Higher prices than Amazon
REI is rarely the cheapest. You're paying for in-store expertise and the return policy. Whether that's worth it depends on the purchase.
Outdoor co-op retailer.
REI, or Recreational Equipment, Inc., is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation. It was founded as a consumers' co-operative and operates in the retail industry. The company sells various outdoor equipment and clothing, but does not sell hunting or fishing gear. Note that the provided SEC EDGAR information appears to be related to a different company, as indicated by the ticker symbol ORLY and CIK 0000898173, which does not match REI. Sources: Wikipedia, SEC EDGAR.
Cited sources: Wikipedia · SEC EDGAR. Not user reviews — see verified reviews below.
Recreational Equipment, Inc., doing business as REI, is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation. It was formerly governed, and continues to brand itself, as a consumers' co-operative. REI sells camping gear, hiking, climbing, cycling, water, running, fitness, snow, travel equipment, and men, women and kids clothing. Unlike other outdoor sports stores, it does not sell hunting or fishing equipment.
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REI is rarely the cheapest. You're paying for in-store expertise and the return policy. Whether that's worth it depends on the purchase.
10% annual dividend on regular-price purchases. Last year I got back $120. Effectively a discount, but you have to remember to spend it.
Asked about backpack fit for a 5-day trip. The associate ran me through three packs, weighed them, demoed the hip belt adjustment. 40 minutes of attention on a $300 purchase.
One-year window. Used my hiking boots for 9 months, hurt my feet on a long trip, returned them, got store credit. They didn't even ask why.
Demo content. One-year return window is frequently cited.
Demo content. In-store expertise and member dividend get repeat callouts.