Vancouver, B.C.-based specialty retailer MEC plans to open its fifth store in Quebec in Laval to the public on Saturday, October 29 as part of a continuing expansion in eastern Canada.
The new 24,000-square-foot store is located next to CF Carrefour Laval at 2615 Boulevard Daniel-Johnson.
Employees will open MEC’s newest store in Laval, Quebec to the public Saturday.
Located at the intersection of Highway 15 and Highway 440, accessible by bus (soon by metro) and even by bike via La Route Verte 1, the new store promises to meet its members’ needs for a variety of activities such as running, hiking, skiing, climbing, fitness, yoga, travel and camping. The location will enable MEC to reach the 69,000 members living in the Laval, Laurentians and Lanaudière areas while attracting new ones. MEC Laval has also created 65 new jobs in the area.
Growing While Respecting Its Roots
MEC Laval is part of the Co-op’s plan to expand in Eastern Canada.
“The expansion remains faithful to the company’s values,” said Jonathan Labonté, MEC Regional Operations Manager for Eastern Canada. “MEC continues to grow while respecting its DNA. As a co-op, it aims to serve its members and its community, and continues to do business differently.”
The Laval store wants to bring together the outdoor community north of Montreal and to be a hub for everyone who wants to be active outside, whether that is in the backcountry or urban environments, in the Laval, Laurentians and Lanaudière areas.
The store will showcase products of well-known brands tailored to regional activities and member preferences. MEC staff will offer workshops so members can learn new skills, such as how to wax skis, go camping for the first time or train for a 10K run. As with all other MEC stores, MEC Laval will be hosting races and events for runners, cyclists, skiers and outdoor athletes from all fitness levels. Members will also benefit from a gear rental service, the first in Laval.
Supporting The Local Community
MEC continues to grow and be involved in the community. Since 2010, the company has supported more than 300 recreational and conservation projects in the Greater Montreal Area.
At the grand opening event on Saturday, October 29, MEC will donate $10 to the Eco-Nature organization for every new member that signs up. This organization conserves, restores and enhances the Parc de la Riviere-des-Mille-Iles and its streams, and has objectives in line with the Co-op’s values.
The store also has a community room for local clubs and outdoor organizations to hold meetings.
About MEC
MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op) is Canada’s go-to place for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration. Combining high-quality apparel and equipment with expert advice and firsthand experience, MEC supports a wide range of activities including camping, snowsports, watersports, cycling, climbing, hiking, running, yoga and travel. Established in 1971, MEC is Canada’s largest consumer co-operative with over 4 million members across the country and 730,000 members in Québec. A lifetime membership is available for $5. A strong backer of community initiatives, MEC has invested over $34 million into non-profit organizations that support outdoor recreation and conservation.
