Your Breathe Outdoors gift cards are welcome at MEC. Redeem or transfer them at MEC Alberta stores before Dec. 31, 2025
Vancouver, BC – October 30th 2025 – Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is taking steps to support Alberta’s outdoor community by honouring Breathe Outdoors, formally known as Campers Village, gift cards and hiring several of the retailer’s staff into MEC stores in Edmonton and Calgary.
For a limited time, anyone with a Breathe Outdoors gift card can redeem or transfer the balance to a MEC gift card of equal value in-store at MEC’s Edmonton or Calgary locations. The initiative ensures customers can access quality outdoor gear and expert advice, while providing employment for some of Breathe Outdoors’ dedicated team members.
Following MEC’s return to Canadian ownership this year, the company has seen positive momentum, fueled by a strong summer of camping, paddling, and close-to-home adventures. That success has placed MEC in a position to support the well-known Alberta business.
‘We are deeply saddened by the closure of Breathe Outdoors, an iconic name in Alberta’s outdoor story,’ said Peter Hlynsky, CEO of MEC. ‘As a fellow Canadian outdoor retailer, we know how much passion, resilience, hard work, and community connection goes into building a legacy like this. We’re fortunate to be able to step up and support Breathe Outdoors’ staff by welcoming some of them into the MEC family and support their customers by helping them gear up for the season ahead.”
Breathe Outdoors was a trusted family-run business founded by the Bryant family and operated for over 62 years, with two locations in Edmonton and one in Calgary. MEC recognizes the important role the retailer has played in Alberta’s outdoor story and is proud to help carry that spirit forward.
“Breathe Outdoors and MEC have always shared the same mission, helping people get outside and enjoy the outdoors. If we didn’t have what a customer needed, we’d send them to MEC, and they did the same for us. Our customers are their customers, and together we’ve served this community for years. We are deeply grateful that MEC is stepping in to honour outstanding gift cards. It’s a gesture that shows their commitment to the people and places we’ve both been proud to serve,” expressed owners Ron and Terry Bryant.
By redeeming or transferring their Breathe Outdoor gift cards to MEC gift cards this fall, customers can look forward to an exceptional product assortment made up of top outdoor brands like Arc’teryx, Patagonia and Salomon as well as its own MEC Label brand, offering exceptional everyday value. This is paired with passionate staff who are ready to share advice and help customers find the right gear for all their winter adventures. They’ll also have access to free clinics, workshops, and events that connect them with other outdoor communities. For more details about Breathe Outdoor Gift card redemption or transfer, see here
Media Contact: Jo.salamon@mec.ca
About
MEC has been Canada’s leading outdoor specialty retailer since 1971, built on a legacy of expert staff, community connection, and a passion for the outdoors. MEC’s purpose is to equip Canadians for a lifetime on the trials. Our team of gear specialists and experienced adventurers offer trusted advice, ensuring members get the right equipment for every adventure. With 23 stores and over 5 million members nationwide, MEC is more than a retailer—it’s a community for outdoor enthusiasts.
