Issue No. 19: REI Workers ❤️ the Union & Stio catches some cash 💸
🌲🏕️ Hey Outsiders! Welcome to your weekly deep dive into the outdoors! Each week, we journey into the wild side of the industry, tracking the trends and trailblazers shaping the outdoors. 🏕️🏔️
Why, you ask? We do this because it is near impossible to keep tabs on all the moving parts impacting the world of the outdoors each week. And we're not just talking about the weather. ☔🌞
From the business and the economy 💼💰 to health and wellness 🏃♀️💪, conservation and sustainability 🌳♻️, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) 🌍💫, we've got it all covered.
But wait, there's more! We're also keeping an eye on government and grants 🏛️💡, travel and tourism 🚁🌐, and the latest and greatest in outdoor products and gear. 🎒⛺
All these elements converge at the crazy intersection we call... the outdoors. 🌿🌌 So buckle up, Outsiders, as we set off on this week's exploration! 🚀🌲
In this week’s edition:
⛰️ REI’s Journey: From Co-op Beginnings to Unionizing Trails, Learning from Amazon & Starbucks 📚
🚀 Stio Scaling Heights with $20M Boost, Resale Partnerships, and Retail Expansion
And more!
— Scott Crowder
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🧗♂️ Scaling Labor Peaks: REI's Unionization Climb
In the world of outdoor adventure, REI is a household name. Since its humble beginnings as a Seattle-based co-op in 1938, REI has scaled mountains 🏔️, transformed into a nationwide retailer, with over 179 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia 🏪, and now caters to every outdoor enthusiast's whim. But lately, there's been a new adventure on the horizon: a labor movement that's spreading faster than a wildfire in dry timber.
Back in 2022, REI workers in Manhattan decided they'd had enough of s'mores and campfire songs. They rolled up their sleeves, voted to form a union, and made REI history 📚. Fast forward to 2023, and it's clear that this was just the opening act. From Chicago's first unionized store to a strike in North Carolina, it seems REI's labor movement is no passing trend.
This union wave is riding on the back of OUR REI, a worker-led initiative that's shouting from the rooftops for better pay, working conditions, and employee representation. Even Washington state, the birthplace of REI, is feeling the groundswell, with a push to unionize in the cards 🃏.
If this is sounding familiar, you're not alone. Echoes of Amazon and Starbucks' unionization sagas are reverberating through REI's camping grounds. Amazon recently had to face the music when its contractor delivery drivers in San Diego voted to unionize, and Starbucks has been stirring up a storm with its union-busting allegations ☕️.
So, what's next for REI? Unionization could mean better wages, benefits, and job security for its over 13,000 employees who service their 21.5 million members across the co-op 📈. But it could also mean a steeper hill to climb for the company, with increased labor costs potentially impacting its bottom line 💸. The company's approach to this challenge will be as crucial as a climber's next hold, especially for maintaining its image as a community-focused co-op.
In the grand scheme of things, REI's unionization push could be a canary in the coal mine for the retail sector. It seems the winds of change are blowing, and other companies might need to adjust their sails or risk capsizing. Whether REI will successfully navigate these uncharted waters or be left treading water remains to be seen, but one thing's for sure – the adventure continues. 🚀
🌲 Stio on the Go: New Partnerships, Retail Expansion, and a Whopping $20M Capital Raise! 💰
Stio, a notable outdoor apparel company, has recently made several exciting developments, including raising $20 million in capital, expanding its retail locations, and launching a resale partnership.
