REI Expands in Los Angeles Next Year with New Store at the Village at Westfield Topanga

News provided by

Sep 25, 2014, 11:15 ET

SEATTLE, Sept. 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In the fall of 2015, adventurers in the San Fernando Valley can gear up for their outdoor outings at a new REI store. The nearly 30,000 square foot, two-story REI will be located at the Village at Westfield Topanga.

The store will offer the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling, snow sports and travel. In addition, REI Topanga's bike, and ski and snowboard shops will provide expert assembly and repairs.

"REI has been honored to outfit Los Angeles residents with the right gear and advice for their outdoor adventures for nearly 40 years," said Greg Mellinger, REI retail director for the Southern California district. "Our continued growth in Southern California reflects the active nature of our customers in this area, and our commitment to better meet their needs."

REI Topanga will join five other stores in serving more than 352,000 active REI members in the greater Los Angeles area. More than 62,000 active members reside within 15 miles of the new store. Anyone may shop with REI, but members pay a one-time $20 fee to receive a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund. REI membership also includes special promotions, and discounts on REI Adventures trips and REI Outdoor School classes.

As a national leader in outdoor education, REI offers its members and customers a variety of programming through REI Outdoor School. Stores nationwide host free and low-cost classes by expert instructors, and professional guides lead trips in local outdoor destinations. Examples include Learn to Stand up Paddleboard, Introduction to Outdoor Rock Climbing and Introduction to Mountain Biking Class.

Extending its involvement in the community, REI partners with nonprofit organizations that take care of the outdoor places where its members recreate. Earlier this year, REI granted $125,000 to 13 organizations that enhance trails, parks and waterways in Los Angeles, including Amigos De Los Rios, Heal the Bay, Santa Monica Mountains Fund and Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.

REI will hire approximately 50 employees for the new store. Interested candidates can sign up online to be notified when the store begins accepting applications. Employees receive a variety of benefits, including generous product and service discounts, competitive pay and retirement contributions. For 17 consecutive years, REI has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For."

About REI
REI is a $2 billion national multichannel retail co-op headquartered outside of Seattle. With more than five million active members, REI serves the needs of outdoor adventurers through innovative, quality products; inspiring classes and trips; and integrated customer service that allows shoppers to buy great gear and clothing in any way they want. REI has 135 stores in 33 states and REI.com and REI.com/outlet. Anyone may shop with REI, while members pay a one-time $20 fee to receive a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund based on patronage. Membership in the co-op also includes special promotions and discounts on REI Adventures trips and REI Outdoor School classes.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120306/SF65403LOGO

SOURCE REI