Patagonia, Inc announced that Mountain Equipment Co-op, will feature the Patagonia product line as part of its offering to its members. Patagonia’s products will be featured in all MEC sales channels including retail stores, catalog and website. With this move, Patagonia becomes MEC’s largest apparel vendor.

In keeping with the environmental commitment of both companies, MEC has agreed to consolidate its community involvement programs and join 1% For the Planet – an organization co-founded by Patagonia owner Yvon Chouinard. In addition, MEC has committed to join the Conservation Alliance, with a focus on Canada specific actions – and has agreed to embark on a joint Patagonia/MEC Canadian environmental project.

“We are pleased to be aligned with Mountain Equipment Co-op, a company that shares our concerns and commitments with respect to the environmental crisis,” noted Bill Kzulczycki, Patagonia’s Vice President of International Sales. “Together we look forward to increasing awareness for the need for more sustainable business practices, as well as joining efforts on a significant environmental project in Canada.”

This new relationship is the culmination of years of discussions between Patagonia and MEC. Patagonia’s decision to solidify the arrangement was made because of the environmental alignment of the two companies. Additionally, the relationship is a natural extension of Patagonia’s mission of using business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.

“MEC and Patagonia are aligned companies whose relationship extends beyond commercial objectives,” said David Labistour, MEC’s Vice President of Buying and Design. “Both companies are rooted in a passion for outdoor activities and a commitment to providing high-quality products that deliver functional performance. Both are also leaders in product sustainability, and continue to work to lessen our respective environmental impact. We hope that other businesses will emulate this model.”