REI plans to open its first store in Greensboro, N.C., at The Shops at Friendly Center in the fall of 2006. The 24,000 square-foot store will employ about 55 full- and part-time staff.
“Greensboro is a growing retail market. It is also a premier area for outdoor recreation,” said Retail Director Gail Kirkland. “Places like Hanging Rock State Park and Uwharrie National Forest provide great access for hiking, camping and paddling.”
REI opened its first store in North Carolina in 1992 in Cary. A second store opened in Durham in 2003. The Greensboro store is the fourth store in the state following the opening of a store in North Raleigh last week.
REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through education, volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions. In North Carolina, REI has recently supported Piedmont Environmental Center of High Point Inc., Southern Appalachian Forest Coalition, Haw River Assembly Inc., and North Carolina Amateur Sports.
