin of error of 5% or less. Companies’ results on the Trust Index© survey are compared to peer organizations of like size and complexity. The Culture Audit© includes detailed questions about benefits, programs and practices. To be considered for our Best Workplaces lists, companies must become Great Place to Work-Certified™. Details are available at https://www.greatplacetowork.com/certification

About Great Place to Work®
Great Place to Work® is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, including Best Workplaces lists and workplace reviews, Great Place to Work provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In the United States, Great Place to Work produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” and a series of Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists, including lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small and Medium Companies and over a half dozen different industries. Great Place to Work provides executive advisory and culture consulting services to businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 50 countries across six continents.

SOURCE: REI

Media Requests

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

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REI announces its second REI Outessa retreats — a three-day outdoor adventures designed to connect women with the outdoors

Three summer events in California, Oregon and New Hampshire

SEATTLE, 2017-Feb-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI, the outdoor co-op and national specialty retailer, announced its 2017 REI Outessa retreats with three immersive, three-day outdoor adventures designed to connect women with the outdoors in a supportive learning environment. Now in its second year, the getaways are filled with activities and inspiration, offer access to coveted gear and products, serve up great food and wine, and create the environment for making new friends and lasting memories. Registration is now open at www.REI.com/Outessa.

“Whether you are an experienced outdoors person or someone who’s thinking about trying new activities, Outessa is about getting away from it all and reconnecting with the outdoors,” said Susan Viscon, REI senior vice president of merchandising and board member of Camber Outdoors. “We heard some amazing stories from participants last year and we are expanding the retreats in 2017. This fun environment is designed by – and for – a supportive community of women who like adventure.”

More than 20 of REI Outdoor School’s top female instructors will partner with leading outdoor brands to host a full range of adventures, including hiking, trail running, mountain biking, rock climbing, trail photography, paddle boarding, kayaking, climbing, yoga, backpacking, wilderness survival training, outdoor cooking and more.

Registration for REI Outessa is $799 per person, which includes classes led by REI’s professional guides, use of on-site gear, chef-prepared meals, wine and beer, evening entertainment, inspirational speakers, and a goodie bag packed with products and gear.

2017 REI Outessa events will be held at three breathtaking mountain playgrounds. Destinations were chosen for their inspirational alpine environments, sweeping views, pristine lake, and adventure-ready terrain with miles of trails for running, hiking and mountain biking. Each offer resort hospitality and proximity to major airports, making travel easy for participants. The dates and locations are:

  • July 14-16: Kirkwood Mountain Resort in Kirkwood, California near South Lake Tahoe
  • August 18-20: Mt. Hood Skibowl in Government Camp, Oregon and 12 miles from the Mt. Hood National Forest
  • September 22-24: Waterville Valley Resort in Waterville, New Hampshire in the White Mountain National Forest

Customized Retreats
REI Outessa attendees will customize their weekend from start to finish. They will choose accommodations from three options: resort rooms or condos; “fancy camp” deluxe camping with fully-outfitted canvas tents, amenities and a concierge; and DIY camping at Camp REI, where guests bring their own gear. Participants will also select their daily schedules from more than 200 activities based on personal interests, outdoor goals and skill levels.

Each morning, women will start their day with a full breakfast before heading out on the trail, crag or water for small group adventures. Evenings are filled with chef-prepared meals and fire-side relaxation complete with s’mores, wine and beer, inspirational speakers, and conversations that reflect on the day.

“Last year, REI Outessa was a transformational experience for hundreds of women. Together with our brand partners, we helped women tap into an emotional and profound connection to the outdoors,” said Sally Johnson, the events manager for REI who helped create the Outessa series. “The beauty of these weekends is that every women discovers something about herself – physical or emotional. Women leave with a supportive tribe to draw boundless inspiration and encouragement from and a new appreciation for living a life outside.”

REI will again be joined by more than 20 companies that represent some of the best outdoor brands and lifestyle products. Major sponsors include Big Agnes, Hydro Flask, Igloo, KEEN, Leatherman, Nuun, OluKai, Osprey, Petzl, Pro Bar and Salomon. Every company at the three-day weekend will engage with participants through experiences, product samples and brand ambassadors who share their passion for the outdoors.

To learn more about the retreats and locations of the epic weekends, visit www.REI.com/Outessa.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 149 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI announces Vendor Partner of the Year awards recipients and the inaugural winner of the REI Root award

Brooks, GHOST, Oboz, Petzl and Columbia recognized for their exceptional contributions 

SALT LAKE CITY, 2017-Jan-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Each day, leading outdoor retailer REI offers top gear and apparel from thousands of established and up-and-coming outdoor brands. During the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show, REI recognized vendor partners who have made a significant impact to the co-op’s mission with its Vendor Partner of the Year awards. This year, the co-op also recognized the inaugural winner of the REI Root award, which celebrates industry-leading sustainable product design.

REI Vendor Partner of the Year Awards
Brooks, headquartered in Seattle, Wash., received the co-op’s overarching Vendor Partner of the Year award for its partnership to consistently provide best-in-class product, superior customer service and support across the co-op’s many programs.

“Brooks’ partnership with the co-op stood out all year. Their efforts to support and collaborate with REI’s teams consistently went above our expectations,” said Susan Viscon, REI’s senior vice president of Merchandising. “Its commitment to the co-op is evident throughout the organization; whether visiting our store teams for training clinics or events, or partnering with us on larger integrated marketing campaigns like OptOutside, Brooks’ partnership is second to none.”

The following vendor partners were also named divisional winners for the year:

  • Actionsports: GHOST-Bikes GmbH (Waldsassen, Germany) in partnership with Accell North America (Kent, Wash.)
  • Outdoorwear: Oboz (Bozeman, Mont.)
  • Camp/Climb: Petzl (Salt Lake City)

The Vendor Partner of the Year awards program was established by REI in 1993. Each year, companies are nominated by the co-op’s three merchandising divisions – Camp/Climb, Actionsports and Outdoorwear – for partnering with REI to meet customer needs, raise the bar for product quality and drive sustainable business practices.

REI Root Award
The co-op’s Root Award was created in 2016 to celebrate the gritty, below-the-surface determination that drives sustainability innovation in the outdoor industry. This year, REI recognized the Columbia OutDry Extreme ECO Jacket, a high performance, waterproof, breathable jacket made without perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) or dyes. The OutDry Extreme ECO is made from 21 recycled plastic bottles and is a bluesign® certified product, further lowering the jacket’s scientifically measured environmental footprint. To learn more about the OutDry Extreme ECO story, please visit http://blog.columbia.com/preview-outdry-extreme-eco/.

“Sustainability is a core value for REI and our members. We have a unique opportunity to recognize sustainable product breakthroughs and to scale how these breakthroughs impact the broader outdoor industry,” said Vik Sahney, REI’s divisional vice president of Sustainability. “We applaud Columbia for taking a scientific life-cycle based approach to designing a classic outdoor product—the rain shell—and creating a breakthrough in sustainability performance.”

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and   outstanding customer service. REI has 149 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI to relocate its West Hartford store; opening in spring of 2018 at Corbins Corner Shopping Center

More than 15,000 co-op members in the West Hartford area can visit new location in spring 2018

SEATTLE, 2016-Nov-11 — /EPR Retail News/ —  REI, the local outdoor co-op with more than 15,000 active members in the West Hartford area, will relocate its West Hartford store to provide adventurers with an improved store experience and easier access to quality gear and expert advice. Located at Corbins Corner Shopping Center near Interstate 84—just three miles from the existing location—the new store will open in the spring of 2018, pending the city’s approval of the project.

“We know the West Hartford community is passionate about getting outside, which is why it was our first store in the state nearly a decade ago. Since then, we’ve seen the outdoor community grow and felt we could make it easier for our members to get geared up for their adventures at this new location. We look forward to 2018 when everyone—our employees, members and nonprofit partners—can come experience this new hub for the outdoor community,” said Kurt Feilke, REI retail director for the Northeast district.

The new 25,000 square foot store will carry the best gear and apparel for the most popular outdoor activities in the area, and a bike and ski shop for maintenance and repairs. The store will continue to offer outdoor experiences through REI Outdoor School, with upcoming events such as Ski/Snowboard Waxing Basics, Cross-Country Skiing Class and Winter Camping Basics.

