Hundreds line up for REI opening
Several hundred people waited in line this morning for the grand opening of outdoor equipment retailer REI in Henrico County's West Broad Village.
Jacki Farlik, the hard goods supervisor at the store, said 667 people came through the doors in the first 15 minutes after it opened at 9 a.m.
Many had been standing in line for more than hour, she said.
The 26,500-square-foot store is the first in the area for Seattle-based Recreational Equipment Inc. It has two others in the state and 110 stores nationwide. It plans to open at least two more stores -- one in Arizona and one in California -- next year.
REI sells camping, fitness, bicycling, hiking and paddling gear and equipment. It also rents seasonal gear and has a bicycle shop.
Reader Reactions
“You will not find the cheap value line gear at REI that you find at the “sports equipment” stores. REI only deals with what works best. “
Seconded… I’ve been looking forward to the opening of this store for exactly that reason. REI is the place to go if you don’t want to mess around with mediocre gear.
This should not be confused with a “Sports equipment store”. REI is a co-op that specializes in OUTDOOR activities..as in hiking, cycling, boating, camping etc. You will not find the cheap value line gear at REI that you find at the “sports equipment” stores. REI only deals with what works best.
They don’t sell only NIKE and Addias outdoor clothing. They sell North Face, OR, Mtn Hardware etc. The stuff designed for it’s intention.
The closest comparison locally would be Blue Ridge Mountain Sports…not those other “sports stores”
Just what we need—ANOTHER sports equipment store in the area. There were 2 big ones some years ago and they merged.
HOW MANY DO WE NEED?? No wonder stores go out of business, too many and only so much money available. Go figure!
Post a Comment(Requires free registration)
- Please avoid offensive, vulgar, or hateful language.
- Respect others.
- Use the "Flag Comment" link when necessary.
- See the Terms and Conditions for details.
Advertisement