Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality equipment, REI is a national outdoor retail co-op dedicated to inspiring, educating and outfitting its members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship.
The co-op operates retail stores nationwide, two online stores - http://www.rei.com and http://www.REI-OUTLET.com - and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures. REI offers products from all of the top brands for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling, snow sports and travel, including its own line of award-winning outdoor gear and apparel. While anyone may join or shop at REI, members pay a one-time $20 fee and receive a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund based on their purchases.
REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions. The company's more than 10,000 employees are dedicated to getting people outside to lead healthy active lives, caring for the planet by protecting shared natural spaces, and engaging others in making a difference. REI's stewardship efforts also include finding ways to improve the environmental performance of its business while striving to generate positive environmental, social and financial results.