Seems great at first, but becomes quickly tiresome - Anonymous employee REI Employee Review

3.0
Jun 25, 2013
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

- Good benefits - Discounts on Gear and Clothing - Most of the people I work with are nice and smart - Support an interesting brand and products I always used to tell people that REI was a place that was great to work for, but I'm starting to question the long-term viability.

Cons

- Pay is comparatively low. - The culture is very passive aggressive. - It's impossible to get things done there sometimes because everybody wants to be involved in every single decision and management supports and condones this behavior. - Difficult to impart change across the organization. - Few opportunities for career growth. - Politics are often more important for promotions than being skilled. - The org as a whole is too scared to take risks. - Commute isn't ideal from Seattle.

Explore other reviews about REI

5.0
May 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

People and incredible work culture. REI truly walks the walk when it comes to company culture. Significant amount of focus on people and values in a genuine way. Exceptional benefits and pay. Making medical coverage available for all employees part time and full time.

Cons

Not many negatives to share.

3.0
May 9, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Most coworkers, some managers, discounts, outfitting people properly without extra nonsense

Cons

Some truly horrible managers, pressure to sell credit cards is a morale killer, the union people. Employees drinking the union kool aid fail to see the company’s position, REI cannot give higher pay, better benefits , consistent hours, etc… with the erratic revenue stream that comes in , if a 5 year average is X in revenue and 5 year average is Y on wages and costs, how are they supposed to increase wages and benefits? It’s numbers and they don’t line up, if REI gives the increases which increases the expenses greatly, they will cut staff, a lot fewer employees which will eliminate a bunch of union supporters, an REI job is not supposed to be a lucrative deal, when you get hired the part time , part time plus and full time options are there and you choose what you want fully understanding what hours you are going to get at minimum, they will hire those positions on a need basis, to cry later that you don’t make enough money is your fault, the terms were clear and you signed off on them. The union is promising rainbows , reality will be far different, careful what you wish for

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