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Written by Columbia Heights News
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Friday, 15 February 2008 |
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Page 5 of 5
 We just received word that REI, a national outdoor adventure retailer, is pursuing a location at the DC USA. From what we understand, REI is vying for the same retail space that Whole Foods Market gave up and Ross Dress For Less is now negotiating with developers for. |
This is an exciting new development for Columbia Heights and the entire District. A major outdoor adventure retailer is badly needed in the District. The only such store that comes to mind is Hudson Trail Outfitters in Tenley Circle. It would be all the sweeter if such a store opens in our neighborhood. If REI does come to the DC USA, it would be the first location in DC. Currently, the closest REI location is in Falls Church, VA. We know a number of DC outdoor adventurers who make regular pilgrimages to that location.
We will try to bring you more information and find the best way for those of you interested in REI to show your support.
For more information about REI, you can visit its website at REI.com.
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Written by Sean on 2008-02-27 13:39:29
I agree with confused. Lets see some commitment from REI before we start getting overly excited about an idea. REI knows that all of its stores are outside the district and difficult to get to. It makes sense to have a new store in the district. | Written by Anonymous on 2008-02-27 17:54:38
If REI is interested, they're in ongoing business negotiations to strike the best deal they can and aren't likely to tip their hand about whether they want to come or not, so I don't think you'll ever see a public "commitment" from them until they sign up a deal, or at least get to a letter of intent. While they've undoubtedly done (or are in the process of doing) research on whether the location makes sense for them, I do think it only can be helpful to show some level of community excitement about having them, if that's what you want. Demographic analyses only tell you so much, after all, and local enthusiasm is not captured in the numbers they look at -- it's noticed from sites like these, if they're even paying attention. | Written by JT on 2008-02-28 21:01:33
Again, for what its worth, below is the email that started this all (from the Columbia Heights Listserve):
Quote:
"We met with Grid last week and your campaign is working. You may want to start a campaign to get REI here as well. We’ve heard they’re trying to get the space next to us (where Ross Dress for Less is in negotiation) this would be a huge upgrade to the project!! If you can focus on REI directly and show some love toward them this may help tremendously…"
So, it sounds like there is a possibility - and that it is the space next to the old Whole Foods space rather than the old Whole Foods space. I would suggest emailing REI and Grid instead of trusting the article claiming that Columbia Heights residents are "particularly hungry for more shoe and apparel stores." | Written by Tara on 2008-03-04 09:36:36
We would LOVE an REI and think its a much better fit than Ross. The Urban market is so much better for REI, as you have people who would rather use their "two-set" to get around than drive everywhere. Urban dwellers not only make use of the Rock Creek Park, and kayak on the Potomac, but often take weekend camping get-aways to get away from the mayhem of the city! My husband and I have been REI members for all of our 8 years of marriage and would be thrilled to be able to walk across the street to buy a new fleece, backpack, shoes - you name it! REI - please come to our neighborhood! | Written by REI fan on 2008-03-12 21:28:21
As a longtime REI member and avid supporter, I'm bummed to learn that REI will not be coming to Columbia Heights. I emailed the company and this is the reply I received:
"Thank you for contacting REI regarding a store in the DC area at Columbia Heights. As a co-op, we approach our store openings slower than most national retailers, only opening seven to ten stores per year. This allows us to be very thoughtful and deliberate in our real estate selections. While we recognize that there are many members and outdoor enthusiasts in your area, we unfortunately do not have plans of opening a new store at Columbia Heights at this time due to its close proximity to both our College Park, Maryland and Bailey's Crossroads, Virginia stores."
Best,
Bethany Nielson
Public Affairs | Recreational Equipment, Inc. | Written by bigspender  on 2008-03-17 10:17:44
very sad to hear that REI is not acting on a chance to join in with others supporting and investing in this quickly developing shopping center. They seem to think that they have other stores too close. However, i rarely want to shop so bad that i will drive so far out of the city. Because of this I'll shop at REI maybe once a year. If they were located in this city - the nation's capital (seemingly a great location to for any major retailer to boast) - i would certainly shop there 10 times as much. |
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