Relocating the West Hartford store is part of the co-op’s plan to continue to serve the growing outdoor community in Connecticut, including the more than 32,000 active members throughout the region. In October 2016, REI opened its third store in the state in Milford, which followed the opening of REI Norwalk in 2010.

Since the co-op first came to West Hartford in 2007, REI has supported the impactful work of local nonprofit organizations. In 2016, REI invested $20,000 in four nonprofits throughout the state, including Ragged Mountain Foundation, Riverfront Recapture, Farmington Valley Trails Council, and the Connecticut Chapter of the Appalachian Trail Committee. To celebrate the opening of the new Milford store, REI recently invested an additional $15,000 in Sleeping Giant Park Association and the Connecticut Forest and Park Association, bringing the total to $35,000 invested in six local nonprofits this year.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 149 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI announces the appointment of Raquel Karls as SVP of Human Resources

SEATTLE, 2016-Nov-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI, the outdoor co-op and national specialty retailer, welcomes Raquel Karls as its senior vice president of Human Resources.

Karls’ career spans more than 20 years with purpose-driven brands. Most recently, she served as chief human resources officer at Outerwall, the company behind brands including Coinstar, Redbox and ecoATM. There, she led a redesign of all people programs, including performance management, engagement, talent reviews and HRIS systems. She has also spent time in leadership roles in Human Resources at other northwest organizations, including Starbucks and Expedia, and worked in various leadership positions at Pepsi.

“REI is a unique place. Supporting our employees is one of the most important things we do as a co-op. Raquel is a dynamic leader with a love of the outdoors, a clear point of view and a passion for building a thriving team. Under her leadership, we will continue to build our reputation as one of the best employers in the country,” said Jerry Stritzke, REI’s CEO and president.

For 19 consecutive years, REI has been recognized as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For, one of only five companies to do so. Most recently, REI ranked #26. The co-op was also just announced as #10 on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies in Retail, and was previously recognized on the lists of 100 Best Workplaces for Millennials and 100 Best Workplaces for Women this year alone.

“Joining the co-op gives me the chance to blend my experience with my personal connection to the outdoors. REI has a strong culture and highly engaged employees, and I look forward to helping drive further performance and satisfaction that foster our community and reinforce our values,” said, Raquel Karls, senior vice president of Human Resources.

The co-op is again closing its doors on Black Friday and paying its more than 12,000 employees to #OptOutside, and gives all employees two Yay Days, paid days off to explore the outdoors. REI employees also receive competitive wages, a funded retirement plan, generous healthcare benefits and significant deals on outdoor gear and adventures. Other benefits include paid sabbaticals, an incentive plan for all employees and more. Interested candidates can visit http://rei.jobs/.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 149 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

Posted on by

REI thanks organizations who committed to create new holiday tradition and invites more to join #OptOutside

SEATTLE, 2016-Oct-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — CEO Jerry Stritzke invites nonprofits and companies with shared values to join the growing movement of 300 national and local organizations advocating for time outside with family and friends

REI, the outdoor co-op, thanks hundreds of nonprofit, public and private sector partners who announced the launch of #OptOutside yesterday. Prominent national and local organizations shared that they are joining with REI employees to create a new tradition for people to reconnect with friends and family outdoors at this important time of year. In the coming weeks, #OptOutside will lift up and celebrate people who dedicate their lives to the outdoors.

In a public letter on the Co-op Journal, Stritzke writes, “REI is committed to advancing this conversation about the outdoors and its benefits. This is a multifaceted topic, so for the next month you will hear from experts across the outdoor community about the power of nature to heal, the value of childhood play outdoors, the importance of nurturing and conserving our public lands, and the increasing need for diversity in the outdoors.”

Alex Thompson, REI vice president of Public Affairs, said, “Nonprofits and government agencies that steward the outdoors are at the heart of #OptOutside, but we also believe that many unexpected organizations can help remove barriers to the outdoors. We need to talk more about how we can collaborate to give people access to the benefits of the outdoors, even if it isn’t a part of their lives today.”

REI will publish viewpoints from leaders of organizations committed to advocating for the outdoors throughout #OptOutside. Upworthy, the mission-driven media company, plans to drive conversation about the important mental and physical health benefits of being outside. For those who don’t know where to go for outdoor adventure, the co-op has launched new online activity-finding tool to help people find places to explore nearby and further afield. REI employees have curated an extensive list of trails and parks, many nurtured by the groups joining #OptOutside.

The organizations choosing to #OptOutside and to bring others with them represent a range of perspectives, but share a common belief in the value of time spent in nature. New #OptOutside activities keep rolling in. They include:

  • Over 20 friends groups that dedicate themselves to supporting National Parks have indicated they’ll be urging Americans to visit their favorite National Park unit on Black Friday. The groups include Yosemite Conservancy, Yellowstone Association, Washington’s National Park Fund, Friends of the Smokies (N.C.), the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (Wis.) and Friends of Acadia (Maine).
  • As with last year, entrance fees for all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas will be waived on Black Friday.
  • The YMCA of the USA shares REI’s commitment to family and an outdoor life. The national Y will be asking 51 Let’s Move Outside cities to organize free outside activities for kids and families on Black Friday. The goal of Let’s Move Outside is to create partnerships among community organizations and government land managers to get more youth outside.
  • The Trust for Public Land – a national organization that helps communities raise funds, acquire and protect land, plan and design parks – will hold a nationwide photo contest for people to show off their favorite places to #OptOutside.
  • The Association for Experiential Education – a professional association of the nation’s outdoor educators – will promote #OptOutside to the nearly 700 attendees at its annual conference later this week.
  • Hundreds of local stewardship, outdoor education and environmental organizations will activate in the run-up to, and on Black Friday. Examples include:
    • Biking and mountain biking events will be hosted by Southern Outdoor Bicycle Association of Jacksonville (SORBA Jax), the Park at Big Marsh (Chicago), San Diego Mountain Biking Association and Singletrack Advocates (Anchorage).
    • Huron-Clinton Metroparks (Mich.) is hosting an Evening Owl Prowl. After in indoor class, the group will head out to see if it can attract Screech Owls with recorded calls.
    • The Buckeye Trail Association – the stewards of a trail system that goes all the way around Ohio – will host a series of outdoor events among its different chapters.
    • Friends of Island Lake (Mich.) will host a hike to celebrate its new 5-mile Hickory Ridge Hike and Ski Trail.
    • Friends of the Wissahickon (Philadelphia) will urge people to complete a hike, bike or ride on all 50 miles of trail in the Wissahickon Valley Park in the run-up to Black Friday.
    • The Rock Creek Conservancy (Washington, D.C.) will host an Unplugged Day.
    • Canyon Adventures in Southern California is offering a free one-day, Level One Canyoneering Class, including lessons on wilderness safety and preservation.
    • Methow Trails (Wash.) is opening its ski trails for free to REI members.
    • Islandwood on Bainbridge Island, Wash. will open the trails on its 255-acre campus to the public for a special #OptOutside edition of its quarterly Afternoon on the Trails.
    • The Salem Area Trail Alliance (Ore.) will hold a work party at Silver Falls State Park.
    • Washington Trails Association will host trail work days for anyone who want to volunteer.
    • Other nonprofits – like the Tahoe Rim Trail Association (Calif.) and Conejos Clean Water (Colo.) are closing and giving their employees a paid day off.
  • The co-op also recognizes Hellstern Middle School (Springdale, Ariz.), who will coordinate family friendly outdoor activities on Black Friday.

