Seattle teachers union calls to boycott outdoor retailer REI

One of Washington state’s largest teachers unions is now encouraging a boycott of Seattle-based outdoor retailer REI as labor activism against major employers in the region continues to escalate.

The Seattle Education Association (SEA) urged supporters to boycott REI’s annual anniversary sale through May 25, accusing the company of “union busting” and attacking its labor practices. “Say no to union busting: boycott outdoor outfitter REI now through May 25th,” the union wrote on social media. “Workers are still facing union busting, cuts to benefits, and reduced healthcare access. Skip the anniversary sale and tell your people to do the same. No sale is worth funding REI’s corporate agenda.”

The boycott push comes as REI faces mounting pressure from labor activists and progressive politicians over stalled contract negotiations with unionized workers. Rep. Pramila Jayapal recently accused the company of “failing to respect workers” and called on REI leadership to “stop union busting” and negotiate a contract.

The campaign is drawing comparisons to similar activist efforts targeting Starbucks. Labor groups and progressive activists organized boycotts and protests against the Seattle coffee giant during unionization battles, while politicians including Jayapal publicly sided with organizers.

Since then, Starbucks has continued closing stores and shifting portions of its operations away from Seattle, including moving roles and expanding investment outside Washington as the company reevaluates costs and long-term operations in the city. Critics argue the REI boycott reflects a broader pattern in Seattle politics: progressive activists and labor groups escalating pressure campaigns against large employers while dismissing concerns about the long-term economic consequences.

The SEA itself has faced scrutiny in recent months after members elected a teacher previously suspended over allegations involving child abuse as union president, drawing criticism from parents and education advocates across Seattle.

REI, long viewed as one of Seattle’s flagship progressive companies, now finds itself increasingly targeted by the same activist movements it once appeared politically aligned with. The retailer reported a $311 million net loss in 2023, marking its second consecutive year of losses amid declining sales and shifting consumer demand. Despite those financial struggles, union activists have continued pushing boycott campaigns aimed directly at the company’s revenue during one of its most important annual sales events.

The latest boycott effort also comes as Washington businesses increasingly warn they are reconsidering their future in the state altogether. A recent Association of Washington Business survey found that nearly one in four employers are now considering leaving Washington, citing taxes, regulations, and growing economic uncertainty.