March 12, 2004Gift RegistryREI Launches New Integrated Gift Registry 03-11-2004 -- Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), a national retail cooperative providing quality outdoor gear and clothing, has launched an integrated multichannel gift registry that makes it easy to create and edit gift lists at any REI store, online at REI.com or by phone. REI has provided a registry service as an alternative for engaged couples for 20 years. Popular products have included classic camping gear, cook sets and high-tech gadgets, such as radios and GPS units. The new service, which can be used for any occasion or holiday, is enhanced with leading edge retail technology. Couples planning spring weddings can create a gift registry at home online or by phone, or select gear in a store using hand-held scanners to register items. Once created, the gift list can be easily monitored and edited online. When a gift is purchased anywhere in the country the integrated database is updated in near real time. The registries can be accessed by gift purchasers online, by phone and through Internet kiosks in all of REI�s stores. Purchasers can select a gift box and card and have the gift sent directly to the couple or they can choose to wrap and deliver the gift themselves. "The gift registry is an example of how REI is leveraging technology in a way that blurs the lines between stores and e-commerce and provides great services that meet customers� high expectations," said Joan Broughton, Vice President for Multichannel Programs. "We are particularly pleased to be able to offer this new gift registry service to couples who share a love of the outdoors. When registering for their wedding they can choose the gear and apparel they really want to enhance their outdoor adventures together." The investment in the enhanced service is a response to customers who have been seeking out REI as an alternative to traditional gift registry service. Here is a list of the top 10 most popular gift registry products in 2003: 1. REI Half Dome Plus 2 tent REI is a national retail co-op founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers. REI sells outdoor recreation products from all of the top brands for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling, snow sports and travel, including its own line of award-winning gear and apparel. While anyone may join or shop at REI, members pay a one-time $15 fee and receive a share in the company�s profits through an annual member refund based on their purchases. A portion of REI�s profits is set aside each year for support of outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship causes, with $2 million to be awarded in 2004. REI currently operates 69 stores in 24 states, two online stores REI.com and REI-OUTLET.com and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures. Contact: |