I think the explosive growth in outdoor recreation will create enough room for all. Even REI has trimmed departments in its history when they weren't a priority for its members and customers. We have great and growing greenways, gorgeous mountains, vast and scenic waterways, boulders and cliffs... NYC and the metro area are RICH in natural splendor to explore. Retailers and outfitters playing to their strengths can grow and prosper by promoting a new understanding of the Big Apple. As a NYC native, this is the happiest aspect of trying times.

The notice on REI's website the last few days might have been a tip off without the real estate guys: http://findout.rei.com/blog_detail/?contentid=8600738846670268396

This sounds like more bad news for Bike Habitat than EMS. I do like them both, though.

If EMS can coexist right next door to Campmor in Paramus, then it should probably survive next to REI. They'll just have to adapt like promoting their high quality low price EMS brand stuff.

What about Paragon Sports?

Everybody was a mom & pop sometime. I was an REI, EMS and Cabela's customer back when they were just doing mail order, long before the Internet. And I remember when Modell's just had a few stores, often selling no-name junk and surplus.

Meant to reply to John L's reply in [7] above.

Excellent, now I may finally get their membership.

Support local small businesses!

What makes Tent and Trails #1 in New York City?

At Tent and Trails, we feel that your trip starts the moment you walk through our doors. We will take the time to ensure that your supply list is complete and explain how to use the equipment. We go through extensive dealer training to guarantee you will be confident in your ability to use your equipment to it's fullest potential. You will leave secure in knowing that you have been completely outfitted with the most up to date equipment.

We have over 50 years experience outfitting everything from adventure vacations, weekend excursions, and overnight getaways. Our staff consists of experienced hikers, rock climbers, and campers. We don't just sell our equipment, we use it.

http://tenttrails.reachlocal.com/coupon/?scid=273967&cid=610861&tc=10091713523233143&rl_key=af11eec3065418a2eb82c5529e04a902&kw=1440997&dynamic_proxy=1&primary_serv=tenttrails.reachlocal.net

Do you work for/own Tent and Trails?

No, but I've bought from them before so I'm a satisfied customer and I generally favor NYC's small businesses, you know the mom and pop stores.

Why?

Just curious, that store is great.

oh cool.

Here I was thinking that you were gonna curse me out for putting that up.

Lol.

EMS is probably pooping granola all over broadway. REI is awesome! Good to hear.

Fantastic news. REI has great products and super customer service, is a Top 20 best company to work for in the US (Fortune ranks them at #14), offers cool trips, activities and lectures, and best of all, pays customers who are members with annual dividends on purchases. (And no, this is not a paid endorsement, they are just that awesome.)

Isn't the Puck Building landmarked? Its current setup doesn't seem to lend itself to retail.

I love REI, and yes, EMS is shitting their pants right now. But competition is good, right?

this is great news. EMS has some great sales and their bike guys are cool. just when they were trying to compete with paragons.

what about bicycle habitat?