In spring 2019, outdoor co-op REI will open a new store in Grand Rapids, MI, the state’s second-largest city. With close proximity to the Grand River, Lake Michigan and the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Grand Rapids is Western Michigan’s hub for outdoor recreation.

“We are thrilled to be adding our fourth store in the state and our first location in Western Michigan,” said Michelle Yancy, REI retail director for the Midwest district. “This new location will allow us to connect nearly 10,000 active REI members in Grand Rapids to the many outdoor activities this region has to offer.”

REI Grand Rapids will be located at the intersection of 28th Street Southeast and Mall Drive Southeast, just south of the Woodland Mall. The mall area is currently being upgraded and re-designed to refresh and transform the space. The co-op’s new 20,000 square-foot store will carry quality gear and apparel for the most popular outdoor activities in the area, including paddling, biking and running. REI Grand Rapids joins other Michigan stores in Ann Arbor (138 miles away), Northville (133 miles away) and Troy (156 miles away).

REI Grand Rapids will offer in-store workshops to connect people to a life outdoors. A national leader in outdoor experiences, REI helped more than 375,000 people across the country to get outside through classes and events.

In addition to providing the best outdoor gear and expert advice, REI actively works with nonprofits across the country to protect wild places and invest in outdoor recreation opportunities. Since 2002, REI has invested more than $875,000 in the Michigan outdoor community. In 2018 alone, REI has already invested $85,000 in local Michigan trails through longstanding partnerships with the North County Trail Association, Huron-Clinton Metroparks Foundation and the Clinton Watershed Council.

Later this year, the co-op expects to hire over 40 employees at the new store in Grand Rapids.

Store facts:
Address: 3149 28th Street SE in Kentwood
Square footage: 20,000 square feet
Open date: Spring 2019
Membership: Nearly 10,000 active members in Grand Rapids; over 128,000 in Michigan

REI has 152 stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia.