Everything Co-op With Vernon Oakes

Vernon interviews Rebecca Smith, General Manager of REI's Flagship store in Washington, DC. Vernon and Rebecca discuss how REI got started, its evolution, culture, business structure, and how it functions as a consumer cooperative. In October of 2016 REI, the national outdoor co-op, opened its fifth flagship store in Washington, D.C. The 51,000 square-will foot store, located in the NOMA neighborhood is just blocks from the U.S. Capitol. The store offers the outdoor community a spot to reconnect with one another and discover world-class outdoor gear curated specifically for the region. REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation's largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 5.5 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 143 stores in 35 states.