RETAILER, REI, INTENDS TO ESTABLISH A DOZEN ADDITIONAL STORES IN THE NEAR FUTURE
Out with the Old, In with the New: REI Co-op's Expansion Plans Amid Unionization Controversies
REI Co-op, the popular outdoor retailer, is all set to expand its horizons, planning to open 10 new stores this year - according to a recent announcement. Locations for the spring include Beavercreek, Ohio, and Beaverton, Oregon, with more slated for Glendale, Arizona; Ithaca, New York; Rancho Mirage, California, in the summer. Fall will see stores opening in Albany, New York, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Three more locations are set to be announced once contracts are finalized.
As for next year, REI has already planned two new stores in St. George, Utah, and Durango, Colorado. The company anticipates hiring about 50 employees at each location, emphasizing its commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and offering benefits like product discounts, competitive pay, retirement contributions, and even days off to enjoy outdoor activities.
However, REI's expansion plans might not be all sunshine and roses, given the recent controversies surrounding its stance on unionization.
Unionization Efforts and Resistance
REI Co-op's unionization efforts have been a topic of debate. As of January 2025, the Greensboro, North Carolina, store became the eleventh to unionize with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). Nevertheless, the company has hired anti-union law firms like Morgan Lewis, leading to prolonged bargaining sessions and controversy.
Public Perception and Resistance
The 2025 board election witnessed significant resistance from members who withheld their votes, indicating dissatisfaction with the current board and direction of the co-op. There is growing public support for union workers, with many critics viewing REI's stance on unionization as a departure from its cooperative roots. Unionized workers see their efforts as part of a broader movement to hold companies accountable for labor practices.
In keeping with its progressive reputation, REI seeks candidates who exhibit shared values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism. Yet, it remains to be seen if the controversies surrounding unionization efforts will impact the retailer's image and customer loyalty as it ventures into new territories.
- REI Co-op, the outdoor retailer expanding into 10 new stores this year, has faced controversies surrounding unionization with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU).
- Expecting to hire about 50 employees per location, REI values a diverse and inclusive workplace and offers benefits like product discounts, competitive pay, retirement contributions, and days off for outdoor activities.
- In contrast, the company has hired anti-union law firms like Morgan Lewis, leading to prolonged negotiations and public criticism, with many seeing REI's stance on unionization as a departure from its cooperative roots.
- Incorporating the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism in their hiring process, it remains unclear if the unionization controversies will affect REI's image and business relationships as they enter new regions in the retail industry.
- The 2025 board election saw resistance from members who withheld their votes, signifying dissatisfaction with the board and co-op's direction, with growing public support for union workers in the industry and finance sector.
