I’ve been a fan of REI since I found the REI-Outlet web page a few years ago, way before I moved to Conshohocken. It was not until I wanted to purchase something in the store that I actually tried to find where the closest store was. Boy, was I surprised what I saw that REI had a store in my little town of Conshohocken. What surprised me even more was that the Conshohocken store was one of two stores in the entire state of Pennsylvania!
After I became a satisfied customer of the B & M store, I also became a member. For $20, you can become a lifetime member of the REI co-op. That’s right, REI is actually a 3 million member strong co-op. What does co-op membership give you? Well, the biggest benefit is the 10% cash back on all purchases. It’s so easy to spend $200 in REI that I made my initial $20 investment back quickly and now I get between $20 and $75 back every year.
REI as a company has some other great benefits as well. They have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. I’ve never had the chance to use it, but I have heard of others that have.
I have also taken advantage of the local REI events. These Clinics and Events, held by the employees of the Conshohocken REI Store, are a great way to dip your feet into a new sport or hobby, learn how to use new equipment or just to meet new people. I have already attended the “Introduction to Camping” class and I’m looking forward to taking the “Introduction to Outdoor Photography Composition“.
In any case, I am just a fan celebrating the greatness of REI. Great employees, great store and it’s right in our back yard. Go check ‘em out!
I did a few clean up type events 13 years ago with them. It was fun working on trails in Valley Forge park. Got to meet a lot of people that way.
I recently bought my son a his first big bike at REI, very impressed. Sales person was very knowledgable and service was outstanding. now if we could get to the bike path along the river without risking our lives crossing a busy road