Texas adventurers can gear up for even more outdoor activities in Dallas when a new REI opens in Southlake, Texas at Park Village.
Opening in the fall of 2014, REI Southlake will sell the top brands of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling and travel. The new 22,050 square-foot store will house a bike shop to offer expert assembly and repair services, and provide outdoor-related classes and presentations.
“REI has outfitted Dallas residents for 20 years. With a third location, we can better deliver the best gear and advice to even more customers and members who enjoy the outdoors,” says Janet Hopkins, REI retail director for the Southwest district. “Southlake offers a community of active people and a strong retail presence, making it a perfect fit for REI.”
REI opened its first REI store in Dallas in 1993. REI Southlake will join stores in Dallas and Plano, Texas in serving nearly 71,000 active members in the greater Dallas area. There are more than 12,000 members within 15 miles of the new store.
With 5.1 million active members, REI is the nation's largest consumer cooperative. Anyone may shop with REI, but members pay a one-time $20 fee to receive a share in profits through an annual member refund. Members also receive discounts on REI Adventures trips and REI Outdoor School and in-store classes.
REI will hire approximately 50 new employees for REI Southlake. The company has been recognized as one of FORTUNE magazine's “100 Best Companies to Work For” for 16 consecutive years and is currently number 17 on the 2013 list.
REI partners with local nonprofits that restore and maintain well-known trails, parks and waterways. In Dallas, the retailer granted three organizations a total of $27,500 earlier this year.
REI has 132 stores in 33 states, as well as REI.com and REI.com/outlet. This year REI will invest $3 million in local communities to help care for outdoor spaces.
