REI to Give Every Employee Paid Time Off to Vote

The co-op will delay store openings on Election Day to enable employees to participate in the democratic process

SEATTLE, Sept. 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op announced today that it will delay the opening of its stores by two hours this Election Day to give every employee paid time off for civic engagement. As part of its Your Vote Can't Wait campaign, the co-op has also created an election resource hub for employees and members alike at REI.com/vote.

 "Every election is an opportunity for each of us to engage, participate and help create the change we want to see in our world and this year's midterms are no exception," said Ben Steele, Executive Vice President, Chief Customer Officer, REI Co-op. "No one should be forced to choose between going to work and participating in the democratic process."

The decision comes as a direct result of feedback received in employee focus groups. "Time and again, we've heard that our employees expect us not just to speak out on issues facing our co-op and society, but that they are looking for ways to get involved in making this a better world for all. That's why last year we launched the REI Cooperative Action Network, our community advocacy platform that allows people to take action on the issues we care about most, and why we're taking this action on Election Day," Steele added.

The principle that each person is guaranteed a vote is foundational to both our co-op and our democracy. REI remains committed to broadening civic engagement and ensuring everyone's right to participate fully in our democracy. "Voting is fundamental to our society, but democracy encompasses more than casting a ballot," Steele said. "It's a shared belief that underpins our institutions, girds our social structures, and informs how we engage with one another. A functioning democracy requires the full participation of all its citizens."

For full details about store hours, please visit REI.com.

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation's largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 21.5 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 178 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can't visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn't just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI's active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

SOURCE REI Co-op