REI Recognized as a Top Employer on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” List for 18th Consecutive Year

Mar 5, 2015

SEATTLE Leading outdoor retailer REI has been named to Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For®” list for the 18th consecutive year. Ranked number 58, REI is one of five companies listed annually since the recognition began in 1998, and one of three companies headquartered in Washington state.

Employees Make a Great Place to Work

REI employees have deep passion for the outdoors and a commitment to help others explore it. This enthusiasm fosters the company’s culture and community of more than 5 million members across the country. Here’s what a few employees have to say about working at REI:

“I feel so grateful that REI has strong values and that we continually explore ways to improve and grow in meaningful ways.” – Theresa H.

“I’m super impressed with the people and culture of REI, and am awestruck with the level of care taken to make my onboarding process as productive as possible. I’ve never experienced such a thoughtful onboarding and feel as though REI is sincerely invested in my success to be a productive member of the team from day one.” – Gabriel M.

“I love coming to work because our mission is noble and our eyes are set on carrying our success far into the future to affect generations beyond us. I love that the collateral effects of REI’s success are positive to people and the environment.” – Gene K.

Love the Outdoors? Join Us

REI employees believe being in the outdoors makes life better. They care about the places where they play and they make a difference in their communities. The company is actively recruiting for a number of positions at its headquarters, including information technology and merchandising roles. The retail division is looking to fill positions for all locations, including new stores opening later this year. Visit https://rei.jobs for the latest.

The company’s more than 11,000 employees enjoy competitive benefits, including gear discounts, free equipment rentals and grants to meet personal outdoor challenges, generous retirement plan contributions, public transit subsidy, adoption assistance, paid sabbaticals and more.

Last year, the company added a new benefit to encourage employees to spend time outdoors. Called “Yay Day,” every employee now receives two extra paid days off annually so they can be outside to enjoy favorite activity or help care for a natural space. Find examples of employee adventures on social media through #REIYayDay.

100 Best Methodology

Fortune partners annually with Great Place to Work® to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America to identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For®. Two-thirds of a company's survey score is based on the results of the Trust Index© Employee Survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company. This survey asks questions related to employees' attitudes about management's credibility, overall job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The other third is based on responses to the Culture Audit©, which includes detailed questionnaires about pay and benefit programs and a series of open-ended questions about hiring practices, methods of internal communication, training, recognition programs and diversity efforts.

According to Great Place to Work, organizations named to the 100 Best list benefit from strong financial performance, less employee turnover, higher levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, more innovative and creative thinking, higher productivity and enhanced public perception.

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 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. More than a retailer, REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.