Pros
REI genuinely loves the outdoors and makes decisions that try to reflect their values. They offer training opportunities, great benefits, and value environmental and social issues.
Cons
Crippling middle management, institutionalized heroics, complete lack of ambition or creative direction. Performance and knowledge of your craft/industry are completely overlooked and advancement is dependent on how likable you are (and I dont mean just having a positive attitude and working well with others... I mean an almost cultish fixation of "appearances and perceptions". If you dont enter or participate in the company chili cookoff, or weekend camping excursion, or some other corporate kumbaya activity, expect to lose the respect of the people who decide your future at the company). Rumors are spread in hallways faster than on a political reddit post. There is more drama at this company then a party of highschool thespians. Which is a shame, because REI at its core, is wonderful and has the potential to change the world. Instead, they roast twinkies and pray for snow every year.