Outdoor enthusiasts in Howard County will get more choices for camping and climbing equipment in early November, when REI will open its fourth Maryland store at Columbia Crossing.
And more stores could be on the way as the company scouts other locations in the Northeast.
The 24,000-square-foot Columbia shop will also sell ski equipment, cycling, hiking and fitness gear. The store will employ about 50.
Recreational Equipment Inc. chose the location because the area is full of biking and hiking trails, says Angie Perez, REI's district outreach and events administrator.
The Seattle-based company also has 38,000 members in Greater Baltimore, though it has just one store in the area. REI's Maryland stores are located in Timonium, Silver Spring and College Park.
"Generating 38,000 from one store is huge," Perez says.
The Columbia store is also close to Ellicott City's Patapsco Valley State Park. That means more people in the county could be interested in the store's outdoor recreational classes on hiking, biking and other sports.
With 112 stores, REI sees its biggest opportunity for growth in the Northeast, between Washington, D.C., and New York, Perez says.
"When the right opportunity comes up we'll go for it," she says.
Other stores at Columbia Crossing include Old Navy, Borders Books & Music and Target. The site is close to Interstate 95 and MD 175, making it easily accessible, Perez says.
REI members pay a one-time $20 fee and receive a share of the company's profits, based on how much they purchase. The company generated $1.5 billion in sales last year and nearly $30 million in net income. The company counts nearly 4 million members, who receive discounts on gear rentals, classes and trips.
REI has granted more than $90,000 to 11 outdoor and conservation nonprofits in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., areas, including the Alice Ferguson Foundation, Appalachian Trail Conservancy and Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts. The company plans to expand upon these efforts with the opening of the new store.
Writer: Julekha Dash
Source: Angie Perez, REI