Outdoor gear retailer REI made news this month-they announced they will close their stores on Black Friday. The day after Thanksgiving, now referred to as Black Friday, is one of the busiest shopping days of the holiday season. Unlike other retailers who will open early, REI will be closing all 143 stores and paying their employees to do what they love most-be outside and challenging the rest of us to do the same. By shutting
down on Black Friday, REI is bringing attention to their commitment to nature
and the “experiences it unlocks in all of us” and reminding the rest of us of
the importance of connecting to nature, family and friends.
In a letter to members,
President and CEO Jerry
Stritzke wrote:
We're a different kind of company—and while the
rest of the world is fighting it out in the aisles, we’ll be spending our day a
little differently. We’re choosing to opt outside, and want you to come with
us
I don’t think anyone would argue that most lives, and especially those of children, have become very structured allowing very
little free time outdoors. It's time to break the cycle this November
27 and join the effort to #optoutside with family and friends. No plans, no
agenda, no structure other than finding a place outside instead of fighting the
crowds and shopping. We could all use more time to experience the restorative and
healing powers of nature. I hope you will decide to join the movement and opt outside.
Trust me, you will be glad you did.
Way to change the status quo REI !!!
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