🎯 About Stio - Founded in 2011 by Steve Sullivan, Stio is based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a place known for its exceptional outdoor recreational opportunities. The company's mission is to inspire connections with the outdoors through beautiful, functional products infused with the soul of the mountain lifestyle. Stio's product range includes performance and lifestyle apparel and accessories for men, women, and kids. They provide gear for various outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, making sure to merge style with functionality for the modern adventurer. About Us
🌿 Sustainability and Stewardship - Stio places a high priority on sustainability and stewardship. The company acknowledges that the beauty of the outdoors is a gift and emphasizes its commitment to giving back to the environment. Stio focuses on using sustainable materials and practices in its product design and manufacturing process. The company also promotes sustainability through initiatives like the Repair, Reuse, Recycle program and has partnered with the Renewal Workshop to offer repair services for their products, extending their life and reducing waste. Stewardship
🤝 Partnerships and Alliances - Stio has established a variety of partnerships and alliances to support its mission. This includes collaborations with organizations like the American Alpine Club, Protect Our Winters, and Teton County Search and Rescue. These partnerships strengthen Stio's commitment to outdoor adventure and environmental responsibility, and demonstrate the company's active role within the broader outdoor community. Partnerships & Alliances
♻️ Resale Partnership - Stio recently announced a new partnership with Geartrade for their Second Turn Program. Geartrade, an online marketplace for pre-owned outdoor gear and apparel, will serve as the resale partner for Stio, providing a platform for Stio customers to sell their used gear. This program promotes the circular economy and extends the lifecycle of Stio's products, further reinforcing the brand's sustainability commitments. Geartrade Partnership
🏪 New Retail Locations - In line with its omnichannel growth strategy, Stio is set to open three new storefronts, expanding its physical retail presence. These new locations aim to provide customers with a tangible brand experience and reinforce Stio's commitment to local communities. New Storefronts
💰 $20 Million Fundraise - To accelerate its omnichannel growth, Stio recently raised $20 million in capital. This funding is expected to fuel the company's expansion plans, including growing its direct-to-consumer business, enhancing digital marketing efforts, and opening new retail stores. This significant investment signals strong confidence in Stio's growth potential and its future in the outdoor apparel industry. Capital Raise
Stio's recent developments, from its focus on sustainability to its expansion plans and successful fundraising, demonstrate the brand's solid footing and ambitious vision for the future in the outdoor apparel market.
Business, Industry & Economy:
🌳🛍️ Outdoor Retailer is shaking things up, revamping their floor plan to center around activities, kicking off this summer! 🏕️🚵♀️ No more getting lost in the aisles - it's all about that immersive, easy-to-navigate shopping experience. 👏🛍️💡 Check it out!
🌳 The National Parks Annual Report details a future filled with more green spaces and cleaner environments. This report provides a glimpse into the conservation efforts and environmental strides made in the past year, setting a positive precedent for the years to come. National Parks Annual Report
🗺️ Aspen CSG unveils a new terrain mapping PDF, a revolutionary tool for outdoor enthusiasts and preservationists alike. This development marks an important step forward in outdoor planning and preservation, offering unprecedented access to detailed terrain information. Aspen CSG
🏄♂️ Fox CEO Jeff McGuane outlines a progressive plan for Vista's Action Sports Group, aiming to catch the next big wave in the action sports industry. This strategy provides valuable insights into the future direction of the company and the industry at large. Shop-Eat-Surf
🏔️ The Aspen Ideas Festival is the summer cultural event that's just as refreshing as a mountain breeze. The festival serves as a hub for intellectual stimulation, promising to provide attendees with unique perspectives on contemporary issues. Forbes
💰 1% for the Planet is leading the way in environmental giving, encouraging businesses and individuals alike to contribute to environmental causes. This initiative showcases a growing trend of corporate responsibility and individual stewardship towards the environment. Forbes
🚜 Tractor Supply Company is expanding its product lineup to include White Duck Outdoor products, aiming to bring a touch of luxury to the great outdoors. This move reflects the growing trend of 'glamping' and the increasing demand for high-quality outdoor products. Outdoor Industry
🏗️ Partanna, the innovative concrete startup, is mixing things up in the construction industry with its approach to climate tech. This development signals a significant shift towards more sustainable practices in a traditionally high-impact industry. TechCrunch
🍴 Athian closes its seed round with investments from DSM and California Dairies, highlighting the strong interest in innovative food solutions. The funding will enable Athian to bring its novel food technology to a wider audience. FoodBev
🎯 Vista Outdoors stocks are enjoying the great outdoors with a sunny outlook, thanks to an executive's optimistic perspective. This surge in value demonstrates investor confidence in the company's future performance. SGB Online
🍃 Bill Gates-backed green hydrogen facility will soon be manufacturing electrolyzers near Boston. This move signals a significant step forward in the adoption of green hydrogen, a promising, environmentally-friendly energy source. Bloomberg
