Bicycle Friendly Business

REI, St. Louis| Gold

Business Highlights: This REI store offers an employee commuting incentive program called the Eco Card. Every time an employee commutes without requiring fossil fuels they get points toward reimbursements for gear enabling them to continue commuting. The store also hosts groups rides, monthly customer clinics and workshops detailing information about bike commuting, road cycling, mountain biking, bike repair, safety and skills development. They partner with local advocacy groups and offer grants to advance and encourage cycling in the community. REI’s recycling program includes bike tubes and tires, which has helped reduce their waste stream by 80 percent and reclaimed nearly 500 pounds of tubes and tires in 2009.

Most Compelling Bike Related Statistic: Recently, three employees have sold their cars and committed to only cycling and public transportation. Nearly 12 percent of the staff consistently commute by bike, about 30 percent commute sporadically.

Most Compelling Bike Related Accomplishment: REI provided support for a local inner-city school's bike program which included the labor for 30 bike overhauls, ride support and guidance for 13 middle school kids on their annual 50-mile trail ride.