Employees at REI’s only Chicago location vote to unionize

May 5, 2023

Workers at REI’s only Chicago location voted to unionize with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union in an election held by the National Labor Relations Board on Thursday.

Employees of the outdoor goods retailer’s Chicago location said yes to the union in a vote of 41 to eight, with five ballots challenged, according to RWDSU spokesperson Chelsea Connor. The store’s staff include employees who sell outdoor gear and apparel, handle inventory and repair gear, including bikes and skis. Chicago Tribune