🏘️ Workers are finding affordable homes, thanks to the efforts of companies building cost-effective housing. This development indicates an encouraging trend towards more affordable living options in a time of increasing housing costs. NPR
⚡ GM hit the brakes on the Chevy Bolt Electric Vehicle (EV), leading many to question the reasons behind the decision. The article delves into the potential motives and ramifications of this unexpected move. Fast Company
🏅 eBay Ventures is diving into the sporting goods resale market with an investment in SidelineSwap. This move illustrates the growing interest in second-hand marketplaces and the potential for sustainable consumerism within the sports industry. Retail Dive
🚀 IceLab has kicked off the 2023 Moosejaw Outdoor Accelerator Cohort, supporting the growth of promising outdoor startups. This initiative emphasizes the ongoing commitment to fostering innovation in the outdoor industry. Outdoor Sports Wire
⛷️ The NSAA Skier Visits Report for 2022-23 is hot off the press! It shows a detailed overview of this year's ski season metrics, offering insights into the ski industry's performance. NSAA
🏔️ Eastern Mountain Sports is making a grand return to Vermont with a brand-new flagship store and joining 1% for the Planet! This move showcases EMS's continued commitment to serving outdoor enthusiasts and the environment. SGB Online
👩💻 Workers are finding it harder to get things done these days, according to a recent report in The Wall Street Journal. The article explores potential reasons behind this trend, the reasons are email, and meetings (two full days of emails, and meetings a week!). WSJ
🌍 Forbes highlights how retailers are embracing sustainability with circular initiatives. The piece showcases the innovative strategies being used by retailers to promote environmentally-friendly practices. Forbes
🌳 Forbes interviews the CEO of WM about the role of sports in driving change and sustainability. The discussion offers insights into how sports can contribute to environmental initiatives. Forbes
🔬 MIT Sloan features nine carbon-busting startups that were highlighted at the MIT Sustainability Summit. These innovative companies are leading the charge toward a greener future. MIT Sloan
🛍️ The National Retail Federation shares how retailers can avoid greenwashing and 'greenmuting'. The article offers strategies for businesses looking to authentically promote their sustainability efforts. NRF
👕 Sam's Club is facing a trademark suit over alleged copycat Patagonia shirts. This case highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the retail industry. Bloomberg Law
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Health, Wellness & Fitness:
🚶♀️ Hot girl walks are so last season, according to Body and Soul. The new trend? Soft hiking! Discover the gentle, meditative alternative to more intense outdoor activities. Body and Soul
🌳 Self shares valuable advice on how to instill a love of nature in kids. The article suggests practical steps for fostering an early connection with the great outdoors. Self
🤰 Osprey spotlights the fight for healthy motherhood, emphasizing the importance of maternal health and care. This story underscores the brand's dedication to supporting women and families. Osprey
👣 The Guardian prescribes the "walking cure" as a simple yet effective wellness practice. The piece illustrates how the humble act of walking can contribute to better physical and mental health. The Guardian
🏃♂️ The 2024 TCS London Marathon hit a record high with over half a million applicants, according to Running Magazine. This surge in interest underscores the enduring popularity of one of the world's most famous races. Running Magazine
🚴♀️ Despite heavy losses, Peloton is spinning the narrative with some impressive subscriber growth, as reported by Front Office Sports. The company's resilience underscores the continued demand for at-home fitness solutions. Front Office Sports
🏋️♂️ CBS News reports that Planet Fitness is offering free gym access to teens over the summer. This initiative not only promotes fitness among youth but also introduces a new generation to the Planet Fitness brand. CBS News
🌱 A study published in Nature sheds light on the positive impact of urban green spaces on mental health. The findings underscore the importance of integrating nature into urban planning for healthier cities. Nature
🛒 Grocery Dive explores the potential of health and wellness subscriptions as a new frontier for grocers. This innovation could revolutionize the way consumers approach their grocery shopping and health routines. Grocery Dive
👟 CNBC shares a story about a company paying its employees to exercise, deeming it a "fail-safe investment". This unique approach reflects a growing trend of businesses prioritizing employee wellness. CNBC
Sustainability, Conservation & Environment:
🐦 A chirpy warning from Scientific American: Many bird species are having fewer chicks as the world warms. This piece provides a bird's-eye view of climate change's impact on our feathered friends. Scientific American
🌍 The Guardian shares John Kerry's caution that relying on technology to remove carbon dioxide is a dangerous gamble. His comments highlight the complexity of climate change solutions. The Guardian
🌲 The New York Times takes us on a tour of the sustainable Menominee forest in honor of Earth Day. This piece emphasizes the potential of indigenous knowledge for sustainable land management. The New York Times
🌊 BBC reports on Japan's plan to discharge radioactive water into the sea. This controversial decision underlines the complex challenges of dealing with nuclear waste. BBC
🧗♂️ Climbing spotlights Access Fund's Conservation Team's work on restoring worn-out crags. This piece highlights the importance of sustainable practices in outdoor sports. Climbing
