Just like any other retailer, don't believe the PR - Warehouse Associate REI Employee Review

1.0
Sep 13, 2016
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Discounts, and I had a short commute when I worked there

Cons

When I first started, things were looking up. It seemed like a great place to be. Then the recession of 2008 hit and everything soured. Many of my friends were laid off, but I can accept that as a necessary business decision. However, after the dip in 08, the entire culture changed. Gone were the days of "work-life balance" that they love to crow about so much. Work life balance in their case meant, come in to work Sunday...and also take Wednesday off so you don't get any overtime. You were crucified for requesting a day off. I had an enormous bank of vacation and sick time saved up that I was afraid to use for fear of management finding an excuse to get rid of me. No upward mobility whatsoever. I had friends who shed blood sweat and tears for the company, sacrificing weekends and working terrible graveyard shifts just to be seen as a good candidate, only to watch as some manager from a window company or Starbucks was hired for the position they had hoped for. When I left they were hemorrhaging good employees who sought greener pastures and hiring more and more temps. It felt like a family atmosphere when I started. Now if there is a way to save some money they won't hesitate to cut your job and send you out the door with a handshake and a severance. Work this job if you have another source of income and you just want to take advantage of the discounts.

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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