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Arc'teryx Recognized as REI Co-op's Premier Vendor for 2025

In a grand ceremony celebrating innovation in the outdoor retail segment, Arc'teryx has been awarded the prestigious title of Vendor Partner of the Year for 2025 by REI Co-op. This annual event showcases the brands that have made exceptional contributions to product development, efficient business practices, and customer engagement. This year’s recognition marks a significant milestone for Arc'teryx, as it is their first time winning the overall award, despite previous accolades in the apparel division in 2019 and 2024.

Kristin Shane, REI's Chief Merchandising Officer, emphasized the importance of the award, stating, "From over a thousand brands, we only select a handful that exemplify what it means to innovate responsibly and engage positively with the REI community." She further commended Arc'teryx for its relentless pursuit of sustainability and product innovation, highlighting their prominent role in shaping the outdoor apparel market.

A Commitment to the Outdoors

Founded in 1989 in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Arc'teryx emerged with a commitment to offer better solutions for outdoor enthusiasts. Their mission resonates strongly with REI's ethos, advocating for a deeper connection with nature through sustainable practices. This commitment was notably recognized as Arc'teryx became the fastest-growing brand within the trail run apparel category at REI.

Additionally, Arc'teryx's efforts to meet science-aligned emissions reduction targets underscore their leading position in sustainability and environmental accountability, ranking in the 90th percentile of REI's Product Impact Standards.

Other Distinguished Brands Recognized

Aside from Arc'teryx, REI acknowledged several other brands for their excellence in specific categories:

• - Footwear: KEEN, known for its hybrid footwear, continues to lead with sustainable practices. Founded in 2003, KEEN focuses on sustainability and innovation, consistently supporting REI's core values. Their leadership in eliminating harmful chemicals sets a new standard in the footwear industry.
• - Apparel: Vuori has carved its niche in the athleisure market since 2015, creating apparel inspired by a coastal California lifestyle. Their emphasis on modern design and functional fabric has propelled them to the forefront of both customer preference and industry standards.
• - Outdoor Hardgoods: Gregory has been instrumental in shaping outdoor gear since 1977. Committed to sustainability, Gregory's initiatives include their partnership with Big City Mountaineers, which aims to connect youth to the outdoors and enhance their well-being.
• - Action Sports: Atomic, a significant player in the skiing industry for over 70 years, has been commended for its innovation in ski equipment. Their collaboration with REI has led to remarkable growth, alongside efforts to prioritize sustainability through climate action initiatives.

REI Cooperative Action Fund

As part of the awards ceremony, REI will donate on behalf of each recognized brand to the REI Cooperative Action Fund. Since its inception, the fund has allocated nearly $31 million to support non-profit organizations working to foster an equitable outdoors and understand nature's impact on well-being.

Conclusion

The REI Vendor Partner of the Year awards not only celebrate partners like Arc'teryx but also illustratively highlight the co-op's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and innovation in outdoor retail. As REI continues to grow its community of outdoor enthusiasts, such partnerships foster a collective movement towards a better appreciation of the natural world.

For outdoor lovers and industry proponents, initiatives like those led by REI and its vendors represent not just business excellence, but a deep-rooted dedication to preserving the environment and encouraging everyone to explore nature responsibly.