Nonprofit and Government Partners:

  • 52 Hike Challenge
  • Access Fund
  • AIRIE
  • Alaska Wilderness League
  • Alliance For The Great Lakes
  • Amargosa Conservancy
  • American Alpine Club
  • American Camp Association
  • American Hiking Society
  • American River Conservancy
  • American Rivers
  • American Trails
  • American Whitewater
  • Amigos de Bolsa Chica
  • Anacostia Watershed Society Inc.
  • Anoka County Parks
  • Anne Springs Close Greenway
  • Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
  • Appalachian Trail Conservancy
  • Archaeology Southwest
  • Arizona Trail Association
  • Armand Bayou Nature Center
  • Association for Experiential Education
  • Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education
  • Atlanta Beltline Partnership
  • Austin Parks Foundation
  • Backcountry Hunters and Anglers
  • Bay Area Ridge Trail Council
  • Big Bend National Park
  • Big Marsh
  • Black Girls Do Bike
  • Blue Sky Funders
  • Bob Jones Nature Center
  • Boston Harbor Now
  • Boulder Climbing Community
  • Boy Scout Troop 44 (Renton, Wash.)
  • Buckeye Trail Association
  • C&O Canal Trust Inc.
  • California State Parks
  • California State Parks Foundation
  • Camber Outdoors
  • Canyon Adventures
  • Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy
  • Carolina Thread Trail
  • Catamount Institute
  • Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization
  • Central Oregon Land Watch
  • Children & Nature Network
  • Choose Outdoors
  • Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance
  • City Of Lakes Nordic Ski Foundation, The Loppet Foundation
  • City of Olympia, Parks Stewardship
  • City Parks Alliance
  • Clark Fork Coalition
  • Clean Jordan Lake
  • Climbing Resource Advocates for Greater Sacramento
  • Colorado Canyons Association
  • Colorado Mountain Bike Association
  • Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
  • Colorado Parks & Wildlife
  • Colorado Youth Corps
  • Commonweal Conservancy, Inc.
  • Conejos Clean Water
  • Conservation Alliance
  • Conservation Colorado
  • Conservation Lands Foundation
  • Conservation Legacy
  • Consortium for Ocean Leadership
  • Continental Divide Trail Coalition
  • Creation Justice Ministries
  • Denali Education Center
  • Dolan Springs Trail System
  • Dunes Learning Center
  • EarthCorps
  • East Coast Greenway Alliance
  • Eastern National
  • Ecotrust
  • Essex Heritage
  • Everett Mountain Search & Rescue
  • Families in Nature
  • First State National Historical Park
  • Florida Hikes
  • Forest Park Conservancy
  • Forest Preserve Foundation
  • Forterra
  • Friends and Neighbors of the Deschutes Canyon Area
  • Friends of Acadia
  • Friends of Capitol Forest
  • Friends of Crowders Mountian, Inc.
  • Friends of Eagle River Nature Center Inc.
  • Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Friends of Island Lake State Recreation Area
  • Friends of Organ Mountains
  • Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness
  • Friends of Sloan Canyon, NV
  • Friends of Tandy Hills Natural Area
  • Friends of the Arizona Joshua Tree Forest
  • Friends of The Blue Hills Charitable Trust
  • Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness
  • Friends of the Chicago River
  • Friends of the Columbia Gorge
  • Friends of the High Line Inc.
  • Friends of the Inyo
  • Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed (FLOW)
  • Friends of the Mississippi River
  • Friends of the Wissahickon
  • Friends of Trees
  • Friends of Van Cortland Park
  • Friends of Virgin Islands National Park
  • Friends of White Clay Creek State Park
  • Gallatin Valley Land Trust
  • Galveston Bay Foundation
  • Georgia Trail Summit
  • GetOutHereHouston.org
  • Girl Trek
  • Glacier National Park Conservancy
  • Grand Canyon Association
  • Grand Staircase Escalante Partners
  • Great Outdoors Colorado
  • Great Parks
  • Great Peninsula Conservancy
  • Hellstern Middle School
  • Hill Country Conservancy and the Violet Crown Trail
  • Hip Camp
  • Hoosier Mountain Bike Association
  • Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
  • Houston Wilderness
  • Huron-Clinton Metroparks Foundation
  • Ice Age Trail Alliance
  • Idaho Conservation League
  • Idaho Trails Association
  • IMBA
  • Inspiring Connections Outdoors – Sierra Club Outdoors
  • Islandwood, Bainbridge
  • Jacksonville State University Field School
  • Jefferson County Open Space
  • Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism
  • Katy Prairie Conservancy
  • Keep Indianapolis Beautiful
  • Kwiaht
  • Latino Outdoors
  • Lawrence – Hopewell Trail Corporation
  • Leave No Trace
  • Legacy Parks Foundation
  • Los Padres Forest Association Inc.
  • Los Padres ForestWatch
  • Lower Colorado River Authority
  • Marine Conservation Institute
  • Mat-Su Ski Club
  • Methow Trails
  • Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts
  • Minnesota State Parks and Trails
  • Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (Coldwater Spring)
  • Mississippi Park Connection
  • Mojave Desert Land Trust
  • Montana Conservation Corps
  • Montana Wilderness Association
  • MTB Missoula
  • National Association of State Park Directors
  • National Forest Foundation
  • National Park Foundation
  • National Park Service
  • National Park Service Chesapeake Bay
  • National Parks Conservation Association
  • National Recreation and Park Association
  • Natural Leaders Network
  • Nature Bridge
  • Nature Discovery Center
  • Nearby Nature
  • New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors
  • New Mexico Wilderness Alliance
  • New York-New Jersey Trail Conference Inc.
  • Newport Bay Naturalists and Friends
  • North American Association for Environmental Education
  • North Cascades Institute
  • North Country Trail Association
  • Norwalk River Watershed Association Inc.
  • OAK
  • Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center
  • Openlands
  • Oregon Natural Desert Association Inc.
  • Oregon State Parks Foundation
  • Outdoor Afro
  • Outdoor Alliance
  • Outdoor Foundation
  • Outdoor Nation
  • Outside Las Vegas Foundation
  • PA Cleanways d.b.a. Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful
  • Pacific Crest Trail Association
  • Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation
  • Palmetto Conservation Foundation
  • Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
  • Park Pride Atlanta Inc.
  • Partnership for the 21CSC
  • Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation
  • People for Bikes
  • Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy
  • Placer Land Trust
  • Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Inc.
  • Potomac Conservancy
  • Rails to Trails Conservancy
  • Regional Parks Foundation
  • River Relief Inc.
  • Riverfront Recapture Inc.
  • Riverside State Park Foundation
  • Rock Creek Conservancy
  • Rocky Mountain Field Institute
  • Sail Sand Point
  • Salem Area Trail Alliance
  • San Diego Canyonlands Inc.
  • San Diego Mountain Biking Association
  • San Diego River Park Foundation
  • San Diego Water Trail Association
  • San Dieguito River Valley Land Conservancy
  • San Mateo County Parks And Recreation Foundation
  • Santa Monica Mountains Fund
  • Save Our Canyons
  • Save the Redwoods League
  • Seed Your Future
  • Sempervirens Fund
  • SF Rec and Park
  • SheJumps
  • Shoal Creek Conservancy
  • Sierra Avalanche Center
  • Sierra Club
  • Sierra Club Outdoors
  • Sierra Club Outdoors – Military
  • Sierra Foothill Conservancy
  • Singletrack Advocates
  • Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation
  • SORBA – Upstate SC
  • SORBA Jax
  • SOS Outreach
  • Southeastern Trust for Parks and Land
  • St. Croix River Association
  • Surfrider Foundation
  • Sweetbriar Outdoors
  • Tahoe Rim Trail Association
  • Tapteal Greenway
  • Tarheel Trailblazers
  • Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association
  • Texas Conservation Corps – American Youth Works
  • Texas State Park Ambassadors
  • The Corps Network
  • The Friends of Cheasty Greenspace at Mt.View (FCGMV)
  • The Land Trust of the Treasure Valley
  • The Mazamas
  • The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University
  • The Mountaineers
  • The Ocean Foundation, Washington, D.C.
  • The Park People
  • The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
  • The Trustees
  • The Western Slope Conservation Center
  • The Wilderness Society
  • Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership
  • Timucuan Trail Parks Foundation
  • Trails 50
  • Trails and Open Space Coalition
  • Transforming Youth Outdoors
  • Treasure Valley Family YMCA
  • Treepeople Inc.
  • Truckee Donner Land Trust
  • Trust for Public Land
  • Trust for the George Washington Parkway
  • Ventana Wilderness Alliance A Non Profit California Corporation
  • Venture Out Project
  • Vive Northwest
  • Voyageurs National Park Association
  • Washington Area Bicycle Association
  • Washington State Trails Coalition
  • Washington Trails Association
  • Washington’s National Park Fund
  • Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition
  • Weber Pathways
  • Weir Farm National Historic Site
  • Western Rivers Conservancy
  • Whatcom Land Trust
  • Wild Olympics
  • Wild Salmon Center
  • Wilderness Awareness
  • Wildlands Restoration Volunteers
  • Willamette Riverkeeper
  • Winter Wildlands
  • Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association Inc.
  • Yellowstone Association
  • Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative
  • YMCA
  • YMCA of Greater Omaha
  • Yosemite Conservancy

