REI Co-op is opening a new store in Appleton, WI in spring 2020. The new 20,000-square-foot store will be located at the Center Valley shopping center at the northwest corner of Wisconsin Avenue and Interstate 41. With nearly 300,000 lifetime REI members in the state, REI Appleton will join existing stores in Brookfield (71 miles away) and Madison (86 miles away).
“Appleton is an incredible outdoor community, with so many opportunities to paddle, cycle and camp,” said Michelle Yancy, REI retail director for the Midwest. “We are excited to further connect our local members to these areas. Whether through a new piece of gear, a rental or an outdoor program, we offer something for everyone looking to get outside.”
REI Appleton will offer a range of programs to connect people to a life outdoors. A national leader in outdoor experiences and education, the co-op helped more than 350,000 people across the country get outside and be inspired to lead an active lifestyle through a wide range of classes, tours and events.
In addition to offering quality gear, expertise and outdoor programs, REI actively works with nonprofits across the country to steward and maintain local trails and public lands and connect people to the outdoors. REI has been part of the Wisconsin community for 25 years, and in 2018, REI invested $112,800 in local outdoor nonprofits. This investment included funds for the Ice Age Trail Alliance, St. Croix River Association and the Driftless Area Land Conservancy. As REI gets closer to opening in Appleton, the co-op plans to invest further in the local outdoor community.
REI expects to hire up to 45 employees for the Appleton location.
