Mountain Equipment Company (MEC), the Canadian outdoor retailer, reported it will open a freestanding store in Whitby, Ontario, in July 2024, at 1-1650 Victoria Street East, in the Thickson Ridge Power Centre.
The store will carry outdoor labels, including Patagonia, Salomon, Fjällräven, Osprey, Hoka, Keen, and MEC-branded product.
“Whitby is one of Canada’s fastest growing communities and offers year-round recreation via its parks and waterways, complemented by nearby Kawarthas Provincial Parks. It exemplifies the type of location MEC seeks to expand into,” said MEC CEO Peter Hlynsky. “When an MEC location moves in, surrounding businesses and local outdoor community thrive. MEC stands as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, drawing the local community to the area for events as well as gear. We’re thrilled to announce our latest store opening here in July.”
The Whitby store will be MEC’s seventh standalone store in Ontario and 23rd standalone in Canada.
“I am very pleased that MEC is opening a Whitby location in July to serve our fast-growing community,” said the Mayor of Whitby, Elizabeth Roy. “We are known for our green spaces, including beautiful hiking and cycling trails, so it’s fitting to welcome a business that helps outdoor enthusiasts gear up for adventure. Whitby is already a community of choice for people to live, work, play, and invest. Every new business contributes to the dynamic energy of our town.”
The new 20,000-square-foot retail space will feature community events and clinics to support camping, hiking, paddling, climbing, cycling, and snow sports enthusiasts. The store will house a bike repair shape and employ bike mechanics and knowledge staff to assist customers in selecting gear and activities.
“MEC isn’t just a workplace; it’s a community of likeminded passionate outdoor enthusiasts and our staff are essential to building and maintaining our community presence. Our instore events create a space to learn about activities people are passionate about. From instore clinics on choosing the right climbing shoes to bike maintenance 101, our staff are ready to support people gaining essential skills for their next outdoor adventure”, continued Hlynsky.
Image courtesy MEC
