[pct-l] REI

[Jeffrey Olson]

I lived in Seattle in the late 80s through the 90s.  I used to enjoy 
going to the flagship store on 12th street I think it was.  It was very 
funky, very Seattleish.  I really liked the bins of used/returned gear 
that was like 90% off. 

Then, in the late 90s, the REI world changed.  They built this 
multi-million dollar building with gravel paths to test mountain bikes, 
and big spaces.  No longer could I find the bins of used/returned gear.  
Those two things signaled the death of the "Co-op" principle if you ask 
me.  I lived in Laramie, WY for a number of years and traveled to 
Denver.  The REI store there has waterfalls, the gravel path, multiple 
levels and again - no real deals that I could find... 

Things change - corporatization mostly driving change it seems. 

Jeffrey Olson
Martin, SD

Paul Magnanti wrote:
> Wow...I seem to have struck a nerve with people based on some private e-mails. :)
>
> Look, if someone gave me an REI gift card, I'd gladly buy something there.
> (Anyone? Anyone?)
>
> But, to ignore the  *main* customer base is not to understand "REI as lifestyle comment" I made.
>
> I can't help it...I have a sarcastic sense of humor. Back in the Northeast, we called it "normal". ;)
>
> If the REI comment offended people, replace with LL Bean, Eddie Bauer, Patagonia, etc.etc.etc.
>
> Now, here's a clip of rainbows, sunshine and lollipops to make you all happy:
> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2sKH8yjVsM
>
>
>
>