REI to Outfit Dallas-Fort Worth Customers through New Store at Park Village in Southlake

SEATTLE, Nov. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Adventurers can gear up for even more outdoor activities in Dallas when a new REI opens in Southlake, Texas at Park Village.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120306/SF65403LOGO)

Opening in the fall of 2014, REI Southlake will sell the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling and travel. The new 22,050 square-foot store will house a bike shop to offer expert assembly and repair services, and provide outdoor-related classes and presentations.

"REI has outfitted Dallas residents for 20 years. With a third location, we can better deliver the best gear and advice to even more customers and members who enjoy the outdoors," said Janet Hopkins, REI retail director for the Southwest district. "Southlake offers a community of active people and a strong retail presence, making it a perfect fit for REI."

The leading outdoor retailer opened its first REI store in Dallas in 1993. REI Southlake will join stores in Dallas and  Plano, Texas in serving nearly 71,000 active members in the greater Dallas area. There are more than 12,000 members within 15 miles of the new store.

With 5.1 million active members, REI is the nation's largest consumer cooperative. Anyone may shop with REI, but members pay a one-time $20 fee to receive a share in profits through an annual member refund. Members also receive discounts on REI Adventures trips, REI Outdoor School and in-store classes.

REI will hire approximately 50 new employees for REI Southlake. Interested candidates can sign up online to be notified when the new location begins accepting applications. Employees receive a variety of benefits, including generous product and service discounts, competitive pay and retirement contributions. The company has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" for 16 consecutive years and is currently number 17 on the 2013 list.

Committed to inspire, educate and outfit its members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship, REI partners with local nonprofits that restore and maintain well-known trails, parks and waterways. In Dallas, the retailer granted three organizations a total of $27,500 earlier this year. The grants support the stewardship of local areas, including White Rock Lake Park, Trinity River Audubon Center and Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center.

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 133 stores in 33 states, as well as REI.com and REI.com/outlet. This year REI will invest $3 million in local communities to help care for outdoor spaces.

SOURCE REI