REI announced plans to open a store in November 2004 in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., in the Victoria Gateway Center at the intersection of Foothill and Day Creek boulevards.
The center is part of the Victoria Arbors Master Plan area that includes
about 4,000 potential residents within walking distance, scenic trails
and a civic center with performing arts space. Foothill Boulevard is the
former Route 66.
“Rancho Cucamonga is near two mountain ranges, the San Bernardino and
San Gabriel Mountains. The Joshua Tree National monument, San Bernardino
National Forest and Cleveland National Forest are all within reach,”
said Jerry Chevassus, Vice President of Real Estate. “The landscape is
rich with places for cycling, camping, rock climbing and hiking.”
REI has 20,000 active members within a 30-mile radius of the new store.
While anyone may shop at REI, members pay a one-time $15 fee and receive
a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund based
on their purchases.
This is REI's fifth store in the Los Angeles area. The first store in
the LA area was opened in 1977 in Manhattan Beach. The other area stores
are in Santa Ana, Arcadia and Northridge.
The 23,500 square-foot new construction store will be leased from
Regency Centers. The store will employ 50 full- and part-time staff and
provide REI's full line of outdoor gear and clothing for hiking,
camping, climbing, cycling, paddling and travel. It will offer top
outdoor brands including REI's own gear and apparel. A gear rental
department will encourage people to try outdoor sports.
The Rancho Cucamonga store will include a camp stove
demonstration area, a water filter testing station and a hiking boot
testing rock, plus space to climb into tents and heft backpacks. REI is
also known for knowledgeable employees who help select the right gear
and offer information and useful tips on how to achieve a great outdoor
experience.
