REI, W. L. Gore & Associates and Zappos.com all again landed on Fortune's “100 Best Companies to Work For” list.  
Zappos for 2014.

Gore was ranked 22 versus 21 a year ago. Zappos.com was 38, up from 31 in 2013. REI came in at 69, down from 19 in 2013. The only other apparel/footwear company on the list was Nordstrom, which was 89, a step down from 88 in 2013.

Applicant companies participate in a selection process, including an
employee survey and an in-depth questionnaire about their programs and
company practices.

In a statement, REI noted that the recognition marked the 17th consecutive year the  outdoor retailer had been honored. REI also said is is one of only five companies named each year since the list was created in 1998, and one of four companies headquartered in Washington state.

When asked why they enjoy REI, employees told the magazine:

  • “I love coming to work because our mission is noble, my teammates are friends and family, and our eyes are set on carrying our success far into the future to affect generations beyond us. I love that the collateral effects of REI's success are positive to people and the environment.”
  • “My best day on the job was the day a customer returned to tell me that I 'transformed their health and life' by encouraging them to commit to bike commuting and outfitting them with the gear for success.”
  • “When I retired from publishing and came to work for REI, it was because of the opportunity to share my enthusiasm with a wide variety of customers and to enjoy the companionship of like-minded individuals. I have not been disappointed. I often wish that I had started with REI sooner. Upfront, honest co-op; interesting, empathetic coworkers; neat gear-what more could one ask for?”
  • “REI doesn't just pretend to believe in things like work-life balance, stewardship or being inclusive; we really do believe in and support all of that and more!”

In its own press release, Gore noted that it had likewise made the list for 17 years.

“More than 50 years ago, our company founders set out to create a work environment that promotes collaboration and innovation,” said Gore CEO Terri Kelly. “Today, we take great pride in our continued recognition as a top workplace in the United States and around the world, and we also continue to focus on cultivating a work environment where creativity and innovation thrive.”

Zappos didn't put out a statement but the Fortune article noted that Zappos' employees received a bonus last year of stock of Amazon, its parent, equivalent to 20 percent of their pay.