Originally Posted by
Tourist in MSN
There are societal changes occurring.
I recently learned that REI is closing some stores due to lack of revenue. Although REI is primarily a retailer and ACA is not, both have relied on a membership base with similar types of recreation activities that they serve. REI used to operate a travel service, they closed their travel business.
I have done two ACA trips, and have done two REI travel bike trips.
I blame some of the societal challenges for some of the problems at both organizations, and other related organizations.
I posted a link about the REI closings. SoHo I can sort of understand. I’ve been to that store twice. My visits were during the Labor Day sale, so I am sure it was busier than normal. But Paramus, NJ, with the population density in that area? Then I got to thinking. Paramus is also home to Campmor and has been for decades. I drove up to Campmor in the fall of 1999 to get gear for my tour the following March. Just took a quick look at its website. It still seems to be closer to what REI used to be. The example I like to use is quarts of MSR White Gas. Campmor still sells them. REI no longer does, but you do have your choice of different colors of Yeti coffee mugs.