SEATTLE (BRAIN) — REI Co-op announced changes to and raised the price of its membership program Wednesday, including doubling the shop service discount.
The one-time membership fee will now cost $30, effective Wednesday. Previously $20, REI last raised the membership price in 2008. REI says the new membership benefits program is valued at more than $85 per year.
The new and enhanced membership benefits include:
- The bike, ski, and snowboard shop service discount will be doubled to 20% for members, and flat tire repairs and ski/snowboarding machine wax services will continue to be free.
- With each membership purchased, REI will donate $5 to the REI Cooperative Action Fund to support organizations committed to justice, equity and belonging in the outdoors.
- Member Collection: A broader, curated set of products just for members will launch each month, such as brand collaborations, limited editions, early access and special offers.
- Used gear just for members: Now called Re/Supply, used gear is now just for members, who can shop online, in-store, or at REI's Re/Supply stores in Manhattan Beach, California, and Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. Members can also trade in their gently used gear for gift cards and help extend the life of a product for use by fellow members. REI estimates that buying a used item avoids 50% of carbon emissions from new product manufacturing.
- Free shipping: Members receive free U.S. standard shipping on all orders, with no minimum purchase required. Exceptions apply for international shipping and oversize items.
"REI was founded in 1938 by 23 friends who shared the belief that a cooperative enabled a more rewarding outdoor life," said Vivienne Long, REI senior vice president and chief marketing officer. "That love for the outdoors continues to drive our interest to strengthen our connection with members. We have the opportunity to provide our members with so much more. Our relaunch is the beginning of a new chapter for the co-op and represents the first step of many toward a member experience overhaul that has community engagement at its core."
Members still receive an annual return through Co-op Member Rewards, typically 10% of eligible purchases each calendar year. They also receive discounts on gear rentals and REI experiences of adventure travel, day tours, and classes. Members receive members-only coupons and offers throughout the year and are invited to participate in REI Conversations, an online community where more than 32,000 members are connecting, learning and sharing their inspiration and expertise.
REI has 20 million members, with the goal of growing membership to 50 million by 2030.
