REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.), a national outdoor gear and clothing retailer, today announced Rick Bingle has been named the company’s vice president, supply chain. The new position recognizes the critical role that distribution and logistics plays in delivering exceptional service to REI’s members.

“Rick brings a distinct, broad background to REI that spans retail management, distribution and domestic and international logistics,” said Brian Unmacht, executive vice president.  “His proven ability to develop a long-term vision for our supply chain will serve us well as REI continues to grow and we develop new and better ways to get our quality outdoor products to our customers and to our stores across the U.S.”

REI’s two distribution centers are comprised of more than 1.2 million square feet and use operational methods that are consistent with the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.   The Bedford, Penn., distribution center is LEED Silver-certified.

Bingle joined REI in 2006 as director, global supply chain from Microsoft, where he was the senior manager, global supply chain. Previously, he spent 11 years at Office Depot in a series of distribution-related management positions.

A graduate of the University of California, Riverside, Bingle is a member of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, as well as the Gartner Supply Chain Forum.  He graduated from Leadership Tomorrow in 2008 and is a member of the board of directors of the Northwest Center.

About REI
REI is a national outdoor retail co-op dedicated to inspiring, educating and outfitting its members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship. Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality equipment, REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions.