REI Co-op is celebrating its Vendor Partner of the Year Award. This annual program “recognizes brands that make significant contributions to product innovation and performance, as well as progressive and efficient business practices, experiences with REI customers and staff, and doing the right thing for people and the planet,” said the specialty outdoor retailer in a media release

This year, Arc’teryx was honored with the All-Around Vendor Partner award. REI also recognized Keen, Vuori, Gregory, and Atomic as category leaders in footwear, apparel, outdoor hardgoods, and action sports.

“For over 30 years, our Vendor Partner of the Year awards have celebrated the co-op’s most valued brand partnerships that drive positive change. Out of more than a thousand brands carried in our stores and online, only 16 vendors make the final round — a remarkable achievement,” said Kristin Shane, REI’s chief merchandising officer. “Arc’teryx’s win for overall Vendor Partner of the Year is well-deserved. Across the co-op, we thank them for their shared vision and congratulate their recognition. As a true industry leader in both sustainability and innovation, they continue to set the pace with no signs of slowing down.”

Headquartered in North Vancouver, BC, Arc’teryx has received REI’s overall Vendor Partner of the Year award for the first time, in addition to receiving the Apparel Divisional recognition from the retailer in 2019 and 2024. 

Established in 1993, REI’s Vendor Partner of the Year awards program “honors brand partners that demonstrate remarkable philosophy and partnership with the co-op and that drive impact for the outdoor industry. Employees from stores, distribution and headquarters nominate vendors that represent the co-op’s four merchandising divisions — footwear and basics, apparel, outdoor hardgoods, and action sports.”

REI’s Award criteria also includes the following:

  • Inspiring people with innovative and sustainable products,
  • Delivering positive financial results and seamlessly executing operational business practices while keeping REI’s customers for the future in mind,
  • Driving participation and frequency.
  • Advancing key social and environmental best practices as outlined in REI’s Product Impact Standards.

Image courtesy Arc’teryx