Outdoors, Inc. in Memphis is closing after 52 years in operation. The retailer operates one location in East Memphis, TN, and an e-commerce site.
Founded in 1974 by Joe Royer and Lawrence Migliara, Outdoors, Inc. had four locations as recently as 2019, according to its website. The retailer offers hiking, camping, paddling, climbing, cycling, and skiing gear and is known for organizing and sponsoring major community sporting events, including the Outdoors, Inc. Canoe and Kayak Race on the Mississippi River and the Cyclocross Championship.
Outdoors, Inc. has also been a strong supporter of local conservation efforts and frequently partnered with nonprofits such as the Wolf River Conservancy, Overton Park Conservancy and Shelby Farms Park Conservancy.
No specific reason was given for the closure that was first announced in mid-May. Going-out-of-business sales are ongoing at the store and online.
The owners of Outdoors, Inc. released the message below on social media regarding the closure.
* * *
Dear Friends,
It’s been 52 great years. Outdoors, Inc. has been our life’s passion, and our greatest joy has been sharing it with all of you. The best part has been outfitting amazing adventures and experiences for our customers, staff, neighbors and friends.
We have made the difficult decision to close Outdoors, Inc.
For over half a century, we have treasured the loyalty of our amazing customers, our dedicated staff, our vendors, and our Memphis community and beyond. With our whole hearts, we appreciate each and every one of you. We are truly grateful to you for putting your trust in us to provide you with quality gear.
On Monday, May 18, we will begin our going-out-of-business sale. Bike shop sale will start on Tuesday, May 19. Most merchandise will be on sale at 25- 60% off. Boats, bikes, and electronics will be priced individually. Bike maintenance and a few specific items will not be discounted. All sales will be final. Sale excludes any prior purchases. For now, our sale will be in person only. Memphis, please visit us at 5245 Poplar Ave.
Thank you for camping, hiking, cycling, paddling, climbing, skiing and traveling the world with us. Your kindness, support and friendships over the past 52 years have meant the world to us. We are honored to have been a part of all of these experiences with you.
We hope that you will come by – not just for the deals, but to share stories and to be a part of saying goodbye to 52 years of outfitting human-powered recreation in Memphis and beyond.
With gratitude,
Joe Royer, Lawrence Migliara, Mary Royer New, and our families
Image courtesy Outdoors, Inc.