📈 Sustainable Brands shares Conn's perspective on why brands must embrace imperfection to thrive. This piece offers a fresh take on the role of authenticity in sustainability. Sustainable Brands
🔬 Six countries call for ambitious measures to stop microplastic pollution, according to Euractiv. This article highlights international efforts to tackle this pervasive environmental issue. Euractiv
☕ Fast Company spills the beans on why Vietnam might be the next big thing in organic coffee. This article brews up some fresh insights into the world of sustainable agriculture. Fast Company
🏙️ Fast Company gives us a peek into New York's most energy-efficient office building. The secret sauce? It's all about leveraging smart design to lower energy consumption. Fast Company
💼 CNBC reports that former Facebook CTO Mike Schroepfer is channeling his tech prowess into climate investment. This piece shows how tech leaders are turning their attention to tackling climate change. CNBC
🔥 Bloomberg shares alarming news of wildfires in Canada forcing evacuations and reducing oil and gas output. This highlights the escalating real-world consequences of climate change. Bloomberg
🏕️ A new report featured in Street Insider reveals that 1 in 5 campers have had their plans disrupted by flooding and natural disasters. This underscores the growing impact of climate events on outdoor recreation. Street Insider
🌍 Bloomberg unravels the complex ownership claims over the Arctic sea bed. As the ice melts, the stakes for this chilly territory are heating up. Bloomberg
🐟 New striped bass regulations aim to rebuild fish populations, according to TRCP. This piece highlights the importance of regulatory measures in protecting marine life. TRCP
🦈 After 20 years, an ocean conservation funder expands its fight to protect sharks and rays, shares Inside Philanthropy. Their ongoing commitment underlines the importance of long-term investment in conservation efforts. Inside Philanthropy
💰 The Hill reports that California is preparing for a modern-day gold rush as floods wash up treasure. This quirky story underscores the unpredictable outcomes of extreme weather events. The Hill
💧 The Denver Post covers Colorado's innovative river conservation pilot to save water, but did it work? This story highlights the importance of creative solutions in water management. The Denver Post
🍁 Royal Conservation? Discover Humboldt announces a major gift from the Nature Conservancy: a swath of Canadian wilderness dedicated to the Queen's Platinum Jubilee coinciding with the Kings Coronation. This regal gesture reinforces the crucial role of philanthropy in conservation. Discover Humboldt
🎿 New Hampshire ski areas and national forest lands get a boost with a chance to reinvest locally, as reported by The Boston Globe. This article underscores how local investment can support both economic and environmental sustainability. The Boston Globe
🧥 The Wall Street Journal chats with former Patagonia CEO about the future of land conservation. This interview highlights the evolving approaches to preserving our planet's valuable natural resources. The Wall Street Journal
🐢 The New York Times dives into Ecuador's unique debt-for-nature swap to protect the Galapagos. This innovative financial strategy highlights how economic tools can be used to advance conservation goals. The New York Times
🌊 The Nature Conservancy shares ten things we need to know about the High Seas Treaty. This informative piece underscores the importance of international cooperation in protecting our world's oceans. The Nature Conservancy
🌳 Outdoor Alliance is changing the game with a fresh playbook for expanding outdoor recreation while combating climate change. Their strategic plan is a model for how we can maximize fun in the sun and stay cool with climate action. Outdoor Alliance
🌳 EcoWatch sheds light on the indispensable role of trees in conservation, wildlife protection, and climate change mitigation. The article emphasizes how trees capture carbon dioxide, provide habitat for animals, and enhance soil health, while also discussing the significant threats posed by deforestation. With nearly 15 billion trees lost annually due to human activities, it calls for urgent action to conserve and restore forests. EcoWatch
🍃 The European Environment Agency's (EEA) report presents a compelling argument for the restoration of natural habitats. It details the benefits of such projects, from preserving biodiversity to improving water quality, and combating climate change. The report also highlights the EU's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which aims to protect and restore nature across the continent, emphasizing the need for global cooperation in these efforts. EEA
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
🏕️ Gear Junkie tackles the tricky terrain of gender-neutral outdoor gear. This piece explores the fine line between fostering inclusion and ensuring gear compatibility for all bodies in the great outdoors. Gear Junkie
🧥 Gear Patrol climbs into The North Face's Women's Himalayan Suit. The article shows how gear designed specifically for women can improve performance and comfort, proving gender-specific designs still have their place. Gear Patrol
🌲 The LA Times brings to light the untold stories of Black adventurers in the national parks. This narrative elevates voices often unheard in the outdoor community, reminding us that the wild belongs to everyone. Los Angeles Times
👟 Popular Mechanics announces the vibrant collaboration between Hoka and Cotopaxi, supporting True Colors United. This partnership reflects the intersection of outdoor gear, social causes, and the growing trend of purpose-driven collaborations. Popular Mechanics
Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality:
🌍 TripAdvisor explores the importance of making sustainable travel decisions. The article emphasizes how travelers can reduce their carbon footprint through various actions such as choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local economies, and considering alternative modes of transportation. The article underlines the growing interest in sustainable tourism. TripAdvisor
