REI CEO Eric Artz to Retire, Mary Beth Laughton Named Successor

SEATTLE, Wash. — REI Co-op announced Wednesday that CEO Eric Artz will retire in March 2025, marking a leadership transition for the 87-year-old outdoor retail cooperative. Mary Beth Laughton, a former REI board director and retail industry veteran, will assume the role of president on February 3 before taking over as CEO on March 31.

Laughton brings extensive retail leadership experience, having held executive roles at Nike, Athleta, and Sephora. She also serves on the boards of Impossible Foods and Instacart. REI Board Chair Chris Carr praised Laughton’s qualifications, stating, “Mary Beth has the ideal experience to build on this foundation and to lead REI forward into our next chapter.”

Artz, who led REI through challenging years for the retail sector, expressed gratitude in a letter to employees. “Serving you and this enduring organization has been the honor of my professional life,” he wrote. During the transition period, Laughton plans to visit stores and distribution centers to connect with employees and partners.

Laughton emphasized her commitment to REI’s mission, saying, “No other company balances purpose and performance quite like REI, and we must ensure it thrives for generations to come.” She highlighted the importance of REI’s 24 million members and thousands of employees in maintaining the co-op’s unique position in the outdoor retail market.

The leadership change comes as REI reports improved financial performance, with the company expecting to meet its 2024 goals of break-even operating profit and near break-even free cash flow. These metrics show significant improvement compared to 2023 results.

Founded in 1938, REI operates as a consumer cooperative with headquarters in the Seattle area. The company remains focused on its mission of enabling life outside for all while maintaining its commitment to quality gear and customer service.