SARASOTA, FL — REI Co-op, which sells an assortment of outdoor gear and apparel for camping, hiking, cycling, running, fitness, paddling and more, will host its three-day grand opening celebration in Sarasota Friday through Sunday.
The new 25,000-square-foot store, opening at University Town Center, will also feature a specialty bike shop staffed with certified mechanics to tune or repair equipment to help cyclists ride trails and streets year-round, according to a news release from the company.
“Sarasota has a passionate outdoor community that we look forward to serving. We are also inspired by the opportunity to connect with local partners to welcome everyone to enjoy our outdoor spaces,” Lisa Hofmeister, REI Sarasota store manager, said. “Whether biking on the Legacy Trail, paddling at Myakka River State Park, or simply taking a walk along one of our many beautiful beaches, our Sarasota team is ready to outfit our guests with the gear and experiences they need to enjoy their adventures.”
During the grand opening celebration REI’s doors will open at 10 a.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. on Sunday. The weekend will be filled with community and nonprofit partners, outdoor vendors and giveaways, including free coffee and an exclusive camp mug with a donation to Friends of the Myakka River.
An outdoor social will take place each afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m. with music, local nonprofits and outdoor brands, including Black Diamond Equipment, Cotopaxi, Darn Tough, ENO Hammocks, Gregory Mountain Products, Hydro Flask, Mountain House, Nikwax, Nuun Hydration, Osprey, Saucony, Sea to Summit and Smartwool.
The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast and the Florida Trail Association will also be at the socials. The foundation will also receive a $10,000 grant from REI, the company said.
As the country’s largest consumer co-op, members enjoy a range of benefits. There are more than 114,000 members in the Tampa-St. Petersburg area, which includes Sarasota, and 512,000 members in Florida.
When REI Sarasota opens, the co-op will have eight stores in the state. The closest location is Tampa, which opened in 2021. Other Florida stores are in Boca Raton, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Palm Beach Gardens, Tallahassee and Winter Park.
