REI Organizational Structure

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) is a retail and outdoor recreational service corporation. I chose to analyze this company because I enjoy the outdoors and buy products from this store often. Additionally, I was aware of their involvement with the communities in which their stores are located and their emphasis on encouraging activity and appreciation of the outdoors. Lastly, I chose this organization because I have had multiple friends work there for summer or part-time jobs and have been told that it is a great company to work for. I was curious to see if my friends’ positive experiences are anecdotal or are a result core company principles.

Fundamental Driving Forces That Shape REI’s Organizational Environment

REI’s most fundamental

They are working towards better embracing the synergy approach through their efforts to further diversify the leadership of the company, their partnerships with organizations that encourage women and minorities to be more active and enjoy the outdoors, and their dedication to making sure their apparel and products can be used by diverse cultures. (Ashley 2017; REI Co-op 2015). REI works to create a welcoming and inclusive environment because they believe diversity and inclusion are foundational principles to achieving the goal of serve all members of their community. To fulfill this vision, the company has established three primary initiatives: (1) Engage multicultural audiences and customers in culturally relevant way; (2) Attract, develop, engage, and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce; (3) Engage in communities and build relationships. Action is taken to support the LGBT community, encourage women in leadership, and facilitate multicultural brand partnerships in an effort to actuate the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives (REI Co-op 2015).

Supporting the LGBT Community

REI supports the LGBT Community through its corporate sponsorship of the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) annual fundraising event in Seattle, Washington. Also, REI’s hiring processed and commitment to being

REI facilitates multiple events and programs across the country to encourage outdoor activity for all people. One example is the Find Your Park Expedition was led by the National Park Foundation. The expedition was formerly known as the American Latino Heritage Fund, and was expanded to influence and even broader, diverse audience. The expedition allowed for eight online social media celebrities to be outfitted with gear and apparel for adventures to Mesa Verde and Great Sand Dunes national parks. Their experiences were broadcasted online to allow for fans and family to follow their adventures, with the hopes of encouraging their diverse audiences to be more active and enjoy the national parks. Additionally, REI has partnerships with programs like Black Girls Do Bike, Outdoor Afro, Black Girls Run, National Brotherhood of Skiers, and The National Park Foundation and Latino Outdoors (REI Co-op