REI to Open New Store in Bozeman, Mont.

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.), a retail co-op providing quality outdoor gear and clothing, today announced plans to open a new store in Bozeman, Mont. in the spring of 2010. The store complements REI’s retail presence in Missoula, Mont.

Located at Stone Ridge Square , the store will outfit the local community for outdoor adventures through a nearly 25,000 square-foot, one-story location. REI Bozeman’s community room will offer space for the co-op and its non-profit partners to host outdoor-related classes, events and presentations.

The store will offer the top brands of camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, snow sports and travel products, including the co-op’s award-winning REI-brand gear and clothing and Novara bikes. In addition, the location will feature a bike shop where technicians will provide quick assemblies or repairs, and gear rental department to encourage members and customers to explore new outdoor activities.

“We look forward to partnering with the Bozeman community to serve as a gateway to co-op members and outdoor enthusiasts,” said Tim Spangler, REI’s vice president of Retail. “In addition, we want to be a resource to non-profit organizations dedicated to taking care of shared natural spaces and helping people enjoy the outdoors.”

In communities where REI has a presence, the company partners with local outdoor and conservation organizations through education, volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions. In the past five years, the co-op has provided nearly $105,000 of support through grants from REI’s Missoula store to 19 local nonprofits in Montana. The new store in Bozeman will expand those efforts to support local groups that are dedicated to engaging volunteers in the outdoors and conservation of local natural spaces.

Staff recruiting for the Bozeman store will occur approximately three months prior to its opening, where the co-op will hire approximately 40 employees who share a passion for the outdoors and quality customer service. Each new team member will take part in REI’s comprehensive sales and product training program, deepening their ability to be a knowledgeable resource for customers and the community. More information about employment opportunities is available at rei.jobs.

REI is working to minimize its overall environmental impact. Green building construction and efficient operations play an important role in helping the company meet its goal to become climate-neutral by 2020. Green building features that will be incorporated into REI Bozeman include a day lighting strategy where skylights filter natural light throughout the store, high efficiency water fixtures, carpet tiles manufactured through a climate-neutral process, and low-VOC finishes and materials.

While anyone may shop at REI, members pay a one-time $30 fee and receive a share in the company’s profits through an annual member refund based on their purchases. Based on the co-op’s 2008 sales, $72.7 million was distributed to more than 3.7 million active members through the dividend program. REI members also receive discounts on gear rentals and trips offered through REI Adventures.

About the REI Co-op