REI opens first Alabama store

REI Co-op is set to open its first Alabama store in Birmingham on October 4.

Located at The Summit, the 20,000-square-foot store will house the company’s collections of outdoor gear, while offering personal outfitting services, allowing customers to get the gear they need for their next adventure, and a range of programs to connect people to a life outdoors.

“We are thrilled to connect our Alabama members to the outdoors in a community as incredible as Birmingham,” said Lilah Williams, REI Birmingham store manager, in a news statement.

“Whether it’s hiking, camping or mountain biking, we’ll offer the best gear for the activities our members already love, and expertise for those who want to try something new.”

To celebrate the new store, REI said it is investing a total of $20,000 in two local outdoor nonprofits: Cahaba River Society and Freshwater Land Trust. Funds will support trail maintenance and cleanup efforts in Birmingham and the surrounding area. In 2018 only, REI invested $8.4 million in 431 nonprofits across the country.

It will also host a grand opening event with free public activities and giveaways October 4 to the 6.

With over 53,000 lifetime members in Alabama, the company is planning on opening another Alabama store in Huntsville on October 18. REI also previously announced plans to open its first store in Vermont this coming November. On Friday, it will equally open its first New Hampshire store in the village of North Conway.

REI currently operates 155 stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia, and has a growing community of more than 18 million members.

REI opens first Alabama store

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