Since 2015, outdoor retailer REI has closed all of its retail stores, corporate offices, and warehouses on Black Friday — encouraging employees and customers alike to "Opt Outside" and spend time outdoors rather than shopping.​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ This year, it officially made a "permanent commitment" to the #OptOutside campaign, that every year it would "forgo profits and sales at all locations, and instead pay its more than 16,000 employees to enjoy time outside."​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ In addition to being a campaign to raise awareness about consumerism, the co-op uses it advocate for environmental welfare, inclusivity in the outdoor industry, and responsible recreation. ​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ Note: While we also encourage conscious consumerism, and celebrate large brands like REI using their platform to raise awareness about the negative impacts of "holidays" like Black Friday — we also acknowledge what an important, impactful day this is especially for small businesses! If you are doing some shopping today, make sure to shop small, shop local, and shop thoughtfully!​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ #BlackFriday2022 #CelebrateGoodNews​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​ ➡️ Tap this post at the link in our bio to read REI's full announcement.