Brands and Companies

  • Adventure Advertising
  • Arc’teryx
  • Big Agnes
  • Burton
  • Cooperative Council of North Carolina
  • Google
  • Honey Stinger
  • KEEN
  • KÜHL
  • Meetup
  • Outdoor Research
  • prAna
  • Royal Gorge Zipline Tours
  • Subaru of America
  • Sustainable Brand
  • Terrapin Beer Compan
  • Upworthy
  • YETI

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 148 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

Posted on by

#OptOutside: REI to close its doors on Black Friday to encourage people embrace the outdoors and create new holiday tradition

  • Outdoor co-op will shut all 149 of its doors on Black Friday, process no online sales and pay all 12,287 employees to take the day off and head outside instead
  • This year, more than 275 national and local organizations form movement to invite millions of people to participate
  • New outdoor activity finder launched at REI.com/opt-outside to help people reconnect with family and friends this holiday season and declare support

SEATTLE, 2016-Oct-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI, the $2.4 billion outdoor co-op, has announced that it will close its doors once more this Black Friday. Stepping up its effort to create a cultural counterweight to Black Friday, REI says that it is giving #OptOutside to the outdoor community to lift up and celebrate the people who dedicate their lives to the outdoors. A vast network of organizations has united already to mobilize millions more to embrace the outdoors and create a new holiday tradition for all Americans.

“This year, REI will shut down on both Thanksgiving and Black Friday because fundamentally we believe that being outside makes us our best selves – healthier and happier, physically and mentally. But as a nation we’re still spending over 90 percent of our lives indoors and it’s a trend we need to tackle,” said REI CEO Jerry Stritzke. “I love that there is a community of people in this country who dedicate their lives to that mission, so together, we are asking America “Will you go out with us?”

REI is putting power in the hands of more than 6 million co-op members and lovers of the outdoors, asking every individual to invite someone else to choose the outdoors over fighting it out in the aisles. REI.com/opt-outside will serve as the hub to get involved, declare support, invite others to join the movement or simply find a place to play outdoors. Visitors can upload photos, share through social media, discover thousands of trails and parks nearby or get connected with non-profits that steward the outdoors.

REI gives 70 percent of its profits back to the outdoor community annually and has united more than 275 non-profit, government and corporate partners to inspire millions of people to hit the trails, parks and waterways on November 25. Details on the partners and stories of their contributions can be read on the Co-op Journal at http://blog.rei.com/news/optoutside-will-you-go-out-with-us/.

Stritzke continued, “The moment we announced our decision last year, people who build their lives around the outdoors really embraced the idea of reclaiming Black Friday. It took on a life of its own and became about much more than REI. #OptOutside should be a platform for the nonprofits and public servants who are on the front lines of the outdoor community. They’re the ones who make the outdoors accessible for everyone. That’s why, from today onward, we’re going to lift them up as the official spokespeople for #OptOutside.”

During #OptOutside, experts from the outdoor community will share perspectives on topics including the power of nature to heal, the value of childhood play outdoors, the value of nurturing and conserving our public lands and the increasing need for diversity in the outdoors. Viewpoints will be published by the co-op on Co-op Journal and promoted by REI through social media in an effort to explore the idea that a life outdoors is a life well lived.

FOR MEDIA: B-Roll and photo assets are available in the REI Newsroom.

Appendix: This year, at launch, more than 275 organizations are already involved. Many more are expected to join by Black Friday.

Nonprofits and government agencies that steward the outdoors are at the heart of this effort. Organizations representing thousands of local chapters across the country have already joined #OptOutside:

  • Diversity In The Outdoors: Six nonprofits focused on increasing diversity in the outdoors will be hosting events all across the country. Our partners in this effort are 52 Hike Challenge, Black Girls Run, Camber Outdoors, Girl Trek, Natural Leaders Network and Outdoor Afro.
  • Local Nonprofit Impact: Local trails and outdoors advocacy groups, including Friends of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Buckeye Trails Association, the Mississippi Park Connection and others will lead events on Black Friday to get people into the outdoors.
  • The National Parks Service is spreading the #OptOutside message to all park employees and The National Park Foundation, with the Parks’ friends groups.
  • More Joining Every Day: Dozens of other major nonprofits have joined with their own unique expression of #OptOutside. For example, the Trust for Public Land will a host pre-Black Friday event at a local San Francisco park the week before Thanksgiving to raise awareness, which several other groups have discussed doing. And The Sierra Club will help amplify #OptOutside by leveraging its social media and digital channels, which reach its 2.4 million members and supporters engaged in 63 chapters across the country.

Companies with a genuine passion for the outdoors have joined us:

  • Subaru of America. Subaru of America will be bringing together two of its drivers’ passions, the outdoors and pets, and inviting pet lovers everywhere to #OptOutside with their four-legged friends on Black Friday. To help those dogs who need to #OptOutside the most, Subaru of America will be providing a fleet of vehicles and drivers in New York City to take shelter dogs out of their cages and into nature for the day. Subaru of America will also be offering pet parents in NYC, and their dogs, a free shuttle ride away from all the concrete and into the great outdoors. Subaru of America retailers will remain open on Black Friday to help power all your outdoor adventures.
  • Big Agnes, Burton, Keen, KÜHL, Outdoor Research, prAna and a host of leading outdoor companies will connect with their hundreds of thousands of collective followers on social media with a unique, inspirational message to get outside on Black Friday.
  • Google and REI are launching a pilot program to support nonprofits in Austin and Seattle, starting with the Washington Trails Association and the Shoal Creek Conservancy. This pilot, in both markets, has two components. The first component is a “skilled service project” that centers on Google’s Creative Skills for Innovation Lab (or CSI:Lab), which helps organizations rethink how they collaborate, instill creativity and tackle critical organizational issues. The second is a more traditional service project, which REI will organize through its Outdoor Programs and Outreach team, with support from Google employees.
  • Meetup is tapping its network of 25,000 organizers who run local outdoor groups to host outdoor activities on Black Friday.
  • Upworthy is a mission-driven media company and will help drive a national conversation about the important mental and physical health benefits of being outside. Upworthy tells stories that open doors to new ideas that make people feel surprised, happy, inspired and motivated. Stories that connect us to each other, change our minds, open our hearts and sometimes even make the world a better place.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 148 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI opens its fifth store in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C., 2016-Oct-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI, the national outdoor co-op, opens its fifth flagship store today (10.21.2016) in Washington, D.C. REI has been running 100 days of outdoor events this summer in D.C. under the banner “United Outside” to bring people across the political spectrum together. The effort culminates this weekend with a block party to celebrate the opening of the 51,000 square-foot store in the NOMA neighborhood, just blocks from the U.S. Capitol. The store will offer the outdoor community a spot to reconnect with one another and discover world-class outdoor gear curated specifically for the region,

“Opening this incredible store in Washington, D.C. in a contentious election year has been fun, if a little challenging given all the noise around the election. It’s important to get past all that, though, and we’ve been working to show that the outdoors brings people together. Thousands of residents have connected this summer through our 100 ‘United Outside’ events. We’ve designed this flagship to be a beautiful convening space where the outdoor community can plan adventures over a great cup of coffee and gear-up,” said Jerry Stritzke, CEO and president of REI.

The distinct features of the REI DC Flagship include:

  • A 1,052-square-foot La Colombe café for customers to enjoy a specialty coffee beverage while planning their next outing.
  • An Adventure Station offered in partnership with the National Park Service and REI outdoor experts, will connect our members with advice on where to go and how to best enjoy the outdoors.
  • An outdoor courtyard at the store’s core for adventurers to gather, featuring a fireplace and views of the building’s historic structural concrete arches.
  • Bike, ski and snowboard shop services that will cater to the District’s cycling and snow sports assembly and repair needs.
  • A community space with a robust schedule of free and low-cost, in-store classes for cycling, paddling, fitness, hiking and camping, climbing, snow sports, photography and wilderness medicine.
  • A collection of gear shops that will blend into a commons area that creates a communal shopping experience.

“Our employees have been connecting with the outdoor community within the District and beyond since we first announced that we were opening a store nearly two years ago. Our members have been patiently waiting and we’re excited to open our doors. The flagship’s design represents a whole new approach to how REI thinks about the customer experience, presenting the co-op, our services and experience at their best,” said Rebecca Smith, general manager of REI’s DC Flagship.

