REI, the co-op that sells outdoor gear and clothing, has for the eighth year opted out of Black Friday and will close its stores on the day after Thanksgiving.
Consistent with its retailing philosophy and the merchandise it sells, REI has a tradition of encouraging its employees and customers to spend time outside instead. This year, they have announced that they will make this tradition permanent and give all its 16,000 workers a paid day off on Black Friday. REI calls this initiative #OptOutside, and it aims to inspire people to enjoy nature and protect the environment. It also supports the Outdoors for All Act, a legislation that would fund green spaces in underserved communities.
Recreational Equipment, Inc., doing business as REI, sells camping gear, hiking, climbing, cycling, water, running, fitness, snow, travel equipment, and men’s, women’s and kids’ clothing. REI believes that everyone should have access to quality outdoor space, no matter where they live. By opting out of Black Friday, REI hopes to show that there is more to life than shopping and consumption.
Black Friday is a popular shopping event that originated in the US and has spread to other countries. Many retailers offer super-discounts and deals to attract customers. However, Black Friday has also been criticized for disrespecting workers and holidays in a number of ways.
It often forces workers to put in long and stressful hours, sometimes without adequate compensation or breaks. Many workers have to sacrifice their Thanksgiving holiday or family time to prepare for the sales or deal with crowds of shoppers that at times turn into frenzied mobs.
According to a CNN report, some workers at Macy’s were not paid for their time off on Thanksgiving unless they worked both the day before and the day after the holiday. Some workers have also reported facing harassment, violence or injuries from customers or employers during Black Friday.
In recent years many stores were trending towards opening even on Thanksgiving afternoon, forcing their workers to leave family gatherings or curtail the enjoyment of the holiday.
While some workers may be glad of overtime pay when it is offered, many complain that Black Friday undermines the meaning and spirit of Thanksgiving and other holidays that celebrate gratitude, generosity and community. Instead of spending time with their loved ones or giving thanks for what they have, many people rush to the stores or online platforms to buy more things they may not value or use. This can create a sense of dissatisfaction, greed and materialism, which contradicts the values of many holidays.
REI prefers to not participate in a practice that they do not approve and will remain closed on Black Friday.
For a list of other stores that will remain closed on Black Friday, see here.
