REI Named to FORTUNE's "100 Best Companies to Work For" List

Leading outdoor retailer recognized as a top employer for 17th consecutive year

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Jan 16, 2014, 10:15 ET

SEATTLE, Jan. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Known for helping people enjoy nature, REI has again been named to FORTUNE's "100 Best Companies to Work For" list. The recognition marks the 17^th consecutive year the leading outdoor retailer has been honored. Ranked number 69, REI is one of only five companies named each year since the list was created in 1998, and one of four companies headquartered in Washington state.

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A Great Place to Work
When asked why they enjoy REI, employees said:

"I love coming to work because our mission is noble, my teammates are friends and family, 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."

"My best day on the job was the day a customer returned to tell me that I 'transformed their health and life' by encouraging them to commit to bike commuting and outfitting them with the gear for success."

"When I retired from publishing and came to work for REI, it was because of the opportunity to share my enthusiasm with a wide variety of customers and to enjoy the companionship of like-minded individuals. I have not been disappointed. I often wish that I had started with REI sooner. Upfront, honest co-op; interesting, empathetic coworkers; neat gear—what more could one ask for?"

"REI doesn't just pretend to believe in things like work-life balance, stewardship or being inclusive; we really do believe in and support all of that and more!"

We're hiring!
REI is actively hiring for its headquarters and stores across the country, especially new retail locations slated to open in 2014. To find out more why employees enjoy working for REI or share your career interests, visit http://rei.jobs/.

With 132 stores in 33 states, REI offers competitive benefits to its more than 11,000 employees, including gear and apparel discounts, free equipment rentals and challenge grants to help employees reach personal outdoor goals, generous retirement plan contributions, public transit subsidy, adoption assistance, paid sabbaticals, and more.

100 Best Methodology
To pick the 100 Best Companies to Work For, FORTUNE partners with the Great Place to Work Institute to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America; 257 firms participated in this year's survey. More than 252,000 employees at those companies were surveyed by the institute, a global research and consulting firm operating in 45 countries around the world.

Two-thirds of a company's score is based on the results of the institute's Trust Index survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company. The survey asks questions related to their attitudes about management's credibility, job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The other third is based on responses to the institute's Culture Audit, which includes detailed questions 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.

About REI
REI is a $2 billion national multichannel retail co-op headquartered outside of Seattle. With more than 5 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 132 stores in 33 states, as well as 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. REI membership also includes special promotions, and discounts on REI Adventures trips and REI Outdoor School classes.

SOURCE REI