Creating Access to the Outdoors
The co-op has offered Outdoor School classes throughout the region and events at the Wunder Garten outdoor space for more than a year, reaching more than 75,000 people. So far this year, REI has educated nearly 16,000 participants, and more than 60,000 people joined through 100 days of United Outside events. This includes nearly 42,000 people who participated in REI’s DC Free Weekend, where the co-op partnered with Capital Bikeshare, Key Bridge Boathouse and the National Park Service for free outdoor activities in June.

The co-op invested more than $1 million in local and national nonprofits throughout the region this year to shape outdoor places for the future. This includes:

  • Investing $240,000 in 14 local nonprofits, including Rock Creek Conservancy and the Shenandoah National Park Trust.
  • Granting an additional $100,000 in five nonprofits, including C&O Canal Trust, Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), Anacostia Watershed Society and the Outdoor Foundation—where REI helped send every 4th grader in Washington, D.C. to a national park.
  • Committing a total of $500,000 to WABA over the next three years to support a connected bike system to allow for easier and safer bike commuting.
  • Supporting national nonprofit organizations based in DC, including IMBA and National Park Foundation.
  • REI will celebrate the flagship opening with a three-day block party in the Wunder Garten and Storey Park, hosting outdoor classes and activities with a line-up of national and local musicians. The full schedule of events is available at https://www.rei.com/h/dc-block-party.

Honoring History Through Design
The co-op worked closely with its partners Douglas Development, CallisonRTKL and Davis Construction to honor the history of the retail space through smart design and construction. The building, formally known as the Washington Coliseum and Uline Arena, opened in 1941. Additional details about the rich history of the building and how historic elements were woven throughout the store are available at newsroom.rei.com.

“CallisonRTKL has had a long relationship with REI developing their next generation retail concepts, including their flagship in SoHo,” said Alex Shapleigh, CallisonRTKL vice president and the lead designer on the project. “We are honored to have partnered with them on their newest flagship store in one of Washington, D.C.’s most storied buildings.”

The flagship will join eight other REI stores serving nearly 300,000 REI members living in and around the Washington, D.C. area. It is the retailer’s fifth flagship, joining locations in Seattle, Denver, Bloomington, Minn. and the SoHo area of New York City.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 148 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

About Callison
About CallisonRTKL: For more than five decades, Callison and RTKL have created some of the world’s most memorable and successful environments for developers, retailers, investors, institutions and public entities. In 2015, our two practices came together under the Arcadis umbrella, expanding our sphere of influence and the depth and breadth of our resources. Our team is comprised of more than 2,000 creative, innovative professionals throughout the world who are committed to advancing our clients’ businesses and enhancing quality of life.

Contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI to support maintenance on the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails with debut of an inspiring film Paul’s Boots

SEATTLE, 2016-Oct-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — What does it take to fulfill one man’s big dream? For Paul, it took 40 hikers, 2,189 miles, 14 states and a pair of boots. Paul’s Boots tells the moving story of how, following her husband’s untimely death, a woman in Australia appealed to the outdoor community to help fulfill his lifelong dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Presented by REI and produced by Duct Tape Then Beer, the award-winning team behind The Dirtbag Diaries podcast, Paul’s Boots is a 37 minute film, available now on REI.com. It will premiere to sold-out shows in Washington, D.C., Portland, Ore., Atlanta, Georgia and Seattle, Wash. in the coming weeks. Each screening includes a Q&A session with the hikers that made this journey possible. REI will donate the $5 entry fee at all live screenings to support maintenance on the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails.

The film tells the story of how a collection of gritty volunteer hikers helped achieve one man’s lifelong goal of hiking the Appalachian Trail. Paul spent months preparing for the trip of a lifetime, but his health deteriorated rapidly. After Paul passed away last July without reaching the trail, his wife M’Lynn contacted Duct Tape Then Beer and asked if they could help realize his dream by carrying Paul’s hiking boots the length of the trail in his honor.

“When M’Lynn reached out to us, her request was simple and heartfelt. I couldn’t read it and not think, ‘What can I do?’ As a team, we were each compelled by the story, and the potential for the story to catalyze others to get out on the trail. I’m always looking for ways to build connections between the digital and real life outdoor communities. Asking the hiking community to carry Paul’s boots seemed like an easy thing to do. I had no idea we would receive such a positive response from hikers volunteering to carry Paul’s boots,” said Fitz Cahall, co-founder and creative director at Duct Tape Then Beer.

“We were deeply moved by Paul’s story and his dedication to hike the Appalachian Trail and love for the outdoors. The response from the REI community was equally inspiring. Hundreds of people volunteered to carry his boots along the trail. Everyone involved in the film shows what we mean when we talk about the magic of a life lived outdoors. It is heart wrenching that Paul didn’t get to do the hike himself, but we are honored to have been a part of this and to share the story with our members,” said Ben Steele, REI’s chief creative officer.

The Journey of Paul’s Boots
In the January 22 episode of The Dirbag Diaries, Duct Tape Then Beer and REI put out the call for volunteers to carry Paul’s boots the length of the Appalachian Trail. More than 400 people from the outdoor community stepped forward. Ultimately 40 different hikers, between the ages of eight and 70, were selected to carry a pair of Paul’s boots over every section of the world’s longest hiking-only footpath.

Along with the boots, shipped all the way from Ipswich, Australia, the hikers received cameras to document their journey. The crew from Duct Tape Then Beer caught up with hikers along the way and Paul’s brother and wife were even able to join for the final leg of the trip. Hear directly from M’Lynn about her husband and this project in the January 22 and September 16 episodes of The Dirtbag Diaries.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor co-op, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 146 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI to relocate its headquarters to Spring District in Bellevue, Wash. in 2020

SEATTLE, 2016-Sep-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (09.29.2016), REI announced that it has finalized an agreement to relocate its headquarters to a section of the Spring District in Bellevue, Wash. Having announced intentions in March, the deal is now complete. The vision is to create a hub that is accessible, sustainable and connected to the local outdoor community.

“We aspire to create something unexpected that embodies our co-op values. We’re envisioning a sustainable, transit-friendly, urban neighborhood that blends working space with green space, takes inspiration from the community around it, and connects to the rest of the Puget Sound area,” said Eric Artz, REI’s executive vice president and chief operating officer.

“After 28 years in Kent, we have outgrown our current headquarters. So, we will build a campus as a gathering place that fosters creativity and connects thousands of increasingly mobile employees,” Artz continued.

Founded in 1938 in Seattle, REI has deep roots in the Puget Sound community. In 2016, the co-op invested nearly $750,000 in outdoor places and causes in and around the Puget Sound area, including grants to Northwest Avalanche Center, Washington Trails Association and Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. The co-op also opened a new store at the nearby Bellevue Shopping Center earlier this month, relocating its Redmond location to better serve more than 126,000 active co-op members in the Bellevue area.

“We look forward to the ongoing dialogue with regional leaders on optimizing local outdoor spaces and commuting infrastructure, especially protected bike lanes,” Artz said.

The Spring District will be a walkable, green community with multi use, office and residential space, including the University of Washington’s and Microsoft’s Global Innovation Exchange and a brewpub space. REI’s partners for the new campus include Wright Runstad & Company (developer), NBBJ (architect), Lease Crutcher Lewis (builder) and Hornall Anderson (creative).

“We couldn’t be more thrilled that an organization with such strong roots in the Puget Sound community has selected the Spring District for its new headquarters. The values of the co-op, particularly around sustainability, align strongly with the values that are represented in the Spring District,” said Greg Johnson, president of Wright Runstad & Company.

“Creating a new home for REI is an exciting opportunity to rethink the future of work to help it better serve and connect with its employees, members and community. Offices should blur the boundaries between work and play, indoors and outdoors, public and private, adventure and rest. REI is the perfect partner to work with to design a campus that reflects this spirit of exploration and conservation,” said Mindy Levine-Archer, principal at NBBJ.

“REI means so much to the region and to many of us personally. We’re also proud to be part of this outstanding project team,” said Troy Bloedel, vice president at Lease Crutcher Lewis.

Notes to editors:

·         The co-op currently employs more than 1,400 on its campus in Kent, Wash., where it has been located since 1988, and several satellite offices throughout the Puget Sound area.

·         REI will develop eight acres of land in a section of the Spring District, between SR 520 and Bel-Red Road.

