While Others Open Early for Black Friday, This Kentwood Store Is Staying Closed

While most stores are gearing up for one of the busiest shopping days of the year, REI Co-op is once again taking the opposite approach, and closing its doors completely on Black Friday.

That includes the Kentwood location near the Woodland Mall, which will stay closed on both Thanksgiving and Black Friday as part of the company’s “Opt Outside” movement.

Instead of opening early or hosting big sales, REI will be giving all 14,000 of its employees a paid day off to spend outdoors and enjoy time away from work. The outdoor retailer says it hopes this move inspires others to “rethink the start of the holiday season.”, and as a company who sells gear for outdoor enjoyment year round, it’s nice to see them taking their own messaging to heart.

REI made the “Opt Outside” benefit permanent for their employees nationwide back in 2022, turning what started as a single-day campaign into a company-wide tradition.

That means all 195 REI stores (including its Kentwood location) as well as its distribution centers, activity hubs, and call centers, will stay closed on Black Friday. Even though shoppers can still browse and place orders online at REI.com, those purchases won’t be processed until the following day.

In an era when many retailers push to open earlier and stay open longer, REI’s continued commitment to rest, nature, and work-life balance feels refreshingly different, especially as the busy holiday season begins.

So if you're an outdoor enthusiast, maybe take a page from REI’s book this year and use Black Friday to hit a trail, visit one of Kent County’s parks, or just spend a little more time outside.