Mountain Equipment Co-op reaches three million member mark and grows operations

VANCOUVER - As Canadians prepare to celebrate the country's 142nd birthday, Mountain Equipment Co-op(TM) (MEC), Canada's largest co-operative and leading outdoor retailer, is celebrating a milestone of its own - surpassing the three million member mark.

On February 23, 2009, MEC registered 426 new members to reach three million, reaffirming the consistent growth MEC has seen since its inception. On average, 10,000 people become MEC members every month. In fact, the Co-op has seen an increase in new member sign-ups in the past five years, achieving a growth rate of eight per cent. This rate remains unaffected by the recession, demonstrating the strength of the MEC brand.

"Since 1971, Mountain Equipment Co-op has existed to help members realize and enjoy the benefits of self-propelled outdoor recreation," said David Labistour, CEO of Mountain Equipment Co-op. "Today one in ten adult Canadians is an MEC member. This figure clearly demonstrates our success at attracting and serving our members by providing a wide selection of quality outdoor clothing and gear."

MEC will continue to expand its operations to meet the growing demands of its membership base. The Co-op opened its twelfth retail location in late-November 2008 in Burlington, Ontario, and is currently constructing its thirteenth in Montreal, Quebec on the city's South Shore. In addition to its retail locations, MEC operates mec.ca, its e-commerce website (English/French).

"MEC remains committed to opening stores where there is a sizable membership base and a proven propensity to participate in the activities we support," said Labistour. "Given that we recently exceeded the three million member mark and are enjoying healthy sales, MEC is in a strong position to make decisions that benefit our members."

Since 2003, MEC has experienced year-over-year sales growth. MEC exceeded its sales forecast in 2008, reporting $247.7 million in gross sales. It is projecting modest same-store sales increases in 2009.

Anyone can join MEC and become part-owner in the Co-op by purchasing a $5 lifetime individual membership. Members are entitled to buy clothing and gear and are eligible to vote in the annual Board of Directors election.