·         REI is ranked one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For and Glassdoor’s 50 best places to work. Both organizations recently recognized the co-op again as one of the 20 Best Workplaces in Retail.

·         REI was advised by Heartland, LLC, a Seattle-based real estate advisory and investment firm, in this transaction. For inquiries about REI’s existing Kent campus, please contact jreinhardsen@htland.com.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 146 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI brings sustainability and efficiency at its new distribution center

REI brings sustainability and efficiency at its new distribution center
REI brings sustainability and efficiency at its new distribution center

 

SEATTLE, 2016-Sep-30 — /EPR Retail News/ —  REI, the specialty outdoor co-op, has designed its new distribution center to be Net Zero Energy and is pursuing LEED Platinum—the highest level in the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) rating system. Situated in the Arizona desert, the facility is intended to be one of the world’s most sustainable distribution centers. To encourage further innovation, REI is taking an unusual approach and will make the design information of this facility available to the public, so that others can advance the parameters of sustainable design.

REI is driving sustainability and efficiency at its new distribution center in several new ways:

  • The facility’s 2.2 megawatt solar system produces renewable energy on-site, enough to power the entire facility annually. The system is expected to provide REI with 20 years of free energy and pay for itself in five years.

 

  • REI and its partners have designed the industry’s first omni-channel one-touch fulfillment system, enabling one person to process items eight times faster than the typical distribution center, meaning that outdoor enthusiasts will get their gear faster.

 

  • Despite being in the middle of a desert, the distribution center will help restore the nearby Verde River, enhancing water flows and recreation access. This project has led the USGBC to recognize Water Restoration Certificates for LEED points.

 

  • The distribution center features a non-evaporative cooling system to keep employees cool in the desert heat. The system is fully powered by renewable energy and saves millions of gallons of water every year.

“We are choosing to open-source the design of this distribution center because we believe it is a stake in the ground for green building and can change how companies think about the impact that operations have on the environment—something we could not have achieved without our partners,” said Rick Bingle, REI’s vice president of Supply Chain. “We love the outdoors, so we approached this project as an opportunity to find new ways to reduce our use of natural resources while also making a positive, lasting impact on local outdoor places. We believe that investing in sustainability is not only good for people, places and the planet, but it’s also a smart business decision that creates measurable value. We think this project shows that we can push the boundaries of what’s possible.”

The co-op achieved Net Zero Energy by installing a 2.2 megawatt solar array on the roof that produces enough energy to power the entire facility—equivalent to powering 390 homes for one year. The size of the solar array was modeled to ensure the system would produce enough energy on-site, while still allowing for skylights to provide natural light at workstations throughout the building.

REI set out to show how advanced technology and sustainability can co-exist. Its supply chain team collaborated with key partners to create the industry’s first omni-channel one-touch fulfillment system. This system combines retail and customer orders at each workstation, enabling one person to process items eight times faster than the typical distribution center. The system is fully powered by renewable energy and will support more than 40 percent of the co-op’s sales—reaching approximately 36 percent of customers and 41 percent of the total retail volume.

Notes to editors

Designing a Great Place to Work
REI prioritized employee comfort when designing this building. In addition to the cooling system, the facility features an on-site gym, bike storage, physical therapist and cafe to support the healthy, active lifestyles of employees. Employees can also control their own microclimate through innovative hyperchairs, allowing employees to heat or cool individual office chairs for more comfort while using less energy.

Water Conservation
REI designed this facility to conserve water and protect the delicate environment of the surrounding Arizona desert. REI chose a non-evaporative cooling system, which keeps temperatures consistent from floor to ceiling while saving millions of gallons of water annually. The co-op also invested in an innovative restoration project at the Verde River, high in the Phoenix watershed.

In partnership with Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) and The Nature Conservancy of Arizona, the project will help modernize irrigation infrastructure to conserve water and enhance flows for recreation and wildlife, protect farmland and limit development and water extraction in sensitive areas, remove invasive plants to restore river habitat, and enhance recreation access at key sites along the river. USGBC awarded REI with two LEED points for the pilot project and now recognizes Water Restoration Certificates, which will ultimately restore more natural water systems, wetlands and damaged watersheds.

LEED Certification
REI is pursuing LEED Platinum certification for this building. The USGBC’s LEED green building program is the preeminent program for the design, construction, maintenance and operations of high-performance green building. REI currently has six LEED certified facilities—with a combined total size of more than 700,000 square feet. The co-op’s developer is also pursuing LEED certification for the building that will house REI’s new flagship store in Washington, D.C.

REI’s distribution center was designed by Butler Design Group in collaboration with Rocky Mountain Institute, who led a three-day design session early in the process to think creatively about how to achieve REI’s ambitious sustainability and technology goals. The developer and owner advocate was Merit Partners, Inc. and the builder was The Renaissance Companies. Technology design and implementation was led by DMW&H and KNAPP, and the LEED certification was led by CBRE. EDF Climate Corps were involved early in the process to determine the financial feasibility of the project.

The facility joins REI distribution centers in Sumner, Wash., and Bedford, Penn. Additional information on REI’s sustainability efforts is available at www.rei.com/stewardship.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 146 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 150 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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Co-op Cycles: REI unveils new brand of bikes built from ground-up inspired by its most passionate member cyclists

SEATTLE, 2016-Sep-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI, the nation’s largest outdoor co-op, today announced a rebuilt strategy for its bike brand built around riders who enjoy trail, mixed surface and longer touring adventures. The co-op unveiled Co-op Cycles, a new brand of bikes built from the ground-up with input from the co-op’s most passionate member cyclists.

INTRODUCING CO-OP CYCLES
“We are committed to making bikes and gear for those who love the fun and freedom that comes with exploring the world on two wheels. We started this complete overhaul of our bike brand by engaging with our most passionate co-op designers and members who ride together to guide development of the Co-op Cycles line. Through our cooperative design process, they’ve guided this entire project,” says Paul Calandrella, REI director of cycle strategy.

Co-op Cycles replaces the Novara line, and is the foundation of the co-op’s ‘trail-first’ approach. Co-op Cycles DRT (mountain) and ARD (all-road) bikes are completely new, purpose-built for off-road riding. The ADV (adventure), CTY (pavement) and REV (youth) lines inherit DNA from Novara’s most successful models such as the Randonee, Safari, Mazama and Buzz, while updated designs are underway for future seasons.

“When you combine REI’s cycling expertise with its camping and broad outdoor equipment line-up, the co-op is able to offer members a single destination for any adventure riding needs, including bikes, apparel, nutrition and adventure-ready camping gear,” Calandrella adds. “This approach is unique to REI, and we’re proud to launch a co-op brand that we believe will stoke the adventure spirit of our members who ride.”

The Co-op Cycles line includes adventure, mountain, city and youth bicycles, plus a core apparel line.  Notable products within the new line are:

Mountain

  • DRT 2.1 This 27.5 x 2.8 inch, plus, tubeless-ready tires give this alloy hardtail mounds of traction and just enough plush to be the go-anywhere, do-anything trail explorer. Want something faster? Swap in boost-compatible 29er wheels and up to a 2.25 inch tire. Or, add an internally routed dropper for your favorite bomber descent. Shimano SLX 1×11 + X-Fusion McQueen 120mm Fork | $1,599.
  • DRT 1.3 A distillation of so many of the good things that have happened to mountain bikes in recent years. Long top-tube, short and wide cockpit, through-axle fork with remote lockout, and upgrade potential with internal dropper post routing and tubeless compatible rims.  The DRT 1 series is your trail-capable starting point to progression. Shimano 2×10 Deore + Suntour Raidon 120mm Fork | $1,099.

All Road

  • ARD 1.4 The adventure-minded rider’s road bike. This light, fast carbon bike is ready to go from the end of pavement, onto the trail.  Spec’d with 28c road tires, frame and fork clearance allows for up to a 35c tubeless knobby to make the transformation for gravel roads and light-duty trail adventures.  Front and rear thru-axles and dual-piston hydraulic discs keep things under control when conditions get technical.  ARD is upgrade-proof, with internal or external mechanical and electronic drivetrain compatibility, plus integrated fender mounts. Shimano 105 2×11 | $2,299.
  • ARD 1.2 A mirror image of our pinnacle all road bike – but with an alloy frame and rack mounts for the price-conscious adventurer. Shimano 105 2×11 | $1,299.

