If you’re a lover of the outdoors and enjoy outdoor hobbies, you will definitely appreciate working in a “toy store” full of quality gear.
Cons
By far, the largest con would be the total emphasis on membership sales. It does not matter what else an employee brings to the table. If they don’t push the membership as hard as possible, they will be penalized in some fashion. My membership sales were fine, but REI’s treatment of employees hinges entirely on one metric. That is not at all what you would expect from a company that works so hard to appear different from other big box stores. Also: Poor compensation, Lack of focus on employee knowledge and competencies, and the fact that they market themselves through virtue signaling and pandering. Trust me, they don’t really care about anything beyond their bottom line. Seeing behind the curtain was discouraging as a longtime member of the co-op… which is not an actual co-op, by the way. Members do not get to choose board members or vote on many important issues. REI used to be run by folks who love the outdoors. It has gone 100% corporate and uses the environmental/inclusivity platform to guarantee growth.
REI
REI
About
Reviews
Jobs
Overview
Company Overview
Locations
FAQ
Reviews
Jobs
Salaries
Interviews
Benefits
Photos
Employee Review
Life at REI
Jan 29, 2017 - Analyst in Seattle, WAPros
Great work/life balance, employee focused company, great discounts on gear, overall positive culture.
Cons
Compensation is not competitive for Seattle market, few opportunities for advancement
Other Employee Reviews
Retail Sales
Jun 23, 2022 - SalesPros
Extensive Training for new hires
Cons
rigid schedules with little room for advancement
“Benevolent” Big Box Store
Jun 6, 2022 - Sales LeadPros
If you’re a lover of the outdoors and enjoy outdoor hobbies, you will definitely appreciate working in a “toy store” full of quality gear.
Cons
By far, the largest con would be the total emphasis on membership sales. It does not matter what else an employee brings to the table. If they don’t push the membership as hard as possible, they will be penalized in some fashion. My membership sales were fine, but REI’s treatment of employees hinges entirely on one metric. That is not at all what you would expect from a company that works so hard to appear different from other big box stores. Also: Poor compensation, Lack of focus on employee knowledge and competencies, and the fact that they market themselves through virtue signaling and pandering. Trust me, they don’t really care about anything beyond their bottom line. Seeing behind the curtain was discouraging as a longtime member of the co-op… which is not an actual co-op, by the way. Members do not get to choose board members or vote on many important issues. REI used to be run by folks who love the outdoors. It has gone 100% corporate and uses the environmental/inclusivity platform to guarantee growth.
Discover more reviews about REI.
REI Photos
+ Add Photo