REI CEO Eric Artz said the outdoor gear retailer would end its Experiences unit, which offered adventure classes and trips, and lay off 428 workers.

A major active travel company is closing its doors, but there are still a lot of good alternatives for your next hiking or cycling vacation.

Any customers who have Experience trips or programs booked will receive a full refund of costs paid to REI. These aren't the first layoffs REI has enacted in recent years. In January 2024, the company laid off over 300 employees. In early 2023, the company also laid off 167 people.

Affected full-time employees will receive their full salary and benefits through March 9. Workers who split time between the stores and the events, classes and tours business — known collectively at REI as Experiences — may be able to stay with the company, depending on the store. REI has more than 16,000 employees.

More than 400 employees will be let go as part of the decision. CEO Eric Artz said the 40-year-old experiences division was unprofitable.

After 40 years of providing adventure travel, day tours and classes, outdoors retail co-op REI will shut down its Experiences business.

REI confirmed it has ended its Experiences business to refocus on retail instead of classes and guided trips. The post After 40 Years, REI Ends ‘Experiences’ Adventure Travel & Day Tours Business appeared first on GearJunkie.

Outdoor goods store REI Co-Op is shutting down one of its businesses focused on experiences such as excursions, day tours and classes, the company announced Wednesday.