REI announced plans to open a store in Encinitas, Calif., in November 2004. The 22,500 square-foot store, in Plaza at Encinitas Ranch will be about 20 miles north of the REI San Diego store opened in 1988. It will employ about 70 full- and part-time staff.
The new construction store will be a leased, two-story structure with an 18-foot tall free standing climbing pinnacle, as well as other interactive features, including a camp store demonstration table, a water filter testing station and a footwear test trail. It will also have a bicycle and ski repair shop. A gear rental department will encourage customers to try new outdoor activities.
The store will provide REI's full line of outdoor gear and clothing for hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, paddling and winter sports and all the top outdoor brands including REI's own gear and apparel.
“The Joshua Tree National Park is 90 miles to the east. The Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve is 12 miles south of the store site,” said Jerry Chevassus, Vice President Real Estate. “When you think of San Diego County, you think about outdoor recreation. This new store will provide a convenient place for outdoor enthusiasts to get their gear.”
There are approximately 50,000 active REI members in the San Diego area.