🌿 Forbes discusses why sustainability is a critical business model in the travel industry. The article stresses the importance of sustainable practices in preserving the environment and enhancing the traveler's experience. It highlights the need for travel companies to integrate sustainability into their business strategies. Forbes
🧳 Condé Nast Traveler offers tips on sustainable travel. It emphasizes the role of every individual traveler in reducing waste, conserving resources, and respecting local cultures and ecosystems. This article emphasizes the growing trend of sustainable travel and the need for tourists to adopt eco-friendly habits. Condé Nast Traveler
🛌 Fortune provides insights from Airbnb's CEO, Brian Chesky, on the future of rentals after his undercover guest experiences. Chesky discusses the lessons he's learned throughout the company's journey and how Airbnb's emphasis on belonging and community will continue to shape its future. The article offers a perspective on the evolution of the travel and hospitality industry. Fortune
⛺ GearJunkie reports on the National Park Service's decision to continue with timed entry systems for 2023. The service believes this system effectively manages visitor numbers and improves the overall park experience. The article provides insight into changes in outdoor recreational planning due to increasing demand. GearJunkie
🏕️ Travel + Leisure announces the opening of AutoCamp's new glamping resort near Zion National Park. This luxury camping destination offers customized Airstream trailers, luxury tents, and modern cabins, providing an upscale outdoor experience. The announcement reflects the growing trend of glamping and luxury outdoor accommodations. Travel + Leisure
🌲 The UNW Examiner presents a report on the global adventure tourism market, including key players like Austin Adventures, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, and ROW Adventures. The report provides strategic forecasts and shares for the market up to 2023, highlighting the strong growth and competitive landscape of adventure tourism. UNW Examiner
🏞️ Forbes suggests less crowded alternatives for those planning to visit the Grand Canyon or Zion this summer. The article recommends considering less crowded but equally stunning national parks and provides several examples, encouraging travelers to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. Forbes
Government, Grants & Policy:
🏛️ The New York Times unpacks the Biden administration's approach to environmental justice. The administration aims to address the disproportionate impact of pollution and climate change on marginalized communities. The article reveals Biden's "Justice40" initiative, which promises to deliver 40% of the benefits from federal climate and clean energy spending to disadvantaged communities, an important step towards environmental equity. New York Times
🚗 TechCrunch reports on a new Texas law imposing a $200 annual fee on electric vehicle (EV) owners. The fee, designed to recoup lost gasoline taxes used for road maintenance, has sparked controversy. Critics argue it disincentivizes EV adoption at a time when reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation is crucial. TechCrunch
⚖️ Grist discusses a case before the Supreme Court that could significantly impact the fight against climate change. The case revolves around the Environmental Protection Agency's authority to regulate carbon emissions from power plants. If the court rules against the EPA, it could hamper the Biden administration's efforts to implement aggressive climate policies. Grist
🌍 Bloomberg details President Biden's forthcoming power plant emissions rule. The proposed rule is likely to hinge on the controversial use of carbon capture technology, which could be a game-changer for coal and natural gas plants. The rule is part of Biden's broader strategy to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Bloomberg
Products, Gear & Gadgets:
🥼 Men's Journal presents Gore-Tex's new environmentally friendly EPE membrane. The innovative material maintains the brand's signature waterproof and breathable qualities but is created without any PFCs (perfluorinated compounds), making it less harmful to the environment. This breakthrough represents a significant step forward in sustainable outdoor gear. Men's Journal
🧥 TrendWatching introduces Livsn's "Century Jacket," a durable outdoor jacket designed to last 100 years. In addition to its long-lasting design, the jacket comes with free repairs for life, promoting a circular economy model and discouraging wasteful consumption habits. This is an example of how companies are embracing sustainability and durability in their products. TrendWatching
🚲 Cycling News announces the release of Chris King's fully recyclable Aero Wheelset. The wheelset, made from recyclable aluminum, is part of Chris King's commitment to sustainability and reducing waste in the cycling industry. The launch of this product showcases the increasing demand for eco-friendly options in the sports equipment market. Cycling News
👟 Triathlete reviews the increasing popularity of Hoka One One running shoes. Originally known for its appeal among serious runners, the brand has gained widespread popularity and is now being worn by fashion influencers and celebrities. The article explores the implications of this trend for the brand and the running shoe industry. Triathlete
Quote of the Week:
“We know that as workers at REI, we are at the center of what makes our stores great. Our shared passion for the outdoors and spirit of inclusiveness is what keeps our members coming into our stores. Our hard work and expertise have value and deserve respect.”
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