PARTNERING WITH PROGRESSIVE BRANDS, BUILDING IN-SHOP EXPERTISE
Co-op Cycles joins Salsa, Cannondale, Ghost and Diamondback to offer riders regionally focused assortments tailored to their local terrain.

“We’re taking a holistic approach to bike at REI,” says Ben Johns, general merchandising manager for REI’s cycling business. “We’re listening to our members and systematically addressing the ‘brutal truths’ for our cycling business. We’re working across the co-op to invest in bike staff expertise and deepen our community impact through both educational and experiential riding events, as well as partnerships with local non-profits.”

Last year, REI’s Barnett-certified technicians serviced 180,000 bikes and REI Outdoor School instructors educated nearly 37,000 people through a range of beginner to advanced cycling classes. Of all of Outdoor School’s offerings, bike maintenance continues to be the co-op’s most popular class.

To help riders get out more, REI offers a hub for the mountain bike community in MTB Project. With photos and descriptions for more than 80,000 miles of trail, the crowd-sourced website and app is the most complete guide to mountain bike terrain in the country.

SUPPORTING LOCAL CYCLING COMMUNITIES
REI continues to partner with nonprofits in local communities across the country to help build cycling infrastructure, improve trails and increase access to areas that are important to its member riders and the riding community at large.

REI has supported the Hill Country Conservancy since 2012 to help fund the Violet Crown trail. When completed, the trail will connect multiple cities, counties, neighborhoods, businesses, schools, libraries, parks and communities. Mountain bikers, trail runners and walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts will be able to enjoy 30 miles of trail with a variety of entry points and first-time access to preserved, otherwise inaccessible lands in the Texas Hill Country.

REI also supports national nonprofit partners like PeopleForBikes and IMBA, and has provided more than $1.5 million over the last 10 years to support their efforts. These national partners build awareness of bicycle safety and create miles of connected cycle trails across the country.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 146 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact:
REI Public Affairs
(253) 395-5958
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI launches new digital store featuring best-in-class, off-price products — REI Garage

SEATTLE, 2016-Aug-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (08.09.2016) REI, the national outdoor specialty retailer and consumer co-op, launches REI Garage, a new digital store that offers a unique shopping experience for best-in-class, off-price products handpicked by co-op experts. REI Garage replaces REI Outlet and features a focused product assortment of only the top closeout products and brands that its members love.

“The outlet space is way too complicated and confusing right now, and the shopping experience feels unnecessarily chaotic. It’s too hard for consumers to sort between genuine, first-rate products, and gear that was made specifically for the second-tier market. REI Garage is a complete rethink of this space. We are curating gear so that the shopping experience is clearer, simpler, and less pressured. We’re working with vendors to find top-tier closeout product and offering it at the best possible prices. This is a very different approach from how most companies operate in this space, and we think it is more aligned with the experience customers expect at REI,” said Mark Seidl, REI’s divisional vice president of Digital Retail and general manager of REI Garage.

Over the past 18 months, the co-op engaged its members to redesign REI outlet. That process led REI to build REI Garage around three promises:

  • Quality first: REI Garage offers products that share the same standard of quality as REI’s full-price business. The only difference is that REI Garage products are closeout items.
  • Distinct shopping experience: REI Garage provides a separate shopping experience that is designed for the off-price shopper, but still offers the convenience of a shared shopping cart with REI.com and returns in store.
  • Stand behind its products: All products are backed by REI’s 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

Each product sold by REI Garage is purposefully selected by a team of expert buyers to ensure high quality, varied assortment and the best deals. All products are new and unused end-of-season closeouts and previous-year models purchased specifically for REI Garage.

REI is unique in its ability to offer these exclusive deals. The co-op’s trusted relationships with vendor partners allows it to have the best access to closeout products, and with decades of expertise the co-op can offer the best closeout gear and apparel to members.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 145 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Contacts:

U.S. and Canada: 1-800-426-4840
International: 1-253-891-2500
Fax: Dial 1-253-891-2523

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REI launches new digital store featuring best-in-class, off-price products — REI Garage
REI launches new digital store featuring best-in-class, off-price products — REI Garage

 

Source: REI

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REI to open new store in Milford, Connecticut this fall

SEATTLE, 2016-Jul-26 — /EPR Retail News/ — Opening this fall, a new REI store in Milford, Conn. will help the outdoor community enjoy life outside and support local nonprofits who steward nearby recreational places. Located between the Housatonic River and Long Island Sound, the new store will carry gear and apparel for the region’s most popular outdoor activities, and will include a bike shop, watersports shop and REI Outdoor School classes.

“We are thrilled to be joining the Milford community. For me personally it’s an honor to be combining two things that I am so passionate about: REI, where I’ve worked for almost nine years, and my home state of Connecticut, where I first fell in love with the outdoors,” said Andrew Hoskins, REI Milford store manager. “I’m looking forward to helping REI deepen its support of our local nonprofit partners and helping local adventurers find new ways to connect with the outdoors.”

REI Milford will occupy 25,000 square feet on the lower level of a new shopping center on Boston Post Road, across from the Milford Marketplace. More than 8,000 REI members live within 15 miles of the new location.  With nearby stores at REI Norwalk and REI West Hartford, the more than 30,000 active co-op members in the region will now have three locations to find gear and inspiration for their outdoor adventures.

The new store will feature the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, travel and paddling. The store will also offer expert advice from in-store guides and classes through REI Outdoor School—a national leader in outdoor education that taught over 250,000 people across the country last year. Throughout Connecticut, REI Outdoor School taught more than 1,400 people this year. REI is also holding its first-ever national free weekend of Outdoor School on July 30-31 to bring people together outside, offering over 400 classes and events nationwide at no cost.

With each new store, the co-op invests in local nonprofit partners who steward local outdoor places. This year, REI has invested $20,000 in four nonprofits throughout Connecticut to support trail repair and park maintenance. In total, REI will invest more than $8 million in hundreds of nonprofits throughout the country this year.

Join the REI Team
Candidates interested in joining the REI team at any local store can apply online at REI.com. The co-op expects to hire 50 employees for each of the new stores who receive a variety of benefits, including generous product and service discounts, competitive pay and retirement contributions. For 19 consecutive years, REI has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For.”

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 145 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/outlet or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 150 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at (253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

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REI to open new store in Milford, Connecticut this fall
REI to open new store in Milford, Connecticut this fall

 

Source: REI Coop

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REI to open new store in Houston, Texas when co-op sets up camp at the Baybrook Mall this fall

SEATTLE, 2016-Jul-26 — /EPR Retail News/ — Outdoor adventurers in Houston, Texas will have a new REI store when the co-op sets up camp at the Baybrook Mall this fall. Situated just miles from the northern point of Galveston Bay, the new store will carry gear and apparel for some of the region’s most popular activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking and trail running.

“It’s amazing that Houston is getting a third co-op store so close to so many outdoor places,” said Ann Bewley, REI Outdoor Programs and Outreach market coordinator for the Houston area. “We’re excited to increase our support of the local community and inspire people to get outside through our classes, gear and passion for the outdoors. Working with and growing our partnerships with local nonprofits in this area will add a new dimension to Clear Lake and its surrounding areas.”

REI Houston-Baybrook will be the co-op’s third location in the Houston area, joining stores at Willowbrook and The Galleria, which was the co-op’s first Houston location in 1996. The new 25,000 square-foot store will serve more than 80,000 active members in Houston. It will be the co-op’s 11th location in the state of Texas—first opening at Austin-Gateway in 1989.

The new store will feature the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, travel and paddling, and the store’s bike shop will provide cyclists with expert assembly and repair services. The store will also offer expert advice from in-store guides and classes through REI Outdoor School—a national leader in outdoor education that taught over 250,000 people across the country last year. In the Houston area, nearly 2,000 people have participated in REI Outdoor School classes this year. REI is also holding its first-ever national free weekend of Outdoor School on July 30-31 to bring people together outside, offering over 400 classes and events nationwide at no cost.

With each new store, the co-op invests in local nonprofit partners who steward local outdoor places. In 2016, REI has invested $40,000 in five Houston-area nonprofits and $210,000 in 23 nonprofit partners throughout the state. In total, REI will invest more than $8 million in hundreds of nonprofits throughout the country this year.

