It’s been a tough week for outdoor adventurers. REI announced plans to close three stores in 2026, joining Orvis and other retailers cutting back amid a financial slump.
Here’s the scoop on REI closing locations.
What Is REI Doing?
The Washington-based co-operative specializing in outdoor gear and apparel, with over 190 stores, announced that it would permanently shut the doors of three locations in 2026.
“We are deeply grateful to our teams, our members and customers, and the stores’ communities for their support over the years,” REI said in a statement shared with USA TODAY. “As markets and customer needs evolve, we must adapt to position the co-op for long-term success. We will continue serving members and customers at these locations until closing, and at our other stores across the New York and Boston regions.”
Why Is REI Closing Locations?
After a brief pandemic-era spike in sales, outdoor retailers have seen consumer demand cool sharply because of inflation, tariffs, and higher interest rates. “Outdoor specialty retail has experienced four quarters of decline – and that trend has been worsening,” former CEO Eric Artz told employees in early 2024. The co-op reported a net loss of $156.4 million that year, and revenue fell another 6.2% in 2025, according to a May earnings report.
Earlier this year, the company also shut down its Experiences division — canceling adventure trips and outdoor classes — and laid off more than 400 employees.
Which REI Locations Are Pulling up (Tent) Stakes?
- Boston — Closing by the end of 2026
- New York City — Closing in late 2026
- Paramus, New Jersey — Closing at the beginning of 2026
What’s Next for REI?
Despite these recent closures, REI isn’t retreating entirely. The company opened 10 new stores in 2024 and six more in 2025, while mapping out a three-year plan called Peak 28: Ascending Together. New CEO Mary Beth Laughton, who took over in February, said the initiative will “fundamentally transform” how REI operates to stay competitive in a changing retail landscape.
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