REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) is a consumer-owned outdoor recreation retail cooperative founded in 1938 in Seattle, Washington. It began as a small cooperative focused on providing affordable climbing gear and has since expanded its offerings to include outdoor gear, apparel, and equipment for activities such as camping, kayaking, and biking. REI operates over 125 stores across 31 states and employs more than 11,000 people, maintaining a co-op model that allows members to receive dividends. The company offers a range of services, including gear rentals, outdoor education through its Outdoor School, and various stewardship programs that support public lands. REI is known for its commitment to quality, providing tested products and unique in-store experiences, such as rock walls and rain rooms for hands-on testing. With a focus on community and environmental responsibility, REI continues to be a leader in the outdoor recreation industry.