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- Outdoor Retailer REI Closing Locations In 3 States Next Year (cheapism.com)
REI to Close Three Locations by 2026 Amidst Shifting Retail Landscape
Outdoor enthusiasts, brace yourselves. REI, the beloved co-op specializing in outdoor gear and apparel, has announced plans to permanently close three of its stores in 2026. This move comes as part of a broader trend among outdoor retailers facing financial headwinds.
The Washington-based co-operative, which currently operates over 190 stores nationwide, confirmed the closures will impact locations in Boston, New York City, and Paramus, New Jersey.
“We are deeply grateful to our teams, our members and customers, and the stores’ communities for their support over the years,” REI stated in a release. “As markets and customer needs evolve, we must adapt to position the co-op for long-term success. We will continue serving members and customers at these locations until closing, and at our other stores across the New York and Boston regions.”
The decision reflects a challenging period for the outdoor retail sector. Following a surge in sales during the pandemic, consumer demand has cooled considerably due to a confluence of factors including inflation, tariffs, and higher interest rates.
Former CEO Eric Artz noted in early 2024 that “outdoor specialty retail has experienced four quarters of decline – and that trend has been worsening.” The co-op reported a net loss of $156.4 million in 2024, with revenue declining an additional 6.2% in 2025.
Earlier this year, REI also streamlined its operations by discontinuing its Experiences division, which included adventure trips and outdoor classes, and implemented layoffs affecting over 400 employees.
The specific locations slated for closure are:
- Boston: Closing by the end of 2026
- New York City: Closing in late 2026
- Paramus, New Jersey: Closing at the beginning of 2026
Despite these closures, REI is not entirely pulling back from expansion. The company opened 10 new stores in 2024 and an additional six in 2025. Furthermore, new CEO Mary Beth Laughton, who took the helm in February, introduced “Peak 28: Ascending Together,” a three-year strategic plan designed to “fundamentally transform” REI’s operations and enhance its competitiveness in a dynamic retail environment.
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