REI Co-op, UFCW and RWDSU Issue Joint Statement on Results of Contract Vote

Feb 5, 2026

In July 2025, REI Co-op and a coalition of union locals from the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) and the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Stores Union (RWDSU) agreed to establish a national bargaining structure to negotiate store-level collective bargaining agreements for the 11 unionized REI stores by the end of January 2026.

Today, the UFCW and RWDSU confirmed that employees at those 11 certified stores voted not to ratify the contract proposal, with a vote of 98.5% against ratification.

In light of the result, REI and the UFCW and RWDSU will continue good-faith discussions consistent with the agreed-upon timeline in the bargaining framework, which is scheduled for mid-February.

About the REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 25 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.