
REI Retreats, Orvis Shrinks & Lulu Loses Its Mojo
About this episode
Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave tackle a chaotic week for outdoor retail, from store closures to corporate pivots and questionable marketing moves!
On the docket!
- REI shutters its SoHo and Boston stores: Both shops are unionized, sparking speculation about whether this is cost-cutting, anti-union, or just part of the Peak 28 overhaul. (03:55)
- Orvis blames tariffs for closing 36 stores: Are we sure it isn't just the brand’s long drift away from its fishing roots? (13:15)
- Backcountry partners with AllGear Digital: Smart retail-media synergy or just another way to cram ads into your shopping experience? (19:35)
- The Rock Fight Lightning Round: Hydro Flask’s poor quarter, Mount To Coast gets sustainable, Halfdays raises $10 million! (28:50)
- Chip Wilson is Back: Lululemon takes it on the chin and hears about it from their founder. (41:05)
Lastly for The Parting Shot presented by Garage Grown Gear, Colin draws a parallel between dying local hockey shops and the decline of outdoor retail. (47:48)
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