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April 18, 2006

REI's real competition is the couch

  • Its growth has invigorated an industry and inspired millions to get outdoors. More stores are planned, and a new East Coast disribution center.

    • KENT — To get people outside, REI brings them in. At stores around the nation, climbing walls and indoor hiking trails mix with racks of backpacks and rows of bicycles. There are snowshoes, camp-sized espresso makers and more synthetic fleece than a flock of polyester sheep.

    Recreational Equipment Inc. started as a basement co-op in 1938 by Seattle mountain-climbing buddies selling ice axes, sleeping bags and tents. Today it is the toy store for devotees of muscle-powered recreation and people who want to look like them.


     
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