REI Co-op Continues to Opt Outside on Black Friday

On Friday, Nov. 27, the specialty outdoor retailer will once again give 12,000 employees a paid day off, inviting millions of members to trade shopping lines for time outdoors.

SEATTLE, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- REI Co-op will once again close its doors on Black Friday, continuing a tradition that began more than a decade ago. This year, we're reminding everyone there's no wrong way to Opt Outside. Whether it's a hike, a walk around the neighborhood, a picnic in the park or simply stepping outside for some fresh air, as long as you're out there, it counts.

Since its launch in 2015, Opt Outside has inspired millions of people and hundreds of organizations to rethink how they spend Black Friday. What began as an invitation to skip the shopping crowds has become a celebration of the many ways time outdoors brings people together. In 2022, REI made the annual closure permanent, ensuring employees would continue to have the day off each year.

On Nov. 27, all REI stores, distribution centers, call centers and headquarters will be closed. Customers can continue to browse and place orders online, with order processing and fulfillment resuming the following day.

To find inspiration for spending time outside, visit REI.com/opt-outside.

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 26 million members who expect and love the best quality gear 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. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.

SOURCE REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)