Join the REI Team
Candidates interested in joining the REI team at any local store can apply online at REI.com. The co-op expects to hire 50 employees for each of the new stores who receive a variety of benefits, including generous product and service discounts,competitive pay and retirement contributions. For 19 consecutive years, REI has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For.”

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 145 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/outlet or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 150 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

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REI to open new store in Houston, Texas when co-op sets up camp at the Baybrook Mall this fall
REI to open new store in Houston, Texas when co-op sets up camp at the Baybrook Mall this fall

 

Source: REI Coop

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REI celebrates 100th birthday of the National Park Service with limited-edition NPS-branded gear and apparel

SEATTLE , 2016-Jul-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — To celebrate the 100th birthday of the National Park Service (NPS), REI is offering its members and customers a collection of limited-edition NPS-branded gear from a variety of outdoor brands. Commemorative products include packs, tents, trekking poles, hammocks, patches and T-shirt from REI, Osprey, CamelBak, ENO, Pendleton, Osprey and Coleman. A full list of gear celebrating the parks can be found online.

“These products celebrate an amazing gift that was passed to us by previous generations – the heart of our outdoors, our treasured national parks,” says Susan Viscon, REI’s senior vice president of merchandising.

When customers purchase an REI-branded NPS-edition product, such as the REI NPS Traverse 28 Pack or an “America the Beautiful” Annual National Parks Pass through the co-op, REI will donate 10 percent of its 2016 proceeds from these items to the National Park Foundation (NPF), which is the official charity of America’s national parks. NPF raises private funds that directly aid, support, and enrich America’s more than 400 national parks and their programs. Other brands including Osprey, ENO and CamelBak have also pledged support to NPF.

REI Celebrates the Centennial
REI first announced its involvement in the 100th birthday of the National Park Service last March, which kicked off with #FindYourPark, a public awareness campaign. Other areas of the co-op’s partnership include:

  • REI Adventures’ national park trips – The co-op is donating 10 percent of the retail price for each REI Adventures’ national park trip purchased through the end of 2016 to the NPF. With the broadest assortment of backpacking trips in the national parks of any active travel company, REI Adventures offers more than 45 national park trips. Last year, REI Adventures’ trips into these national treasures generated $300,000 in additional funding for the National Park Foundation.
  • REI Outdoor School – More than 300 classes and outings are offered in national parks through REI Outdoor School. Participants can choose from a variety of outdoor activities across the country led by expert instructors and can look for special opportunities on fee-free days in the parks.
  • National Parks app – The co-op launched a free dynamic, crowdsourced digital trail guide to the national parks called the REI Co-op Guide to the National Parks. Available on Android and iOS.

About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 145 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/outlet or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 150 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at

(253) 395-5958,
prrequests@rei.com

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100th birthday of the National Park Service (NPS),NPS-branded gear and apparel,REI
100th birthday of the National Park Service (NPS),NPS-branded gear and apparel,REI

Source: REI

 

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REI marks the opening of its store in NoMa this fall with the launch of “United Outside” campaign

Co-op kicks off 100 days of outdoor activities this summer to open flagship store in NoMa, including free weekend of events July 16-17

WASHINGTON, D.C.  2016-Jun-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — In one of the most heated political races in recent history, REI is marking the opening of its D.C. Flagship store this fall by giving residents a way to disconnect and reconnect with one another. Today marks the start of 100 days of REI events designed to help everyone recharge in the outdoors. Launched under the banner “United Outside”, the campaign culminates with the opening of REI’s fifth flagship store in NoMa this fall.

United Outside will give residents and visitors to the nation’s capital the chance to find common ground in nature during a divisive election year. REI is offering a weekend of free outdoor programs on July 16 and 17 in Washington, D.C., and plans to take the free weekend national later in the month.

“One thing we can agree on is the transformation that happens when we put down our laptops, turn off our phones and head outside. Being outdoors changes both our own psyche and our relationship with the people we adventure alongside,” said Jerry Stritzke, REI CEO and president. “We believe in a life well-lived in the outdoors for all.”

100 Days of Outdoor Events

As Congress heads out for recess, REI will kick off a free weekend of adventures for all residents and visitors on July 16 and 17. Some of the events include:

·       A collection of REI Outdoor School classes for hiking, cycling, padding and more

·       Free Capital Bikeshare rentals across the Greater D.C. area

·       Kayak and standup paddleboard rentals at the Key Bridge Boathouse on the Potomac

·       Free entry to C&O Canal National Historic Park at Great Falls Tavern, MD

The fun continues throughout the summer with United Outside events and opportunities to hone outdoor skills. REI’s event line-up includes a two-day backpacking trip in Shenandoah National Park, REI Wrench Night at Three Stars and a range of outdoor programs held at the Wunder Garten near the new REI DC Flagship in the NoMa neighborhood, including Campfire Chat Series, Backcountry Cocktails and the co-op’s popular Thingamajig Gear Swap. Full details on the events and outdoor activities across the District are available at UnitedOutside.com.

Vote for the Outdoors

Those who join REI at any of the 100 United Outside events and help the co-op decide how to share $100,000 with five local nonprofit organizations: C&O Canal Trust, Washington Area Bicyclist Association, Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, Anacostia Waterfront Society and Outdoor Foundation’s Every Kid in a Park. Throughout the summer, participants can vote at the Wunder Garten for one of these dedicated organizations doing important work on behalf of the outdoors in and around D.C.

REI in the D.C. Community

With roots in the D.C. area since 1987, the member-owned co-op has a history of supporting a strong outdoor community. This includes partnerships with WABA, Rock Creek Conservancy and Anacostia Watershed Society in creating access to local outdoor places, and helping nearly 300,000 members enjoy nature through inspiring gear, employee expertise and REI Outdoor School. As the nation’s largest provider of outdoor education, REI Outdoor School last year taught nearly 16,000 people across the D.C. area a new activity or advanced skills.

After an event-filled summer, the co-op will open its D.C. Flagship in the NoMa neighborhood this fall on the first floor of the historic Uline building. The more than 51,000 square-foot store will be the co-op’s fifth flagship location among 145 stores in 35 states across the country.

About REI

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 145 stores in 35 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/outlet or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at

(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI President and CEO Jerry Stritzke to present keynote at Shop.org summit, September 29 – October 1 at Washington State Convention Center

Washington, 2014-9-15— /EPR Retail News/ — Shop.org will welcome some of the industry’s most distinguished and prominent executives to its Summit this September in Seattle, including REI President and CEO Jerry Stritzke who will keynote the premier gathering for retail e-commerce, digital and multichannel retailers. Stritzke will be joined by REI Senior Vice President Brad Brown. The three-day Summit will take place September 29 – October 1 at the Washington State Convention Center. The keynote, “REI: Blazing Trails to a Real, Alive, and Connected Digital Experience,” will take place Tuesday, September 30 at 8:15 a.m.

“In an industry as fast-paced as retail, Shop.org seeks influencers and visionaries to speak at our events,” said Shop.org Executive Director Vicki Cantrell. “Jerry and Brad are two of the most recognizable movers and shakers in the digital retail industry, and we are thrilled to welcome them to our stage to kick off the Shop.org Summit. I am positive their insights will greatly benefit all of our attendees and guests.”

Following the REI keynote, Bloomberg BusinessWeek reporter and author Brad Stone will address the audience to discuss his latest book, The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon, at 10:30 a.m.

On Wednesday, October 1 at 8:15 a.m., Founder and CEO of Kynetic (Rue La La, ShopRunner) Michael Rubin will join industry expert Sucharita Mulpuru, Vice President and Principal Analyst at Forrester Research for a discussion on “Capitalizing on the Digital Transformation of Commerce.”

At 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, Shop.org will welcome four other industry executives to the stage for a special Q&A panel discussion, including Birchbox Co-Founder and Co-CEO Katia Beauchamp; zulilily Co-Founder, President, and CEO Darrell Cavens; Urban Outfitters Inc., Chief Strategic Officer Matthew Kaness; and Houzz, President and Co-Founder, Alon Cohen. Executives on this panel will discuss how to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry.

Shop.org, a division of the National Retail Federation, is the world’s leading community for digital retail, offering thought leadership through original research and gold standard events. The community is made up of exclusive networking groups and committees that lead the global conversation surrounding innovative e-commerce trends and digital retail. Shop.org members include some of the world’s largest most respected retail, technology, research, and consulting companies. www.shop.org

Kathy Grannis
(202) 783-7971
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

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