Seattle—Cataloger/retailer Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) will close its unprofitable Japanese Website and store by year’s end. The company blames the decision on increasing cost-consciousness, decreasing spending, and declining interest in outdoor gear in Japan. REI will still market to Japanese customers but via U.S. direct sales supported by a customer service desk in Tokyo.
In other REI news, chief operating officer Sally Jewell will now direct the marketing and merchandising divisions as well as REI’s retail and direct sales operations. And chief financial officer Brad Johnson will direct REI’s distribution, real estate, finance, and information services functions.