Vancouver, BC – Following a year of expansion, Canada’s most trusted outdoor retailer, Mountain Equipment Company (MEC), today announced its continued focus on the company’s future growth. Intentions for 2023 include a large, newly built Western Distribution Centre (WDC) plus further retail expansion and renovations of several existing stores across the country. The plans reinforce the company’s commitment and values towards sustainability in business and improved services for its members, while boosting jobs in local communities.
Scheduled to be operational by fall 2023, the new WDC is located at 19550 36 Ave, Surrey, BC, a short distance from MEC’s current premises. At 212,000 square feet, the new facility is larger than the existing location, adding incremental space to house substantial growth while improving speed to store and online delivery. Many new jobs will be created including opportunities for growth in several leadership positions as MEC expands capacity and scales up its operations. As part of its continued commitment towards sustainability, the new building is LEED Certified which recognizes buildings that are efficient, cost-effective, and better for occupants and the environment. The facility has the latest energy efficient technologies which will reduce energy consumption by 20%.
“MEC is on a strong and sustainable growth trajectory, and we remain focused on the core foundations of the business – people, product innovation, DE&I and value for money,” said Eric Claus, CEO and Chair of MEC. “A good example of our commitment to growth and innovation is implementing new systems that allow member experience improvements like our recently launched two-hour in store pickup window. This all means that we can continue to provide a best-in-class omni-channel experience that our members expect from Canada’s most trusted outdoor retailer.”
In 2022, MEC added over 300 employees nationally, fuelled by investment in its in-house brand, MEC Label, and its partnership with Hudson’s Bay that saw the retailer open three premier shop-in-shops in Ontario. The company’s recruitment drive will continue, with further retail expansions and refurbishments slated for 2023.
About MEC
Established in 1971, Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is Canada’s go-to place for technical outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration. Combining high-quality apparel and equipment with expert advice and first-hand experience, MEC supports a wide range of activities including camping, snowsports, watersports, cycling, climbing, hiking, trail running and travel. For decades, MEC has been a strong backer of sustainability and community initiatives and has invested $48 million (and counting) into non-profit organizations that support outdoor recreation and conservation. For more information, visit https://www.mec.ca/en, follow @mec, or visit one of our stores nationwide.
