REI announces new store to open in San Luis Obispo this fall

REI has announced it will open a brand new store in San Luis Obispo later this year.

In a company press release, the popular business known for its outdoor gear, is scheduled to open in fall 2019.

The 22,000 square foot store will be located in the SLO Promenade, next to the recently-opened Sprouts Farmers Market.

The site previously was the home of Forever 21, and before that, Gottschalks.

“Close to the California coast and Los Padres National Forest, San Luis Obispo is a thriving outdoor hub,” said Greg Mellinger, REI retail director for the California-Nevada district in the press release. “We are thrilled to finally join San Luis Obispo and further connect our members to the amazing outdoor opportunities this community has to offer.”

According to the company, the new REI will offer much more than outdoor gear and rentals.

The store will also host workshops and guided outdoor experiences

The Seattle-based company said it helped more than 350,000 people nationwide last year through its outreach programs.

The company also announced it will partner with The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County and Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers (CCMB) to support stewardship efforts in the local community.

When the San Luis Obispo location opens, it will be its 29th location in California.

The nearest REI store to San Luis Obispo is in Santa Barbara on Anacapa Street.

As REI prepares to open up in San Luis Obispo later this year, it is now actively seeking new employees.

It’s expected the new store will employ about 45 people.

Those interested in applying for a job can go online at REI.com/jobs.