REI Cuts 275 Jobs

Seattle-based outdoor retailer REI has cut 275 retail positions, including 19 in Washington state, which equates to 2% of its national workforce, as part of a wider restructuring plan. The move reflects the company’s attempt to change its brick-and-mortar business model, with a focus on modernizing out-of-date areas that no longer serve its employees or business mission. The job losses predominantly impact employees in “lead” positions, though many of these individuals are expected to transition to other roles within the company. Despite the layoffs, REI anticipates nearly 1,300 openings for new roles and holiday hiring for the rest of the year. In addition to job cuts, the company plans to enhance scheduling transparency and hour predictability, and introduce new store leadership and staffing models.