REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) plans to open a new store in Greenville, S.C. this fall, filling in a big gap along I-85 between its cluster of stores in Charlotte, NC and Atlanta, GA.


Located at the intersection of I-85 and Woodruff Road, REI Greenville will measure 22,000 square feet and house a bike shop for quick assemblies and repairs, and a seasonal gear rental department for customers looking to test new activities.


The new store will also feature a community space for REI and its local partners to hold outdoor-related classes, presentations and events and begin awarding stewardship grants to local non-profits.


“REI is excited to partner with the Greenville community to help take care of local trails, parks and waterways to ensure they are available for future generations to enjoy,”said Gail Kirkland, REI retail director for the South district. “With easy access to the Appalachians and a community of people who love outdoor activities, Greenville is a natural match for REI.”

The new store in Greenville will be the first REI location in South Carolina. The company’s next closest REI is currently located in Asheville, N.C. REI operates 114 retail stores nationwide and two online stores, rei.com and REI-OUTLET.com, and will open eight new stores by the end of the year.